He couldn't imagine the days ahead. He understood Alexander's final words as an invitation to the Russell Estate—a chance to reconcile? Were they still offering him a way out? Despite his doubts, Ralph felt compelled to go.

"I want to go back to the Russell Estate," he said, gently disengaging her hand. Hannah, initially delighted, recoiled in shock.

"Have you lost your mind? They cast you out! Your mother doesn't want you. Why would you go back? To be humiliated?"

"I just want to confirm some things," he replied, his gaze dropping.

"Confirm what? That you're not her son? That she betrayed you and made you what you are?" Hannah embraced him from behind. "I understand your longing for your family's affection. But familial ties mean nothing against self-interest. Families kill their own daughters for it. Don't go. Isn't it enough that you have me? I'll always be here, the only one who'll treat you right, the only one who won't leave!"

Her embrace tightened, suffocating him. He gently tried to loosen her grip, but to no avail. He could only endure it helplessly.

"I know you've been wonderful, and you'll never leave me," he said softly, "but...we can't live like this forever."

"Why not?!" Hannah interrupted, turning to face him. "We'll be fine back with my family. Once my sister is gone, I'll be an only child. They won't be so demanding. The island servants are loyal; they won't speak. No one even knows I have a sister. We can live a secluded, carefree life!" It was her ideal: just the two of them, undisturbed. A peaceful, happy life together.

Ralph, however, felt a numbing chill at the thought. His free spirit couldn't endure such endless loneliness and boredom. The very idea made him shiver.

"No, Annie. We need to interact with the outside world. Even on an island, we can't avoid it forever. There will always be people to deal with."

Despite his patient explanation, Hannah remained unconvinced.

"Why not? I haven't been in contact with anyone since childhood. Besides my parents and sister, no friends, no classmates, no one! And look at me—I'm doing fine!" She thumped her chest. "We can do this. We'll be happy!"

Seeing his reluctance, her face clouded. "Don't you like being with me?"

"Of course I do!" Ralph quickly denied it. "It's an honor to have you, even now. How could I not?"

"Good. I'll finish at the company, and we'll go home as soon as possible. Wait for me! I'll be quick!" With that, she happily rushed to her study.