Chapter 1694: Chapter 1908

I just needed some space.

I couldn’t memorize my studies this afternoon, and I know Cyrus will be disappointed…”

The thought of Cyrus’s disappointment, manifesting in a disciplinary action reminiscent of a child’s punishment, filled her with dread.

Brushing the wind-tousled hair from Noelle’s face, Lucinda voiced her concern.

“It’s getting late.

Weren’t you scared, stepping out alone into the night?”

Noelle was puzzled, inquiring, “But you’re here with me now, aren’t you? I am not alone.

”

At that, Lucinda found herself at a loss for words.

Noelle’s gaze dropped, shadowed by sadness.

“I’m sorry.

I thought, just like in the welfare house, I could come to you if I felt down.

I forgot you have your own family now.

I didn’t mean to intrude.

”

A smile broke across Lucinda’s face.

“You’re not intruding at all.

I had nothing pressing at home.

Your call was a welcome diversion.

”

Lucinda’s touch was gentle on Noelle’s head, who was technically older by a year but seemed years younger in spirit and understanding.

“What would make you happy, Noelle? Let’s find something fun to do until you feel ready to face everything again.

”

Noelle’s spirits visibly lifted as she brandished her phone.

“I found this fascinating game called ‘Shields of Hauntings’.

Why don’t we give it a try?”

Lucinda wasn’t much of a gamer, even though the E-bidding circle’s latest craze had reached her ears.

She wasn’t keen on diving into that world.

Seeing the bewilderment in Lucinda’s eyes, Noelle eagerly showed her the game, lighting up her screen.

“It’s simple.

Just download it, and I’ll guide you through.

You’re quick to catch on; you’ll master it in no time.

”

Lucinda didn’t hesitate because she wanted Noelle to find joy.

She pulled out her pho

ne and together they downloaded the game called “Shields of Hauntings” from the app store.

Twenty minutes passed in a blink.

With each victory chime from the game, Lucinda found herself genuinely intrigued.

“This is fun.

Let’s give it a go,” she encouraged.

Eagerly, they set out to match up in the game.

Lucinda picked a character that caught her eye for her first try.

Seated on a stone, under the dim light of a suburban moon, they focused intensely on their phone screens, diving deep into the game.

The game was so engaging that they lost track of time completely.

By the time Nathan and Cyrus found them in the desolate area, Lucinda and Noelle were completely absorbed in their mobile game.

“Noelle, quick! Don’t let up.

We can’t let his health regenerate.

”

“I’m trying! But I’m a distance fighter.

I need to close in.

”

“Ah! Forget the small gains.

We don’t need them right now.

”