>>Hael
The next morning, I walked into the café, the bell above the door chiming as I stepped inside. The atmosphere was quieter than usual, a stillness in the air that felt odd.
Aira and Cory were both at the counter. They exchanged a quick glance when they saw me, their expressions tight with something I couldn't quite read.
"Master Hael," Aira greeted me first, her voice softer than usual, as if she didn't want to disturb something fragile.
Cory crossed her arms, "You should go upstairs," She said flatly, nodding toward the staircase that led to the third floor. "She's up there and she hasn't really come down since last night."
I nodded, trying to keep my expression neutral. "She's... upset?"
Aira gave me a sympathetic look, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "Yeah. She's been crying... a lot." Her voice dropped at the last part, as if saying it aloud made it worse.
