The attendant stepped aside, holding the carriage door open, but the three figures waiting in front of it made the moment stretch longer.
"Elena."
Veyron von Lestaria crossed the short distance with quick strides, his smile warm and steady. He didn't hesitate to pull his sister into a tight embrace, lifting her slightly from the ground. "You've been away too long. Tell me, how much longer before I have to stand through your wedding, hm?"
Elena's cheeks turned crimson. "B-Brother!" She pushed at him lightly, flustered, but didn't let go.
Noel slowed to a stop a few paces behind, arms loosely folded. The sight tugged at something in him. He remembered Veyron well—from that wedding years ago, the first time he'd realized Elena's heart leaned toward him. And now, seeing her held so warmly by her brother, it was clear how much she'd missed this.
"You haven't changed," Noel said at last, his tone even.
