Chapter 45
Morning light filtered through the gap in the curtains.
Anna Ross frowned and turned over.
She reached for her phone on the pillow.
The screen remained dark.
No new notifications.
She took a deep breath.
Pushing the covers aside, she sat up.
"I'll take it as his silent agreement," she murmured to herself.
She walked into the bathroom to wash up.
Warm water splashed against her face.
She studied her reflection in the mirror.
Her gaze gradually grew determined.
She packed all her belongings neatly into the suitcase.
As the zipper closed, Vivian Lowell entered with a bowl of porridge.
"Anna, have something to eat first," her mother said, offering the warm bowl.
Anna hesitated.
The memory of working on an empty stomach yesterday was still fresh.
She accepted the bowl and spoon.
"Thank you, Mom."
Vivian stood nearby, seeming to hold back words.
Only after her daughter finished the last spoonful did she speak softly. "Remember to eat on time at your new place."
"Don't work too hard."
"Your health comes first."
Anna checked the time.
It was much later than usual.
"Mom, I need to go now," she said, pulling up her suitcase.
"I have to get to work."
There wasn't much luggage.
A single suitcase held all her essentials.
Vivian insisted on seeing her downstairs.
Just as Anna was about to call a cab, a black Maybach slowly pulled up in front of her.
The door opened.
Adrian Sinclair stepped out.
His tailored black suit emphasized his tall, lean frame.
Anna's eyes widened in surprise.
Why was he here?
"Cousin moving?" Adrian naturally took her suitcase. "I can give you a ride."
Before she could refuse, her luggage was already in the trunk.
Anna quickly waved her hand. "No need to trouble yourself. I can take a cab."
Adrian glanced at Vivian beside them.
A slight smile touched his lips. "Moving alone isn't safe."
"Aunt must be worried too, right?"
Vivian indeed looked concerned.
"Anna, let Adrian take you," she said. "I really don't feel comfortable with you going alone."
Anna bit her lower lip.
She hesitated for a moment.
Ultimately, she didn't want to worry her mother.
"Then I'll trouble you," she said, opening the door and sliding into the passenger seat.
A hint of amusement flickered in Adrian's eyes.
He nodded to Vivian.
Then he got into the driver's seat.
"Just take me to Bay Area," Anna said stiffly, her gaze fixed out the window.
Adrian didn't respond.
He focused on holding the steering wheel.
Silence filled the car.
Only the steady hum of the engine could be heard.