Daniel ushered Maisie into the car and drove out of the narrow alley. Maisie's hands remained cold despite the warm car interior, and she shivered.

To ease her tension, Daniel tried to strike up a conversation. "By the way, do you live nearby?"

"It's a bit far from here," Maisie answered softly. "I usually don't take this route, but I left work late today, and it's more convenient, so I decided to use it. I didn't expect someone to follow me."

"It's important to be cautious when walking through dark, quiet alleys," Daniel advised.

Maisie nodded, and a thought suddenly crossed her mind. She gazed at him. "Mr. Quimby, why are you here too?"

Daniel couldn't admit to following her all this time. He had been secretly keeping an eye on her, concerned for her safety on her way home. He had convinced himself that her apartment was in a moderately safe downtown area surrounded by busy roads. But his concern became a reality today.

Daniel moistened his dry lips and had to craft a lie. "I have a friend with a bar nearby, and I came to support him. I had a drink earlier, so I went to the alley for some fresh air, and that's how I happened to run into you."

"You had a drink?" Maisie widened her eyes and sniffed the air but couldn't detect any alcohol in the car. She was worried. "You shouldn't drive if you've been drinking!"

"Huh?" Daniel realized the holes in his lie and calmly added, "Oh, no, it's not me who had too much to drink. It's my friend. I was just there to accompany him for some fresh air."

"What about your friend, then?"

"Uh..."

"You left your friend alone in the alley?"

"I..."

he could remain composed during

are you okay?" Maisie asked with concern, sensing his discomfort. "Are you sure you haven't been drinking? They're really strict about drunk driving now, and you don't want to get caught by

first and then pick up my friend. He's a grown man. Nothing

"Really?"

Daniel stated firmly, "Absolutely."

tense brows relaxed slightly, and she smiled at

a small favor. Don't

to turn left, leading

opened the car door

main roads," he advised

"Mm."

earlier. There's no

their children before I can leave. Some parents are very busy and often forget to pick up their children. After all, children like Persephone, who

time, but I almost caused an accident. I feel bad about it. They'll arrive tomorrow, and each child will receive one. Could you please help distribute them, Ms.

but also felt warmth in her

one from before still in the

I brought it back when you didn't take it last time," Maisie replied, looking at him. "I've been meaning to find a chance to return it to you. Hold

don't have to," Daniel said hurriedly.

It was hers anyway.

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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