By the time Evangeline returned to their side, she immediately noticed the subtle stiffness in Gallagher's posture. His shoulders were straighter than before, his smile smaller, as though something had unsettled him in her absence. Did he feel awkward being left alone with Hades? It would not be surprising, she thought to herself.
Hades carried an aura that pressed quietly against those around him, compelling them to measure their words and mold to the way they think he would want to see them in. Fortunately for her, he had never demanded that she shrink herself to fit his presence and allowed her to be as she was.
"How are the shoes?" Hades asked, his gaze dropping briefly to her feet. "They are not as pretty as the previous pair, but the heel is sturdier."
She smiled and nodded. "I noticed. They feel much more comfortable. The size fits me snugly."
"I am glad," he replied, satisfied.
