Chapter 210 - 211: They feared him. Feared what might follow
"So...?" he asked, still waiting patiently.
She blinked at him, then smiled. A real one this time. Soft around the edges.
"Fine. I’ll have the usual. Soup, meat, and throw in some mushrooms."
He nodded, satisfied.
She hesitated a second, then added in a quieter voice, "Thank you."
That caught him off guard.
Cyrus looked at her with those deep, unreadable eyes, but his smile only deepened. It wasn’t the usual reserved grin he gave others—it was something softer, more content. The kind of smile that curled at the corners like warm steam on a winter day.
Isabella gave him one more glance, then turned, pushing aside the hide curtain to her hut.
Inside, the space welcomed her like a sigh. Simple, familiar. Cool shadows stretched across the fur hides, and the scent of dried herbs lingered in the air.
Outside, Cyrus remained still for a few seconds longer, his thoughts unusually full. A quiet warmth pooled in his chest—a gentle but steady thing. The kind of warmth that didn’t demand attention... just wanted to stay.
He liked that smile. He wanted to see it again.