21

Rupert was not worried about Louise's sudden disappearance as Lucia is with her.

He knew that she's safe somewhere.

It's been 5 years and Jonas was forever gone.

Drake had long disappeared in his office and he was left all alone.

He took a a cigarette from the box and lit one stick.

He didn't took a drag. He just let it burn down to the filter before he stood up and walked behind his table.

His good brother was gone just like that and Louise was still unwilling to wake up.

He took a look on the picture frame beside on top of his table.

It was a picture of 3 youths with a peace sign on their fingers.

Their smiles were foolish yet youthful.

Rupert opened one of the folders and began his work again.

***

S Country.

It was nearing Christmas and Lucia decided to have her groceries. She left the house and headed to the nearest supermarket.

As a lone Asian woman, many people took notice of her but she didn't mind their probing gazes. She walked isle to isle as she picked up some items for Louise and for her before she went to the vegetable and meat area.

She got another basket for meat and vegetables.

It's been five whole years since she migrated from P country to S country.

Nothing changed.

Louise still didn't wake up. She waited patiently everyday for her. As they were alone in this foreign place, many took pity on them. Their papers said that they were mother and daughter to avoid trouble.

Celebrating Christmas was the only thing that makes Lucia happy and seeing that Louise had signs of awakening makes her even more happier.

As her thoughts ran wild, Lucia paid her items at the counter and took the bags out with her 2 strong hands.

She walked faster as the night is fast approaching.

The town will be deserted soon and shops will close early that's why she stocked food at home even when she was the only one eating.

After 10 minutes of walk, she arrived at the front door of their house. She then fished out the keys from her pocket and inserted it in the keyhole.

Lucia pushed the door open and placed all her groceries inside and closed the door behind her before she change into a home slipper.

The lights were brightly lit.

That man came again.

Lucia sighed and walked towards Lucia's bedroom door.

As expected, he visited her again.

"Augustus, why didn't you call me?" Lucia called out the man who was sitting beside the bed. She walked towards him and offered a hug.

The man stood up and hugged her.

"Sorry Aunt Lucia. I came in without informing you again." The man apologized.

Lucia sighed and shook her head.

"Nevermind. Stay for dinner will you?" Lucia asked with a smile.

Augustus nodded and smiled. He looked at the young woman who was sleeping peacefully on the bed.

"I leave you here. Talk to her more then. I will prepare our food." Lucia walked out from the room.