Clearly, what Evangeline saw in Hades was utterly different from what Cerdery believed she knew of him. They both cared for him, that much was undeniable, yet their convictions stood at opposite ends, clashing in a way that could never truly align. At that moment, Evangeline understood with quiet certainty that there would never come a day when Cerdery would welcome her presence.
They were too different, so fundamentally so, that friction was inevitable whenever they crossed paths.
"I see," Cerdery said curtly, lifting her teacup and taking a measured sip, as if the conversation had already concluded.
The silence that followed felt thick and uncomfortable, pressing against Evangeline's chest. She began to think it would be best to excuse herself, to retreat before the awkwardness deepened any further—
When Cerdery spoke again.
"I can see where you are coming from."
