[Less than an hour ago]
Ashrik stood quietly in the yard as he watched Lucille rush inside the cottage, cradling the pink box that Regina had just given her. From the soft click that echoed later, he knew she was already locking herself inside the bedroom.
Ashrik lingered there for a few seconds, the faint hum of the wind brushing past his short hair. Concern flickered in his dark eyes as he recalled the forced smile Lucille showed just now.
"Haa..."
He exhaled, rubbing his calloused thumb along his palm. He knew that she needed some space. If he forced some comfort, it might backfire.
Grief came like waves. At times, the quiet ones were more dangerous than the loud ones, as they drowned their victim silently.
Ashrik glanced at his wristwatch. He still had a few more hours before Hazel and Regina reappeared, but he intended to start preparing for the feast tonight.
