Alick's laughter filled the room suddenly. "Then it's like I'm moving up in the world, marrying into my boss’ family, isn't it?"

Annis responded with a light-hearted tease, "Is this news to you?"

Alick's expression turned thoughtful. "Willie's returned, and Isaac's not alone. I've been here without a break for ages. My tasks here are nearly finished, and Willie will be up to speed soon. I can afford some time away.”

Annis understood his underlying desire-to be with her.

She remembered her past frustrations about his packed schedule.

"You don't need to make such changes," she said, holding his hand reassuringly. "It would be dull for you to just wait around for me. I'm working there, and you've got your responsibilities here. Let's keep in touch over the phone, visit when we can. That will be nice, too."

In the quiet that followed, Alick finally said, "Okay."

"Don't you ever sleep?" Annis inquired.

Drawing near, his breath a soft whisper at her ear, Alick confessed, "Sleep eludes me. I was hoping you'd stay through the night—"

"No," Annis responded, pulling away from his embrace.

Confusion washed over her face, her hands balled into fists, palms chilled with perspiration.

Alick quickly grasped that his words might have been too forward.

“I won't make you do anything," he assured her in a hush.

Aware that Annis was still being traumatized by that kidnapping, he was careful not to pressure her.

“Forgive me," Annis uttered, her discomfort prompting her to flee.

But Alick caught her, encircling her from behind.

“You've done nothing wrong." With a soothing tone, he tried to alleviate her concerns. "I've misspoken, that's all. It's just that I've missed you terribly. Seeing you is enough for me-do you understand?"

Annis processed her emotions and faced him, letting go of her apprehensions.

Alick's response was a gentle peck on her cheek, an affirmation of their bond.

Silence enveloped them once more.