Chapter 224 - Treat

The scent of warm dough and caramelized sugar filled the kitchen as Vell pulled a tray from the oven, setting it down with a satisfied nod.

Golden pastries, their tops dusted with cinnamon, sat steaming on the counter. He picked one up, tore off a piece, and put it into his mouth, humming in approval.

Sonder, still flipping through her book, barely glanced up as he slid a plate toward her. She picked up a pastry and took a bite, her eyebrows lifting slightly.

Though she hadn't felt particularly hungry, she still enjoyed the taste of something sweet.

She was so absorbed in her book that she forgot to thank him.

"No comment?" Vell scoffed, feigning offense. "That's perfectly balanced sweetness—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside. A masterpiece."

Sonder smiled, taking another bite. "It's very good."

They ate in comfortable silence, the warmth of the kitchen contrasting with the soft murmur of the other witches still buried in their books.

Then, soft footsteps approached.

A timid-looking witch lingered at the edge of the kitchen, wringing her hands.

Vell recognized her as the one eager to study divination, inspired by the witches of Targe.

Her hair was slightly disheveled, eyes tired but bright with focus. She hesitated before stepping closer, eyeing the untouched pastries.

Vell raised an eyebrow. "Finished reading already?"

She nodded. "Almost. Just a little left."

Sonder set down her book. "You got through an entire book already?" 

The girl's cheeks flushed. "I-I just kept reading. It was… interesting."

Vell chuckled. "Good. That's what I like to hear." He gestured toward the tray. "You want one?"

She hesitated for a second too long, but her gaze lingered on the pastries. Vell, catching on, grabbed one and placed it in her hands before she could refuse.

"There. Eat. Your mind needs sugar after cramming in so much information so fast."

She clutched the warm pastry, glancing between him and Sonder before taking a small, hesitant bite. Her eyes widened slightly, and she quickly took another.

Vell watched in mild amusement. "See? Master baker."

The witch nodded quickly, still chewing. "It's really good," she mumbled through a full mouth.

"Naturally."

The girl stayed for a few moments longer, nibbling on her treat, before she seemed to gather herself.

Vell smirked, picking up another pastry and handing it to her. "Here. Have another." 

"Thank you," she said softly, accepting it with both hands before turning and hurrying back to study further.