Upon arrival, Deanna got out of the car and thanked Lance, "I'm here. You can go ahead with your work, Mr. Mercer."
"I don't have anything important today. I'll go in with you," Lance replied as he also stepped out of the car.
Deanna was a bit surprised but said nothing and followed Lance into the villa.
The butler saw them and immediately greeted them respectfully, "Mr. Mercer, Dr. Deanna, welcome."
"Don't mind me. I'll be working in the study. Please take Dr. Deanna to the herb garden," Lance instructed softly.
The butler nodded and gestured for Deanna to follow.
Deanna looked at Lance with some confusion. He had said he had nothing to do, so why was he working in the study now? Unable to figure it out, she decided not to dwell on it and followed the butler to the herb garden.
The herb garden was well-tended by dedicated staff, and the plants were growing even better than Deanna had expected, which made her very pleased. Despite this, she didn't slack off and went around checking each plant, loosening the soil, and trimming excess branches.
From the study on the second floor, Lance watched Deanna busying herself in the garden, a gentle smile forming on his lips. Deanna was unaware of this and occasionally communicated with the staff, giving instructions on how to care for the herbs.
The golden sunlight bathed her, making her already stunning appearance even more beautiful. Xavier also noticed this scene and couldn't help but remark, "Dr. Deanna is truly beautiful."
Hearing this, Lance glanced at him sideways. Xavier quickly explained, "I meant no offense, just a simple compliment."
Lance said nothing, his gaze returning to Deanna as memories of the previous night flashed through his mind. After a moment, he instructed Xavier, "Look into the transfer of shares from the Jones family years ago."
Normally, he wouldn't get involved in such trivial matters, but thinking about Deanna's past struggles raising a child and her rightful interests being taken away, he couldn't stand by idly. Moreover, he noticed that Deanna seemed tired today, likely due to not sleeping well after yesterday's events.
Xavier assumed Mr. Mercer wanted to seek justice for Deanna and promptly left to carry out the order.
Soon, Lance was alone in the office. As he worked, he occasionally looked out the window.
Deanna decided to take a break. Having bent over for too long, her back felt sore, so she stretched. Inadvertently, her eyes met Lance's through the window.
His deep gaze made her pause for a few seconds. Coming back to her senses, she flashed him a bright smile and waved as a greeting.
Lance hadn't expected such a gesture from her. Her radiant smile dazzled him, and he couldn't help but smile back faintly.
Though subtle, Deanna noticed his smile and was momentarily stunned. The man was already strikingly handsome, and his inadvertent smile was like spring blossoming, captivating her completely.
She stared until a staff member called her attention back to the herbs. Embarrassed, she quickly refocused on discussing the plants with them, as if it could make her forget the awkward moment.
Lance noticed Deanna's attempt to cover up her embarrassment and chuckled softly. Thus, they continued their work separately-one upstairs and one in the garden-in a scene of unspoken warmth and sweetness.
By noon, Lance came down to the garden. "Dr. Deanna, it's time for lunch."
"Okay, I'll be right there," Deanna replied. She gave some final instructions to the staff before standing up and dusting herself off as she walked towards Lance.
Just as she reached him, Lance suddenly extended his hand. "Don't move; you have something on your face."
Deanna instinctively froze and stared at him blankly. As she felt his slightly rough touch on her face, her heart skipped a beat.
Then Lance's pleasant voice sounded again. "All done. Let's go eat." He turned and walked away first.
Watching him walk away, Deanna inexplicably felt both relieved and a bit disappointed. She quickly dismissed these thoughts and followed him inside.
They soon arrived at the dining room where a table full of exquisite dishes awaited them, most of which were Deanna's favorites.
During the meal, Lance suddenly said, "I've had a guest room prepared for you. After lunch, you should take a nap so you'll have energy for the afternoon."
Deanna couldn't help but glance at him warmly, appreciating his thoughtfulness. She nodded in agreement.