Chapter 464: The Storm Forced Flight Cancellations

The storm forced flight cancellations, and Connor Hayes had to switch to a high-speed train.

Who would have thought...

This misfortune would bring unexpected joy!

Daniel Whitmore patted Connor's shoulder. "This young man helped me retrieve my wallet—what impressive reflexes!"

Clara Whitmore froze. "Mr. Hayes?"

"Just a small favor." Connor's gaze softened. "Anyone would've done the same."

Helen Whitmore looked surprised. "You two know each other?"

They answered in unison, "Yes."

As for how they'd met...

Now wasn't the time for details.

Helen tactfully didn't press further.

Daniel asked warmly, "Where are you headed, Connor?"

"Capital City."

"What a coincidence! So are we. Which train are you taking?"

Connor countered, "And you?"

Upon hearing their train number, his lips curved slightly. "How serendipitous—we're on the same one."

"Perfect! We can travel together."

"The honor is mine."

During the conversation, Connor swiftly completed his ticket change on his phone.

If coincidence didn't exist, he'd create it.

* * *

The train police arrived to take statements, requiring Daniel's signature.

Helen accompanied him.

Only two remained in their seats.

Connor lowered his voice. "You called me 'Mr. Hayes's earlier?"

Clara blinked. "What else should I call you?"

"Too formal." He feigned hurt. "'Connor' would be nicer."

"I don't casually call anyone 'brother,'" she teased. "Unless you actually are my brother."

Connor immediately backtracked. "'Mr. Hayes's is fine."

Being her brother? Absolutely not.

He pulled out a book with a gilded cover from his bag.

"So you have it!" Clara gasped.

It was that out-of-print foreign academic text she'd been searching for.

"The bookstore owner gave it to me." Connor smiled. "I heard you were looking for this?"

Her eyes sparkled. "The owner said it was out of print..."

"Now it's yours."

"I can't possibly..."

"It was meant for you all along." He pressed it into her hands. "Keeping it with me would be a waste."

A gilded bookmark nestled between the pages.

Sunlight streamed through the window, scattering flecks of gold across their overlapping shadows.