Stephano tried to wiggle his arms but only found the ropes tightening him more. He groaned and saw Rose walk back to stand beside Joel. Stephano's jaw hardened when he saw Joel's arm now coming to rest on Rose's waist from behind. He had never loathed anyone as much as he did for Joel right now.

He was a sudden disease like the covid that came to plague his entire family. He couldn't help but look at Rose again. Why hadn't she recognized him? Her eyes seemed so distant and so far away ...