Chapter 41. Krystal’s Past

"Ai," Andrew called softly. I had become aware of his presence in the room I occupied during our time at his mother's house. The neatly kept and ever-clean space made me feel like I was at my parents' home. It carried the warm touch of my parents in its maintenance and care, without exception. I chose to sit by the window, gazing out at the serene view typical of the relatively inactive residential area we had been in since earlier.

"Are you... okay?"

Since our emotionally draining conversation with a certain Soffia, I had indeed retreated to the room. I let Andrew talk with his mother, while I avoided him when he inquired. My guess was that he was here now because he had finished talking with his mother.

"Did you know about this beforehand?"

Andrew sat down beside me, pulling a chair close to the vanity table. "Know about what?"

I handed him the neatly wrapped invitation. Andrew's brow furrowed momentarily, and his eyes began scanning the invitation in