chapter707

Lucinda, what did you say to him? He looked so happy just now."

Lucinda, did you send him money? I saw him holding up his phone."

"Yeah, Lucinda, why'd you give him money?"

Lucinda let out a quiet sigh. He's had a tough life. His daughter's missing, and he thought I looked like her, so he's been following us around."

For real? Hannah's eyes went wide.

Lucinda nodded. Yeah. He's all alone, struggling to get by. I just felt bad for him, so

gave him a little money. Hopefully it helps."

The three of them looked at her, all curious. How much did you give him?"

Lucinda smiled. "Not a lot. Just ten thousand."

Right away, the girls jumped in with another round of compliments.

"Lucinda, you're honestly so kind."

"Seriously, Lucinda. He was lucky to run into you."

Lucinda shrugged. "My parents always told me to help people who have it rough."

"No wonder you're so nice. Your parents are, like, the biggest philanthropists. They donate who knows how much every year."

"Lucinda, we're all so jealous of you."

Lucinda tilted her chin up, her smile soft and proud. "Alright, let's go shopping."

Meanwhile, Ethan filled Lydia in on everything that happened with Lucinda. Lydia's lips curled in a faint smile. "Got it. Keep an eye on Frank, just in case." "Yes, Lydia."

After the call, Lydia glanced at her phone. A message popped up from Iceblade. [Let's meet.]

He'd been texting her every night lately, and every night she just ignored him. Tonight was no different.

When she didn't reply, another message appeared.

[Found someone new and already forgot about me?]

Lydia rolled her eyes and set her phone aside. A minute later, another message.

[Aren't you curious why I'm here?]

Lydia narrowed her eyes, thought for a moment, then grabbed her bag. She called out a quick goodbye to Monica and Fiona and headed out.

Iceblade had said he'd be waiting at the training field. Lydia left the dorm and walked straight toward the sports grounds.

Someone watched her go, then quietly trailed after her.

The September night was cool, the breeze gentle. The field was dimly lit, scattered with couples on late night dates. Lydia frowned, knowing Iceblade had picked this spot on purpose.

She made her way to the training area. It was mostly empty. As she got closer, she saw someone stretched out on the grass.

When she approached, Iceblade didn't bother getting up. He just chuckled. "I almost thought you wouldn't show."

Lydia stopped beside him, her tone calm. "So? Why are you here?"

Iceblade tilted his head, looking up at her with a teasing smile. "I missed you."

Lydia frowned. "If you're not feeling well, the hospital's that way."

He grinned. "Can't you take a joke?"

She didn't answer. "What are you really doing here?"

Iceblade could be reckless, but at least he never lied to her. He went quiet for a second. The sadness in his eyes was something only the w night could see.

"I came because you're here. He stood up, facing her.

Lydia's gaze was steady. "You want to start dating now?"

Iceblade glanced over at the couples in the distance. There was a flicker of envy, but he didn't say a word about it. Instead, he changed the subject What are that Jefferson

guy say to you? How'd he manage to steal you away?"

Lydia turned her head. "No comment."

Iceblade laughed under his breath, stepping closer, his voice low as he leaned

toward her ear. Don't move. Someone's taking pictures of us."