Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Chapter 1925

Norah's heart skipped a beat as she hesitated, her lips pressed into a thin line. After a moment, she nodded and, clutching a pineapple bun, made her way upstairs. Reaching the top, she called out before entering, "Mr. Flemmings?" but no reply came from within.

The living room was empty, so Norah headed towards his bedroom. The door was ajar, and despite her knocking, there was still no response.

She gently pushed the door open, and it swung wide to reveal an empty room.

On the bed lay a few pieces of clothing and a backpack, ready for travel. Norah paused, confusion etching her features. Was he leaving? She stepped inside, her eyes scanning the luggage strewn across the bed, a sudden panic gripping her.

Where was he going?

Would he come back?

Norah sat on the edge of the bed, lost in thought for a moment before setting down the pineapple bun and starting to fold his clothes.

Two shirts, their colors faded from frequent washing, one of which she had bought for him. He had taken it reluctantly, telling her not to buy him anything ever again, yet he had worn it many times. Clutching the shirt, Norah was suddenly overwhelmed by the memories of what he had said that night at the 9th Mansion - he'd had many women and he'd never liked her!

A wave of profound sadness washed over her, and thinking of the pain she'd endured these past days, she couldn't help but cover her eyes and sob.

Her cries grew louder, as if she needed to release all the pent-up frustration and grief in one go.

Xavier, coming out of the bathroom, heard the crying outside. After splashing water on his face, he walked out, stopping short at the sight of Norah weeping on his bed. His expression shifted, and he leaned against the nearby wall.

With his back against the wall, he couldn't help but wonder, why was he hiding from her?

And why was she crying in his room?

He frowned, puzzled.

It had been so long; he thought she had moved on.

Norah cried for a long time, feeling relieved after the emotional release. She wiped her face with tissues, neatly folded her shirt, placed it on the bed, and then put the pineapple bun beside it. With a sniffle, she stood up, glanced around the room with a lonely expression, and walked out.

Once she left, Xavier came out from around the corner, his gaze falling on the neatly folded shirt, his brow furrowing even more.

Norah came down the stairs, her face regaining a cheerful smile. She casually asked Damian, "Is Mr. Flemmings going out?" "Yes, he said he'd be gone for a few days," Damian replied.

"Where to?"

"He didn't say."

"When will he be back?"

"Should be soon."

Norah's tension eased a bit, and she smiled. "Well, I'm off then. I'll come by to see you guys when I can!"

"Take care on your way out!"

Damian and Zachary walked Norah out.

After she was gone, Xavier shouldered his backpack and came down the stairs. He was dressed in a black parka, black trousers, and combat boots, the picture of rugged detachment.

"While I'm away, you'll listen to Damian," Xavier instructed. "If I don't come back, keep the shop running. No need to call me or look for me."

Damian and the others looked shocked. "Xavier, what do you mean?"

"It means I might find a place I like and decide to stay there," Xavier said indifferently, placing a card on the table. "Damian, you're in charge of this card for now. If I really don't come back, anyone who wants to stay can stay. If not, you can take your share of the money and go."

Damian wanted to say something, but Xavier raised a hand to stop him. "We're all men here; no need for drama. I'm off!"

With that, Xavier walked out without looking back.

Zachary looked bewildered. "Cameron, where the heck is Xavier going? I've got this weird feeling."

Damian's expression was grave. "I don't know, but he surely has his reasons. We'll take care of the shop and wait for his return."