that the car seemed too new, almost as if it had just been purchased. However, Julian assured her that it was indeed the vehicle from his garage, so she chose not to pursue the matter further. She speculated that Julian rarely drove such a modest car, which made it appear almost brand new.
Did she really believe that Julian would buy a new car just to bring gifts for her and the children?
Julian led Kiera and a group of children into the elegant room he had reserved in advance. Once everyone was seated, he signaled the waiter to hand the menu to Kiera for ordering.
Kiera replied, “Mr. Bucham, the children and I aren’t picky eaters. You likely know better which dishes here are good. You should order.”
Julian inquired, “Ms. Caron, do you usually dine at this hotel?”
Kiera responded, “Yes, but we typically eat in the cafeteria on the first floor. I find there are more options. Everyone can choose what they like, and the kids enjoy it too. I remind them to take only what they can eat and not to waste food.”
Julian smiled, “Ms. Caron, you’re absolutely right. Don’t waste food; take as much as you can eat.”
Kiera decided, “Then I’ll order for myself.”
In truth, Julian seldom spent money at Wiltspoon Hotel, visiting only occasionally to treat his younger brother or Zachary to dinner. Recalling that every dish he had tried at Wiltspoon had been delicious, and knowing that Sonny, being so young, had never disliked any of them, Julian ordered based on his previous experiences.
After placing the order and while waiting for the food to arrive, Julian engaged Kiera in casual conversation. Meanwhile, the children chatted excitedly among themselves, occasionally stealing glances at Julian.
“Ms. Caron, when are you heading back?” Julian poured Kiera a cup of tea and asked. Each time he looked at Kiera’s lovely face, Julian felt…
His heart raced, and the look in her eyes revealed a suppressed tenderness. Julian, who had never experienced love before, encountered a girl who sparked a reaction within him, igniting a fierce affection. Fortunately, he remained composed and managed to conceal his feelings, so Kiera remained unaware.
Kiera stated candidly, “We’ve finished the competition, and our next step is to take the children out for a few days before returning to Yonsburg.”
Julian asked, “Ms. Caron, where would you like to take the children? Can you drive?”
Kiera replied, “I can drive. I obtained my driver’s license at 18, and I have six years of driving experience. I want to take the children to the zoo in Wiltspoon, some famous parks, and scenic spots like the seaside.”
Julian responded, “Ms. Caron, since you can drive, I’ll lend you a car. Wherever you wish to go, I’ll be your free tour guide. Wiltspoon has many interesting places to explore, and you can wait until after the National Day holiday.”
Kiera explained, “We plan to return on the third day of the holiday to avoid the crowds on the last day. Mr. Bucham, I know you’re busy with work, so I don’t want to disturb you. I’ve rented a bus for our return trip, and I’ve already negotiated the fare with the driver.”
Julian inquired, “Have you made the payment?”
Kiera replied, “Not yet.”
Julian insisted, “Ms. Caron, there’s no need for you to pay. I’ll lend you a car, and driving it is sufficient. No matter how busy I am, it’s rare for you to be here, and I want to be hospitable. You’ve helped me, and I could have been in a much worse situation—robbed, kidnapped, or tortured by gangsters—life would have been unbearable.”