Chapter 18 Proposal of Divorce

Back home, Ellie Anne found the house shrouded in darkness. "Avi, are you here?" she called out softly, but there was no answer. Unaware, she stepped into the living room, where someone was sitting silently on the sofa. "You're back," Nikkolm's deep voice came from behind her. "Yeah," Ellie Anne replied upon seeing Nikkolm, somewhat surprised that he was there, given his usual busy schedule. It seemed he was unaware of Maier's passing. "How are you feeling?" Nikkolm approached, noticing Ellie Anne's pale complexion. "I'm fine," Ellie Anne replied, not wanting to dwell on sad matters, evading the question. "How's your mother holding up?" Nikkolm seemed to struggle to find a topic, blurting out without much thought. Ellie Anne felt a bit nauseous upon hearing the question and her head began to spin. She forced back her discomfort and replied after a moment, "She passed away." Ellie Anne's words hit Nikkolm like a bombshell, exploding in his mind. Passed away? H