Inspector Leora 2

The afternoon sun hung lazily in the sky, a warm blanket of golden light enveloping the castle grounds where Leora and I wandered through the meticulously tended gardens. It was a tranquil scene, one that belied the undercurrent of suspense that crackled between us.

Leora's eyes, normally bright with affection, were now alight with suspicion, darting around as though she expected to catch me red-handed in some grand deception. Her determination, though vexing, was endearing, and I couldn't suppress a chuckle at her resolute expression.

"Why are you laughing?" she demanded, narrowing her eyes at me.

"Just enjoying the lovely weather," I replied smoothly, a grin tugging at my lips. "And your adorable detective face."

She huffed in mock annoyance, crossing her arms. "I'm not going to give up, you know. I know you're hiding something."

I leaned in, unable to resist stealing a kiss on her cheek. "Good luck, Inspector Leora. You'll need it."