The car pulled up to the modest housing complex, the soft hum of the engine fading into silence.
Niklaus shifted in his seat, a faintly smug smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he glanced at Hermia. "We're here," he said, his tone oddly satisfied.
She tilted her head, studying him suspiciously. "Thank you?" she replied, her voice uncertain, her torn dress clinging awkwardly to her figure.
Niklaus stepped out of the car with a natural grace that seemed almost rehearsed, his tall frame commanding the dim glow of the streetlights.
He moved to the trunk, pulled out her bags, and placed them carefully by the sidewalk.
As she stood there, hugging herself against the cool night air, Niklaus turned to face her, his expression softening for a brief moment. "Did I tell you," he began, his voice low, "you look beautiful in that dress? And I'm sorry it tore."
Her cheeks warmed, a deep blush spreading across her face.
