Chapter 71. Reward
A warm, teasing voice echoed in the void, laced with amusement. "Tch, that useless Goddess stuck you with an old model? Typical." A sigh, soft but amused. "Still, you fought like hell. Here’s your reward—something you’ll love."
Reo Carter jolted awake, his heart pounding. He stood on a quiet street, bathed in the golden glow of street lights. He wore a simple shirt and trousers, a bouquet of lilies clutched in his trembling hands.
He’s not Leonhardt Caulem now, he’s Reo Carter, an ordinary family man who’s been late on anniversary day.
Before him was a modest house, the nameplate: Reo and Chloe Carter. His throat tightened, a flood of longing and guilt choking him. I’m late... too late.
He walks, each step feels heavy. The door opened with a soft creak, revealing a dimly lit hallway. He stepped into the living room,a baby crib stood alone in the corner, its mobile spinning gently, a tiny star in the quiet dark.
A familiar voice broke it, soft and warm. "You’re back?"
Reo spun, his heart beating fast. Chloe stood in the doorway, holding a steaming pot, her hair loosely tied, her face glowing with a tired, radiant smile. She set the pot on the dining table, her voice teasing but tender. "I thought you’d be stuck at the store till dawn, Reo. You’re early for once." Her eyes sparkled, unaware of the storm in his chest.
Reo stood frozen, the bouquet slipping in his grip, his vision blurring as tears spilled down his face, silent and unstoppable, his knees buckled.
Chloe’s smile fading, her eyes widening with worry. She walks to him, dropping the pot’s lid with a clatter, her hands cupping his face, wiping his tears with gentle thumbs. "Reo, what’s wrong?" she whispered, voice breaking, searching his eyes.
"Did something happen? Talk to me."
He shook his head, his voice a raw. "Nothing... just..." He couldn’t finish, the words drowning in emotion.