Albin quickly handed Elijah his smartphone. The news was significant, extensively covered by Orkset's local media. Reports suggested the explosion stemmed from aging electrical wiring, exacerbated by a local family's stockpiling of natural gas for their food business, resulting in a catastrophic blast.

Elijah briefly glanced at the distressing images, a flicker of concern crossing his face. Remembering his earlier encounter with Elizabeth—her being unharmed and even arguing with him—he dismissed the idea of her involvement with a relieved sigh.

Albin paused, observing Elijah's cold expression with uncertainty. "Elijah," he cautiously remarked, "I remember that old apartment was the last thing her mother left her—a kind of emotional anchor. It's understandable she'd be upset about losing something so meaningful. And to reach out to you in her time of need, only to find you unavailable...plus, with the rumors about you and Sandra, her reaction makes sense. You two are still married, after all. If you're not planning a divorce, perhaps an apology would be wise."

Elijah scoffed. "That's nonsense! No matter how sentimental, an apartment is just a possession. How can that compare to real issues? Even knowing all this, taking Sandra to the hospital was my priority. If she really cared, she wouldn't make such a fuss! An apology? I think she owes me one."

Struck by Elijah's harshness, Albin fell silent. He sipped his wine, then continued drinking, seemingly ignoring the conversation.

After a few drinks, Albin noticed Elijah's restless glances at his phone. He clicked his tongue. "Look, it's Elizabeth being stubborn. I'll call her and get her to apologize, okay?"

"Do what you want," Elijah muttered indifferently.

Albin quickly found Elizabeth's contact and pressed the call button. A tense silence filled the room. The phone rang several times before going to a busy signal. Undeterred, Albin tried again, only to be met with the same immediate dismissal. He made several more attempts, each ending abruptly. A hint of embarrassment crept onto Albin's face as he scratched his head. "Well, sometimes women need time to collect themselves. I'll try one more time."

He tried again, a spark of hope in his eyes, but a recorded message responded: "The number you have dialed is currently busy..."

Albin gently placed the phone down, distancing himself from Elijah. It became clear—Elizabeth had blocked Elijah's number.