Chapter 222: Heartfelt Conversation
The sunset cast hues of amber, gold, and purple across the Ambrose garden as Grim waited for Lianna’s arrival.
He had chosen this location deliberately—the peaceful setting might help keep their conversation civil, and the open space would prevent any accusations of impropriety that his enemies might try to manufacture.
Lianna appeared at the garden’s entrance precisely on time, bearing the same vulnerability he had noticed the previous evening.
She wore a simple dark green dress that complemented her eyes, and her usual confident demeanor seemed tempered by genuine uncertainty.
"Thank you for agreeing to meet," she said as she approached, her voice softer than normal.
"Of course," Grim replied, gesturing toward a stone bench beneath the largest oak. "I must admit, I’m curious what matters of mutual interest you wanted to discuss."
They settled onto the bench with a careful distance between them, though the space felt charged with unspoken emotions and unresolved tension.
"I wanted to apologize properly," Lianna began, her hands clasped in her lap. "Not just for the other night, but for everything that’s happened between us recently."
"You don’t need to apologize for being concerned about a friend," Grim said gently.
"Don’t I?" she asked, turning to face him fully. "Grim, I’ve been thinking about what you said—about me not understanding the realities of power, about living a comfortable life where violence is theoretical."
She paused, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "You were right. I have been fortunate enough to live in a world where my biggest concerns were social obligations and family expectations. I’ve never had to make the kinds of choices you face."