Soren knocked on the door while speaking mentally. 'It's me.'
Then the door's lock clicked, and Soren pushed it open. Ethea was already waiting near the entrance, her mask removed, her hands resting on her lap, and a lovely smile on her face as their eyes met.
"Congratulations on your victory, dear." She said, her voice full of pride and happiness. "You were amazing."
Soren felt the corners of his lips rise as he stepped inside and knelt in front of her. "Thank you, dear." He took her hands gently. "But you weren't bored waiting, right?"
Ethea shook her head. "No, I wasn't. In fact, I enjoyed it a lot."
"Then I'm relieved." Soren stood up. "Actually, I discovered something during the competition."
"Mmm, I noticed it too." Ethea nodded. "Is it about Miss Nuelia's dish?"
"Yes," Soren confirmed and then explained everything to Ethea, including the plan to meet up and have a private talk. "What do you say? Will you accompany me?"
