I actually spent the next morning reveling on the beach. I confess that I had barely gone out in the past 4 days since I got here. The maximum I made it to was some distance ahead of the beach boundary and that too only when Saachi dragged me out. I felt strangely peaceful and reenergized as the cool salt water tickled my feet and the warm winds caressed my face and blew through my hair. The ocean had its unique salubrious effects.

It was soon noon. Lunch hours were nearing. Although I was the only guest Saachi was firm about her timetable and I respected it. As long as I get good food I can't complain. Half an hour passed by. She should be calling me anytime now. Another half an hour passed by, still no call. I had to go check now.

I walked up to the door and rang the bell. No answer. The door was locked and I had no key. I rang her phone. It was switched off. I managed to find an open window to go in. I walked to the kitchen. There was no trace of any activity. I opened the refrigerator door. Nothing. Microwave oven. Nothing.

I went to the dining room. Maybe she had left my food and gone somewhere. An empty table greeted me.

I was about to go and knock at her room when I heard the front door being unlocked. As expected it was Saachi. She was surprised to see me.

"How did you get in?" she asked nervously.

"Where were you?" I asked rather sharply.

"I...I had gone to see a neighbour and lost track of time. I am sorry"

My eyebrow shot up pointedly. For someone who had been so particular about the timetable from day one, to lose track of time while visiting neighbours was no less concerning.

"Adrith I am very sorry. I will fix you lunch as quickly as I can. Just give me some time. Please."

Years of practicing law had made me an adept observer. There was a quiver in her voice and I could see her hands trembling slightly and her eyes exuded fear. Not the fear one generally experiences in such situations but a strange deeper almost crippling fear.

I regretted being so harsh on her. The only people I reveled seeing insecure before me were hardened psychopathic criminals, terrorists and fugitives of the law.

"No don't take the pain" I began gently" We can lunch at a restaurant."

She looked up at me plain confusion written all over her face. I smiled at her trying to allay her fears.

"Saachi aren't you hungry?"

"Well yes"

"Then go and get dressed. Meet me in the living room in 20 minutes. Don't be—"I stopped. There was no need to add that now "Now go Saachi. My stomach is growling for food"

She nodded. I watched her go up the stairs. A notification popped on my phone catching my attention. The Daily Times wanted to interview me. I am not interested. Why are these news organizations always after me? With an exasperated sigh I too went to make myself presentable.