Chapter 4The Silence of the Strings

"Go book the hotel for Lydia then."

I politely opened the door for Caleb and then laid out my suitcase to pack my clothes.

He didn't seem satisfied with my reaction. He grabbed my wrist.

"She’s an adult; she can book it herself."

"But what about you? Why are you suddenly packing? Where are you going?"

I shook him off.

"Don't you have your own things to do? Why are you always obsessing over my movements?"

Caleb paused.

He likely remembered those were his own words to me. He fell silent for a moment.

"I was wrong not to tell you about the trip. I'll report my movements to you from now on."

"I have to go to the university tomorrow. Lydia’s conflict with her roommates escalated. The advisor wants to see the 'parents,' and her actual parents can't make it, so I'm going in their place."

"Move your surgery to the day after tomorrow. I'll go with you."

It seemed that in Caleb's list of priorities, I was still at the bottom.

I spoke calmly.

"No need. It's the same whether you're there or not."

Caleb seemed to think I didn't understand the difference. He explained patiently:

"I can help you contact specialists and interpret the reports. At the very least, I can wait in line for you."

My second refusal was interrupted by his ringtone.

Lydia’s tearful voice came through:

"Caleb... it sounds like someone is picking the lock on my door... I'm scared..."

Caleb’s face changed. He turned to leave in a hurry.

I called out, "Wait."

Caleb stopped, his expression impatient.

"Piper, do you think I need to report to you before I go save someone? I need to go now."

"This isn't the time for a tantrum. She might be in danger. Can you please stop targeting her?"

He sighed.

"I’ll be there for your surgery. But right now, I need you to understand what's urgent."

Caleb clearly misunderstood.

I just wanted to emphasize that I didn't need him there for the surgery.

But he didn't wait for me to speak and rushed out.