Chapter 28: Venus
As the wooden door creaked open, Ryu became stunned.
Standing before him was a girl who looked same age as him, her presence immediately arresting. Ahem, physically at least.
Her long black hair fell like a cascade of silk, flowing gently over her shoulders. The moonlight caught in the strands, making them gleam faintly. Her eyes, a deep and mysterious violet, watched him with quiet intensity. Framed by elegant brows and long lashes, those eyes held a sense of confidence and subtle defiance.
Her skin was fair, smooth, and unblemished. A soft blush touched her cheeks, though whether from the evening chill or natural color, it was impossible to say. She wore a simple cream-colored dress, clean and neatly pressed, that hugged her waist just enough to reveal the grace of her figure without calling attention to it.
She carried a bowl carefully wrapped in cloth.
"You must be the new tenant," she said in a clear, polite voice. "My name is Venus. I’m the landlord’s daughter."
’Venus? That’s an odd name..’
Before Ryu could respond, she coldy extended the bowl to him. A pleasant aroma, thick with herbs and simmered broth, floated up from it.
"Mother told me to bring you this. It is stew. Still warm."
Ryu blinked, then quickly accepted the bowl with both hands.
"Ah, thank you. I really appreciate it."