Elaina and Marcus walked side by side together.
Marcus simply wore his casual clothes that he had bought from an apparel shop while Elaina was dressed in her standard receptionist uniform.
Marcus glanced down at her hand.
It was right there.
Close enough.
Their shoulders were already brushing slightly as they walked, their pace naturally in sync. The streets of Berm were starting to fill with people, merchants opening their stalls, adventurers moving in groups, and the usual morning noise settling in.
For a moment, he didn't do anything.
Then, he reached out casually. Like it wasn't a big deal.
His fingers brushed against hers first, testing.
Then slowly, he slipped his hand into hers.
Elaina froze.
Just for a second.
Her steps faltered slightly, her head turning toward him in surprise.
"Marcus?"
He didn't look at her.
"What?"
"You just—"
"I know."
Elaina looked at their hands.
Then back at him.
"…You didn't even ask."
