Chapter 253
Mia Lawrence's heart raced with secret delight.
She suppressed her inner joy and replied calmly, "It's alright. You can't rush fate. The right person will come along eventually."
Her cheeks flushed with heat beyond her control.
She hastily lowered her head.
Julian Garnache noticed her unusual behavior and asked softly, "Mia, your face is so red. Are you feeling unwell?"
He made a move to stand and check on her.
Mia quickly waved her hands. "I'm really fine!"
She touched her warm cheeks, annoyed at her own lack of composure.
To cover her embarrassment, she picked up her wine glass.
"Maybe the alcohol is getting to me," she explained. "Plus the heating in here is quite strong. That's why my face is red."
She couldn't help laughing at herself.
So this was what having a crush felt like.
It made you nervous over their every word.
It made you rejoice over every tiny detail.
This entirely new experience left her both flustered and thrilled.
"Glad you're okay," Julian said, withdrawing his concerned gaze.
The table fell into a brief silence.
Anna Ross watched their exchange with a slight smile.
She knew her best friend better than anyone.
She had never seen Mia act like this before.
It seemed her feelings were genuine this time.
After dinner, Julian offered to drive them home.
Mia immediately held her forehead dramatically. "Anna, I feel so dizzy. I think I had too much to drink."
"I'll go get some hangover medicine," Anna said, turning to leave.
Mia grabbed her sleeve and gave her a meaningful look.
Julian rolled down the car window. "If you're not feeling well, sit in the front. The view might help."
"Thank you!" Mia quickly climbed into the passenger seat.
She urged, "Anna, get in! Don't just stand there."
Anna sat in the back seat, gazing out the window.
Her mind drifted to Adrian Sinclair.
She wondered if he had returned home yet.
The city glittered with bright lights and bustling crowds.
Yet it felt strangely empty to her.
Everything seemed as fleeting as a dream.
Even he felt like an illusion, ready to slip through her fingers at any moment.
The car came to a gentle stop.
Mia hopped out and playfully opened the door. "Your carriage has arrived, princess."
Anna chuckled and took her hand to step out.
She turned to the driver's seat. "Thank you for the ride, Julian. Drive safely."
Julian nodded warmly and drove away.
"Mia, be honest with me," Anna said, looking at her still-watching friend. "Do you have feelings for Julian?"
Mia admitted freely, "Yes, I like him. And I'm going to make him mine!"
She clenched her fist confidently, as if victory was assured.
The streetlights stretched their shadows long.
Anna burst out laughing. "Well, looks like miracles do happen!"