Strangely enough, Vespera and Gerard might have been more exhausted than Dominic. Everyone else in the headquarters had a bit of breathing room once they wrapped up their responsibilities. Some even managed to sneak in a day or two of sightseeing around Londarion.
However, Vespera and Gerard were busy even in the evening. They were glued to Dominic's side, following him from one event to another.
Gerard looked even more emotionally wrecked. Ever since that night, he hadn't had a single moment to recover. Every day, he dragged himself around like he was clinging to life by a thread. Now and then, he would shuffle up to Vespera with a face full of despair, muttering his complaints.
Vespera would offer a few sympathetic words in return, but honestly, she didn't mind the workload. Being swamped meant she didn't have time to think about messy feelings and complicated relationships.
She would get back to the villa each night and take a shower before passing out the second her head hit the pillow. Even her sleep quality had improved. And it wasn't all for nothing. She had met plenty of people through the banquets and gatherings.
…
The final day of the trip was a Sunday. The branch office visitation had officially concluded, and the rest of the team was preparing to return in the afternoon.
Even though it was the weekend, Dominic still had two gatherings left on his schedule. He needed to go horseback riding at a noble's private estate during the day and to a wine tasting event in the evening.
Originally, they were all set to fly back together the following afternoon, but that morning, Dominic said, "I've got some business to take care of here. You all go ahead without me tomorrow."
Vespera wondered what business Dominic had, but she didn't say anything and just nodded along with Gerard.
Still, the sudden announcement stuck with her. Dominic hadn't said a word about this before. And now, he was not leaving with them? It shouldn't have mattered as he wasn't obligated to explain his plans to her, but that didn't stop her from feeling heavy. The feeling followed her all the way to the estate.
Outside the stable, Vespera glanced at Dominic, who had changed into a riding outfit in the near distance. She couldn't help but ask Gerard, "Do you know why he's staying behind?"
Gerard smiled helplessly and said, "If he didn't tell you, he's definitely not telling me. Vespera, why do you always assume I know everything?"
Vespera felt defeated. She mumbled, "Probably because he likes bringing you along more than me…"
Gerard wasn't paying attention. To his ears, it sounded like she was saying Dominic liked him more. Instantly, he asked, stunned, "Where did that idea come from?"
Vespera pursed her lips and answered, "Isn't it kind of obvious?"
Gerard stared at her, baffled. How was it obvious?
Vespera let out a sigh. Meanwhile, in the distance, Dominic was already mounting his horse in one smooth motion. His tall and lean frame looked sharp in black riding gear. His black hair and handsome face stood out easily next to the owner of the private estate, who had blonde hair.
Still, Vespera couldn't shake the question echoing in her mind. Why was Dominic staying behind?
At noon, the owner of the estate prepared a lavish lunch. Vespera and Gerard were invited to ride that morning, but both declined. Neither wanted to risk getting kicked by a horse. Nevertheless, they joined the meal.
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