Seeing Elias's smile fade into a serious look, Isabella let out a deep sigh.
It wasn't that she was upset about Elias leaving without a word; she understood that if the witch wasn't appeased, more trouble would follow.
Her unease stemmed from feeling left out of the events on the island, events he chose not to face with her.
"If something similar happens again, will you ask the professor to run away first?"
"Because the professor really doesn't want to do that anymore. Am I that weak? It's like being a deserter, leaving those you care about behind..."
Elias immediately understood her concern and shook his head with a smile.
"Professor, I promise, it won't happen again."
Isabella expected him to argue further but was surprised by his change of heart.
"Why?"
"Because now... I'm strong!"
He said, exaggerating a muscle-flexing pose, which made Isabella burst into laughter.
