“Aunt Norella, hurry up! I’m waiting for you!” Reaghan called eagerly, his voice filled with impatience.
Raiden cleared his throat, his voice cracking slightly, a flicker of panic flashing across his eyes.
“Norella’s just telling a story to the child, so…”
He trailed off as though scrambling for the right words.
Astrella remained composed, lifting her glass of water with a calm grace. “Alright, you all go ahead. Don’t keep the child waiting.” She turned and walked to her room, her steps steady, as if none of it truly affected her.
As she pushed the door, she realized it wouldn’t budge. Glancing down, her gaze met the firm grip of a large hand holding the handle.
Caught off guard, she found herself locked in a stare with Raiden’s deep brown eyes. There was a fleeting flash of surprise and unease there, but it quickly vanished.
“Astrella, don’t misunderstand,” he said quietly, his voice low.
Taking a deliberate step back, Astrella shook her head with calm detachment.
“Misunderstand what?”
The question made Raiden’s lips twitch, a visible struggle passing over his face. He remained silent, unable to offer a reply.