Chapter 38

In the fourth year of Claire's departure, Alex's life felt increasingly burdensome and torturous. His weight had significantly decreased compared to four years ago. He smiled less often and was more engrossed in all his work. Some people said Alex had become more easily angered, and even Jackson and Michael couldn't persuade him to come out of his hiding place. In his spare time, Alex continuously reread Claire's letters multiple times. He always tried to convince himself that after Claire had satisfied her wanderlust, they would soon live together and have many children. Children who would run in their house's yard...

Tears streamed down Alex's face. He truly wanted to see Claire return as soon as possible and be with her. Only one year remained from their agreement. After that, Claire would never leave him again. Alex often wanted to write a letter asking Claire to return immediately. However, he quickly abandoned the idea.

That morning, two soldiers knocked on Alex's door in unifor