From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 50

Her words came out sharper than intended, but to him, it just sounded like she was being cute.

“Are you okay? Why are you waiting for me at the school gate this early?”

“I was worried you’d disappear. The medicine’s ready.”

Adolphus took her backpack without a second thought, then reached out his other hand for hers.

Laurinda glanced at his big, strong hand. After a moment of hesitation and a little fidgeting with her sleeves, she slipped her hand, still wrapped up, into his.

Adolphus couldn’t help but laugh at the way she did it. Holding her by the sleeve, he helped her out of the car, waved at York who was watching them, and then started walking with her toward the nurse’s office.

York watched them leave, then looked at the container of strawberries and blueberries on the passenger seat. He let out a small sigh, parked the car, and followed them into the school.

Laurinda kept sneaking glances at Adolphus as they walked. When she noticed a few snowflakes in his hair, she narrowed her eyes and muttered, “Are you dumb? You could've just texted me to ask when I’d be here. Why stand outside waiting?”

Adolphus turned to her, meeting her gaze. His eyes crinkled with a lazy smile. “I did text you, but you never answered. What was I supposed to do? If the medicine gets cold, it won’t work as well.”

“So you waited just because of the medicine?”

She sounded a little annoyed, though she couldn’t even say why. It just bothered her.

Noticing the shift in her mood, Adolphus decided to tease her. He stopped, turned to face her, bent down so their eyes were level, and gave a quiet laugh.

“Then what do you think I was waiting for?”

Staring into his eyes, Laurinda felt something stir inside her—something she couldn’t quite name. She swallowed without meaning to.

Laurinda noticed the change and found it interesting. She grinned and asked, “Ever been chased by a dog?”

Adolphus saw her looking more amused than upset. He looked a bit confused, but he played along and shook his head.

“Nope. Maybe you can tell me what it’s like?”

She gave him an exasperated look, rolled her eyes, and walked ahead, not bothering to answer.

Adolphus thought her little act was adorable. He caught up with her and picked up their conversation again.

“Forget the dog thing. Why do you think I was really waiting for you at the gate?”