A brief silence followed as Oliver absorbed her words. He then raised the package again, remarking, “Ms. Elizabeth, my apologies. Mr. James is still concerned about your well-being, though. He even included some specialty treats, thinking you’d enjoy them during your breaks today.”
Not wanting to trouble Oliver further, Elizabeth accepted the package with a small nod and asked casually, “So, where’s Elijah?”
Oliver promptly responded, “We’re set to head back today. Mr. James was up at dawn to visit the church in town.”
Every trip to Foxfire County saw Elijah at the church, always alone.
Despite his disbelief in anything beyond his ability to control his own fate, his visits weren’t about worship or seeking divine guidance.
Elizabeth recalled a conversation they’d once had over barbecue at a night fair—it had been over a decade since Elijah first visited Foxfire County.
She ventured cautiously, “Has Elijah ever brought Sandra… or someone else here before?” She faltered mid-sentence, catching herself before saying Sandra’s name fully.
Though Elizabeth rephrased, Oliver understood her intent and replied directly, “No, Mr. James has never visited Foxfire County with Ms. Sandra.”
To reinforce his statement, perhaps doubting Elizabeth’s acceptance, Oliver added, “Ms. Sandra prefers the vibrance of big cities.”
His words implied that Sandra wasn’t fond of serene, rural locales like Foxfire County.
If Sandra wasn’t involved, Elijah must have been younger on earlier visits, likely accompanied by family or friends.
“Thanks. I’ll head out now,” Elizabeth said, clearly unwilling to linger on the topic.
Oliver remarked, “Mr. James has been thorough regarding your safety. The two men in custody are denied bail and face at least ten years in prison, so you have nothing to worry about.”
“Would you kindly pass my thanks to your employer?” Elizabeth requested before hurrying toward the gate.
Watching her leave, Oliver paused thoughtfully before texting, “Mr. James, I’ve delivered the items to Ms. Elizabeth. She seemed quite concerned about you and asked about your whereabouts. She deeply appreciates your efforts.”
Elijah, known for his indifference toward messages, broke his usual pattern by responding almost immediately with a terse “Got it.”
Oliver sighed in relief, reflecting silently on the power of carefully chosen words.
By the roadside at the inn’s entrance, the crew’s car waited.
Spotting them, Elizabeth quickened her steps, calling out apologetically, “Sorry for the delay!”
As she climbed into the car, an unexpected chill ran down her spine—a sensation like unseen eyes watching her from the shadows.
