Chapter 3

Leaving the restaurant, I realized it was pouring rain outside.

Drenched like a drowned rat, I stood pathetically on the sidewalk, clutching my damaged robot mom and trying to hail a cab.

However, the passing drivers took one look at my ghostly appearance and refused to stop and give me a ride.

Just as I was about to give up, a luxury car pulled over.

The driver hurriedly got out and took the heavy package from my hands.

The rain was coming down hard, and I couldn't make out his face clearly at first. Thinking he might be a thief trying to steal my package, I clung to it desperately, refusing to let go.

Until a crisp male voice rang out: "Senior, it's me."

I looked up and realized the person in front of me was Asher.

Asher was my junior fellow apprentice and had been my capable assistant in robotics research for the past five years.

Before I could react, Asher had already smoothly loaded the robot into the trunk. He draped his warm coat over my shoulders.

While holding an umbrella, he ushered me into the car.

The heater was on inside, but it felt colder than winter.

Asher smiled, trying to break the silence in the car.

"What happened? Why are you in such a mess?"

For a moment, I didn't know how to begin, the frustration in my heart growing more intense. Waiting for Meadow's emotions to settle a bit, I spoke softly, "I saw Levi with his pure love tonight. They were very intimate together."

"Meadow?"

I nodded, "Yes, the famous radio host. You must have heard of her."

Asher smiled faintly, "I never pay attention to these celebrities, but I did learn about her through other channels today."

Confused, I asked, "Other channels?"

Asher gestured for me to look at my phone, "Check out today's news."

Following Asher's suggestion, I opened my phone and started browsing the news.

Every article was talking about Meadow being left penniless by her wealthy husband.

Asher didn't pry further into my family matters, but politely asked, "Would you like me to take you home?"

"No need, just drop me off at a nearby hotel."

Upon arriving at the hotel, I realized Asher had arranged a presidential suite for me.

Outside the large floor-to-ceiling windows was a bustling cityscape at night, the stunning view instantly dissipating the gloom in my heart.

Asher brought me a cup of hot water. The glaring lights combined with the steamy mist made me a bit dizzy. Looking down, I noticed my rain-soaked clothes were clinging to my figure, leaving little to the imagination.

Asher turned his face away, somewhat embarrassed. I tugged at my clothes, attempting to break the awkward silence. "There's no need to book such an expensive room."

Asher sat on the couch and explained, "When I'm feeling down, I often come here to be alone. Eventually, I decided to rent it long-term."

"Feeling down?"

In my impression, Asher was always gentle and cheerful, outgoing and capable. It seemed nothing could faze him. It was hard to imagine he'd ever be in a bad mood.

"For instance, when I see someone I care about unhappy, it makes me feel down."

His gaze fixed on me intently, brimming with endless tenderness.

I turned my head to the side, avoiding his eyes.

Over the years, I'd guessed his feelings to some extent, but my heart was completely occupied by Levi and Mom. There was no room for a third person.

Asher looked at my back and let out a soft sigh.

"Get some rest. I'll come check on you tomorrow."