Chapter 464

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

Who would have thought...

This misfortune would bring unexpected joy!

William Langley patted Ethan's shoulder. "This young man helped me retrieve my wallet—what impressive reflexes!"

Evelyn Langley froze. "Mr. Winston?"

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

Victoria Langley 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.

Victoria tactfully didn't press further.

William asked warmly, "Where are you headed, Ethan?"

"Capital City."

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

Ethan 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, Ethan 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 William's signature.

Victoria accompanied him.

Only two remained in their seats.

Ethan lowered his voice. "You called me 'Mr. Winston' earlier?"

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

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

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

Ethan immediately backtracked. "'Mr. Winston' is fine."

Being her brother? Absolutely not.

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

"So you have it!" Evelyn gasped.

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

"The bookstore owner gave it to me." Ethan 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.