60 The Sneak Out

Flora struggled to free herself from the people that gathered around her, trying to reach Lucas within the crowd. Her rage bubbled, her fists clenched, itching to land a punch on him. But she held back, aware of the watchful eyes around them. Lucas sensed the intensity of her fury and felt a chill run down his spine. "Hey, ease up. I'm just watching out for you. No one should mistreat Jules, the designer. Remember, we organized this exhibition together for you," Lucas murmured softly, wary of Flora's fierce glare. Kendra and Kayden huddled in a corner of the hotel lobby, whispering anxiously. Kendra fidgeted with her fingers, her eyes darting around, worried they might be caught. "Kay, do you think Grandma Celia will be mad at us if she finds out? We're not supposed to be here," Kendra fretted. The idea of Grandma's disapproval loomed over them like a storm cloud. Kayden's brows furrowed as he mulled over their risky venture. "She said she'd be out for a while.