Andros's hand brushed against hers as he tried to force her gaze to meet his. Desperation filled his eyes as he asked if she really didn't care, or if she was just pretending to be okay out of spite. He promised it wouldn't happen again, vowing to keep his distance from Szarina from now on. His words and actions revealed that he understood the boundaries he should have maintained as a married man, yet he had repeatedly failed to honor them. His deception and lies had eroded the trust between them.
Despite his plea, Celes felt a cold realization settle in her heart: Andros no longer mattered to her. The decision had already been made; she would be leaving soon. The anger and hurt seemed distant and muted, overshadowed by a sense of finality.
"Okay, I believe you," she replied, her voice devoid of emotion, almost mechanical. The words were a formality, a step towards the inevitable end of their relationship.
Szarina, sensing the tension, excused herself and left. Celes watched her go, the sight of her retreating figure a bittersweet reminder of what had been lost. Andros tried to draw her into conversation, but Celes’s responses were curt and detached. She could see the frustration building in him, but she no longer had the energy to care.
Over the next few days, Celes focused on her training with Larkin. The work was demanding, but it provided her with a much-needed escape from the turmoil at home. Larkin's strict and no-nonsense approach kept her grounded, and she found solace in the routine of their work.
One evening, as they were wrapping up a particularly intense session, Larkin paused and looked at her intently.
"You've improved a lot, Celestine," he said, his tone unusually gentle. "Father made the right choice in choosing you as his apprentice."
Celes felt a warmth spread through her at his words.
"Thank you, Larkin," she replied, her voice soft. "I’m grateful for the opportunity."
Larkin nodded, his expression serious. "I know things are difficult, regardless if it's home or work. If you ever need anything, or if you just need to talk, I’m here."
The unexpected offer of support touched Celes deeply. Her first impression of him was bad, but guess she was wrong.
"Thank you," she said again, her voice thick with emotion. "That means a lot to me."