"You haven't even spoken yet. How can you assume I wouldn't comprehend?" Annis, curious, seized his arm. "You must inform me before you depart."

Forrest was left speechless.

What twist of fate was this?

Why did he feel so utterly dejected?

"I was merely jesting with you, and you're taking it so seriously?"

Forrest felt trapped in a precarious situation.

"If you don't disclose, I'll ask Alick; I'm certain he'll divulge,"

Annis declared, rising to her feet.

This time, Forrest grabbed her wrist.

If Alick disclosed what had happened, he would undoubtedly embellish the tale, recounting Forrest's past follies, perhaps even mentioning how he once lost his beloved.

Then, Annis would surely show no sympathy.

She might even deem him worthless.

And his esteemed heroic facade would crumble!

If Annis could discern his thoughts, she would undoubtedly confront him directly.

In her perception, he never embodied heroism!

“Do you truly wish to know?" Forrest cleared his throat before saying, “I could recount my tale, but you must ask me to do so in a soft tone first."

As he uttered these words, he contemplated which story to share with her.

"Okay, dear Forrest, please tell me your story. I'm very interested."

Annis complied.

Forrest's eyes widened in realization.