Was she planning to see him, or wasn't she?

He felt puzzled.

He didn't feel brave enough to ask her directly.

ALL he could do was sigh deeply, hoping she would find happiness soon and be ready to confront Alick.

Annis had to work through her feelings on her own.

No one else could resolve this for her.

So, Nelson simply stayed by her side in silence.

After they had lunch, Nelson left the study and noticed Annis going out. He didn't inquire about her destination.

Yet, he suspected she might be heading to meet Alick.

In Rieth Hotel, Alick was seated on a sofa by the window.

His lunch, served by the hotel, sat untouched on a table behind him.

He wasn't interested in the food.

He was lost in thought.

Alick absentmindedly crossed his fingers, revealing a distinct bite mark on one of them.

The blood had dried and turned dark because no one had cleaned it.

Ring!

The doorbell echoed suddenly.

He frowned, annoyed by the interruption.

He seemed slightly displeased.

He got up and walked toward the door.