As they approached a busy intersection, Lucas saw an opportunity. "Evelyn, I just remembered that I left something important at my apartment," he said, trying to sound as genuine as possible. "It's something that Melissa might need, and I can't believe I forgot about it. Would you mind waiting in the car while I quickly retrieve it?"

Evelyn looked at him skeptically, clearly hesitant to let him out of her sight. "Why can't I come with you?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

Lucas quickly thought on his feet. "I'm afraid it's something personal," he replied, feigning a sense of vulnerability. "I don't want anyone else to see it....