When he spotted Annis standing at the doorway, his heart filled with both relaxation and surprise. "Why are you here? Did you come to see me? You didn't make the trip for nothing, did you?"

He was overjoyed.

Annis glanced down and noticed his injured hand.

She felt a pang of sympathy but concealed her feelings, tightening her grip on her handbag.

She steadied her voice to sound as composed as she could, "I'm here to talk to you."

Alick stepped aside and invited her in. "Come inside first."

She entered and noticed the untouched food on the table.

“Haven't you eaten yet?" she asked.

Alick offered a smile. “I'm not hungry just yet. What would you like to drink? I can get it for you."

Annis took a seat. "I'm not thirsty. Sit down. Let's talk."

Alick paused, a sense of dread washing over him. He sensed a breakup was imminent. He set the glass down and took a deep breath.

After collecting himself, he sat across from her.

"I won't break up with you."

Annis frowned when Alick rejected the idea she was going to propose, as if he could read her mind.

Alick smiled as he looked at her. "I'll give you all the time you need."

"I need ten years. Can you wait that long?" Annis challenged, hoping to see him back down.

But Alick didn't even blink. "I could wait a lifetime for you," he replied earnestly.

"Are you out of your mind?" she exclaimed.

"I'm perfectly sane. I just can't bear the thought of leaving you."

He remained calm, even casual. “You're not lying to me. I see no reason for us to break up."