As they strolled around the governor's mansion, Shadow emerged with their host, both wearing smiles that seemed a touch too wide to be genuine.
The governor's gaze immediately locked onto Matilda, and he strode towards her with an outstretched hand.
"My dear, I believe we didn't have a proper introduction earlier," he said, his voice syrupy sweet. "How terribly rude of me."
Matilda, to her credit, maintained her composure. "Oh, it's quite alright," she replied, shaking his hand briefly. "I'm Matilda, as mentioned before."
The governor held onto her hand a moment too long, his eyes roving over her in a way that made Zafron's skin crawl. 'What's his game?' Zafron thought, bristling at the unwanted attention.
[Oh my, looks like someone's developed a little crush. How... revolting,] Calista chimed in, her disgust evident.
