Chapter 286 The Vineyard Gathering

    Chapter 286 The Vineyard Gathering

    +10 Free Coins

    There was a subtle shift in Lucas’s expression, a shadow passing behind his eyes as he said quietly, “Sloane’s been really busytely-she might not have the time.”

    Samson crossed his legs and leaned back on the couch, grinning with excitement. “She’s about to graduate. What’s there to be so busy about? Your new vineyard opens the day after tomorrow-perfect excuse to get everyone together.”

    Lucas hadn’t seen Sloane in a while. Though he missed her, he hesitated to invite her, afraid she’d find an

    excuse not toe.

    But Samson never left things half-done. He immediately called Jill. “Hey, kiddo, I brought you that gift you’ve been begging for from overseas. I’ll hand it over when we meet up.”

    Jill’s voice lit up through the phone. “Yes! I’ll go grab Sloane right now!”

    “Then it’s settled. Lucas and I wille pick you both up.” Samson ended the call with a satisfied grin.

    Turning to Lucas, he said smugly, “See? Easy. Jill’s on it now. Sloane won’t say no.”

    Lucas didn’t respond. He lowered his eyes, emotions flickering just beneath the surface.

    And just like that, Jill managed to drag Sloane out of theb and over to the vineyard.

    When Lucas saw her arrive, he couldn’t hide the joy in his eyes. But his smile vanished the moment he spotted Larry…

    Larry had just returned from overseas. The moment he heard Sloane was back, he came rushing over.

    Standing beside her, Larry’s face lit up with joy. “Sloane, you’re finally back.”

    Sloane gave a soft smile, her tone gentle. “Mr. Whitney. It’s been a while.”

    Larry’s eyes brimmed with concern. His voice carried a quiet urgency. “Where have you been these past three years? I searched everywhere, but there wasn’t a trace of you.”

    Sloane’s reply remained calm and distant. “I had some things to take care of, so I left for a while.”

    Just then, a breeze swept through. Sloane let out a light cough.

    Larry immediately frowned. “Why do you look so frail?”

    “I’ll be fine after some rest,” she answered casually.

    Lucas, watching from the side, fely a wave of frustration rise in his chest as he watched them talk.

    He stepped forward, cing himself between Sloane and the wind. His voice dropped to a gentle murmur. “It’s too windy out here. Let’s talk inside.”

    “Okay.” Sloane turned to Larry. “Mr. Whitney, would you join us?”

    Larry nced at Lucas with smug satisfaction and followed happily after her.

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    Chapter 286 The Vineyard Gathering

    +10 Free Coins

    Meanwhile, Jill was hounding Samson for her gift. When she saw Sloane, she waved enthusiastically. “Sloane, over here!”

    Sloane returned the smile and walked toward her. Lucas and Larry trailed closely behind, an uneasy tension lingering between them.

    Just then, the sharp click of heels echoed from the entrance. Everyone turned as Ginnie stepped in, d in an elegant dress and wearing a polished smile. Her eyes immediately sought out Lucas.

    “Lucas, congrattions on the vineyard opening,” she said sweetly, as if oblivious to the chill in the air.

    Lucas’s expression didn’t waver. “Thank you,” he replied coolly.

    Unfazed by his aloofness, Ginnie shifted her gaze to Larry with subtle interest.

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