Aelius looked at her teary face and smiled.
"So let's give it back to Father, okay?"
Athine nodded, though her lips stayed puckered in a pout. "Mm~ But… Father is scary. What if he gets mad at Athine?"
Aelius hugged her again, gently stroking her hair. "Don't worry. I'll go with you. If Father gets mad, he'll have to scold both of us."
"Mm!" Athine's expression brightened instantly, her eyes sparkling as she looked up at him. "Aelius is good!! I love you, brother!!"
Aelius let out a soft laugh, took Athine's hand, and together they headed toward the manor.
They passed maids tidying the courtyard and spotted Erinnette standing nearby, overseeing their work with her usual calm vigilance.
Athine hid behind Aelius's back, peeking over his shoulder as Erinnette turned and greeted them.
"Ah… Young Master Aelius? Young Lady Athine? Where are you two off to?"
"Ah… umm… Mrs. Erinnette. Umm…"
"Yes?" Erinnette smiled gently, her eyes warm.
"Where… where is Father?"
