As a gentle drizzle began to fall, the atmosphere in the car was heavy with silence.Albert drove the car in silence, pondering what to say as Melody reclined back in her seat, staring blankly out the window at the passing scenery.The two were usually bubbly and happy when together. However, today, a shared, unspoken sorrow took its place.Upon arriving at the stately graveyard, Albert courteously held an umbrella over Melody, leading her through the solemn grounds."This way."Their path wound along a narrow trail, opening into a broad, straight walkway of slate, leading to a beautifully carved white marble grave.Irises were blooming beside the tombstone, which bore an inscription, "In Loving Memory of Philip Scott, The Distinguished Eldest Son of the Scott Family's Thirteenth Generation."There was a monochrome photo of Philip from his university days, framed by delicate pink roses. His image, brimming with life and youthful vigor, seemed almost as if he were still present.
Talia addressed Christopher directly, unconcerned by the awkward situation."Didn't I tell you? I'm also worried about Nat. You haven't responded to any of my messages recently, so I decided to visit you in person."Luke, unable to help but cut in, said, "Mr. Bolton has been occupied with pressing corporate matters. He's too busy to check messages from outsiders."His comment subtly positioned Talia as an outsider, further distancing her relationship with his boss.Talia was visibly irked and cast a spiteful glare at Luke. His continuous interference was a thorn in her side.Choosing to overlook Luke's remark, she held up the thermos and stated, "Nat and I are friends too. Given the tragedy that befell her, of course, I'm worried about her. I cooked her some soup. It'll help her wake up faster."Christopher, gently yet firmly, declined her offer, "You don't have to do that."His disinterest in extending their dialogue was apparent.The buzzing of his phone interrupted him as he
Olivia flung the pillow aside furiously and gasped for breath. After addressing Talia, she turned her attention to the pressing issue at hand."What's wrong with Nat? Why isn't she reacting to anything now?"Observing Natasha's unusual condition, Christopher called the hospital's dean promptly.The dean, deeply concerned about Natasha's well-being, arrived within ten minutes of being contacted.He reviewed Natasha's medical records thoroughly and made several attempts to communicate with her. Eventually, he diagnosed her with a semi-catatonic state.Regrettably, he informed her, "Ms. Bolton is awake, but the trauma she endured was too much for her mental state. Currently, she might be experiencing some brain damage."Olivia stood up abruptly, her voice laced with anxiety, "What are you implying? Are you suggesting that my daughter has gone insane?"The dean tried to explain as gently as he could, "This appears to be a case of post-traumatic stress disorder. The duration of this
Luke hesitated momentarily, recalling that "Andersen" was the pseudonym Christopher had used overseas, but the voice on the other end of the line was unfamiliar to him."Karl, thank you so much for personally inviting me," Christopher remarked softly."No, no, Andersen. As I told you in Ciginia, drop the formalities. We're classmates and buddies, okay?" Karl's voice was lively over the phone. "Did you receive the invitation? I wrote it by hand. You have to come!"The company's affairs had piled up since Christopher was busy looking into his sister's affair and making sporadic trips to the hospital.Christopher was preoccupied with investigating his sister's situation and managing hospital visits, so it led to the neglect of his business responsibilities.Though he wanted to join, his schedule was full."Regrettably, Karl, I'm too busy these days, but I appreciate the gesture."Karl's reaction was a loud, mournful cry."Really, Andersen? After three long years, you're treating y
Surprised by her response, Amiya inquired, "And what would you have me do?""I expect an apology from you, here and now, to me and to all the women you've underestimated," Melody stated calmly.Amiya laughed derisively, "Wahaha, bring it on! You don't intimidate me!"With that, they were at an impasse.The members of the organization, who were previously enjoying their drinks and the music, now shifted their focus to the unfolding confrontation.Amiya, known as an unparalleled talent in HexKnights, was infamous for his pride and had bested numerous challengers. On an average day, a shallow beauty would not be eligible to spar with him.The crowd's gaze was now fixated on Melody.Taking in the spectacle, Albert felt discomfort at the unwelcome attention. His most precious treasure was being coveted by others.He and Irwin positioned themselves defensively on either side of Melody, warding off any malicious stares.Amiya requested that a computer be brought over."For the sake
Melody's performance captivated everyone in the room, and the tide of opinion quickly shifted. In light of her ability, she was now viewed differently by all.Once thought to be a beautiful face without substance, she revealed herself to be a woman of both beauty and brains.Albert looked at Melody with newfound respect. She deserved to be the one that caught his eye, as she had proven to be exceptional in every aspect.He addressed Amiya in a firm tone, "You've been defeated. It's time to honor your word."Amiya wore a complex expression, wrestling with his pride.Eventually, he rose and approached Melody with begrudging respect."Miss, I apologize. My arrogance led me to underestimate you," he confessed, albeit reluctantly. "I shouldn't have belittled you.""You're wrong," Melody responded coolly, dismissing him with a wave."You shouldn't make assumptions about women in general. Hacking is about logical reasoning and coding skills, not gender. Remember, if you continue to of
The woman's small red mole and the old scar on her wrist were unmistakable to him.The mole was a birthmark belonging to Melody.The scar was a reminder of a harsh winter. His mother had forced her to do the dishes in cold water without gloves. This led to her hands freezing, accidentally breaking a dish, and getting cut while cleaning up.This incident had once led to Jonathan reprimanding Christopher severely, filling him now with a deep sense of guilt.As such, he was convinced that he had recognized Melody.After ten seconds, the enigmatic man released Melody's hand. Silently, he thought to himself, "Melly, it's been a long time."Their hands had just parted when the venue echoed with the voice of the event's host."I appreciate everyone who made it to the HexKnights team-building event today. I hope everyone had a good time and that our organization continues to thrive."As ribbons and flowers fell from the ceiling amidst cheers and applause, the atmosphere turned lively a
The dark of night was beautified by a crescent moon and a handful of stars twinkling vibrantly.A soft breeze carrying the fresh scent of grass and trees wafted around them.Melody, lost in the moon's glow, found her thoughts drifting.Perhaps the alcohol was influencing her. She thought she saw images of her late parents and uncle, which quickly morphed into Philip's face.His radiant, cheery smile broke her heart.Suddenly, she blurted, "Albert, what do you think lies beyond the moon?"Her whimsical, nonsensical question took Albert by surprise.She then whispered softly, "Do you think Phil is watching over me from the other side of the moon?"Her voice was so low. It was almost a whisper to herself.In Albert's mind, this was a bitter reminder of Melody's intense desire for Philip, a burning longing that was magnified infinitely in his mind.Feeling ashamed yet unable to contain it, he was having difficulty suppressing his powerful emotions, a subtle belated jealousy begin