Estelle couldn’t help but recall the words Mr. Mysterious had spoken three years ago. On that night, he had said those very words, repeatedly calling her name with a husky voice and pleading eyes.

Cristofer brought her back to the present, saying, “Don’t feel torn. I understand my place in your heart. I won’t demand that you stay with me forever. After Grandpa passed away, I won’t hold you back if you choose to leave.”

Estelle’s lips tightened, and she nodded, finally responding, “Okay.”

When Cristofer heard her definite reply, the expectation in his eyes disappeared. Without saying anything else, he nodded and smiled with self-mockery. And he said to...