"Sir, you know her?" the guard asked, clearly surprised and curious.
Mr. Frederick's eyes narrowed slightly, his thoughts racing. "Never mind. Thank you for the information. You can go back to your duty post," he said calmly, though his tone held a weight of distraction.
As the guard left, Mr. Frederick stood in silence, his gaze unfocused. Something about the news had shaken him. The expression on his face was that of someone caught off guard—lost in confusion.
Without another word, he stepped into the waiting car, and his driver pulled away from the compound.
During the drive to his office, Mr. Frederick sat in silence, his mind spiraling with worry. Why would Maria return after three years? What could have prompted her to visit that house? Is she okay? The questions gnawed at him.
