The trio shared a warm silence as they strolled through the academy grounds, the sun dipping low and casting a golden hue over the gardens.
The breeze carried the light scent of blooming flowers, a fitting end to an unexpectedly harmonious day.
Cruzer felt a deep sense of relief as he watched Jean and Elara walking together, side by side, sharing quiet words.
Despite the tension that had lingered at the start, a mutual understanding had taken root between them.
As they approached the end of the garden path, Jean glanced up at him, a hint of tenderness in her eyes.
"Today was… different," she admitted, her voice barely louder than the whisper of the evening air.
"But in a good way. Seeing you and Elara together, I don't know… it feels like I understand you better now."
Elara nodded, her typically reserved expression softened. "I wasn't sure about this at first," she said, casting a glance at Jean.
