Nico came out of his office building with hesitant steps. He saw Elissa waving from behind the wheel of his car. She looked excited, as always.  

"Come on, Nico! Don't tell me you've changed your mind," Elissa said as she opened her car window.  

Nico smiled faintly, trying to shake off the uncomfortable feeling that came over her. "No, I'm coming," she replied as she got into the car.  

Along the way, Elissa told stories cheerfully. About her work, about her vacation plans abroad, and a little about Nico's life. But Nico only listened while occasionally smiling or nodding.  

"Today you should really rest, Nico. No topics about domestic matters,...