The heavy oak doors of the academy swung shut behind Alaric with a soft thud.
He paused on the threshold, letting his shoulders drop slightly.
The courtyard stretched before him, filled with the organized chaos of departure.
Carriages lined the gravel drive like sleeping beasts, their polished surfaces reflecting the late afternoon sun.
Coachmen checked harnesses while guards stood at attention, waiting for their charges to emerge.
His gaze swept the scene until it found what he was looking for.
At the far edge, leaning against the polished side of their carriage, Elina stood with her arms crossed.
Tap! Tap! Tap!
Her foot tapped impatiently against the gravel, while her golden eyes remained fixed on the doors.
Waiting.
Alaric descended the stone steps at his own pace, hands sliding into his pockets.
"Took your sweet time," she said coolly the moment he approached. "Did the professors find you so fascinating they refused to let you go?"
Alaric's lips curved upward.
