Chapter 82: Matter of Erland yet the Matter of the Nation

Erik stopped walking and said, "I apologize. My mind was somewhere else."

"You look troubled, Mr. Hephaestus." said Gunhild yet having no glimpse of worry on her face.

"(Being fake now, huh Gunhild?...) I appreciate your sympathy for me. I am afraid that I have to leave."

"Please spare some time for me and my fiance, Mr. Hephaestus. We have to discuss something with you. It is about your son, Erland. He has wished for me to be his mother-"

"It is a win-win for you then. I have recently cut my ties with my son, being the useless father. I shall take my leave." Erik was rushing away from Gunhild. His steps could be heard in the empty hallway. Gunhild held Erik's hand and pulled him close with a bittersweet face as if she was angered.

"Is it not an insult to neglect a lady? I have been trying to have a conversation with you. Is your returning so important that you cannot even spare a moment?"