ch-9 : KNOCK - KNOCK...!

Amy's face flushed with embarrassment as Allen approached her, trying to check her temperature and see if she was alright. She wasn't fully recovered and felt a mix of embarrassment and discomfort at the sudden closeness. Her mind raced as she tried to keep her composure, aware of the warmth of his presence.

Allen quickly realized the awkwardness of the situation and backed away, respecting her personal space. They were no longer children, and he didn't want to overstep any boundaries. "S-sorry!" he stammered, feeling a mix of self-consciousness and concern. Both of them blushed, sharing a moment of mutual embarrassment.

Trying to ease the tension and redirect the situation, Allen suggested, "So... shall we go inside?"

"Ye-yeah! Sure!" Amy replied, grateful for the opportunity to put some distance between them and relieve the tension in the air.

Once they were inside, Amy remembered she hadn't properly thanked Allen for saving her life. As they walked through the house, she turned to him and said, "Excuse me, sir."

Allen paused and looked back at her, sensing she had something important to say.

She bowed her head respectfully, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. "Thank you for saving me, sir. I can't repay your kindness. If you hadn't saved me, I might not be here now."

"Don't mention it, Amy," Allen responded, trying to reassure her. "If you need anything, feel free to ask me."

"How could I trouble you, sir?" Amy replied, still feeling indebted to him. "You've already saved my life."

"Please, don't mention it," Allen insisted, trying to downplay his actions. "And, Amy, please call me by my name. Don't call me 'sir' every time. It makes me feel too old."

Amy thought to herself, "His name? Do I know that?" and whispered aloud, "Name?"

Allen chuckled and shook his head. "Now, please don't fool me as if you really don't know me. You're acting as though you genuinely don't remember who I am."

Amy's confusion deepened, and she thought, "WTF?" as she tried to piece together her memories of their earlier encounter. The whole situation felt surreal, like she was in a dream she couldn't fully grasp.

Just then, there was a knock at the door, breaking the moment. Allen told Amy to rest and headed to open it.

When Allen opened the door, his expression shifted to one of surprise. "Dolly?" he exclaimed, seeing Amy's childhood friend standing there.

Dolly, who had just moved back to the city to surprise Amy, stood at the door, her face a mixture of concern and excitement. She was eager to see her friend and worried about the situation. The sight of her brought a sense of relief to Allen, knowing that her presence would be a comfort to Amy.