The air outside was still alive with murmurs as Kento adjusted the lapels of his soot-streaked suit, his easy smile back in place despite the duel's aftermath. Brianna Larson stood nearby, composed and elegant, her green eyes appraising him with a gaze that felt sharper than it should have.
"I'll give you five minutes," Kento said, flashing a charming grin. "After all, who could refuse a request from someone like you?"
"Only a fool, Mr. Salvatore," Brianna replied smoothly, her voice rich and tinged with amusement.
Before he could follow her inside, Talita stepped forward, brow furrowed in concern. "I'm coming with you," she stated firmly, her arms crossed.
Kento shook his head gently, his voice low and coaxing. "Not this time, Talita. I need you to handle the aftermath out here. You know how nobles love to gossip."
Talita groaned, her frustration only half genuine. "I swear, Kento, I spend half my life cleaning up your messes."
