On the way back, Harriett called his daughter. Hearing her voice filled his heart with joy. Despite the dire situation, he was determined to persevere for her sake, no matter how dangerous the path ahead or how difficult life became.

"How are you Estelle?" he asked.

"Father, I have some good news." Estelle's voice brimmed with joy.

"What is it?" Harriett felt somewhat puzzled; his daughter rarely showed such excitement. This seemed different from what he had taught her.

"I want to introduce a friend to you." Estelle's tone was shy.

Harriett paused, considering the possibility. He clenched his fist. Had his daughter found a lover?

Suppressing his anger, he asked in a subdued tone, "Is it a boy?"

Estelle grew even shyer, but since she had already decided to tell her father about Adrian, there was no need to hide it now.

"Yes, he's a boy, and is a very good friend of mine," Estelle said softly.

"No. You're not old enough for that yet." Harriett was livid as what Estelle said was