Chapter 22: Chapter 22

They really spent the remaining time wandering around the mall until they were tired. Fathia ignored her phone, which she intentionally put on silent mode. She had to let go of the suffocating feeling before she returned to her apartment. She also prepared a million excuses why she didn't answer calls, give updates, or even attend her microeconomics class.

The first thing Fathia wanted to do was watch a movie at the cinema. Jess was astonished at her choice of film.

"Is there no other option?" Jess grimaced. She was really surprised by what Fathia had just pointed out. But no matter what, those beautiful black eyes looked so delighted. It made Jess think twice about refusing.

"There are many other options, but is it okay if we watch this movie?" Fathia asked with a pleading look. "But if you don't want to, we can choose—"

"Okay. Okay. It's fine, really. I don't mind," Jess said, holding Fathia's hand and heading to the ticket counter. She bought two tickets for Disney's Frozen 2, which was currently popular among children.

"Thanks, Jess."

During the movie, although faintly, Jess could still hear Fathia say, "I should have watched this movie with Felice, my sister. She promised to take me to watch a Disney film. She loved princesses, no matter who the character was. Spending weekends together like we used to do. Unfortunately, she died with Dad and Mom."

Jess didn't know how to respond after that. Fathia had never talked about this part of her life as long as Jess had known her.

Fathia glanced briefly at Jess, who was also looking at her. "Thanks again for accompanying me. I consider this as quality time with my only sister."

Unconsciously, Fathia's lips curved slightly. "These moments rarely come in my life."

"If your problems are too heavy, tell me, Fathia. Talk to me," Jess gently rubbed her friend's shoulder. Since the first time she met Clara, Jess had been convinced in her heart that this girl would become her close friend.

The black-haired girl shook her head. "My problems are not heavy. It's just that the responsibilities seem too much for me to bear, and I can't do much about it."

Jess furrowed her brow. "You'll know when the time is right, Jess. I'll tell you later."

Jess felt like shaking Fathia's head and extracting all her thoughts. To read one by one the problems that were tormenting her friend. As someone close to Fathia, knowing that many things were being kept secret like this made Jess irritated.

What was really going on?

Because Fathia seemed unwilling to speak anymore, Jess chose to give in. She went back to enjoying the movie, which seemed less exciting than urging Fathia to talk. Until the crowded room started to light up again, Jess didn't enjoy it too much. When she glanced briefly, Fathia seemed to smile, her eyes fixed on the screen.

"If Felice were here, I'm sure she would be a big fan of Elsa," Fathia said.

Jess wanted to laugh but held back. Hearing Fathia's voice was ticklish. Jess felt a deep sadness in that voice. "When Felice isn't here, how old are you?" she asked.

"Twenty-five," Fathia replied calmly. She closed her eyes for a moment, savoring how the day she should have spent with Felice would have been so enjoyable. "She said Disney princesses are worth emulating. Never give up and always believe that there will be a beautiful day someday."

"And do you believe that?" Jess asked hurriedly.

Fathia only answered by shrugging her shoulders. "My happy ending is probably moving forward while carrying the burdens on my shoulders."

"What are you talking about, Fathia? I don't understand."

Getting a question from Jess that seemed to lead to the opening of Fathia's identity, the girl chose to be silent. She shook her head softly and pulled her friend to leave the room. "I need to use the bathroom." Fathia quickly made an excuse to avoid further questions.

Leaving Jess pouting at Fathia's behavior, always avoiding. She followed Fathia's movements and was already at the end of the hallway.

The two girls finally decided to visit the food court before resuming their adventure around the mall to unwind, especially for Fathia. However, as soon as her foot stepped out of the cinema area, the figure Fathia was avoiding was standing there.

Casually leaning against something, but his gaze was sharp, directed at Fathia. If she made the slightest mistake, she could be killed by that stare. More than just cold, there was a clear aura of anger. It made Fathia swallow slowly, trying to hide her racing heart rate.

"Enjoy your little adventure?" the figure asked, moving towards Fathia who was frozen in place. She felt even smaller, but when she looked, Jess was there. She couldn't let Sebastian's anger affect her friend.

“Enough.” Fathia adjusted her backpack. "Jess, you can go home by yourself. My uncle will pick me up."

Jess blinked repeatedly, torn between disbelief and confusion. It was the first time she saw Fathia's uncle, the guardian, so clearly. He looked sharp in a well-fitted suit, exuding a strong presence that could easily intimidate anyone. Jess herself would probably run away in fear if she had to face this man.

Suddenly, she became worried for Fathia. "Are you sure?" she asked softly.

Fathia managed to smile, though it was difficult. "Don't worry."

"Vin, take Fathia's friend home," Sebastian said, addressing the man who was always close to him. "And you," he turned back to Fathia, "our business is not finished."