He started by apologizing.

“No, uh… I’m sorry. Just forget about that. I’m a bit sensitive right now.”
“Um… okay. No worries.”

I had snapped at her for a moment, but I knew it wasn’t good to act based on my emotions. She had come all this way to see me, and my earlier attitude wasn’t very pleasant.

After gathering my thoughts, I told her to come inside. Honestly, I wasn’t in the state to welcome guests, but I felt uneasy sending her away just like that.

As we walked into the cave, I could feel her watching me. …