67

Mikel waited, watching the deserted garden.

Mikel's instincts were on high.

He made his way back to Loretta's room in a rush but she was nowhere to be found.

"Where is she?" Mikel muttered.

Mikel entered the living room where Loretta sat sipping wine next to Fabian.

Mikel's eyes set on Loretta's before he waved for her to come near him.

"Loretta, can I have a word?" Mikel spoke softly.

Loretta's eyes darted to Fabian before rising to her feet.

"Excuse me," she said.

As Loretta neared Mikel, he led her to a corner where Fabian could not hear them.

"What happened outside?" Mikel asked in hushed tones.

Loretta looked at the room, checking if no one was looking.

"I met a woman," she whispered. "She says she will help me."

Mikel did not change expression.

"What did she say?" he asked.

Loretta seemed to hesitate before she answered. "She said she would help me get out of here," she replied.

Mikel's eyes narrowed. "Do you trust her?" he asked.

Loretta nodded slightly. "I think so," she whisp