Despite the Smith family's diminished status, they were still capable of caring for a young woman.

Thomas planned to return another day.

Upon returning to her room, Melissa received a delivery from the hotel receptionist, courtesy of a Mr. Smith.

She stared at the delivery.

Two large bags filled with delicate pastries and desserts greeted her, items that clearly weren't cheap.

The receptionist, with a friendly smile, remarked, "That gentleman seemed quite respectable, and he bears a resemblance to you. Is he a family elder?"

Melissa simply shook her head.

After a moment's thought, she took the bags to her room but didn't touch the food.

She wanted no ties with the Smith family and had no intention of seeking out Thomas to return the gifts. Her only desire was to Leave Duefron, prompting her to book a train for 8:00 p.m. that evening.

Gazing at the ticket, Melissa felt a pang of reluctance to leave Duefron.

Yet, like her inevitable fate, the train awaited... She stepped out for a bowl of noodles, unaware of the tears that silently dripped into her bowl.

“Are you alright, miss?" asked a concerned waitress.

Melissa shook her head, managing a faint smile, “Nothing. I'm fine."

Internally, she struggled with leaving Marcus. Despite his animosity she clung to memories of his kindness - the times he applied hand cream to her sleeping hands, the contrived supermarket trips, and how he spent all the money in her pocket, leaving him visibly content.

The flavor of the noodles was unappealing.

Yet, Melissa finished them, considering the hardships she might face ahead.

That evening, she headed to the train station with minimal Luggage.

But upon arrival, she altered her plans.

Instead of Warsew, Melissa took a taxi, and then a bus, and finally shared a ride to the southern city of Heron.

She was determined to begin anew.