Chapter 1

The shop owner immediately recognized Miranda as a fellow Hebranian. Her demeanor brightened.

“You have a keen eye, young lady,” she said. “I handcrafted all these sculptures myself. They’d be perfect to take back home as gifts.”

Miranda smiled. After inquiring about the price, she said, “Alright, wrap them up for me, please.”

“Sure thing!” The owner replied cheerfully, packing the items and tucking a postcard into the bag. “If you have thoughts you can’t speak aloud, just jot them down here.”

Miranda pursed her lips, considering it unnecessary as she had nothing left unsaid. However, refusing a gift seemed impolite.

Back at her apartment, Miranda found the gift bag on the table. She pulled out the postcard, depicting Marvedis’ most stunning seascape. She tossed it back onto the table; it was of no use to her.

The next morning, Sam arrived at the restaurant on time, but Miranda wasn't there. Only Winter was present, eating breakfast alone.

“Morning, Mr. Cooper!” Winter greeted him cheerfully. “I saw you pacing and looking my way. Were you hoping to join me for breakfast?”

There was a moment of awkward silence. Winter then straightened, her smile fading. “What are your intentions with Miranda? If I remember correctly, you and Hansel are very close, almost like brothers.”

“A gentleman pursues a fair lady. There are many intentions, some best left unsaid,” Sam replied.

Winter fell silent.

“And as for Hansel and me… we’ve had a falling out.”

“I noticed. Was it over Miranda?” Winter asked.

Sam’s silence confirmed her suspicion.

Winter laughed. “Serves him right! Hansel’s been asking for it, and finally, someone shameless enough came along to put him in his place!”

Sam wondered if he’d misheard. Did Winter even understand manners?

After finishing her laugh, she drank the rest of her almond milk. “Alright, I get it. Good luck winning her heart.”

“Thanks,” Sam said, nodding slightly. “Take your time with breakfast. I’m heading out.”

“Hold on, you still haven’t told me where she is.”

Winter checked her watch. “She’s probably catching a flight now.”

Sam looked stunned. Winter had been equally surprised when Miranda announced her plan to return home.

“Since I couldn’t catch the culprit, why keep playing the game? I might as well go home if this island isn't working out for me.”