Xenia's voice trembled as she spoke, the fear in her eyes unmistakable.
"We could go down to the village to look," she stuttered, her gaze shifting nervously as if expecting Matthew to explode in anger at any moment.Matthew's face, usually so stern, softened slightly as he studied her. His intense eyes seemed to pierce through her defenses, but he held back, his voice calm and measured.
"You know the way?"Xenia swallowed hard, her heart pounding in her chest.
"We could ask for directions if you wish," she replied, her words coming out in a rush.
"I just don't feel right sitting and waiting here all day." As soon as the words left her lips, she looked away, unable to bear the weight of his gaze.
Matthew remained silent, his eyes dropping to the ground. Xenia watched him out of the corner of her eye, noting the way his brow furrowed as if he were wrestling with a difficult decision.
