The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 38

Leilani was lucid to the point of coldness, yet possessed determination. He appreciated that. Callahan raised his glass to toast Leilani. "I believe you will see that day."

Leilani was slightly stunned and looked up at him.

Callahan's gaze was deep, his tone calm but certain. "I believe you have the ability."

Leilani's heart moved. She laughed softly. "Are you taking pity on me, Mr. Langley?"

Callahan shook his head. "It's admiration."

Leilani froze.

Callahan looked straight into her eyes, pronouncing each word clearly. "You are stronger than them."

Leilani was silent for a moment, then suddenly smiled. It was her first genuine smile of the night. The coldness between her brows faded, revealing a brightness.

"Thank you," she said softly.

Callahan watched her, thinking that Leilani looked much more vivid and beautiful when she smiled. He raised his glass. Leilani raised hers, and they clinked gently. Amid the crisp sound of glass colliding, their gazes met briefly before drifting apart.

The night breeze was cool as they finished their meal. Leilani stood at the restaurant entrance, about to hail a cab.

Callahan spoke up. "I'll drive you back."

Leilani glanced at him sideways. She intended to refuse, but then she thought about it. They lived in the same building—one on the penthouse, one on the 18th floor. They were essentially neighbors. It was on the way. Besides, she had just bought him dinner.

So Leilani didn't decline. She accepted decisively. "Okay. Thanks."

Leilani's heart skipped a beat, but her face remained impassive. "Why do you ask?"

"It just crossed my mind..." His tone was flat, but his eyes held a probing look. "I saw a woman named Cheney. Her silhouette... reminded me of you. So I wanted to ask you."

Leilani's fingers tightened slightly, but her expression remained calm. "Really? I don't know her. There are many people in the world with similar silhouettes. Maybe you just mistook her."

Leilani stepped out, but Callahan's voice came from behind her again. "Leilani."

She turned back. "Is there something else?"

Callahan stood inside the elevator, the light falling from above, accentuating his deep, cold features. "If you have trouble in the future, you can find me."

Leilani was slightly stunned, then chuckled lightly. "Are you looking out for me as a neighbor, Mr. Langley?"