The moment William parked the car in their private parking lot, his gaze immediately shifted toward the passenger seat.
Thalia had already fallen asleep soundly.
William leaned slightly closer, quietly staring at her peaceful face while recalling their conversation from earlier.
Actually, he had wanted to ask her directly.
Why was she so afraid of Penelope?
Because based on all the information he had investigated so far, there was no connection between the two women at all. They shouldn't have even known each other.
But seeing how uneasy she looked earlier…
He couldn't bring himself to pressure her for answers.
So instead of asking about her story, he ended up telling his own.
William quietly got out of the car before walking over to the passenger side.
Carefully, he opened the door and slipped one arm beneath her knees while the other supported her back.
The moment he lifted her into his arms, Thalia stirred slightly.
