Chapter 176. House Caulem Gathered
Across the bustling clearing at the edge of the Deltou Colossale Forest, Rin and Leo stood still, staring at one another as the Royal Hunting Event buzzed through the air.
Anger, longing, and an urge to storm over and demand an explanation for why he had hurt her were all part of Rin’s racing heart. Leo step back as she took a tentative step forward, his eyes widening and his forehead dripping with sweat.
Rin’s eyes flashed in confusion as she failed to notice what only Leo could see at the moment: a hooded, shadowy figure emerging behind her in the bright midday sun.
A spooky smile spread across her green eyes as she reached to put her hand around Rin’s neck. As his muscles tensed and his instincts begged him to hurry and stop it, Leo’s foot rose.
Rin’s attention was abruptly diverted when a hand touched her shoulder. "Oh, Senior Rin, you made it?" Rin turned to see Erin Dranemount grinning broadly and playfully. "I was starting to think you’d miss the fun." Erin had a playful mischievous sparkle in her violet eyes.
Erin’s voice was cheerful as she looked at Vivien, Lucian, and Leo. "Hey, Leo, you’re here too?" As she jogged toward them, she called. Rin’s hand clenched, her nails digging into her palm. Leo? Rin had never tried such closeness, and the nickname hurt.
She spun away, violet hair whipping as she marched to her house’s camp, where her soldiers were setting up tents, her chest tight with frustration and pain.
As Erin caused the entity to disappear, Leo sighed and wiped the sweat from his brow. He was relieved that Vivien and Lucian hadn’t saw.
When Erin got to them, she laughed and gave Vivien a little hifi. She tickled the girl and exclaimed, "Vivien, my little star! You’re growing up so quickly in only three months, huh?"
Vivien wriggled and squealed. "Erin! I’ve grown up now!
A new carriage bearing the Saravelle crest caught Lucian’s attention. Softly, he handed Vivien to Leo. "I’m going to greet Velmera—I’ll be back." He moved in the direction of the carriage.