Leah felt it. Frederick was particularly sensitive to the word "death." His reply was almost immediate and carried a commanding tone—telling her not to use that word. Leah wasn’t sure why it affected him so much. Could it be because of the k********g incident in San Francisco? She absentmindedly touched the silver chain and pendant around her neck. It was a gift from Frederick, meant to protect her. Perhaps he cared deeply about her life and death—whether out of a sense of duty as her husband or for other reasons. But Leah could feel the genuine concern and attentive care he put into looking after her. Thinking of this, Leah quickly typed a reply: “I was just joking with you. Who’s talking about dying? I’m only 24, at the prime of my life! Even if I don’t live forever, I’ll definit

