Eliana didn't answer directly. Instead, she changed the subject. "If there's nothing else, let's part ways here."

Michael wasn't ready to let her go. "Give me your phone number."

Eliana's patience wore off. She brushed him off, "Sorry, I don't have my phone and I can't remember the number. I need to go now." She quickly turned and walked off with Hopey in her arms.

Michael stood there, silently watching her retreating figure with the thought, ...