“Rias, could you please provide me with her contact information?" 

"I am sorry, but no." 

I balled my hands into fists, I could feel my frustration rising. Rias' words were like a constant taunt, provoking me and testing my patience.  

"Whatever," I spat. "Keep it then. It's not like I need it to track her down."

Rias strolled around her workspace, placing her hand gently on my shoulders as she leaned in closer. "I will be gone for three weeks, and I need to trust that everything will be taken care of. I require someone reliable and capable. That girl is not able to meet my expectations."

“You don’t know anything about her." I pointed out. “It's unfair to say she’s not capable when you failed to allow her an opportunity to showcase her abilities."

I watched Rias's bottom lip quiver, and I felt a sense of unease. Our eyes met, and I could see the emotions swirling within hers. She continued to stare at me, her gaze unwavering and intense. Rias was in her thirties. 

She possessed a remarkable strength of character and an exceptional go-getter personality, which undoubtedly contributed to her rapid success in this particular line of work.

Rias and I had always been close, after all, she managed my affairs. Unfortunately, things took a turn for the worse. I had made a mistake that ended up hurting her deeply, and I couldn't help but feel guilty about it. I wished I could undo what I did, but I knew it was impossible. 

With a heavy heart, I gently removed her hold on me and took a step back. I tried my best ignored her brief expression of pain.

"Do you realise the consequences of being caught fraternising with someone who looks just like Chelsea?"

The sole reason behind my decision to date Chelsea was her striking resemblance to Kichi. However, as we spent more time together, it became apparent that their mannerisms were vastly different. I hadn't known Kichi for an extended period of time.

After just a brief encounter, I was completely enamored with the girl. While Kichi exuded a reserved demeanour, Chelsea's bubbly enthusiasm and lively movements were a noticeable juxtaposition. Furthermore, I could not even begin to express the sheer beauty of Kichi! It was the kind that could stop anyone in their tracks and leave them with a deep sense of awe. What was even more intriguing was the fact that she seemed completely oblivious to her own beauty. 

“Why should I be concerned about others' opinions?" I arched my brow.  

“Cease your careless words," Rias snapped with a sharp tone. “Do not give me unnecessary work.”

"I have had enough.  I am leaving now," I stated. "Staying here and talking with you won't give me what I want. If you need me, you know how to contact me." 

On my out, I took a moment to stop at the reception desk. To my surprise, it was unoccupied. I assumed that Jessy, the usual attendant, had stepped away to use the restroom. Without hesitation, I settled into her chair and accessed the computer to check the train schedule for my journey back to Chester. After gathering the necessary information, I promptly left..