Regina slipped into a pair of comfortable casual clothes, a light backpack slung over her shoulders, and stepped out of the villa. At that moment, the weight of life's pressures and the lingering darkness from recent days were gone. All that remained was a bright, youthful smile, as if the burdens of the world had momentarily lifted.
She didn't ask Byron to accompany her. When he offered, she casually declined, saying she wanted to take a walk alone, to get some fresh air and clear her mind.
Byron didn't question her decision. Lara, however, handed Regina a sealed envelope just before she left. Inside was a card and some cash.
"It's from Waldo," Lara explained, sensing Regina's confusion.
Regina frowned, even more puzzled. "From Waldo?"
Lara smiled knowingly, "He said, 'It's hard to go anywhere without money.'"
