We were in Saintornia, on the country's southern border, whereas Capitarnia was in the north. It would take a few hours by air.

"It's not that far away. I can always return if necessary," I replied.

Zara took a deep breath and didn't question me any further. She comprehended my longing to get out of Saintornia and begin anew in a different city.

After breakfast, I selected a few of my clothes for Zara. We were about the same size, and we had often exchanged clothes earlier.

While Zara showered, I washed the dining table. No sooner had I loaded the dishes into the dishwasher than the phone rang with...