However, the sight of Nicole leaning against a pillar, her figure slender and her eyes reflecting a depth of loneliness, compelled him to stop. He rolled down the window and asked, "Miss Lawrence, where are you off to?"

Nicole, caught off guard by his presence in the waiting area, hesitated before responding, "Home."

She offered no further details. Nicole anticipated Roscoe would drive away following their brief exchange, but instead, he offered, “Well, let me give you a ride, Miss Lawrence."

Nicole declined with a shake of her head. "There's no need. I had already booked a taxi."

Roscoe glanced over at the congested streets visible on the screen.

“Traffic's a mess right now. It could be a while before your ride gets here."

The hospital's location near several schools meant that rush hour was particularly chaotic.

Nicole quickly checked her phone. As expected, the traffic app displayed a swath of red, and her ride was still over twenty minutes away. She needed to be at Kingbel Club by 6:30 p.m. and Vicki had been clear. Being late was not an option.

Behind them, a car honked impatiently. Despite this, Roscoe didn't move.

Feeling the pressure of time and the awkwardness of the situation, Nicole expressed her gratitude, opened the car door, and got into the backseat. Roscoe drove off as soon as she settled in.

"Where should I drop you?" Roscoe asked once they were clear of the hospital area.

Nicole gave him the Kingbel Club's address.

Roscoe acknowledged with a nod and kept his eyes on the road, respecting her privacy with his usual quiet demeanor.

They rode in silence, the only sound the hum of the engine. The quiet was palpable as they reached the Kingbel Club.

Nicole got out and turned to him. “Thanks for the lift, Mr. Watts.”

“Anytime, Roscoe replied, his tone courteous but distant."

As he watched her head toward the entrance, curiosity overcame Roscoe.

He called out, "Miss Lawrence, just curious, what's your business at the club tonight?"

Seeing Nicole's stunned expression, Roscoe clarified, "You're not in a condition to drink right now, and you need to be cautious in your business dealings."

Nicole realized that Roscoe had misunderstood her intentions. He thought she was here for business. She shook her head and said frankly, "I'm not here to discuss business. I'm here to work."