Lucas stared at her intently.

Even though he had watched the surveillance footage of the road where they first met countless times, he still couldn't be sure if she knew his identity from the beginning.

If she did, then she was incredibly cunning, as he hadn't noticed it during their entire year together.

But if she didn't...

He didn't dare continue that line of thought, nor did he dare to trust easily. A faint glimmer of light flickered in his eyes.

A sudden cold wind blew, making Aveline shiver as she burrowed into his chest. "Lu, I'm so cold. Hold me."

The tension in his heart made him uncomfortable, but seeing her like this, he couldn't bring himself to wake her up. Ultimately, he was addicted to her current softness and obedience. Lucas collected his thoughts and hugged her tightly, feeling her soft warmth. His eyes darkened further.

"Mr. Tudor."

At that moment, Steve walked over. He was momentarily shocked to see Lucas holding a woman, but quickly regained his composure.

"Are you staying here tonight or returning to Celestial Heights?" Steve asked softly.

"I'm going back to Celestial Heights," Lucas replied.

The accommodations here didn't meet his standards.

Steve nodded quickly, unable to help glancing at Aveline. He was taken aback!

Wasn't this the girl his son tried to get his hands on last night?

She had barged into their private room, and he had struck a deal with her: if she could win over Lucas, he would ensure his son left her alone. He hadn't anticipated her hooking up with Lucas so quickly. Her tactics. were truly extraordinary!

A flicker of disdain crossed Steve's eyes, but he quickly masked his emotions and turned to leave.

Aveline had her eyes closed, seemingly asleep. Lucas lifted her in hist arms and walked toward the distant car.

Desmond was already waiting by the car door.

As they approached, Desmond respectfully opened the car door.

Lucas gently placed Aveline in the car, then climbed in from the other side, handling her with the utmost care. Desmond noticed this and felt a sense of relief.

It seemed Lucas had finally learned to cherish his wife.

The car ride back was quiet, with Lucas occasionally glancing at Aveline's serene sleeping face, his expression softening.

However, as the car entered the city and passed by a hotel, Aveline suddenly opened her eyes.

"Stop the car," she commanded.

Desmond instinctively hit the brakes, looking over in confusion. Lucas also turned to her. "You're awake?"

Aveline's face had regained its cool demeanor. She opened the door and stepped out without a backward glance.

"Aveline!"

Seeing this, Lucas immediately got out and caught up with her,

grabbing her wrist. His sharp eyes bore into her. "Where are you going?

Aveline's expression was calm, her clear eyes showing no trace of intoxication. "It's late. I need to go rest. Thank you for the ride. Goodbye."

With that, she pulled her hand free.

Lucas' face darkened. "You were awake the whole time?"

D: owner of this content.