Chapter 249

While Alexander spoke casually, a spark of anticipation was still visible in his expression. Clara met his gaze, and despite the words of refusal lingering on her lips, she couldn't bring herself to say them. She looked down at the key in her hand, then carefully tucked it away. Looking back at Alexander, she smiled. "Alright. I'll hold onto it for now. If you need it back, just let me know." When she agreed, a hint of relief and warmth flashed in his eyes, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Sure." "Well, I'd better go inside," Clara said before remembering something. "Oh, your scarf!" She quickly reached for it to return it, but Alexander didn't take it. Instead, he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck, trying to act casual. "You can keep it. It's new. Don't worry. I just wore it for a little while when I got here. Hope you don't mind." Clara hadn't really noticed it before, but now, hearing him say that, she took a good look at the scarf in her hands. It wa