Relief softened Meret's expression. "Thank you, sir. I really appreciate that."
"You're welcome," he said warmly. Then he studied her for a long moment, his voice softening. "But tell me, Meret — how are you?"
She hesitated, caught off guard. "I'm… fine," she said automatically.
He didn't look convinced. His gaze was steady, gentle but piercing, the kind that asked the real question — How are you, really?
Meret looked down briefly before answering honestly. "I honestly don't know. I'm just… trying to catch up on the basics. Trying to figure out my life again. I don't want to let all of this swallow me whole."
Mr. Blackwood nodded slowly, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "That's good," he said. "You're doing well, even if it doesn't feel like it yet. I know you'll make a fine Gamma. If you ever need anything — advice, support, even just a conversation — my door's always open."
"Thank you, sir," Meret said sincerely.
