The Old Road (17)

"Get out."

Fran, who was holding the car door shut, looked at Lei with a determination she had never shown before.

"What do you mean?"

Lei wasn't one to take orders, either. His face immediately darkened as he shot back.

"This is Cartman's car. I don't know what secrets there are between you, but I'm not giving up on Jessica that easily."

"Now, I'm going to drive his car back up the mountain... You can either come with me or get out."

Fran's sudden show of courage took Lei by surprise. Under everyone's gaze, he thought it over, then finally got out of the car and stepped aside.

"Suit yourself."

It was obvious he had no intention of going back.

"Can you drive?"

Fran had successfully claimed the vehicle. She pressed a hand against the car door, then turned to look at Fu Qian.

"You can't drive?"

Fu Qian looked astonished.

"No."

Then why were you acting like you could do anything?

Fu Qian shook his head as he looked at this courageous girl.

"Could I ask you to drive me up there? I want to look for Jessica one last time. Otherwise, I'll never be able to let it go."

Fran looked at him pleadingly.

"I know all this has been frightening, but it's all right. You don't have to go inside later. You can just wait outside for me."

"No matter what happens, we'll be back before dark."

That sounded reasonable.

Fu Qian glanced at Lei, who was standing nearby with an expression that said he was enjoying the show.

"All right."

"Thank you!"

Fran breathed a sigh of relief when Fu Qian agreed.

Clearly, it hadn't been easy for her to make this decision.

No need to thank me. Even if you hadn't gone, I would have