Gerald's POV
The echo of approaching footsteps jolted me from my wandering thoughts about Elsie. My mind had been venturing into territory that felt both compelling and treacherous. I expected to see Camilla returning with the juice she had promised, but instead, her friend materialized in the doorway.
"Camilla mentioned you dropped by, so I thought I should come introduce myself properly," she said, extending her hand with a warm but knowing smile.
I rose from my seat, accepting her offered handshake. Her grip possessed the kind of strength that suggested she didn't waste time on empty pleasantries, yet chose genuine warmth when it mattered.
"We didn't exactly have a formal introduction during my last visit," I acknowledged, maintaining the handshake. "I'm certain you know who I am, but I'd appreciate knowing what to call Camilla's chosen sister."
Her expression shifted into an amused grin, clearly entertained by my phrasing. "Eden works just fine," she responded.
