The air was cool, the garden hushed as Vivi's heartfelt thanks to Cassius lingered, her eyes shining with gratitude. The old man, still clutching Lila's letter, sat quietly, his tears slowing but his heart visibly lifted by the exchange.
The moment felt harmonious, a perfect blend of warmth and connection—until Cassius's gaze shifted from Vivi to the old man and back again, his smirk softening into a more serious expression.
"Vivi..." He said, his voice calm but firm, catching her off guard. "...as much as I admire your heart and trust me, I do—hugging him isn't in your best interest right now. You shouldn't do it."
Vivi's smile faltered, her eyes widening in a rare mix of surprise and something close to disappointment.
The reaction was complex, a duality that flickered across her delicate features.
On one hand, she wasn't entirely shocked.
