Lance was taken aback by Deanna's sudden action.
He looked at her in confusion and asked softly, "What's wrong?"
"It's nothing serious," Deanna released his hand, sighed in relief, and explained, "I noticed you didn't look well, so I checked. Fortunately, you're just a bit tired. I think we've walked enough today. How about we go back and rest? I can give you a massage to help you relax."
Hearing this, Lance felt a warm sensation in his heart. He hadn't expected Deanna to notice his discomfort.
"I'm fine, let's keep walking," he shook his head, not wanting to spoil the fun for the kids. He could tell they weren't done playing yet.
Deanna also understood Lance's intention and deliberately put on a stern face, "No more talking. I said rest, so you rest."
Xavier watched from the side, thinking to himself, 'Dr. Deanna is probably the first person in the world who dares to tell our CEO to stop talking.'
Lance found it amusing but complied and followed them back.
Once in the room, Deanna had Lance lie on the sofa and began massaging his shoulders and legs.
As she was massaging, the kids came over.
"Uncle, we'll help you with the massage too," they said as they started massaging his arms, one on each side.
Xavier couldn't help but laugh, "How do you guys know how to do this?"
"We learned from Mommy. She often massages our great-grandmother at home. We watched and learned. Don't underestimate us, Uncle Xavier."
"Uncle, how are we doing? Does it feel good?" Chloe looked up at Lance, seeking praise.
Gregory didn't say anything but his eyes clearly showed he wanted praise too.
Lance found it amusing and didn't want to disappoint them. "You two are really good. Your massage feels great."
"Of course! We learned from Mommy," Chloe said proudly, lifting her chin. Deanna couldn't help but smile, her eyes filled with pride.
Later, when Lance felt much better, Deanna stopped the massage.
She walked over to rub her sore wrists and advised, "There's still some time before dinner. Mr. Mercer, you should take a nap now."
After speaking, she seemed to remember something and took out a sachet from her handbag, handing it to him. "I made this sachet myself to help with sleep. Keeping it with you can improve your sleep quality."
"Thank you," Lance said as he accepted the sachet.
Deanna then took the kids back to their room next door but not before reminding him again, "Mr. Mercer, rest well and don't rush back to work."
Lance nodded, indicating he would rest well.
After they left, he also sent Xavier to rest. He then took the sachet and went to his bedroom.
That nap was exceptionally restful, possibly due to the sachet. When he woke up, it was already dinner time.
After freshening up, Lance called for Xavier and asked, "Where are Dr. Deanna and the kids?"
"Dr. Deanna and the children are next door," Xavier replied respectfully before conveying Deanna's earlier message. "Dr. Deanna asked me to tell you that they won't be going to the restaurant for dinner tonight. She requested room service instead."
Lance agreed, "Arrange it and invite Dr. Deanna and the kids over."
"Yes," Xavier nodded and left to make the arrangements.
Soon after, Deanna brought the kids over and knocked on the door.
As they entered, they saw Lance sitting on the sofa.
The kids immediately ran over and surrounded him, asking with concern, "Uncle, are you feeling better?"
Seeing their concerned faces warmed Lance's heart and brought a faint smile to his lips. "I'm feeling much better now. Thank you for your concern."
"That's good," Chloe and Gregory both sighed in relief.
Lance couldn't help but chuckle at their grown-up demeanor and reached out to ruffle their hair.
Deanna then suggested, "Later we can go soak in the hot springs. It will help you feel better."
"Alright, let's go after dinner," Lance agreed and gave Xavier a look.
Xavier understood and went to make arrangements for the hot springs.
Deanna didn't notice anyone leaving as she sat on the sofa with the kids, chatting with Lance.
While they were talking, hotel staff brought in dinner.
The meal was sumptuous with fish, shrimp, meat, and vegetables-a balanced mix of protein and greens.
As they sat down to eat, Chloe thoughtfully served Lance some food. "Uncle, eat more. Mommy says eating protein-rich foods is good for your health."
Gregory also served him some food.
Looking at the bowl full of food in front of him, Lance felt both amused and touched by their thoughtfulness.