Two Reborn, One Throne novel Chapter 112

Noticing her glued to the screen, Lucian frowned. "Joanne, who's texting you?"

"Oh," Joanne gasped softly, "it's my dad."

She locked her screen and reached out to grab his hand. "Remember how you paid off Wade for him? He was so happy, he texted me to say thank you."

"Seriously, Lucian, thank you. Having you is the best thing that's ever happened to me."

With a radiant smile, Joanne stood on her tiptoes and gave him a tight hug, her face glowing with smug satisfaction.

Lucian was genuinely surprised that Joanne's father would text a personal thank you, but he didn't dwell on it. He hugged her back. "Tell him there's no need. I didn't do it for him; I did it for you. As long as you're safe, I'm happy. Come on, class is about to start. Let's head back."

Joanne froze for a second, then gently pulled away.

"I'm so sorry, I forgot to tell you—Wade locked my dad up to keep me from running away. He just texted me to thank you and asked me to come home. Let me spend the evening study hall with you, okay? I need to go back right now and check on his injuries."

Terrified that Lucian might offer to come along and expose her lie, she quickly added, "Don't you dare skip class. You've already done so much for me. Just let me be a little selfish this one time, alright?"

"Once I know he's okay, I'll come right back to school."

She smiled, her eyes crinkling into sweet, irresistible crescents.

Lucian frowned. "Alright, be careful on your way. I'll ask the teacher to excuse you."

Joanne went up on her toes again, wrapping her arms around his neck. "You're the best."

He thoroughly enjoyed her affection, his expression softening into pure adoration. "As long as you know. Take those coffees back for your dad, too."

She kissed his cheek. "Will do. I'm off!"

She put on a reluctant display, and Lucian mirrored it, but they both knew true love could withstand a brief parting.

Carrying the remaining eighteen cups of coffee, Joanne hailed a cab and headed straight to the location Wade had texted her.

She wanted to see Amber's ruined state with her own eyes.

Half an hour later.

Joanne arrived at an empty, desolate lot. Spotting Amber's phone smashed on the ground, a bright, wicked smile crept onto her face.

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