From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 188

"We'll be there soon."

Adolphus glanced at Laurinda, who was completely caught up in playing the claw machine. He couldn't help but smile a little. It was rare to see her so into something, and he wanted her to enjoy herself for a bit longer.

After hanging up the phone, Adolphus walked over and saw Laurinda chatting with a little girl. The girl was pointing at a doll inside the machine, eyes shining with hope.

Laurinda crouched down and talked with her for a moment, then started feeding coins into the machine. She tried a few times, missing each one, but finally, she managed to snag the doll the little girl wanted.

The girl squealed with happiness, threw her arms around Laurinda's leg, and thanked her in a sweet, gentle voice. Before leaving, she dug into her pocket, pulled out a lollipop, and handed it to Laurinda as a thank you.

Laurinda took the lollipop, ruffled the girl's hair, and thanked her right back, waving as the girl skipped off.

Once she was alone, Laurinda unwrapped the candy and popped it in her mouth. The sweet, creamy taste made her smile. For a moment, she just stood there, feeling completely content.

When she turned around, she caught Adolphus watching her, a warm smile in his eyes.

"How long have you been standing there?" she asked, grinning. "Why didn't you say anything?"

"I was just watching my girl make someone else's day. Didn't want to ruin the moment."

Adolphus stepped closer and gently draped his jacket over her shoulders, helping her slip her arms through the sleeves.

"Sam and the others are waiting for us at Aeterna," he said. "Ready to go?"

Laurinda nodded. "Yeah, let's go."

They got out of the car at Aeterna and headed inside. Spotting some familiar faces, Laurinda nudged Adolphus and whispered, "Did Sam invite the police department to dinner?"

Adolphus glanced at the group and shook his head. "I don't think so. Maybe they're just having a team dinner or something."

He seemed just as puzzled.

His gaze was sharp, and Laurinda suddenly felt the urge to bolt.

Before she could move, Kinsey stood up and walked over. He put a hand on her shoulder. "Come with me. We need to talk."

Everyone else in the room exchanged looks. It was clear they all knew who Kinsey was.

Sam glanced at Adolphus. "Wait, Laurinda knows Kinsey?"

Adolphus just watched Laurinda's back as she walked away, not saying a word. Honestly, he was just as surprised.

Out on the balcony, Laurinda followed Kinsey, dragging her feet a little. The cold wind made her shiver.

Kinsey noticed and, instead of scolding her like he probably planned, his tone softened without even realizing it.