The spy had found the interaction entertaining, a break from the usual monotony of his surveillance. He had chuckled to himself as the receptionist gently informed David about the exorbitant room rates, stifling a laugh as he watched the boy’s crestfallen expression.

But his amusement had quickly turned into curiosity when the receptionist ran out after David and, in an unexpected twist, escorted him back into the hotel—not just to any part of the hotel, but into the luxury suites of the top floor.

Behind the counter, Mike, the burly owner of the pub, looked up from the glass he was polishing. His thick eyebrows shot up in surprise as he registered David’s presence.

“David?” he asked, setting the glass down and striding over to him. “I wasn’t expecting you here today. You usually come on Tuesdays, don’t you?”

David returned Mike’s friendly greeting with a smile. 

“Hi, Mike,” he replied, settling comfortably onto a bar stool. “Actually, I’m here for a different reason today.”

Mike raised an eyebrow, curiosity glinting in his eyes.

“Oh, really? What brings you here, then?”

David took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before responding. 

“Well, Mike, things have changed for me,” he began, trying to control his excitement. “I’ve been given an opportunity to start fresh. I’ve moved out from Shiela’s house.”

He looked around the store, hoping to catch a glimpse of Melanie, but she was nowhere in sight. His heart sank a little, but he reminded himself to be patient. He had arrived just before the usual shift change, so it was still possible that Melanie might show up at any moment. He decided to wait, picking up a basket and strolling through the aisles.

Lost in his thoughts, David didn’t notice the convenience store manager, Kim, grinning at him from behind the counter. It was only when she let out a chuckle that he snapped out of his musings. He turned towards the sound, his eyes meeting Kim’s amused gaze.

“Well, well, David,” she quipped. “I’m glad you’re actually here to buy something for a change, rather than just to hang out with Melanie.”