บท 116: 116. The Dissension

"Where have you been?" Nicholas asked anxiously, his brows furrowed. "I called you yesterday, but you didn't pick up. I'm worried about you, Rissa!" Nicholas looked at Rissa seriously, then hugged her tightly, completely ignoring Charlos's presence.

Reluctantly Rissa let go of Nicholas's embrace.

"I'm sorry," said Rissa, smiling weakly, feeling guilty. "Yesterday I overslept. I've already replied to your message anyway. How did you know that I was here?"

"I found out from Charlos," Nicholas replied.

Rissa turned to Charlos, looking at him in surprise. Then looked back at Nicholas. "How could that be?"

"Well, I told him," Charlos explained. "I think your brother should know." There was an emphasis when Charlos said the word 'brother.' "Your family shouldn't have to worry about you anymore because you're safe with me."

Charlos's statement made Rissa think that there seemed to be something going on that she didn't know about it.