CHAPTER 19: WHERE IS MY LAURA?

Wait, was he drinking? At this time of night? The acrid scent of alcohol wafted from him, unmistakable and strong. "You were drinking?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

Alphonce moved away from the door's pillar, his steps unsteady. Concerned, I quickly grabbed his shoulder, guiding him to my bed. "You shouldn't drink like this, Alphonce" I warned, but he just smiled lazily, his eyes unfocused, like he was seeing me for the first time.

I'd known Alphonce for five years, long enough to understand he wasn't the type to drink himself into a stupor. Not unless something was deeply troubling him. Was I the cause?

Or wad it about that kiss?

"Y-you are very beautiful," he stammered, and I couldn't help but look away, my cheeks warming under his gaze.

He was undeniably drunk.

"Why drink yourself like this? Where are your bodyguards?" My questions seemed to float into the air unanswered, as he continued to smile at me, an affectionate and somewhat vacant expression in his eyes.

"You l