Elara's green eyes shimmered with crocodile tears, her voice soft and pleading. "I didn't start those rumors, Leonhardt. My friends—they care about me, they acted on their own to protect me." She stepped closer, her fingers lightly touching Leo's collar, her auburn hair glowing in the moonlight.
Leo leaned back, his crimson eyes narrowing, keeping his distance. She pouted, her tone playful. "Can't we go back to how things were? You remember our deal, don't you? It still stands."
Leo's jaw tightened, and he gently but firmly pushed her hands away, his voice cold but calm. "I don't recall any deal, Elara. After the bandit attack, I forgot useless memories. Let's keep it simple: you live your life, I live mine."
He turned to leave, but her voice stopped him, sharp and mocking. "Rin Valarune, isn't it?"
