Chapter 77: A Grave Visit, A Gentle Heart
Ariana’s body remained frozen—she hadn’t expected that at all.
How did he know? How was he aware?
The fact that they were actually going to visit her mother... Her heart thudded at the thought. A heavy silence fell—not intense, but overwhelming. Her eyes watered as Zavren’s gaze remained fixed on her. And just as he opened his mouth to speak, she wrapped her arms tightly around him.
Ariana couldn’t explain the feeling.
Yes, she had visited her mother a few times—mostly with her father and sister—but it had always been difficult. The cemetery was miles away from home, and walking there took nearly four to five hours. They usually had to save up just enough money to book a local carriage from the village center, which cost ten pennies—a hefty amount. So those visits were rare, but when they happened, they brought a joy that words couldn’t describe.
And now... Zavren had said it. Just like that.
He was taking her. Without her asking.
And somehow, that made it mean even more.
She couldn’t put the feeling into words—only that she would be forever grateful. The shock of it, the kindness, made her heart ache in the best way.
She gently pulled away as Zavren held her hand, and together, they walked toward the main door, which opened calmly. Zavren’s gaze fixed on a particular guard. Not long after, the man bowed. A soft breeze swept across Ariana’s face, brushing her hair backward. The carriage arrived, the horses making soft sounds.
Zavren turned, his gaze fixing on a guard who stood there, still. It was as if he was saying something to him through his eyes. Not long after, the man bowed and quickly left. Another man soon walked up, bowing before them as he opened the carriage.