Chapter 211
Adrian Sinclair's lips curved into a faint smile as he gave a slight nod.
Yet, a layer of frost gathered in his eyes.
This old fox had indeed followed them.
Howard Lowell quickly stepped forward, his smile ingratiating yet insincere.
"Adrian, I'm truly surprised. I didn't expect you to come pick us up personally. That's extremely thoughtful of you."
"You flatter me, Uncle."
His gaze swept past Anna Ross, meaningful.
"My cousin has been very dedicated working under me. As her superior, looking out for my subordinate is part of my duty."
Howard secretly clenched his fist.
These words clearly implied he wasn't the reason for this visit. It was a deliberate slight.
Anna paid no mind to their veiled exchange.
She linked arms with her mother and took the luggage.
"Mom, I'm so happy you're here. How have you been in San Francisco lately? Is your health good?"
Vivian Lowell's heart softened at her daughter's attentive manner.
"Silly child, Mom is perfectly fine. See? I'm full of energy."
Anna actually wanted to ask if Howard had been giving her mother trouble, but she swallowed the words.
Vivian, however, was secretly observing Adrian.
Though she knew about Howard's behind-the-scenes schemes, she hadn't expected the two to appear so familiar now.
Adrian noticed her gaze but didn't comment.
He turned to Howard.
"Uncle, Aunt, have you arranged accommodation for this trip? Or are you planning to return to Grandpa's estate?"
But the branch company was currently troubled.
He likely didn't have the nerve to go back.
Sure enough, Howard hesitated.
"Well... We won't be going back for now. We'll stay at a hotel for the next couple of days."
Adrian raised an eyebrow meaningfully.
Howard quickly changed the subject.
"It's getting late. Let's get going first."
Naturally, no one objected.
The group got into Adrian's car.
Howard took the passenger seat.
Anna and her mother settled into the back.
She nestled close to her mother, whispering private conversation.
The two in the front also chatted amiably—though it was mostly Howard forcing the conversation.
Somehow, the topic suddenly turned to Anna.
Howard maintained his insincere smile.
"Adrian, this girl Anna hasn't been causing you any trouble, has she?"
"If she makes any mistakes, please don't go easy on her because she's your cousin."
"Scold her as needed. That's how she'll improve."
Adrian met her eyes in the rearview mirror, his lips quirking playfully.
"Little cousin's professional skills are outstanding. I'm very satisfied."
Anna lowered her eyes and tightened her grip on her mother's hand.
She thought he would seize the chance to make things difficult.
Unexpectedly, his response was perfectly normal.
Howard was also taken aback.
He then gave a dry laugh.
"That's good. If she has any shortcomings, I hope you'll guide her more."
"Naturally."
Adrian focused on driving ahead, not looking at him.
"Uncle, Aunt, you haven't eaten yet, have you? Let me take you for a meal first."
Howard readily agreed.
The restaurant arrived quickly.
He had specifically reserved a private room.
When the door closed, the outside noise was completely shut out.
Adrian lazily leaned against the table, hands folded.
His posture was casual, yet it couldn't hide his sharp edge.
Anna sat beside her mother, directly across from him.
She occasionally met his deep gaze but always looked away first.