Chapter 258 What was he up to?

"Be careful out there," Betty repeated as she saw me off, her voice tinged with concern.

"I'll call you every night as usual, and if you can't answer, at least send me a text to let me know you're safe..."

"Goodbye, Dad..." Michael added, his voice soft and obedient.

I managed to keep a calm expression, reassured by Michael's demeanor, but as the door shut behind me, a deep regret gnawed at me.

If only I had known what would unfold later, I would never have left.

The door closed with a definitive click, and the silence that followed was stark.

Betty stood there, a picture of longing and sorrow, seemingly forgetting that Michael was still by her side.

Unbeknownst to Betty, Michael was right behind her, his gaze fixed on her, his eyes reflecting a mix of infatuation and reminiscence.

"Ah... sorry, Michael..." Betty finally snapped out of her reverie.

As she turned to head back to the living room, she forgot Michael was right behind her.