Chapter 81

The server turned with a pot of hot soup.

She didn't notice someone behind her.

Scalding broth splashed out instantly.

Anna Ross felt a sharp sting on the back of her hand.

The server's face turned pale.

She apologized repeatedly. "I'm so sorry. I didn't see you there."

She frantically searched for napkins.

Anna's hand was already red and swollen.

The soup wasn't at its hottest temperature.

But her skin still burned with a fierce pain.

Nearby diners turned to look.

The server looked like she was about to cry.

"Let me take you to the hospital?"

Anna shook her head. "It's fine."

She spoke softly to reassure her. "I wasn't paying attention either."

The server froze.

She hadn't expected such understanding.

Anna didn't want to embarrass her further.

She turned toward the restroom.

Footsteps hurried after her.

"Anna?"

Lucas Evans appeared in the hallway.

His gaze fell on her hand.

He tensed immediately. "What happened?"

Before she could answer.

He took her wrist.

He led her quickly to the restroom.

Anna glanced back over her shoulder.

Adrian Sinclair was still in the private room.

She instinctively pulled away.

"I can manage."

Her voice held a distinct coolness.

Lucas stopped walking.

Disappointment flickered in his eyes.

But he still followed behind her.

Keeping a distance of three steps.

Cold water ran over her skin.

The stinging sensation eased slightly.

The mirror reflected Lucas's figure.

He suddenly turned and left.

Anna breathed a small sigh of relief.

She thought he had finally gone.

The sound of running water masked approaching footsteps.

She looked down to check her injury.

The redness on her hand hadn't faded.

Hurried steps came from outside the door.

Lucas returned with a small pharmacy bag.

Worry filled his eyes.