Henry watched the departing carriage and let out a low whistle. "Well, that was fast. Did you scare her?"
Adrien didn't even glance at him. "Shut up."
He strode toward their own carriage, jaw tight.
Henry followed. "I'm serious. How did it go?"
Adrien exhaled sharply. "I barely listened. But she's… unbelievable. She accepts everything without a thought, and whenever she opens her mouth, something foolish comes out." He pulled himself into the carriage. "What do you think?"
Henry get in too. "Honestly? Could be worse. You might even find a way to enjoy it."
Adrien shot him a look. "Why are we friends again?"
"Because I say the things no one else will, " Henry said lightly. "Home?"
Adrien's expression softened into the faintest smile. "Home."
The carriage doors shut with a dull thud, and the horses set off. He stared out the window with a dull face.
Henry watched him for a moment. "You look like someone just sentenced you to exile."
Adrien let out a humorless breath. "Feels like it."
"Come on," Henry said. "It's not the end of the world."
Adrien didn't answer. He stared out the window instead, eyes distant, thoughts circling the same point over and over. .
Henry tapped his boot. "You're thinking too much."
"Maybe," Adrien said quietly.
The carriage turned onto the long road leading toward the estate.
Henry glanced at him again, softer this time. "You'll figure it out. You always do"
Adrien didn't reply, but the tension in his shoulders eased just a little.
The estate gates opened, and the carriage rolled inside.
Adrien paused at the carriage steps. "Aren't you coming?" he asked.
Henry shook his head. "No. I need to get away from you. Too much nagging—my head hurts." He gave a crooked smile.
Adrien rolled his eyes. "Just leave."
Henry took a few steps back, raising a hand in mock farewell. "Goodbye, my friend. I will always love you."