Politely, Andrew turned down Asher's invitation, citing their departure scheduled for the following day. Alice, though taken aback by the news since there was still a week left before their journey home, opted not to comment.

"You're probably wondering if I misled Mr. Williams," Andrew queried Alice as soon as they entered their room.

"Of course not; I trust that you have your own reasons."

"Grandma requested our presence at the New Year's party they're organizing."

Using the party as a cover, Andrew made his exit, an event he'd been dreading and firmly opposed attending. Despite the guilt of his fabrication, he couldn't hide his jealousy at seeing Alice so...