After the meal, Vera excused herself to go to the bathroom.
Elias turned to Mira, his fingers brushing a lock of hair behind her ear. "Mira, are you upset?" he asked softly. "You didn’t say much during the meal."
Mira’s voice was blunt, her words cutting through the air. "You treat Vera very differently."
Elias froze, momentarily speechless, before a knowing smile spread across his face. "So you’re jealous?" he asked, his tone light yet teasing.
He gently ruffled Mira's hair, the warmth in his touch contrasting with the seriousness in his voice. "I just see Vera as a sister. Don’t you think she’s pitiful? Her life’s ticking away, her father doesn’t care for her, and my job is to help people. I do what I can to save as many as I can."
Is it really that simple?
Before Mira could voice her doubts, a cleaning lady came rushing out, mop in hand, shouting urgently, "Someone’s fainted!"
Elias' face immediately shifted, his expression turning grim as he rushed back into the restaurant. Moments later, he emerged, carrying an unconscious Vera in his arms.