It had been a long time since Ariana felt this relaxed. These past ten days had been nothing but work and responsibility, and though she never once complained, the weight of it had pressed on her shoulders. A small outing like this was exactly what she needed.
Nothing fancy—just the quiet backside of the academy where the two of them strolled together. Before this, they had gone to the nearby town for dinner, and now they enjoyed the silence of the night.
"How are your classes going? After so long, standing on the podium again?" Ariana asked with a gentle smile.
Adrian gave a small shrug. "The students welcomed me warmly. They often ask about my health. It feels nice, I think."
"Well, they would. Who wouldn't care about their savior?" Ariana teased, though her tone carried no joke. She meant every word.
Adrian glanced at her. "Do you plan on easing the requirements for the new exam?"