Chapter 78 - The First Encounter

• “Yes, everything’s fine,” Dalia replied with a faint smile on her lips. A forced smile, like a thin curtain trying to conceal the exhaustion and wounds that had yet to fully heal.
• Elzar studied her for a moment, as if trying to read deeper, but Dalia didn’t give him the chance. She quickly changed the subject.
• “Oh, by the way, has Brian given any updates about Stella?” she asked, her voice lighter, though deep down, she knew the question was more of a diversion than genuine concern.