Noticing Erick's puzzled expression, the servant added, “Elin has been overseas for a month now. Annis mentioned Elin won't be returning for the holidays. Annis planned to fly to Uchaesau instead."

At the servant's words, Erick suddenly stood up and bolted outside.

The servant, witnessing an unprecedented disturbance in Erick, paused.

After a brief moment of astonishment, the servant retrieved the glass that lay forgotten on the floor.

Erick sprinted to where Elin resided and swung the door open without knocking.

Annis habitually left the front door unlocked at night, just in case of emergencies. Positioned close to the main house, the housekeeper's quarters were considered safe within the estate.

Erick stepped into the small room once vibrant with Elin's presence, now stark and empty. The desk where Elin used to study had vanished.

With everything removed, the room lay bare. Not even a bed was left.

At that moment, Erick's gaze turned icy, his demeanor chilling. Elin had really gone, and he was completely unaware.

"Mr. Foster?" Annis' voice, tinged with astonishment, floated from behind Erick.

As Erick turned around, Annis registered his face. In a tone laced with bewilderment, she inquired, “Mr. Foster, to what do I owe this visit?"

Erick, rigid in the doorway, demanded, “Annis, where is Elin?"

The news from the servant seemed surreal to Erick. Vividly, he recalled Elin's plans to pursue her studies locally.

Annis' eyes went wide. "Mr. Foster, Elin left for her studies."

"I'm aware of that, Annis, but where exactly?"

Annis replied, "In Uchaesau, Mr. Foster."

Upon hearing this, Erick's already cold gaze sharpened, a wintry chill emanating from him. "She. Why Uchaesau of all places?" he questioned, his throat constricting.

Annis let out a weary sigh. “She felt the universities there were a better fit. She won't be home for the holidays and even considered flying me out to join her."

Acceptance settled heavy on Erick. Elin was indeed an ocean away.

With barely a murmur, he questioned, "Then why strip her room?" It wasn't a permanent goodbye. Why then, had her space been emptied?