Chapter 327: Reunion Final Part
"Never," Isabella said simply, her calm authority final. "It's the least we can do for all the trouble you bring us."
The table laughed once more, and for the first time that day, the air was entirely free of tension.
From there, conversation shifted toward lighter topics — small updates around the manor, a brief remark from Christine about how she'd been practicing her handwriting, to which Sophia dramatically declared, "Ah, yes, another scholar in the making! Soon she'll correct even Adrian's letters."
"I write just fine," Adrian said flatly.
"You write like someone trying to stab the ink into submission," Eve replied calmly, causing another wave of laughs.
Even Lira covered her smile behind her cup, shoulders trembling slightly.
Eventually, the meal came to its natural end. Servants cleared away dishes while chairs scraped lightly against the floor.
Sophia was the first to stand. "Well then, Lady Lira — since you're finally refreshed, how about a proper tour?"
Eve rose beside her, smoothing her skirt. "It would be better than leaving you to wander on your own."
Lira blinked, a little surprised by the sudden invitation, but she nodded. "I'd be honored."
Christine hopped up as well. "Can I come too?"
"No," Adrian said immediately.
"Yes," Sophia overruled at the same time. She patted Christine's head. "You're coming."
Adrian exhaled through his nose. "Don't bully her."
Sophia gave him a pointed look. "You're one to talk."
With that, the girls — Sophia, Eve, Lira, and Christine — departed together, their chatter already blending into the hallway. Lira glanced once over her shoulder at Adrian. He met her eyes briefly, offering a nod before they vanished down the corridor.
The hall quieted.
Rosalyn excused herself first. Seraphina followed with a stretch of lazy elegance. Isabella lingered just long enough to place a hand briefly on Adrian's shoulder before taking her leave as well.
Leaving him alone.
He stayed seated for a moment longer, fingers drumming lightly against the table.
Lira was here.
Mira would be here before evening.
His jaw flexed slightly.
Lira was easy enough — polite, calm, not yet fully attached. She could be managed.
Mira… would be another matter entirely.
He rose and headed to his chambers.
He shut the door behind him and leaned back against it.
Mira.
She was not someone who approached quietly. When she wanted something, she bit.
He remembered the way she used to look at him — bold, curious, something untamed lurking beneath her noble grace. The kind of girl who didn't wait to be courted — she hunted.
A slow breath escaped him.
If she came at him directly… he would not refuse.
But how to move first?Should he play indifferent and let her chase?Or should he strike first — set the pace himself?
His pulse stirred slightly at the thought of cornering her alone. Perhaps in the garden. Or her guest room. Or—
A knock on his window frame from outside made him blink.
It was only a branch moving with the wind.
He scoffed at himself.
"Calm down. She's not even here yet."
By the time the sun dipped low, painting the horizon in warm gold, the distant roll of carriage wheels echoed from the manor's front approach.
Adrian was already at the entrance hall when the doors were opened.
The Everhart staff lined up in modest formation — not as grand as before. The earlier welcome had been arranged under the assumption that the entire Blackthorn family would arrive together. This was different — more restrained, but still proper.
The carriage halted.
The footman opened the door.
Mira Blackthorn stepped down gracefully, her expression unreadable — composed, but bright-eyed. The faint breeze caught her hair, lifting a few strands across her cheek.
Isabella stepped forward, dipping her head politely.
"Lady Mira. Welcome to Everhart Manor. I apologize — your welcome is quieter than your sister's. We had expected a single arrival."
Mira shook her head lightly, lips curving. "No need to apologize, Lady Isabella. I chose to come separately. I don't mind being received differently."
Her eyes shifted — finally landing on Adrian.
A flicker — sharp, knowing, amused.
He stepped forward, his tone smooth and steady.
"Lady Mira. I trust your journey was a pleasant one."
She held his gaze a moment too long. "It was better than expected. Though…"
Her lips curled, just a hint of mischief.
"…it would have been warmer had you been the one waiting at the roadside rather than the gate."
Christine made a small ohh sound under her breath.
Sophia smirked from off to the side.
Isabella's brow twitched — but she said nothing.
Adrian met Mira's smile without flinching. "If that is your preference… I'll keep it in mind for next time."
Mira's laugh was soft — and promising.
She tilted her head just slightly, eyes never leaving Adrian.“So you’re already planning a next time? My, Baron Everhart… how forward of you.”
A faint murmur went through the servants lined along the entry hall. Isabella’s gaze flicked to Mira, assessing.
Rosalyn’s expression remained neutral, though her posture straightened ever so slightly. Seraphina simply smirked from where she leaned against a column.
Adrian didn’t waver. “I find it's better to be prepared, Lady Mira.”
Her lips curved — pleased, but controlled.
“For someone who claims preparedness… you greet me at the gate yet not at the roadside. A contradiction.”
She let the words hang, teasing — then, with graceful restraint, withdrew the edge from her voice. “But I suppose I can forgive it. For now.”
She turned slightly then, composure settling over her like a cloak. The playfulness was tucked neatly away, replaced once more by noble poise.
“Shall we continue inside? I’ve little interest in standing at the threshold much longer.”
Isabella stepped forward. “Of course. The guest chambers have been prepared ahead of time. If you’ll allow—”
“Baron Everhart,” Mira interjected gently, without looking away from Adrian. “If it wouldn’t trouble you, I would prefer you guide me to my room.”
Isabella paused — then inclined her head in approval.
Adrian offered his arm. “As you wish, Lady Mira.”
She placed her hand atop his forearm, fingers light. Together they crossed the threshold into the manor.
They walked through the entrance corridor, the echo of their footsteps blending with the dull crackle of lamps along the wall.
Adrian spoke first. “Your sister is currently exploring the manor with Sophia and Eve. She should be playing around with them.”