49

Silvia had not noticed Noori's presence behind her, lost in the labyrinth of her thoughts. The moonlight danced on the surface of the water as Silvia delicately traced ripples with her finger, her mind consumed by the weight of her contemplations. Noori approached cautiously, her steps soft against the cool tiles of the garden pathway. Standing a few paces away, she hesitated before speaking.

"Are you okay?" Noori's voice, usually poised and assertive, now carried a tender note of concern, a surprising departure from their usual exchanges. Silvia jolted at the unexpected sound, her body swaying backward toward the water fountain. With lightning reflexes, Noori reached out, her hand finding Silvia's waist, preventing her from toppling over the edge. Though a few strands of Silvia's hair dipped into the water, the near mishap was averted.