By the time Vanessa put down her book again, it was completely dark outside the window.
She stretched, loosened her stiff body, and raised her head.
The lighting around her was just right; Vanessa had not even noticed the change in daylight.
She rubbed her stomach. She was a little hungry, and her body was somewhat tired.
Mentally, however, she felt peaceful and satisfied.
Vanessa glanced at the girl opposite her.
She was still reading in the armchair, only now she had curled up, tucking her whole body into it, her shoes kicked off in front of the chair. Vanessa was very pleased with her.
This was how someone reading alongside you ought to be.
Not disturbing each other, quietly keeping each other company.
Even leaving should be silent.
Vanessa rose quietly, turned, and walked straight out.
The girl opposite her lifted her face from her book, about to say something, only to discover in astonishment that Vanessa had already left.
But-but she had not even had a chance to talk to her yet!
Vanessa had been so absorbed in her reading that the girl had wanted to wait until she finished before striking up a conversation. That wait had lasted an entire day.
The girl had noticed the moment Vanessa raised her head, but by the time she gathered the courage to speak, Vanessa had already slipped away.
So all that talk of "chatting later" had been a lie after all?
"Your Highness, the refreshments and tea you requested..."
"I don't want them!"
The girl's tone was stiff as she sulked at herself. Her gaze fell on the table, and her voice softened again.
"Next time... prepare a few more pens."
Vanessa wrapped her clothes tightly around herself and hurried through the streets.
Early spring nights still had a