Fear

Fear

A moment later, Simoya hurried in and stopped in front of Hesta, slightly out of breath.

"You got here fast," Hesta said, looking at her. "But I'm already heading back."

Fatima smiled at the newcomer. "Is this your friend?"

"Yes," Hesta replied.

Simoya glanced at Fatima and forced out a smile. "Hello."

"What exactly is wrong with you?" Simoya suppressed her anger in the car on the way back. "Did you have to visit Trion's family while I was away?"

"Did that even count as a visit? I just brought over a piece of cake because she took such good care of us at the last dinner," Hesta said innocently. "Besides, her daughter has been sick all this time. It was only natural for me to visit her—"

"I told you not to let your guard down around anyone from Trion's family!" Simoya cut her off. "They're determined to win you over, so they'll use every means possible to get close to you. And you practically delivered yourself to their door!"

Hesta suddenly clapped her hands.

"What?" Simoya looked at her in confusion.

"I'm completely innocent." Hesta spread her hands. "You saw it too. My hands were empty—I didn't take anything when I left."

"...Anyway, don't let there be a next time," Simoya said coldly. "And have you finished signing the documents I sent you last week? Why haven't I received a reply yet?"

"I've been out looking at houses these past two weeks. How was I supposed to feel like bringing my computer along to read documents?" Hesta said. "Or you could prepare a paper copy and bring it to me. I can sign it directly. That would be more convenient."

"I prepared an electronic version precisely because you've been out house-hunting for two weeks! Why can't