"If Virginia did this, I won't defend her. Anyone who harms the Johnston will be treated the same—no exceptions." "I'll look into this thoroughly." Lance rarely spoke to Addison with such seriousness, and she wasn't used to it. Something stirred in Addison's heart, but she quickly looked away after a moment. "Suit yourself. You don't have to report your family affairs to me." "Investigate if you want. If not, that's your business. It has nothing to do with me." Lance looked at the indifferent woman in front of him, and a complex mix of emotions welled up inside him. He thought back to how she used to be—how she would always greet him the moment he came home, how she would go along with whatever he wanted, how she would stay by his side when he was stressed about work. But he never cherished any of it. And now, even if he wanted it back, it was too late."If you have nothing else to say, you should go. The Divine Healer is still waiting," Addison said, her tone distant and detached, making it impossible for him to ignore the gap between them. "Alright," Lance finally responded, his voice strained. They walked toward the hall, one in front and the other behind, but the distance between them felt as vast as the stars. ... After the evening banquet ended, Marilyn and the others escorted Matthew to the entrance of the Johnston Residence. "Divine Healer, it's already so late. Why don't you stay the night at the Johnston Residence and leave in the morning?" "No need," Matthew waved his hand dismissively. "It's been a long time since I last saw Addy. I'd like to catch up with her." The truth was, he didn't want to spend another second around Lance. If he stayed any longer, he was afraid he wouldn't be able to hold back—he might just blurt out the whole truth and give that kid a well-deserved scolding. Marilyn's eyes flickered with thought. From the way the Divine Healer spoke, he and Addison must be very close. "How about letting Lance drive you and Addison? It'll be safer that way," she suggested gently. Lance nodded, his gaze clear and expectant. "Let me take you." "There's no need. I already asked Gordon to pick us up. He's a careful driver," Addison refused without hesitation. Just as she finished speaking, headlights flashed in the distance, followed by the sound of an approaching car. Without sparing Lance a glance, Addison raised her hand to signal to the vehicle. "Gordon's here." "Marilyn, we'll be heading out now." Seeing that there was no convincing her, Marilyn sighed. "All right. Take care on the road." "Drive safely." The car sped off into the night. In the dim glow of the streetlights, Addison and Matthew sat side by side in the backseat, their faces faintly illuminated before fading into the darkness. Behind them, Lance stood alone, bathed in a slanted beam of moonlight—isolated, abandoned. Up front, Gordon gripped the steering wheel, glancing at Addison through the rearview mirror. He didn't recognize the man sitting beside her. But his principle was never to pry. He never asked questions about his passengers' matters. "Ms. Daves, where to?" Gordon slowed the car slightly. Truthfully, he hadn't expected Addison to show up at the Johnston Residence. After all, given her history with Lance ... But before he could dwell on it any further, Gordon forced the thought out of his mind.