6.

By the time I had finished unpacking my travel bag and checking out each room, it was a little after 7 AM. I grabbed my small faux black leather backpack and left the apartment. After finally stepping outdoors and breathing in the crisp fall air, I took the map out of my coat and made my way to Kristen’s bookstore,

I followed the instructions on the map. More people than I anticipated were already out and about, despite the fact that the majority of the stores were still closed.

A few blocks later, I arrived at a bookstore with a big sign saying “Kristen Colby’s Bookstore”, and entered it. Slowly closing the door behind me, I was amazed at how spacious and gigantic this bookstore looked, as well as how organized everything was. A few people were standing in front of brown bookshelves. The walls, furniture, and everything else were kept in a white, black, and brown aesthetic. There were even seating options and small sitting areas.

Kristen greets me with a big smile. In that same moment, I hear the door of the bookstore open.

“Kristen, you wanted to see me?” A masculine voice suddenly sounded.

When I turned to face the entrance, a tall man our age or a little bit older was standing there. He wore a royal blue crewneck, white baggy jeans, and had very short black hair. Like Ava’s chestnut-brown eyes, his hazel-green eyes were glistering with curiosity.

He looked at her, then back at me, then back at her again.

“Brother, this is Nalin Bualek, my childhood friend. Nalin, this is Kai Colby, my brother and the co-owner of Colby Home and Hotel.” Kristen introduced us.

Oh wow, so they indeed own Colby Home and Hotel.

“Oh, I see. You are the one who moved into Kristen’s apartment this morning. Romi told me earlier about it. I hope you like the apartment.” He gave me a welcoming smile as he approached his sister and me.

“Yes, that was me. The apartment is beautiful. I love it.” I responded with the same energy.

Kristen, Kai, and I were sitting on the sofa, which was in the middle of Kristen’s office. We discussed Geneva, how Kristen and I met, why I was in Rain Falls City.

“You are here to look for your sister?” He repeated what I had just said.

“I am, her name is Nittha Bualek.” I replied.

Kai appeared to be speechless as his face briefly became slightly pale. He and Kristen exchanged glances.

“Have you heard of this name?” I asked, seeing his strange reaction.

“No. The name just sounds familiar.” He shook his head.