Chapter 440

In her sleep, Meline dreamt of Wallace and Joe. The two were seated together, playing chess, while she sat nearby, eating an orange and watching their game. "Mr. Wentworth Senior," she asked softly, "once this game is over, are you leaving?" "Yes," Wallace replied gently. "When the game ends, it'll be time for me to go. Be a good girl and head home." "Then take your time," she pleaded, her voice tinged with unease. Neither man responded. They continued their game silently, the black and white pieces clicking against the board. Melina grew anxious, wishing they would move slower—much slower. She couldn't shake the feeling that something terrible would happen once the game ended. Eventually, the last piece was played, and the board was cleared. Both men smiled at her as they packed up the pieces. Melina continued eating her orange, though its sharp tang stung her eyes, making her feel like crying. Joe waved at her with a warm smile, and Wallace's expression was filled with kind