Moments later, Jasper entered the dining room holding Hiraya's right hand like a fragile treasure.
"Good morning, Dad," Jasper mumbled without making direct eye contact.
"Hmm...." Joel replied, his sharp eyes fixed on Hiraya, who seemed to radiate a rare glow in her long floral white dress.
"Good morning, father." Hiraya curtsied, a faint innocent smile stretching across her pillowy lips.
"Morning, my beautiful girl." Joel's smile was smooth, and his voice was almost warm. "I hope you had a good night's rest."
"I tried, Father." Hiraya paused briefly as though expecting Jasper to interrupt her. When he said nothing, she continued. "I'm sorry again about yesterday's mess. I promise, I'll be more careful and ask questions next time."
"You don't have to..."
"All is forgiven, my dear," Joel replied heartily, cutting Jasper off. "Feel free to come to me if you don't understand anything or have any questions."
