Adrian's finger hooked under Lana's chin, tilting her face up.
"Tell me the truth."
Lana let out a soft sigh.
"Adrian, just pretend you don't know. Pretend he's just another patron. I work here, and taking care of the guests is my job."
"I'm just lucky. Because of you, I have it a little easier than the other girls. But I can't let your influence go to my head and forget my place."
"So, I really didn't take it to heart. Please, Adrian, don't let this bother you."
"Whatever happens here, it comes with the territory."
Lana slowly nestled into Adrian's embrace, continuing softly.
"The reason I didn't tell you is because he's Audrey's father. You care about Audrey. If you end up having a falling out with her dad, where does that leave her?"
"Being caught in the middle would put her in a terrible position."
Her words left a bitter taste in Adrian's mouth.
He tightened his arms, holding her close.
"After everything, you're the only one who actually looks out for me."
Michelle's phone call shattered the tender moment.
Adrian glanced at the caller ID, his brow furrowing deeper. He answered reluctantly.
Michelle's frantic voice burst through the speaker.
"Adrian, where are you? Get back here right now! Grandma is sick, hurry up!"
After hanging up, Adrian's face showed zero signs of worry.
He stood up slowly and adjusted his clothes.
"I have to go back. I'll have Todd sort out the flower shop business as soon as possible. As for this place, I'll have a word with the manager. He'll let you leave."
Lana watched him walk out, the tenderness in her eyes slowly fading away to nothing.
When Adrian arrived home, he ran into the family doctor on his way out.
"How is my grandmother?" Adrian asked.
"Mrs. Lowell just worked herself up into a panic. She just needs some rest," the doctor replied. "To be honest, your mother is overreacting a bit. Mrs. Lowell is actually in perfectly good health."

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The readers' comments on the novel: The Man Who Waited vs. The Man Who Wasted
More chapters please....
I want Julian to find out the baby is his soon. I want him and Jocelyn together, they are a perfect match....