A memory he'd pay a fortune to forget

Meanwhile, in a small, private café located in the heart of the city, Atlas sat in a cozy seat, waiting for Zoren. It was too late for breakfast but too early for lunch. However, Atlas couldn't wait or delay this meeting any longer.

He had told Benjamin that he would call Zoren and invite him for lunch. But calling Zoren today had never been in his plans—until he woke up underneath the bed. He was worried.

'The only good thing I'm a little grateful for is that she shoved me under the bed this time,' he thought, unable to enjoy the aroma of the coffee hovering in front of him. 'Compared to five years ago, I'm relieved it was just under the bed.'

Thinking about what happened five years ago, his face twisted with disgust, and he nearly jumped from his seat in an attempt to shrug off the intense shame that came with the memory.

*****

Five years ago…