Chapter 46: The Accursed Man (3)
As we arrived at the next station, I spotted a familiar face in the crowd. It was impossible not to recognize it, given the presence that stood out like a beacon amidst the throng. Draped in a coat slung casually over one shoulder and puffing on a pipe, the woman exhaled long streams of smoke with every breath, like a scene from an old black-and-white film. I couldn’t help but feel a slight sense of admiration.
As she stared at the train, the woman suddenly waved at me with a wide grin. Her red eyes curved mischievously. I knew her very well, after all—
“Lucita!”
How did she know we were here? We’re quite far from London.
The absurd thought crossed my mind that perhaps she’d received a telegram. Considering the letter left at 13 Bailonz Street, Lucita’s sudden appearance was somehow explainable.
More than Lucita catching up with the train overnight, I was astonished by Liam Moore sending a telegram from a moving train. I squinted at Liam and Lucita in turn. Liam avoided my gaze, his tightly shut mouth resembling a guilty cat.
Ah, you’ve done something again. It seemed there had been some communication unbeknownst to me. Perhaps a phone call. Best not to dwell on it.
“Dear Miss Osmond!”
Lucita spread her arms wide with a bright smile. Though she seemed ready for a hug, I wasn’t brave enough to leap into her arms.