Nanako—ever attentive, was already waiting for Charlie at the entrance of the gated district.

Once he arrived, she got in her own car and led him inside.

As he alighted, she was hesitant but eventually asked, "How have you been?"

Charlie shook his head. "I stayed in solitude, but I can't even calm my mind to cultivate."

Nanako sighed and nodded. "Ms. Wilson weighs on your mind?"

Charlie nodded, bothered to hide it. "I've been constantly wondering where she is and how she's doing. I can on