29. I hate you!

A few meters from the intertwined trees signaling their approach to the grand mansion, a female voice interrupted Za and Elijah's conversation. They turned around to see Melia, holding a packet of fried foods in her right hand, which she proceeded to consume. She was wearing a dark blue long-necked blouse under her coat, with her hair styled perfectly, suggesting she had just come from a beauty salon. Za smiled and ran towards her, hugging her tightly.

"Where have you been?" She asked with a hint of concern. "I was really scared. I thought you had gone away never to come back, or that you..."

"You know perfectly well that even if I wanted to do it, someone wouldn't let me," Melia interrupted her. "And I'm fine." Za hugged her tighter, causing her to lose her breath a little. "Za, you're squeezing me."

Za laughed and let go of her, kissing her cheek and forehead. Melia was unsure how to respond to his affection, but deep down, she appreciated that Za was looking out for her.

As they