Pursuit

"Nula sent me to check if you've finished counting your money. If you have, we need to discuss our departure."

"We might be in a bit of trouble."

Trouble? Vivia's words momentarily puzzled Howard, who casually asked, "What trouble? Did Nula tell you something?"

Vivia shook her head.

"She didn't go into details, just asked me to check on you and urged you to join her as soon as possible."

"Alright then," Howard nodded, tousling Vivia's hair.

"But don't wait by my door next time. People might get the wrong idea, thinking I did something to you. Just knock directly."

Vivia suddenly giggled.

"What are you afraid of being misunderstood for?"

Howard didn't respond, merely straightened his face and gave Vivia a light knock on the head before stepping out of the room.

"Let's go."

Nula's room was directly opposite Howard's, so he found himself at her door almost immediately, raising his hand to knock.