“Aditya?”

“What is it, Miss Kaiya?”

I shift my attention from the books I am reading towards her. We are in the gazebo that is overlooking the garden. It is a wooden structure with chairs and tables within the shade. Different kinds of flowers adorn the handrails. It is elevated a few steps off the ground with grasses, colorful plants, and bushes all around the quiet area. According to Aditya, Theo specifically requested this place in case I want to breathe and be away from my room for a while.

“Do you think I can visit Theo?” I ask her. “I will just be there in a few minutes.”

“I...