Chapter 10. When Everything is Lost

* Isabella *

I woke up to the sound of the cars on the road and the rumbling of the engines of the motorcycles. My eyes opened and I looked around me, it was a relief to find my cousin Richard sitting on the long couch with his eyes closed and then the luggage on the floor. I got up and observed the room. The window is covered by a thin white curtain that runs from the wall to the floor. It must be a three-star hotel based on the simple design, but it is a blessing that the room is neat and the sheets smell of fabric conditioner.

"Richard?"

He started to move, I was grateful that he was still with me. My thoughts went back to the time I listened to Bernard's story.

"Thank God you are awake Isabella. I was worried about you, Martha just left to buy us some food for dinner. Are you hungry?"

"How is everyone Richard, have you contacted Uncle Rodolf?"

His expression dimmed and he looked away from me. I know that as much as I fear the worst had already happened.

"I could not get a hold of