Katelyn’s steps faltered for a moment, her mind catching on Ashlyn’s words — Ashlyn had known exactly where she had been.

Before she could voice her thoughts, a voice called out sharply from behind them.

“Katelyn, you went to the pool without me? That’s so unfair!” Alfy’s face scrunched up in a pout. She held a large bag, bulging with clothes that were nearly spilling out.

Katelyn blinked, surprised.

“How did you even find me here?” It wasn’t that Katelyn didn’t want Alfy around, but with Ashlyn still being a potential danger, Katelyn didn’t want Alfy getting involved.

Alfy’s expression quickly shifted to a grin, her mood brightening in a flash.

“I’m your student! You should know I always know where you are!” Her smug look left Katelyn feeling slightly helpless.

But now that Alfy had come, sending her away didn’t feel right. If Ashlyn truly was Sophia, it could create more trouble. If she wasn’t, Alfy would be safe, and there’d be no harm in her staying. Katelyn reached out and gently tousled Alfy’s hair, her voice soft.

“Impressive.”

Alfy’s smile only grew wider at the compliment, lighting up her whole face.

Ashlyn, who hadn’t met Alfy before, glanced between them curiously.

“Miss Bailey, who is this?”

Katelyn squeezed Alfy’s hand lightly and smiled at Ashlyn.

“This is my student, Alfy Norris.”

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Alfy had already done her homework on Ashlyn, so she wasn’t a stranger to Ashlyn’s name.

Katelyn added, “Alfy, this is Miss Ashlyn Marshall.”

Alfy gave a bright, sweet smile.

“Hi, Ashlyn! You’re so pretty! I saw you earlier and really wanted to meet you. I didn’t think you’d be friends with my mentor. That’s awesome!”

Ashlyn couldn’t resist Alfy’s perfect smile, her own lips lifting in response.

“Hello, Alfy. Miss Bailey, your student is so sweet.” Katelyn’s eyes gleamed with quiet amusement.

The three of them walked together toward the hotel. Katelyn, however, exchanged a look with Alfy, realizing Alfy had come for a reason. Maybe Alfy was worried about her and wanted to keep an eye on her. The innocence Alfy was showing today seemed a little too practiced.

The hotel manager guided them to their private room.

This hotel was different—each room was nestled in the forest. The inside was stylish yet cozy, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that felt surprisingly at home in the woods. Thick walls around each room ensured that every guest had their own private space.

Katelyn hadn’t visited often, but she had always loved the place.

As soon as Alfy spotted the pool, her face lit up.

“Wow, I love it here!” she exclaimed.

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