The cool rain fell steadily, creating puddles on the empty roads. Rose and Lily, undeterred by the weather, found joy in splashing through them, their laughter ringing out. Erza followed them at a slower pace.
'Your clothes are gonna stain. Make sure to wash them when you get home,' Erza advised.
Lily smiled and waved, responding, "We will. Thank you, Father Rigil!"
Erza turned his head to the right, a smile touching his lips as he heard their playful shouts. The alley he looked toward was quiet. At its far end, a figure stood waiting. Erza passed by, not lingering on the person.
The figure followed Erza silently. After a short distance, Erza spoke, 'Why are you following me, Miss Bennett?'
'You recognized us. So why are you avoiding it?' She questioned, her voice a fragile whisper that barely masked the tremor in her heart as she closed the distance between them. Her gaze was searching his eyes for any flicker of those memories.
