Madam Huang's gaze lingered on the unfamiliar young lady for a moment longer. Then her smile softened, the corners of her eyes crinkling as they gleamed with warm curiosity.
"So," she said lightly, walking further inside as she looked from Ashrik to the lady. "This is the first time you've brought someone with you."
Ashrik didn't immediately answer Madam Huang, while Lucille quietly walked forward.
He pulled the cloth that had served as a mask down, revealing his entire face. A thin layer of sweat had dampened the part hidden beneath the fabric earlier.
Lucille did the same, following him a heartbeat later. She knew she didn't have to worry about their identities being exposed.
"This is Lucille," Ashrik said, gesturing at Lucille. He added after a brief pause, "She's my sister's best friend from college. We'd just met again recently. Thought to bring her here with me."
