Chapter 1017
Joshua peered at the interactions between Lysander and Thalassa, and he sensed the tension and unresolved issues simmering between them.. Yet, in Lysander’s gaze, Joshua witnessed a loss of control he had never seen in his friend’s eyes before.
Lysander was a veteran, known for his stoic and indifferent nature. He had an ironclad self-control, imperturbable in the face of adversity, with no person or situation easily ruffling his composure. But in Thalassa’s presence, his usual cool faltered.
Richard remained silent, as he was keenly aware that meddling in Lysander’s affairs would be a bad idea. Just the night before, Lysander had coldly warned him that if anything happened to Thalassa, Richard would be dragged down with her. That icy, stern admonition was more than enough to keep him on the straight and narrow.
He dared not get entangled in whatever was going on between Lysander and Thalassa. Lysander was clearly fallen too deep for Thalassa. If there was any conflict between the two, he might not have the heart to blame Thalassa, but it could catch others in the
crossfire.
Richard certainly didn’t want to be in the line of fire. He hadn’t touched a drop of liquor today either. He was the host of the gathering, and he needed to stay sharp to maintain
order.
“Lysander, don’t get worked up, buddy. Let’s have another drink. You know how it is with women – you gotta pamper them, make a fuss over them, and then they’ll see the good in you,” Joshua said, picked up the bottle, and poured another round for both himself and Lysander, trying to ease his friend’s mind.
Lysander’s handsome face was tense, and his deep-set eyes were frosty. He remained
silent.
Joshua raised his glass to Lysander, “Let’s just say this is for me, man. Don’t sweat the small stuff.”
Lysander would certainly oblige to take Joshua’s toast. For him, Joshua was someone of high esteem, a mentor and a friend.
Lysander lifted his glass and joined Joshua in the drink.
Susan watched from a distance, her heart fluttering with wicked delight. The more Lysander drank, the stronger the effects of the drug would be, and the easier her task would become.
Perfect!
Thalassa stepped out of the private room and answered a phone call with a worried tone, “Mom, what’s up?”
08:55
Evelyn had stayed at home alone in the past few days. Thalassa was unable to be with her mother due to her obligations with the kids.
But she was constantly concerned about her mother, fearing the loneliness might get to her. On the other hand, Bruce might not keep his word and risk a scandal that could hurt
Evelyn.
“Oh, nothing, dear. I just wanted to check in. You haven’t been home lately, have you?” Evelyn’s voice was the same as always.
Thalassa relieved as she detect no distress in her mother’s voice.
“I’ve been over at Royal Estates with the kids these last few days. I’ll come home tomorrow afternoon.” Thalassa replied.
“Where are you now? Still at Royal Estates?” Evelyn queried, feeling a bit lonely.
“No, I had some things to take care of. I’m at the Draven International Hotel banqueting hall. Lysander’s a bit drunk; I might have to take him to his hotel room to rest.” Thalassa informed her mother of her whereabouts.
“Draven International Hotel? I’m nearby. I picked up a cleaning job today and came to get to know the area. I’ll come over and see you.” Evelyn suggested.
“But Mom…” Thalassa started to protest, not wanting her mother to trouble herself. But the call was abruptly ended.
When she tried calling back, there was no answer.
Thalassa frowned slightly, knowing her mother’s habit all too well. After a call, she’d put her phone right back into the bag and not check it anymore.
If Evelyn was coming, it was fine. Thalassa would just let the others know and leave early to meet her mother. They would go to Royal Estates together.
Returning to the private room, Thalassa discovered the bottle of red wine she had brought in had been polished off by Lysander and Joshua.
Lysander, pinching the bridge of his nose, was clearly intoxicated.
2/2