Chapter Seventy-Eight

Lucas returned to the dining room with a forced smile, trying to shake off the unease from the mysterious call. Anita's keen eyes caught the change in his demeanor, and she couldn't help but voice her concern. "Lucas, are you sure you're okay?" she asked, her brows furrowing with worry.

Juliana shot her daughter a surprised glance, taken aback by her direct question. However, Lucas quickly reassured them both with a dismissive wave of his hand. "I'm fine, Anita."

“Alright. Who called you?" She asked, curiously.

"Just a random call, nothing to worry about," he replied, his tone casual.

Anita didn't seem entirely convinced but chose not to press the matter further. Instead, Lucas seized the opportunity to steer the conversation in a different direction. "Anyway, enough about that," he said, mustering up enthusiasm. "Let me tell you about my progress with Karina."

As he recounted his achievements with Karina, Juliana's eyes sparkled with pride, and she applauded his efforts. "You're