Chapter 49

Darrell nodded. "Yes. We're here for some fun." "Enjoy yourselves, then," Lucius replied. "I appreciate it." "No problem." After the brief, polite exchange, Darrell wrapped an arm around the waist of the woman at his side. "We'll get going now. See you around." Lucius gave a slight nod and watched them leave. As Darrell's date brushed past Valerie, she shot the latter a meaningful glance, while Valerie responded with an equally cryptic smile. Having just ended his call, Kieran rushed over and said, "Something urgent came up, so I have to leave tonight. I can't give you a ride back now, Val." "Go ahead," Valerie said, waving him off. With a quick goodbye, he turned and rushed away without looking back. After that, Noah immediately stepped up and offered, "Where do you live, Ms. Collins? I can take you home." But Lucius expressionlessly stepped forward, his words dampening Noah's enthusiasm. "You can't drive because you've been drinking." His eyes flicked to Valerie, as if s