His Untamed Rose novel Chapter 78

The invitation was unmistakable.

Lumina smiled, though her expression was tinged with regret. “That’s a shame. I’ve already made dinner plans with a close friend tonight, so I guess we’ll have to save it for next time.”

He seemed a little disappointed, though he didn’t show it. “Next time… that’ll probably be my brother’s birthday party.”

“Perfect. Be sure to invite me then.”

They wandered along the path until they reached the edge of a reservoir.

Lumina couldn’t help but stretch out her arms, breathing in the crisp, damp air. “I really love the ocean. Honestly, I’ve always wanted to leave Banyan Town and try living in a different city for a while.”

“So why haven’t you?”

“I have to work. I’ve thought about quitting, but well, your brother won’t let me.”

Lumina crouched down, staring intently at the fish darting in the water. “I stopped by his place last night just to talk about resigning, but Mr. Royce was adamant.”

Soren’s lips curled into a faint smile. “You must be a real asset at the office. He probably can’t bear to lose you.”

“But I really do want to leave Banyan Town. I want a fresh start somewhere new.”

Soren understood. He reached out and gently brushed the stray hair from her forehead. “If I get the chance, I’ll try to talk to him for you.”

Lumina’s eyes lit up at his promise, and she offered him a bright, grateful smile. “Thank you, Mr. Royce.”

After their walk, Soren drove Lumina back home.

Just before she got out of the car, Lumina turned to him, her voice warm and sincere. “This has been the best day I’ve had in a long time. Thank you, Mr. Royce.”

Soren looked at her for a long moment, then called out as she reached for the door. “Aren’t you going to give me your number?”

“Nope.” Lumina tossed her hair with playful defiance. “If you want to find me again, you’ll just have to come by my house.”

Her teasing sent a ripple through his chest. Suddenly, he caught her wrist. “You really live here? You’re not tricking me, are you?”

Of course, she was.

This address actually belonged to Ashley—her friend’s place in Banyan Town.

Lumina just smiled, neither confirming nor denying. “Banyan Town isn’t that big. Where could I possibly run off to?”

He knew full well it was probably a fake name. Still, he was content, his smile bright with anticipation. “I look forward to seeing you again.”

“Goodbye.”

Lumina watched his car disappear down the road, a faint smile playing at her lips.

Just then, her phone rang.

She glanced at the caller ID and frowned, not in the mood to answer. She declined the call.

A message popped up immediately: [Try hanging up on me again.]

Before she could respond, the phone started ringing once more.

Lumina sighed and answered, but said nothing, leaning against the wall in silent protest.

“Nancy said you left early this morning. Tonia tried calling and couldn’t get through.” Cedric’s voice was cold, edged with irritation. “Where the hell have you been?”

She gave a mocking little laugh. “Oh, you know, ‘raising hell.’ Where else would I be? Either at a hotel or at some guy’s place, obviously.”