Hannah finished her breakfast quickly that morning. Her relationship with Alden was back to zero; there was no conversation, not even a look from Alden in Hannah's direction.

But somehow Hannah felt numb. There was no feeling anymore.

"I'll excuse myself, sir. I'm going to the office now," Hannah said as she stood up.

Alden was taken aback. He turned to Hannah. "Sir?"

Hannah nodded. "Is there a problem?"

"Why are you calling me 'sir' again?"

A long breath ...