Chapter 5

I inclined my head, feeling completely drained.

As the workday concluded, a gentle rain began to fall outside.

A group of coworkers and I gathered at the company's exit, conversing while awaiting our transportation.

Gradually, everyone departed, leaving me on my own.

It was peak traffic time, and hailing a taxi seemed futile.

I gazed at the dreary sky and contemplated enduring the drizzle to purchase an umbrella from the shop opposite.

Just as I ventured into the rain, a figure cast a shadow over me.

"My apologies for the delay."

Lucas's recognizable voice cut through the sound of falling rain. He stood there, holding a dark umbrella, his slender fingers grasping the handle.

Water splashed from the ground, forming tiny droplets.

I accepted his offer but maintained a formal tone. "Would you mind dropping me off at the next block?"

He instinctively moved nearer to shield me with the umbrella.