As days passed, Mia and her mother were nowhere to be seen. The inspector, having recovered, knew where they were and what was happening, but he couldn't reveal this to Alex due to a promise he had made. Mia continued to visit him at the hospital, but her presence was always fleeting. Sometimes she arrived dressed as a nurse, other times as a cleaner, or even as a security guard. Her changing attire seemed to match her shifting moods, each outfit adding to the veil of mystery that surrounded her visits. Her face was often a mask of worry, and when the inspector tried to ask her to stay longer or to meet Alex, she would become visibly upset and leave without a word. The inspector could see the deepening lines of frustration and sadness on Alex's face; he looked more lifeless each day, a young man in love who seemed like a lost sheep. The inspector feared that if he pushed Mia to talk, she would withdraw even more and refuse to share what she was up to. He struggled with his own sense of hopelessness, watching Alex's dwindling hope. Despite his best efforts, the prospect of Alex and Mia meeting at the hospital seemed increasingly distant, and even the inspector began to lose hope.
In the ring inside the underground arena, the atmosphere crackled with tension. She waved back at the masked man, glancing around the dimly lit space where shadows loomed ominously. Her posture was tense, shoulders slightly hunched, as if ready to spring into action. I know she's in trouble, but we have to save her at all costs.
The weather seemed harsh, with the wind whipping and rain pouring down as the sounds of punches reverberated. The impact of each blow was so intense that Mia, drenched in sweat, staggered and threw herself onto the ring. Her dark hair clung to her forehead, and her shorts were plastered to her skin from the relentless perspiration.
A tall, old man, his face etched with concern, quickly moved to her side. With a firm yet gentle hand, he helped her to her feet. Mia steadied herself, her breath coming in labored gasps, as she adjusted her disheveled appearance.
Any news about my love? she asked urgently, her eyes flashing with determination as she jumped off the ring. So, we'll act tonight with a solid plan. I'll go in first, but let me take a bath first. Then we can come up with a more precise strategy.
Hey, old man, are we going for action? The lady from the opposite ring smiled wide, her short hair making her small face look almost manly.
No, you're not going with us. Just secure the area and go home; your family is waiting.
Mia's voice cut through her excitement. You think this is a game? You can't just run around like this!
The masked man stayed silent, while the lady's disappointment showed. Her body tensed, anger flashing in her eyes as she clenched her fists. Sadness mixed with her frustration, and in a moment of childish defiance, she kicked at the ground.
Alex's day wasn't good at all as he sat on the sofa, feeling lifeless. The room was dim despite the bright sunlight streaming through the window, casting long shadows that seemed to echo his mood. Nawe came out of her bedroom, looking around for him and eventually spotting him in the same position where she first saw him with their uncle.
The sun was shining brightly outside, but Alex's life felt dark and empty; he spaced out every time he was alone, staring blankly at the wall.
Alex! She called, her voice breaking through the haze.
Ahh, Mia! It's you. He turned to her, panic flickering in his eyes. I told you not to come to me. Please give me space; I need it.
Her smile faltered, but she stayed, concerned.
I need to meet with the inspector; I'm busy. Alex walked past his little sister, and she couldn't stop him. She felt a knot in her stomach as she heard that same name again.
So she's the one who made my big bro act like that…Her brow furrowed in confusion. Mia? Mia, who are you? You even made my hardcore brother break into pieces. I need to meet you soon.
Mia sat on the sofa, her arms crossed and a smirk on her face as she stared at the ceiling, a mix of defiance and curiosity in her expression. Turning to face her, she called out, What's going on?
Nanny, we should find Mia! She seems interesting—my brother is in love! Nawe shouted, her eyes wide with excitement. She twirled around, then ran through the house, giggling as she peeked into rooms.
Come on, let's go! she urged, her voice full of energy.