Upon hearing this, Asher paused momentarily in the act of serving Elizabeth, lowering his head with a hint of bashfulness. “Godwin, why would you bring that up now?”
Curious, Elizabeth inquired, “What’s the story?”
“You hold Elizabeth in such high regard; it only makes sense to share that with her,” Godwin remarked.
Then, turning to Elizabeth, he explained, “When Asher was training overseas to become a star, there came a moment when he almost gave up entirely. He stood firm against corrupt dealings, but despite his relentless efforts, the road ahead remained bleak.
Then, quite unexpectedly, he stumbled upon ‘Nobody,’ and it profoundly inspired him. He made a promise to himself to rise to prominence and bring your stories to life, hoping to inspire others as he had been.”
“Nobody,” one of Elizabeth’s earlier works, told the tale of individuals who overcame insurmountable odds to achieve their dreams.
Elizabeth, deeply moved by the revelation, raised her soda in a toast. “To think my writing could resonate so profoundly. Here’s to your perseverance, and thank you for valuing my work.”
The three of them clinked their glasses, sipping their drinks as a newfound warmth enveloped the room.
They continued their animated conversation and shared a meal, losing track of time. Before long, three hours had passed, and the restaurant had nearly emptied.
Elizabeth stepped into the restroom and cast a fleeting glance across the hallway at the open door of the opposite private room. It was vacant. Sandra and her entourage had evidently moved on.
As she walked down the corridor, a solitary figure engrossed in a phone call caught her attention.
Clad in a black shirt with a suit jacket casually draped over one arm, his features were partially obscured, yet the undeniable aura of detachment surrounding him made it clear he was Elijah.
Just as Elizabeth was about to turn away, Elijah spotted her. Ending his call abruptly, he strode toward her purposefully, intercepting her path with his arm.
“Wait,” he commanded, his voice sharp with authority.
