The pair walked in silence, she was grateful for the apple Darius had given her. It was the best she had had in years.
A smile tugged at her lips, how thoughtful of him.
He let her lag behind, but she didn't miss the glances he cast her way every now and then.
He didn't seem particularly nasty or cruel tonight. Serena let the apple core drop onto the street and quickened her pace to catch up with Darius.
"Thank you again for the apple," she said, glancing at him.
"It was nothing. I saw it on the table and grabbed it," he said with a shake of his head.
"While you were gone, some of the Elders showed up, so you'll have to meet them," Darius added.
Serena faltered slightly, looking at Darius with knitted brows. He frowned, slowing down a bit. Darius made to touch her shoulder but stopped, letting his hand fall to his side instead.
"Don't fret, be at ease," he assured her, his voice softer. "They know, and they'll treat you as you deserve."
"I see. Thank you," she murmured.
