By the time Rin returned to the brothel, the moon hung high, its silver glow painting the red lanterns in softer shades, casting a gentle light over the courtyard.
Lirien was waiting at the entrance, her pipe in hand, smoke curling around her like a protective veil. The moment she saw Rin step out of the carriage, she rushed forward, worry flashing across her face. "Rin! Why are you so late?"
He forced a small smile, his voice light but tired. "Traffic."
Her brow furrowed, her crimson eyes narrowing as she puffed smoke. "Traffic? What kind of..."
Rin chuckled lightly, brushing past her question as he stepped toward the entrance. "Nothing worth mentioning."
She frowned deeper, her pipe tilting as she studied him, but she let it go, her voice softening. "You're alright, though? Nothing happened?"
Rin nodded, his crimson eyes meeting hers briefly. "I'm fine, Aunt. Really."
