Meanwhile, Emerald had barely processed the old man's indignation. She was too busy admiring Alaric, entranced by his charm, and entirely unaware that he had subtly shifted the conversation in his favor.
But standing in stiletto heels for so long was starting to take its toll. Her feet ached, and she decided it was time to end the standoff.
"Do you really want to know the reason?" she asked, her tone serious.
The old man snapped, "Say it!"
"Alright," she replied. "But I'm tired of standing, so I'll sit down and explain."
Without waiting for approval, Emerald tugged Alaric down to sit beside her. Yet, simply sitting next to him wasn't enough.
She slid onto his lap, wrapping herself around him like she couldn't bear even the smallest distance between them. Her face nestled against his damp chest, completely unbothered by the fact that he was still soaked.
