I worked my way to pick the lock with my hairpin. While I was doing so, Nicholas who was on the other side of the door started speaking.
"Princess, thank you for not abandoning me."
His voice was weak as if he was also on the verge of passing out. Though it had been five days since we got separated, it was quite amazing that he survived this long time without enough food to eat. But the danger was still there. We don't even know how long we could last with the growing cold.
Even my hands that were picking the lock were trembling.
"Silly, how can I abandon you when I still not get my painting from you," I didn't realize that smile bloomed on my face. "Since you said you are good at painting and even said it in a confident way, I have a lot of expectations from you."
Then on the other side of the door, I heard a soft chuckle. "What's the occasion princess, you're praising me."
"If people did something praiseworthy, they should be complimented and encouraged right?"