The dining hall was already alive with quiet movement when Aire stepped in.
Aire walked in with careful steps. Mabel, Madam, and three other maids followed in behind her.
She felt a strange strong pull towards Alaric. Aire blinked at the feeling, but didn't look at him.
Alaric's gaze settled on her the moment she crossed the threshold. It followed her.
Aire felt it like a weight resting gently against her skin. The feeling was just there. She kept walking.
Her hands were folded lightly before her, with her posture steady, and her chin lifted just enough to hold the role she had been given.
She knew Alaric was watching her, but she had promised to seat beside Nate today. She wouldn't change that.
Aire reached her seat beside Nate.
Just before she sat, she lifted her gaze slightly. Their eyes met. Her expression softened. Her lips curved up into a small quiet smile.
Alaric didn't return it.
His jaw tightened faintly, then he comoletely looked away.
