Rianne gradually came back to her senses and shook her head.

"Hmm?" Seeing that she hadn't answered, ‌Michael held her tightly, gently stroking her hair, and asked, "Why were you crying then? Was it because of the Kroes family?"

Rianne's emotions began to calm, and she sniffed, still shaking her head.

‌Michael, seeing her reluctance to speak, grew more anxious, his eyes filled with concern.

Not wanting to see him so worried, Rianne steadied her voice and said, "I'm fine. Don't worry about me."

"I don't believe it," ‌Michael insisted, his gaze unwavering. If she were truly fine, why would she be crying and skip dinner?

Rianne pointed to the...