Iron Matron (6)

"How did you meet Mister Gerald?"

No hesitation, no soft lead-in—just the question, clear and to the point.

Lucavion, to his credit, didn't seem fazed by the abruptness of her inquiry. If anything, his expression softened, his lips curving into that familiar, knowing grin. But it wasn't the same playful smirk she had seen earlier. This one carried a hint of something deeper, something that hinted at the weight behind the answer.

He didn't answer right away, though. Instead, he picked up his glass and took a slow, thoughtful sip, as if collecting his thoughts before he spoke. Mariel watched him closely, her curiosity piqued even more by his silence.

Finally, after what felt like a long pause, he set the glass down and met her gaze with an intensity she hadn't expected.