Kelfin lay curled up in a ball on his bed. He'd been forgotten about. There had been a change of guards and the new guard had refused to say anything to him in what felt like days. And he hadn't been fed or given his medication either. He had no idea the time. He slept in fits and starts with nightmares ranging from when he'd been abandoned as a child to being the last person on the planet. Suddenly, the door creaked open, breaking the suffocating silence that had enveloped his solitude. Kelfin's hopes soared as he sat up, expecting the arrival of food or his medication. However, to his surprise, the guard entered the room empty-handed. Following closely behind were Baj and Dr. Mesk who, as usual, schooled his emotions though as he entered, a tendril of concern curled off him. Baj, on the other hand, was pure satisfaction. The guard's eyes were filled with contempt that poured off him as he spoke, his words breaking the tense atmosphere. “You're free to go,” he announced, his tone lacking any genuine warmth or care. Relief coursed through Kelfin's exhausted body, realizing he had not been forgotten after all. Expressing his gratitude, Kelfin turned to Baj and said, “Thank you.” A mischievous smile danced across Baj's lips as she replied, “You'll get my bill,” her words accompanied by a playful wink. Kelfin wobbled as he stood. Mesk quickly grabbed his arm to prevent him from falling. Concern etched across his face, Mesk asked, “Are you alright, Kelfin?” Kelfin nodded weakly. “I've been lying down a lot.” Concerned by Kelfin's answer, Mesk inquired further, “When was the last time you ate?” Kelfin shrugged, his face creased in confusion. “I don't know, Mesk. There's no clock in here, and time seems to have blurred together.” Trying to piece together the situation, Mesk's frown deepened. “What was your last meal, Kelfin? Can you remember?” Kelfin closed his eyes, concentrating on his fading memory. “I think it was a grilled sandwich, some fruit, and vegetables.” “That was last night's dinner.” Mesk's expression turned to anger as he turned to face the guard standing nearby. “You didn't feed him? What's going on?” The guard, with a hint of defensiveness, responded, “I've only been on duty for a couple of hours. No one brought anything for him to eat during my shift.” Growing more frustrated, Mesk continued his questioning. “And what about his medications? Did he receive them?” The guard's reply added to the growing concern. “I don't know anything about his medications. No one instructed me on that.” Feeling determined to help, Kelfin spoke up weakly, wanting to assure Mesk. “Don't worry about me, Mesk. I'll eat when I can. How is Yol doing?” Mesk's gaze shifted back to Kelfin. “He's still unconscious.” Concern creased Kelfin's face. “Do you think he will wake up eventually?” Mesk nodded with a glimmer of hope in his eyes. “He should. We just have to keep hoping and waiting.” Kelfin followed Mesk to the lab while Baj took the guard aside, Kelfin assumed to deal with paperwork. In the lab, Rist, Dath, and Zela were waiting anxiously. Concern rolled off the three individuals, but they each quickly smothered it upon Kelfin's arrival. Kelfin immediately hugged Rist tightly, his arm remaining around her for comfort. The emotions he sensed from others in the building were overwhelming after the isolation he had endured. “You okay, Boss?” Dath asked with genuine concern, breaking the silence. “I need to get cleaned up,” Kelfin responded, knowing he couldn't disclose the true reason for his distress in front of the others. The isolation had taken a toll on him emotionally and mentally. “I figured you'd say that,” Dath replied, holding up a garment bag and a toiletry kit, prepared to assist Kelfin in his cleanup process. “You can use my office,” Mesk offered, gesturing towards the adjoining room. Dath followed him into the office but insisted, “I don't need help,” as Kelfin tried to decline the offer. “You sure? You seem a bit shaky,” Dath replied, his eyes filled with concern. “I'm just not used to being so alone. How long was it?” Kelfin asked, beginning to comprehend the significance of his isolation. “Five days. With me here, you're not alone,” Dath reassured him, wanting to provide some solace. “I'm also not isolated. I can feel others,” Kelfin pointed out. “I know. But Rist can't come in here while you change. You have imprinted on me,” Dath explained, reminding Kelfin of the limits his empathic abilities imposed. Kelfin hadn't fully considered the implications of imprinting, being too out of it to grasp the consequences. Grateful for Dath's understanding, he murmured, “Thanks. Fill me in. What did I miss?” as he began dressing. “Rist told Zela you're an empath. She was stranded at the house and called the one person she could trust,” Dath informed him, providing a brief summary of the events that had transpired. “What about Shor and Kessa?” Kelfin inquired, concerned about his loyal employees. “Rist figured they'd be busy at Mor's,” Dath replied. Kelfin groaned, realizing the potential chaos that might have unfolded in his absence. “With Yol and me gone, that's got to be a mess. I'm sure Tre is moving in for a takeover. Blan is probably too.” Dath shook his head, attempting to calm his boss. “Rist kept everything under control.” Kelfin paused while putting on his pants, momentarily surprised at Dath's words. “Did you say Rist did?” Dath nodded, reaffirming his statement. “She's your assistant, so she can fill in for you. But don't worry, she didn't do it all herself. Shor and Kessa worked with her to manage things in your absence.” Relieved to hear he had competent individuals backing him up, Kelfin managed to relax a little. Rist was smart, even if she lacked experience, but with the others assisting her, things shouldn't be too chaotic. Resuming his dressing, Kelfin silently thanked his team for their dedication and support. “Are you dressed enough that Rist can come in? I'll summon the back elevator so you don't have to wait,” Dath offered, concerned about Kelfin's appearance. Kelfin shook his head, rejecting the offer. “No, let's go out the front way,” he said decisively. “But there are reporters,” Dath protested, worried about the potential chaos they might face. “I assumed as much. But Yol and I both have been out of commission. People need answers,” Kelfin explained, emphasizing the importance of addressing the public's concerns. “Do you feel up to it?” Dath asked, handing him a comb to tidy his hair. Kelfin took the comb and started working on the knots. “It's not something I'll enjoy, but it's part of the job,” he replied, acknowledging the necessary responsibility that came with his position. “Boss, maybe you should rest first,” Dath suggested, worried about Kelfin's well-being. “I've had nothing to do for the last five days. Let's deal with the reporters so I can get back to work,” Kelfin insisted, showing his eagerness to fulfill his duties. “Boss...” Dath started to argue, expressing his concern once again. “From home,” Kelfin assured him, cutting off Dath's argument. “I'm not going to bother arguing,” he added, determined to handle the situation in a way that would allow him to continue working without compromising his health Kelfin checked himself in the mirror, ensuring that his appearance was presentable. Satisfied with how he looked, he rejoined the others, with Dath following closely behind. As they made their way to the elevator, Kelfin instinctively put an arm around Rist, feeling a sense of comfort and protection in her presence. He was mindful of her emotions, making sure not to do anything that would make her uncomfortable. Luckily, she seemed content and understanding of his need for support. Just before the elevator doors opened, Kelfin pulled away from Rist, wanting to maintain a professional appearance. Stepping onto a raised platform designated for announcements, he approached the area where the reporters had gathered. As they spotted him, a flurry of questions filled the air. “Kelfin, what's been happening? Where have you been?” one reporter called out. “I've been in isolation here, related to my illness last spring,” Kelfin replied calmly. “But I'm fine now. The police looked into my involvement as a possible suspect initially, but there was plenty of evidence proving my innocence.” “Is it true you were arrested?” another reporter inquired, pushing for more details. Kelfin shook his head. “No, that is not true. I was never arrested during this time.” The questions continued, each reporter seeking information about Mr. Mor and his condition. Kelfin answered diplomatically, aware of the delicate situation that surrounded Mor's current state. “There has been no change in Mr. Mor's condition,” Kelfin admitted, his voice filled with a mixture of concern and hope. “We are eagerly waiting for him to wake up, and once he does, I am confident he will return. In the meantime, the other executives and I are doing everything we can to ensure the smooth operation of the company.” An eager reporter inquired, “If he...if Mr. Mor doesn't make it, will you take over?” Kelfin's expression turned serious. “No, I will not. Mr. Mor has named someone else as his heir in his will.” The room erupted into speculation and curiosity about the identity of the heir. Kelfin knew the answer, but he also understood the significance of keeping it confidential until the time was right. “That is something that will not be made known until Mr. Mor's passing,” Kelfin stated firmly. He couldn't help but reflect on the fact that he himself had once been the designated heir, but had graciously declined the position. Yol had understood his reluctance and had relieved him of that responsibility, granting him a sense of relief. “If you've been in isolation, who's been running things?” Another reporter asked. Kelfin smiled knowingly. He gestured to Rist to join him. “Rist is my new assistant. She is quite capable of handling things for a time with the help of Kessa and Shor. And while I was in isolation, I was reachable by tablet.” “Are you sleeping with this assistant too?” Someone called out. Kelfin frowned “No.” “But she lives with you, and accompanied you to the gala,” the same voice pointed out. Kelfin grinned. “Have you seen the size of my house? Do you think it only has one bedroom? I work from home so she needs to be there. It's simpler for her to stay. It's also safer for her to stay than to drive all that way at night if we work late.” “What about the gala?” Someone pressed. “It was her first opportunity for her to meet everyone. After losing Marza, I'm not ready to date, so this worked out well.” “Rumors say she's a transfer.” Kelfin glanced at Rist for permission before answering. She gave a slight nod. “She is. But that doesn't disqualify her from what she's been doing.” “If she can't manage her own money, how can she manage something as big as Mors?” “It's not that she mismanaged her money. She used it to help pay her mother's hospital bill. I don't know about you, but I'm more inclined to trust someone who will put another's life before making money.” A few of the reporters gave the one who'd asked the question a dirty look. “What about the rumors of a takeover by Tre?” Another reporter asked. “When have there not been rumors?” Kelfin countered. “Tre is not taking over Mor's.” Anoll Tre was an insufferable, arrogant jerk. Yol would rather break Mor's into corporations than let Anoll have it. “Now, if you will excuse me, I do have work to do.” Kelfin led Rist to the back elevators where the reporters couldn't go, with Dath and Zela following closely behind. They reached the lower garage and Kelfin turned to Dath, asking him, “I don't suppose you parked down here?” Dath grinned and replied, “Of course I did, boss. It's in the west corner.” Kelfin nodded and headed towards the car, taking Rist's hand. Suddenly, he felt a sense of belonging radiating towards him. Surprised, he realized that the energy wasn't coming from Rist, but from Dath and Zela. He turned to find them holding hands. “How long?” he managed to ask, his voice filled with curiosity. “It's been several months,” Dath admitted. “You were the one she slipped out to see at the gala?” Kelfin asked, seeking confirmation. Dath simply nodded. “Why hide it?” Kelfin questioned, genuinely curious. “Can we talk later, Boss?” Dath requested, seeking a more private conversation. Kelfin nodded, understanding that Dath needed time to explain himself. As Dath tried to conceal his emotions, Kelfin sensed his deep sense of inferiority and shame. Dath's past experiences, including his arrest, mistreatment at the camp, the scar on his face, and even the fact that he had been an orphan as a child, had all contributed to his feeling of unworthiness, especially when it came to someone like Zela. Kelfin wondered how much Zela knew about Dath's troubled past. He didn't feel it was his place to reveal everything, but he also didn't want to inadvertently let any sensitive information slip. Seeing the internal struggle within Dath, Kelfin reassured him, “You don't have to hide anything from me. If you want to have her over, I don't care.” Dath looked at him, grateful for the understanding. “If I do that, I won't be in control of my emotions,” he warned, his voice tinged with vulnerability. Kelfin chuckled and responded, “And this is different from other times how?” Rolling his eyes playfully, Dath followed Kelfin to the car, both relieved to have their unique bond and understanding intact As Dath bid farewell to Zela, he leaned in for a brief kiss and asked her to call him later when she was done for the day. He was probably going to message her several times before that, but he didn't want to be a nuisance. As he got into the car, Kelfin suggested that they stop for some food on the way, to which Rist leaned against him. Dath was surprised and glanced at them in the mirror, wondering why Kelfin had suggested it. “Boss?” Dath said, looking at Kelfin. “I haven't eaten since last night. I'm starved,” Kelfin replied, trying to hide his hunger. “What about reporters?” Dath asked. Kelfin sighed. “Get something to go,” he said, indicating that they shouldn't worry about the reporters. Dath nodded. “What do you want?” he asked Kelfin. “You pick. You two must be hungry too,” Kelfin said, gesturing towards Dath and Rist. “I'm on the clock,” Dath reminded him. “So? I've told you to eat if you need it,” Kelfin said, assuring Dath that he could take a break if he wanted to. Dath nodded and, after conferring with Rist, chose a place to eat. Kelfin savored the food as if he hadn't eaten in weeks, relishing every bite. He knew his appetite wouldn't last, but he'd take advantage while he could. As they finished eating, Kelfin finally had a chance to ask Dath if he had found what he needed in his contacts. “Yeah, I got lucky that I knew Marza's designation,” Dath replied. “That's why I used hers. But you found him?” Kelfin asked, curious about the progress. “He's at the house,” Dath assured him, sensing Kelfin's surprise. “He's what?” Kelfin was taken aback, having wanted the boy to be protected. “There was already one attempt on him,” Rist explained. “Dath's security is better than most. And Hurmis's brother, Jalf, is here helping. He seems like he'd be a decent bodyguard,” Rist reassured Kelfin. Kelfin sighed, knowing that it should only be for a short time. He could deal with one child for that time, but he was still concerned. *** Dath let Kelfin and Rist off at the front door before pulling around to the garage. He anticipated the staff had made his tea. Between that and his medicine, he had a little time to spare, but then he needed to see what Rist and the others had done. “Uncle Kelly!” Etik's voice broke through his thoughts as the boy ran out the door and threw his arms around Kelfin. Kel cringed slightly, feeling uncomfortable with physical contact. “Etik, we talked about this,” his mother scolded. “Uncle Kelly doesn't like to be touched.” “But…” The boy sighed, feeling disappointed. “Sorry, Uncle Kelly.” Kelfin felt a tug on his heart as Etik's mood deflated. He decided to kneel down to the boy's eye level, wanting to console him. “I'd rather not be touched most times,” Kelfin explained gently. “But when family hasn't seen each other for a while, sometimes a hug can be reassuring.” With those words, he embraced Etik, allowing a moment of warmth between them. The boy's face lit up, and he returned the hug with genuine happiness. Kelfin couldn't help but smile, realizing the power of a simple gesture in strengthening family bonds. “How's my dad?” Etik asked anxiously, concern etched across his face. “No change yet from what I'm told. The doctors are optimistic that he will wake up soon,” Kelfin replied, trying to offer some reassurance. “Will he have to stay in the hospital for a long time like you did?” Etik inquired, his voice filled with worry. Kelfin stood up, motioning for Etik to join him. “No, your dad got hurt. I was sick and didn't take good care of myself before that. Your dad takes good care of himself, so his recovery should be faster.” He led the way into the house, hoping to change the subject and provide some comfort to Etik. Etik's innocent curiosity continued to surface as he asked, “Did you want to die with Marza?” His mother, Sila, immediately hissed at him, clearly taken aback by such a question. “Etik,” she exclaimed, her embarrassment evident. “That's a horrible question.” Kelfin, understanding the undeniable innocence of childhood, chimed in, “I didn't want her to die.” He empathized with Sila's embarrassment and chose to address Etik's concerns seriously. “Mom says I'll end up like you if I don't eat,” Etik disclosed, his voice tinged with fear and uncertainty. Sila became even more self-conscious, realizing the impact of her words. Kelfin came to her aid, offering both guidance and support. “She's right, Etik. Taking care of yourself is important. Eating well, having a proper sleep schedule, and not spending all day on your tablet will help you stay healthy. If you follow these habits, you won't need to worry about ending up like me.” His words were filled with conviction and genuine concern for Etik's well-being. Curiosity continued to drive Etik's questions as he inquired, “Why did the police think you hurt him?” “I don't know, Etik. But I would never do something like that,” Kelfin replied emphatically, his tone filled with sincerity. “Dath and Jalf said they'd find out,” Etik mentioned, referencing their trusted family friends. “I believe they will,” Kelfin reassured, his voice reflecting his faith in Dath and Jalf's capabilities. “They’ll ask around, gather information, and get to the bottom of it.” Jalf was waiting just inside the door, concern etched on his face. “Etik, don't run out like that. You don't know who's out there,” he scolded gently. “It was just Dath with Rist and Uncle Kelly,” Etik assured him, his young innocence evident in his voice. Being still inexperienced, he didn't fully grasp the need for a bodyguard. Jalf sighed, his frustration giving way to understanding. “Just let us know first in case it's someone else next time,” he requested, his eyes shifting to Kelfin. “It's good to see you again.” Kelfin nodded appreciatively. “Thanks for coming to help,” he acknowledged, grateful for Jalf's presence. Jalf nodded, a hint of warmth returning to his features. “Anything for my baby brother and his friends,” he replied sincerely, revealing the depth of his attachment to his family. Although Kelfin had only heard bits and pieces about Hurmis’s past, he knew that there had been a falling out between Hurmis and the rest of the family. For a long time, they had severed all ties with him. Then, one fortunate day, Hurmis and Jalf crossed paths, and a flicker of hope ignited within them. Jalf had been overjoyed to see his brother, while Hurmis had initially been guarded. However, as they spent more time together, Hurmis warmed up to Jalf's genuine affection. They had kept in touch since then, but Hurmis had no interest in reconnecting with the rest of the family. The reasons behind their estrangement remained unknown to Kelfin, just as Jalf's current occupation remained a mystery, despite Dath's diligent efforts to gather information. He and Kelfin decided it might be better not to know if it was that well hidden. “How are you doing, Sir?” Satil approached Kelfin with concern etched on his face. Kelfin sighed. “I need my meds,” he admitted, his voice strained. “He hasn't had any today,” Rist chimed in from behind Kelfin, her worry evident. Satil frowned, understanding the gravity of the situation. “I'll bring that and your tea right away,” he promised, springing into action to alleviate Kelfin's discomfort. “I'll be in my room,” Kelfin told Satil with a tired expression. “Sorry, Etik, but I have to lie down for a bit. After that, I have some work to do.” Etik nodded understandingly, saying proudly, “Like my daddy. Rist has been letting me help her work so I know the business when I'm big.” Kelfin looked at Rist with curiosity, raising an eyebrow. “Oh really? What kind of work have you been doing together?” Rist smiled and responded, “We were looking over the upcoming fashion trends. And we also took a look at Sola's new tractors.” Kelfin decided to compromise. He suggested, “Alright, how about this? I'm going to be working on more advanced tasks today, but how about you sit with me while I have my tea and take my medicine?” Etik wrinkled his nose and replied, “I don't like tea.” Kelfin chuckled and reassured him, “I didn't like it when I was five either. Would you like something else to drink instead?” Etik's face lit up as he suggested, “How about a milkshake?” Kelfin considered the idea but hesitated, “I'm not sure if we have the ingredients for a milkshake, but how about chocolate milk? Would that be alright?” Etik turned to Sila, seeking her approval as well. Sila observed his earlier good behavior during lunch and nodded. “You ate your lunch quite well. Chocolate milk is fine.” Kelfin then sent a message to Corish, their staff member, requesting the delivery of chocolate milk. Additionally, he asked if it would be possible to provide a milkshake for Etik as a special treat after dinner. “How has school been?” Kelfin asked as they waited. “Okay,” replied Etik with a shrug. “Did Dath set you up on the computer so you can attend here?” Kelfin asked. Etik shook his head. “Jalf wouldn't let him. He said the bad guys would use it to find me.” “I doubt they could with Dath's security. But I guess it's better to be cautious,” Kelfin reasoned. “Mom called the school. Dath's picking up recordings so I don't get behind. I miss my friends,” Etik sighed. Listening attentively, Kelfin offered a suggestion. “Maybe Jalf can help you make recordings for them, and Dath can give them to the teacher.” Curiosity tugging at him, Etik couldn't help but voice his inquiry. “Why do you live so far away?” Kelfin pondered for a moment before replying, “It's quiet here. Living in the countryside allows me to escape the noise and chaos of the city. Plus, I have a beautiful view of nature.” Satil entered the cozy room carrying a tray filled not only with drinks for Kelfin and Etik but also for Rist and Sila, who were engaged in their own private conversation across the room. “But there's no kids here to play with,” Etik protested, slightly disappointed, as he grabbed his glass of milk from the tray. Kelfin, sipping his tea and taking his medicine, took a moment to respond. “I'm a bit too old to play with kids much. Besides, I've never been a fan of large crowds.” Etik, curiously intrigued, asked, “Why don't you like being touched, Uncle Kelly?” Kelfin hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words. “I suppose I'm just sensitive, and it takes me a while to get used to the feel of new people. It's not something I can easily explain.” “But I'm not new,” Etik pointed out, making sure to keep his distance from Kelfin. Kelfin chuckled softly. “No, you're not new, but we don't see each other often, which makes it a bit harder for me.” Rist, listening to the conversation made a suggestion. “Etik, sometimes Uncle Kelly needs to lie down after he takes his medicine. How about we check on Hurmis and see if he's ready for you to help him put the flowers to bed for the winter?” Etik's eyes lit up with excitement. “Okay! I can tuck the flowers in and read them a bedtime story!” Kelfin smiled warmly. “Well, that sounds like fun. Make sure you tell them a good one.” As everyone else left the room, Kelfin made his way to his bedroom, feeling the effects of the stronger pill Satil had given him due to his missed doses. Between the medication and the tea, his stomach was acting up, and resting seemed like the best course of action if he wanted to keep his lunch down and have a good appetite for dinner later. In his room, Kelfin lay down on his comfortable bed, closing his eyes. As the medication started to take effect, he felt a sense of calm washing over him. He knew that with some rest, he could regain his strength and enjoy the rest of the evening. Once his stomach settled, Kelfin pulled out his tablet and started checking on what had been done in his absence. He was relieved to find that most of the work had been successfully completed, albeit with a few things that seemed odd. There was a knock on the door, and Kelfin could feel Rist's presence on the other side. “Come in,” he called, assuming that Rist had come to check on him at Satil's behest. “You can tell Satil to quit worrying. I'm fine.” Rist entered the room, but her response was unexpected. “Satil didn't send me. I am capable of being concerned without prompting,” she said, her voice calm and composed. It was difficult for Kelfin to discern her true emotions, as she had become adept at concealing them. Curiosity piqued, Kelfin asked the question that had been bothering him. “Did you tell Sila what I am?” Rist shook her head. “No. There's no reason to. I'm not going to start telling everyone. You're upset that I told Zela?” She perched herself on a chair near his bed, her eyes meeting his. Kelfin sighed, realizing that his frustration was misplaced. “I don't know. She's never given me a reason not to trust her. I'm just so used to hiding it.” Rist nodded in understanding. “Everything I see tells me you can trust her. I haven't spent much time with Sila, but Zela has always been loyal and discreet. As for Etik, well, he's a bit too young and may things slip accidentally.” Kelfin pondered Rist's words, finding some solace in her reassurance. Kelfin nodded, understanding Rist's explanation. He picked up his tablet “Why did you cancel the generator project?” “Talk to Kessa and Shore. They did that without me. They said it was costing too much. I don't see it.” “They hadn’t gone over budget and it looked like they were making good progress. I'll investigate further and see if the project can reinstated,” Kelfin assured Rist. Rist moved to sit on the bed beside Kelfin and leaned in to look at the tablet screen. “Let me show you the specific projects they changed without my input. I believe some of them should have been handled differently,” Rist said. As they analyzed the list together, Kelfin found himself agreeing with Rist's perspective on about seventy-five percent of the projects. He made a mental note to have Dath look into Rist's educational background. Although she hadn't attended the vocational school, she might have received specialized training during her time at the teen academy without realizing it. It was not uncommon for conglomerations to collaborate with schools, focusing on industries that required more workers. This ensured that a higher number of graduates were placed in those specific fields, fulfilling the industry's demand for competent professionals. Kelfin felt Dath approach, his presence flickering in his consciousness. “Move to the chair,” he instructed Rist softly. The situation was already precarious enough, with them being alone in his room with the door closed. It would be better if Rist wasn’t on his bed on top of that. “Come in,” he called out, preemptively answering Dath's knock before the man could even ask for permission to enter. Dath entered the room, his face creased with concern. “Are you okay, Boss?” he inquired, his tone laced with worry. “I'm fine. Why do you ask?” Kelfin responded, masking the concern that had briefly clouded his own expression. “You usually wait until I knock,” Dath pointed out, his frown deepening. “Sorry. What do you need?” Kelfin motioned for Dath to continue. “Cral called Rist's tablet. When Rist didn't answer, she tried calling the house line. They just got back and she's worried about Rist. I assured her that she was okay, but I think she would prefer to hear it directly from Rist,” Dath explained. Kelfin nodded, understanding the concern. “Go talk to her. I could use a break,” he suggested, allowing Rist to have a moment alone with Cral to address any worries and assure her of her safety. “Are you okay? Do you need anything?” Rist inquired, visibly concerned as she rose from her seat. “I'm fine, just a little tired,” Kelfin reassured her, offering a small smile to alleviate her worry. Rist nodded, accepting his answer, and silently left the room. “You sure you're okay, Boss?” Dath asked, concern evident in his voice. “You never admit to needing a rest.” “I do,” Kelfin insisted, his voice carrying a hint of exhaustion. “And I'm fine. It's good to be home.” Dath, recognizing the signs of his boss's fatigue, offered a solution. “Do you want Corish to bring your dinner in here so you don't have to get up?” A small smile played on Kelfin's lips. “You trust me to eat unsupervised?” Dath chuckled. “No. I figured one of us could keep you company.” “I'm okay to eat at the table,” Kelfin decided. “Will Zela be joining us?” Dath shrugged, his unease becoming evident. “I haven't spoken to her yet. We get along, but I'm not exactly someone an executive would date.” “Rist said something similar the night of the gala,” Kelfin recalled. “Rist is gorgeous,” Dath admitted with a hint of admiration. “She looked perfect there.” “I know,” Kelfin replied, understanding Dath's insecurities. “She worried she'd upset people with how good she looked. She felt that as an indebted transfer who'd never had any money, she shouldn't look good.” “She has as much right as anyone else there,” Dath defended. “She was the envy of several women. I had four other drivers ask me how serious of a couple you two were.” “We're not,” Kelfin clarified. “But you and Zela are.” Dath's eyebrows furrowed as he contemplated Kelfin's words. “But should we be?” Kelfin's tone softened as he posed a question. “Do you want to be? If Zela was just a seamstress, would you be willing to date her?” A flicker of contemplation crossed Dath's face. “I would. But she's not just a seamstress.” “No, she's the head of fashion and textiles,” Kelfin acknowledged. “But she doesn’t look down on you because you’re a chauffeur. She's asked me the same thing about you as she did about Rist. Would you want to do any modeling?” Dath's eyes opened wide with surprise and disbelief. “Me? A model?” His hand instinctively went to touch the scar on his cheek, a constant reminder of the past. “Yes, Dath. I told her that she would have to speak to you about it,” Kelfin confirmed, his voice filled with assurance. Dath's heart sank. “But she never did.” “The only time I thought she would ask was when we going to Meamos,” Kelfin explained. Kelfin sensed the relief washing over Dath as he nodded in understanding. Kelfin's expression turned curious. “Have you told her how you got the scar?” he asked cautiously. Dath nodded, his face holding a mix of trepidation and acceptance. “Yes, I've shared everything with her. She knows the story behind it.” Kelfin couldn't help but inquire further. “And she doesn't mind? She's still with you, even after learning about it all?” Dath's eyes softened as he spoke. “No, she doesn't seem to mind. In fact, she's been incredibly supportive and understanding. It hasn't affected our relationship.” Kelfin let out a sigh of relief. “Well, then, let her be the judge. If she chooses to be with you, let her decide if she wants to be seen with you too.” Dath nodded, grateful for Kelfin's advice. “Thank you, Kelfin. I'll let you rest now. Dinner shouldn't be too far away.” “Thanks, Dath,” Kelfin replied, closing his eyes to get some much-needed rest. But just as he settled in, Rist joined him, interrupting his attempt at relaxation. “Cral and Ghel want us to have dinner with them tomorrow,” she began, her voice filled with anticipation. Kelfin raised an eyebrow in surprise. “Why? What do they want to talk about?” “Cral didn't say specifically, but she mentioned that Ghel had already chosen a place and would send you the address,” Rist explained. Kelfin contemplated the invitation. He knew Ghel was a shrewd businessman and suspected that there might be more to this dinner than just casual conversation. “Alright, I'll keep our recent experiences in mind. It'll be interesting to see what Ghel has in store for us.”