Rising from the Ashes (Andrew and Lauren) novel Chapter 747

With Francesca in the passenger seat, Andrew drove swiftly through the city. Before long, they arrived at Moonlit Sanctuary.

Just as they reached the gated community, a loud rumble echoed across the sky, followed by heavy rain. The sudden downpour was intense, with flashes of lightning cutting through the darkness.

Francesca hugged herself, her voice soft with unease. "Andrew, it's storming… I don't like being alone when there's thunder. Can you stay with me for a while?"

Andrew pulled the car to a stop along a quiet street. Towering trees lined both sides, their silhouettes barely visible in the dim light, while the car's warm interior glowed softly.

"Alright, I'll stay until the rain stops."

Francesca's face lit up with joy. "Andrew, you know… ever since I was little, thunderstorms have always scared me. But right now, with you here, I don't feel afraid at all. Actually, I feel… safe."

Andrew glanced out the window. Raindrops pounded against the glass, the steady drumming filling the silence between them.

"This storm isn't letting up anytime soon. Looks like we'll be here for a while, Fran."

Francesca shook her head. "I don't mind. But… do you need to get back and rest?"

Andrew chuckled. "I'm fine. I'll wait it out with you."

A comfortable silence settled inside the car, the only sound coming from the steady patter of rain outside.

Francesca rested her chin in her hands and murmured, "Andrew, can you turn down the air-conditioned a little? It's getting kind of cold."

Andrew adjusted the settings without a word, his gaze fixed on the rain outside. Meanwhile, Francesca stole a glance at him, studying his sharp profile.

She thought he was actually handsome.

Suddenly, Andrew turned his head.

Francesca had been staring too intently, and before she could look away, their eyes met. Flustered, she scrambled for an excuse. "Ah—uh, is the rain letting up? If it is, I should probably head home!"

Andrew smirked. "Nope, it's actually getting heavier. At this rate, you might not be sleeping alone tonight."