Chapter 175

Chapter 175 Still The Same

Lysander was characteristically unfazed by the situation.

Conversely, Zachary found himself in quite a predicament; his trousers were not only soaked through but also torn. Clearly, he was in no position to remain in such a state for any extended period.

The modest birthday celebration had reached its conclusion after they had enjoyed their meal and cake.

Exiting the Hestryan cuisine restaurant, it was evident from Laura’s expression that she was preoccupied with

numerous concerns.

Both of her daughters had posed significant challenges that day. The older one had faced complications involving her ex–husband and some relatives who were keen on arranging a marriage for her, while the whereabouts of the younger daughter remained a mystery, as she had vanished without leaving any clues.

As they prepared to leave, Zachary, driving a modestly sized sedan, generously offered, “Mr. and Mrs. Thorne, please allow me to drive you home first.”

Although his car was not a large SUV like a Cayenne, it had ample space to accommodate everyone comfortably in one trip.

Moreover, the guest of honor for the day was none other than Camila, his own mother. It would have been unreasonable to expect her to leave her duties to escort a few guests home.

Maverick, somewhat irritable, waved his hand dismissively, “Zach, you and the others go on ahead. We’re

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Chapter 175 Still The Same

Laura concurred with a nod, “Yes, go ahead. We’ll wait a bit longer for Mich.”

Zachary looked over at Lysander, his gaze conveying a silent inquiry. What should we do?

Michelle seemed to have been swept up in the throes of romance, so much so that she wasn’t even answering her phone. It appeared highly unlikely that she would return any time soon, and it seemed unfair to expect her parents to linger aimlessly at the hotel entrance waiting for her.

And so, Lysander suggested, “Dad, Mom, why don’t you head home first? I’ll go and look for Michelle.”

Maverick, visibly agitated and his eyes wide with anger, lamented, “Once a girl grows up, she just won’t stay put. I bet she’s gone to meet that worthless fellow again!”

Laura, anxious about the possibility of their family issues becoming public, quickly grabbed his arm, whispering, “Zach is still here. Don’t just speak your mind.”

“Actually, now that you mention Zach, it reminds me,” Maverick continued, somewhat calmed by the interruption but still speaking rather freely. “I’d rather she got involved with Zach than that physics teacher. Zach might be older, but he’s still younger than that teacher, and we know his family well.”

Laura hurriedly covered his mouth, scolding sofily, “What are you rambling about? With the way she acts, it’s not even certain that Zach would be interested in her.”

Maverick, frustrated and resigned, declared, “Forget it. I don’t care anymore. I’m taking the bus back. Let her do whatever she wants. I can’t control her now that she’s grown up.

With that, he was ready to leave.

Laura, following close behind, pleaded, “Maverick, what are you doing? Why lose your temper now? You’re just giving everyone something to laugh at…

Camila, overhearing the conversation, laughed and interjected, “Who knows, maybe we’ll all be family one day. What’s the big deal about a few jokes? I’ll join you on the bus back. Let Zachary drive Lysander to look for Mich.

Laura waved her hands, protesting. “Today is your birthday, and it was already an imposition having Zach pick us up this morning. We really can’t impose on him any further.”

Camila dismissed her concerns with a chuckle, “Come on, Laura, no need for formalities with me. That rascal will be more than happy to do whatever your family needs!”

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This statement, not whispered but rather spoken openly, was heard by several bystanders, leaving Maverick and Laura at a loss for words.

Zachary, however, managed a light–hearted laugh, “It’s no trouble at all. Michelle is like a sister to me, so it’s only natural that I look out for her.”

Camila, ever the astute observer, watched Lysander’s reaction carefully.

The latter maintained a calm and composed demeanor, not openly agreeing or objecting to anything.

Having known Lysander since she was a child, Camila reckoned she probably understood her well. On the surface, Lysander appeared gentle and mild–mannered, speaking in a soft and tender voice. Yet, beneath that calm exterior, she possessed a strong will and a firm sense of self–determination.

She did not dismiss the idea outright, which meant there might still be a chance!

As they parted ways, with Camila leading the couple to a nearby taxi stand, she called out to her son, “Zachary, you’re now responsible for the safety of the two ladies. Make sure you behave appropriately.”

Zachary, clearly embarrassed by the unfolding events, gestured for them to proceed. As the taxi pulled away?