"Alright," responded Vespera, stepping slightly to the side to let Dominic pass.
Dominic glanced at Vespera, who was expressionless, and softened his voice. "Try to get some rest tonight. Don't wander around. The weather here is unpredictable. Take care of yourself."
With that, Dominic turned and walked down the stairs without waiting for a reply.
Vespera didn't move. It was just a simple exchange. It was nothing out of the ordinary, but she felt that something was shifting.
Ever since the conversation on the plane, a subtle undercurrent had started. And today, when they saw each other again, the change was unmistakable. Like the first dry leaf falling from a tree, it was quiet, but it was signaling the start of something else. It was something only Vespera seemed to notice.
Dominic's footsteps grew softer. Vespera slowly walked over to the railing and looked down the empty stairwell, lost in thought.
Dominic always had a strange way of sensing Vespera's emotions. He kept trying to change her, but this time, it felt like he was finally yielding.
"Vespera."
A voice snapped Vespera out of her thoughts. She turned and saw Gerard standing beside her. She offered a faint smile and asked, "Is it time for dinner?"
Gerard glanced at the stairs and answered, "Yeah. By the way, Mr. Reid got a call about half an hour ago. A friend found out he's in Londarion and invited him out for dinner."
Vespera replied calmly, "I know. He told me."
Gerard visibly relaxed and said, "That's great, then. Come on, let's eat. The maid here is a great cook. You should eat more later."
"Alright," responded Vespera with a smile.
…
Dinner was impressive that night, but only three people sat at the table.
Vespera and Gerard barely touched their food. Thankfully, Calvert had a great appetite as usual and cleaned his plate, practically saving the maid from disappointment.
After dinner, Vespera decided to take a walk as she had been indoors all day. But she had only just stepped outside when Calvert followed after her.
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