Lena lowered her head, her heart pounding violently when her gaze accidentally met Neil’s in the hallway. Her breath hitched, and her hands trembled slightly.

She quickened her pace, pretending not to care. Yet deep down, she secretly wished for something different—that Neil would say something, anything. Maybe greet her, scold her, or throw one of his usual sharp remarks. But the man stayed silent, completely unresponsive.

When she finally reached her room, Lena hurriedly closed the ...