By the time they returned to Red Tide Territory, the sunset was already low, casting a rosy glow over the layered stone bricks, warm and familiar.
And the moment Louis stepped through the Lord's Castle gate, that trace of fatigue in his heart quietly dissipated.
Before he could say anything, he was tightly embraced by Emily, who rushed up to him.
"...Welcome home."
Her voice was not loud, yet carried undeniable joy and a hint of grievance that had been suppressed for a long time.
Louis paused for a moment, then smiled slightly and hugged her back, leaning close to her ear: "I'm home."
Before he could finish, he swiftly and cleanly picked her up horizontally.
"Ah—" Emily let out a gentle exclamation and instinctively wrapped her arms around his neck.
A blush appeared on her cheeks, but she didn't resist. Instead, she buried her head in his shoulder, breathing lightly.
