- At Future Academy -
On his way back to the carriage Julianne arrived in, Duke Reuben Valentine walked with an unyielding posture, his right hand resting firmly on the hilt of his blade.
Julianne herself followed next to him with her head up straight so as to not show weakness. Her eyes were still red from the tears she had shed in the office, but she kept her face regal.
The rhythmic clicking of their steps against the stone was suddenly interrupted by the sound of hurried, echoing footsteps from behind.
"Lord Reuben! Please, wait!"
Reuben paused in his tracks. He turned around slowly and narrowed his eyes as he waited for the approaching figure.
It was Everette.
He stopped a few feet away before smoothing down his clothes and adjusting his silk neckcloth, restoring his picture-perfect, aristocratic composure.
With a theatrical bow, Everette turned to Julianne. "Madam Valentine, it is an honor to see you again. I hope the day finds you well."
