Aqua's soapy hands moved in slow strokes across Cassius's back, but her mind was miles away.
She was desperately trying to make sense of the gulf between what she had imagined and what was actually happening.
After all, this was supposed to be her homecoming week.
Her long-awaited, perfect reunion.
She had spent years in the capital daydreaming about it—picturing every wholesome, golden moment.
Taking his hand and dragging him through the bustling town market, pointing at every shiny trinket and saying,
"This one's for you, little brother—try it on!"
Spoiling him rotten with sweets, new cloaks, enchanted baubles, anything that would make his eyes light up the way they used to when he was small.
