No Escape from Love novel Chapter 133

"He's a friend of Henry's." Lucas smiled as he patted the dust off his clothes. "Serena, thank you. You protected me again."

I waved my hand dismissively. "No need to thank me for something so minor. When you run into people like that, you should put them in their place with words instead of resorting to a fight."

His gaze was filled with admiration and gratitude. "Mm, I understand."

"Serena."

A voice rang out from behind me. I turned around and saw Alex.

A wave of relief washed over me upon seeing him, like I had found an anchor in the middle of a storm. I quickly walked up to him. "You're finally here."

But he didn't seem pleased. His expression was unreadable as he asked, "What were you two talking about? Looked like you were having a good time."

"Mr. Hastings." Lucas smiled and stepped forward. "It's been a while."

When Lucas extended his hand, Alex hesitated for a moment before finally shaking it, though he didn't look too enthusiastic. "Mr. Schneider, I thought you wouldn't have time for events like this with your busy schedule."

"It's no surprise that I'm here." Lucas' smile was warm and effortless. "Even a busy man like you is here, after all."

A silence settled between them.

After a brief moment, Lucas glanced at Alex and took the initiative to excuse himself. "Mr. Hastings, I'll go talk to some of the other suppliers."

With that, he left, leaving just me and Alex.

The night air was growing cooler, and I couldn't help but shiver slightly.

Without a word, Alex took off his jacket and draped it over my shoulders. "What were you talking about that made you so happy?"

His words set off alarm bells in my mind. "But the contract Xena offered is full of excessive concessions. Doesn't that seem suspicious to you? Lucas—"

He suddenly grabbed my shoulders before I could finish. "What kind of spell has he put on you?"

Only then did I notice the turbulent emotions hidden in his eyes, including anger and frustration. It was too complex for me to fully decipher.

I was startled and instinctively shrank back.

He let go of my shoulders and said in a low voice, "Keep your distance from him and don't bring him up in front of me again. The partnership will be decided in a formal meeting."

With that, he turned and walked away.

I stood there as I watched his retreating figure, feeling both wronged and concerned. "This guy's moods change as fast as a summer storm."