Chapter 161
Chapter 161 Lucas‘ Determined Pursuit
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A good while later, Arabella finally brought the flight simulator to a smooth, safe stop on the virtual runway.
“That was even better than your last run,” Lucas commented. “There were quite a few unexpected variables in that scenario, and you handled all of them perfectly. Really well done.” He smiled and gave her a thumbs–up.
“I think I’ll call it a day here. I’m getting a little tired and just want to head back to rest,” Arabella said, climbing out of the simulator and glancing at Lucas.
“Go get some proper rest. Most people take days just to get comfortable with one training module–you’ve nailed two in a single afternoon. That’s seriously impressive.”
“Better not jinx it with too much praise,” Arabella joked lightly.
“A little encouragement never hurt anyone’s progress. Get some good rest; there’s no need to rush back,” Lucas replied with a warm smile.
“Actually, I prefer to keep the momentum going. If nothing comes up tomorrow, I’ll come find you for another session,” Arabella said.
“Alright, as long as you’re not overdoing it,” Lucas answered, his tone softening with a note of concern. He certainly wasn’t going to complain about the idea of seeing her again.
Every time Ruby saw Lucas talking to Arabella, he was smiling. But whenever she tried to speak with him, his expression turned serious and distant. Why did he have to treat them so differently? It wasn’t fair, and it stoked a quiet jealousy in her toward Arabella.
“Let’s go,” Lucas said, and he walked out of the training center alongside Arabella.
Seeing them leave together, Ruby felt her motivation to keep practicing drain away. She wandered over to Naomi. “Arabella’s already left. Should we head out too?”
“You can go ahead if you want. I’m going to put in a little more time here,” Naomi replied. She had overheard Lucas praising Arabella’s progress earlier.
Arabella had already completed two modules to lay, while she was still only getting comfortable with her first. She couldn’t leave now–she needed to train harder to keep up.
After all, she’d started her lessons earlier; she couldn’t let herself fall behind.
Ruby didn’t really get why Naomi was suddenly pushing herself so hard. It wasn’t like this was some kind of competition–why take it so seriously?
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Chapter 161 Lucas‘ Determined Pursuit
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It wasn’t as if either of them actually owned a plane. What was the real point of all this?
With Lucas gone, she really didn’t feel like sticking around. “Alright then, I’ll let you keep at
with it. I’m going to take a walk outside. Just call me when you’re finished, and I’ll meet up you.”
“Sure, go ahead,” Naomi said, already turning he attention back to her controls.
Ruby left the training room, a plan forming in her mind. Even though Arabella had finished and left, Lucas might not be done for the day.
If she wandered around outside now, she might just run into him. Without Arabella around, maybe he’d be more willing to talk… With that thought, she quickened her pace, almost worried she might miss her chance.
Kyle watched Ruby, who clearly lacked any real drive to improve, and could only sigh quietly to himself. They were cousins–how could the gap in their attitude be so wide?
*****
Lucas walked Arabella out to her car in the parking lot. “Drive safe. I’ll see you later,” he said. “Will do. See you tomorrow,” Arabella replied with a small wave before getting in.
Lucas stood watching as her car pulled out of the flight academy lot.
He had only taken a few steps back toward the building when, once again, he nearly bumped into Ruby, who was seemingly just strolling by.
He frowned slightly, then tried to sidestep her as if he hadn’t noticed, making a beeline for his office.
Seeing him walk away, Ruby quickly fell into step behind him.
After a few paces, Lucas stopped and turned around, sounding exasperated. “Ms. Peterson, is there a reason you’re following me?”
“Lucas, why do you always try to avoid me? Do you have some kind of problem with me?” Now that they were alone, Ruby decided to be direct.
“No problem. I just prefer not to make small talk with people I don’t know well. And please, stop following me. I can’t help you with your training.” Lucas assumed she was still angling for a free lesson.
“But that’s how people get to know each other, Lucas–from strangers to acquaintances, then friends. It’s fine if we’re not familiar now. We can change that, right? I’m Ruby Peterson. What’s your full name?” She kept a determined nile plastered on her face.
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Chapter 161 Lucas‘ Determined Pursuit
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Lucas had dealt with persistent admirers before but rarely one this undeterred. His reply was cool and final. “Sorry, I’m not really interested in making new friends. Have a good day.”
With that, he turned and walked away, leaving no room for further conversation.
Watching his retreating figure, Ruby’s face fell with disappointment. She was a Peterson, for goodness‘ sake. He was just a flight instructor–did he have to be so dismissive? Just because he was good–looking didn’t give him the right to act so superior.
She refused to believe the eldest daughter of the Peterson family couldn’t win over a simple instructor.
“Lucas, I will get your attention,” she muttered under her breath, clenching her fist in resolve.
*****
Meanwhile, Arabella was driving back toward Cloudrise Manor.
Suddenly, her phone began to buzz on the passenger seat.
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