"Why not ask her to stay the night? I'm sure she wouldn't refuse an invitation like that."
After giving Shade her handkerchief, Claire left the mountaintop alone with a shy smile. Shade was the only one left standing by the cliff, watching the sunset, when Winnie's voice came from behind him.
Shade did not turn to look at the maid.
"Winnie, I'm not the sort of person you think I am. Besides, Claire is more regretful about everyone leaving today. I don't want to take advantage of her feelings."
The Ice Maid, her entire body refracting light beneath the sunset, smiled.
"Yes, yes. So, shall we keep enjoying the scenery here, or go back now?"
Only then did Shade turn around.
"Let's go back now. I'll take you with me."
For Ice and Snow Castle to establish a connection with 6 Saint Derain Square, Winnie first had to visit it. Thus, that evening, Shade threw the Crystal Shoes and brought Winnie back home.
Home was rather deserted. Dorothy was working on her manuscript in the apartment, Galina and Leisha both had important matters at Yodel Palace, and Luvia was still on Fatumonst Island. Therefore, aside from Little Mia, no one else was home.
"So this is 6 Saint Derain Square?"
After being restored from her toy state, Winnie curiously looked over the house. Shade then gave her a brief tour, and from a maid's perspective, Winnie offered her assessment.
"It seems the Duchess's maid is quite skilled at cleaning."
Shade had already eaten with Claire just now, but Winnie still prepared dinner for Shade and the Cat at home. Shade thus invited Winnie to sit down and eat with him. After only a token refusal or two, Winnie sat across from him.
They talked about the history of the house.