73

Kai’s POV

Armed with my new, unexpected discovery, I went in search of my mother, in need of an explanation as to why she had Alana’s necklace among her things. But on arrival, I found her room to be empty. Her maid, Ines, informed me that she had gone out for one of her evening walks.

While I waited for her return, doubts gnawed at my mind, and my thoughts raced with endless scenarios, contemplating the possibility of my mother being the one behind Alana’s sudden disappearance.

I couldn’t believe it. It was hard to do. Mother had begun to care and accept her, despite her initial refusal, which is why I couldn’t jump to any form of conclusion just yet, even though the necklace found in her room was proof enough.

Restlessness clawed mercilessly at me as I awaited my mother’s return. I felt itchy and irritated. I looked myself over, noticed some dirt on my body, and decided to retire to my room, take a bath, and change into a new pair of clothes then continue to wait..

I discarded my di