Chapter 419

Claire listened to Hanson's slow, steady voice, and her nerves gradually calmed in the middle of this desolate, untouched wilderness. A faint streak of light pierced the grey skies—sunlight breaking through the clouds for just a second, landing right on the surface of the lake and throwing a sharp red gleam across the water. It disappeared just as quickly, swallowed back up by the clouds, but the brief glow seemed to clear away the heaviness in the air around them. With a calm tone, Claire lifted her eyes to look at Hanson. "Mr. Cooper, would you mind moving me a bit? That tree in front is kinda blocking the view—I want to see the mountains properly." Hanson turned at her voice, casting her a sidelong glance, clearly surprised. "You're in the middle of this mess and still care about the view? You really know how to keep your mood intact." Even though his words sounded mocking, he didn't mean her any harm. Instead, he bent down, lifted her up easily, and moved her to a spot with a clear