Chapter 1423: Chapter 1523

My mind sluggishly kicked back into gear.

It wouldn’t do to leave him at the doorway.

“Please, come in,” I said, forcing open the door wider and offering a polite smile.

“Life here has been good.

The staff has been wonderful, thank you for arranging everything.

”

Andrew nodded.

“Glad to hear it.

”

He entered, taking a seat at the table.

His gaze swept around the room before settling on me.

Unsure of his motives, I decided to be direct.

“Is there a reason for your visit today?”

A smile lingered on his lips.

“Nothing in particular.

As your host, it’s only natural to check in.

Don’t feel pressured to entertain me.

Carry on as usual.

”

Debra’s POV:

“Alright, I understand,” I replied, offering a smile that masked my deeper intentions.

Andrew’s courteous words were simply formalities, and it wouldn’t be right to focus on my own matters during a visit from my host.

I decided to sit beside Andrew and engage him in conversation to subtly probe further.

“Mr.

Pierce, I must express my gratitude for your hospitality.

The butler mentioned you’ve been quite busy; is it work-related?”

The mention of work visibly reminded Andrew of his exhaustion.

He rubbed his brow, his tone somewhat resigned.

“Yes, work has been relentless.

Once I’m at my desk, I barely leave it, which has sadly kept me from visiting you.

”

“That sounds exhausting, I continued, aiming to keep the dialogue flowing smoothly.

”

“It is quite draining,” Andrew admitted, offering a tired smile as he indulged my small talk.

“But the efforts are necessary.

Considering the safety and future of witches, the sacrifices are worthwhile.

We all must shoulder our responsibilities.

”

This piqued my interest.

I had been steering our casual chat towards more substantial matters, and with Andrew’s infrequent visits, I knew I had to seize the opportunity to ask the questions burning in my mind.

“The safety of witches? Is it related to the rift?” I asked, feigning a casual tone.

“Yes.

” Andrew nodded, his expression turning grave.

“Since the rift appeared, it’s caused much unrest within us, and its recent expansion has only heightened the panic.

As deputy clan leader, it falls to me to manage this crisis and keep everyone informed.

”

“I see,” I responded, choosing my moment carefully.

“Mr.

Pierce, could you share more about the rift? I’ve noticed it seems to be growing, and at times, it appears as though another world is visible through it.

I’m quite curious; what exactly is happening?”

At my inquiry, Andrew’s face grew serious, and his demeanor shifted.

I watched closely, my internal tension rising, wondering if he might be reluctant to divulge more.

Unsure of Andrew’s thoughts and not wanting to press too hard, I eased the tension with a smile.

“If it’s inconvenient to discuss, no worries.

I was just curious.

”

After a brief pause, Andrew responded with his usual grace, “Of course, it’s not an issue.

”

He inhaled deeply, his face turning solemn.

“You might have guessed, but these past few days I’ve been heavily involved with the rift.

Our investigations have nearly confirmed that there indeed exists another world beyond it.

”

“Really?”