Knowing His Age

As life went on outside with the gossiping guards and maids, the newlywed continued dining for breakfast.

"This is cold," Salviana said in a distracted tone, sipping the contents of the cup and blinking at the unexpected chill.

Alaric smirked at her reaction. "I feel cold, heat, disgust… and anger," he said matter-of-factly, his voice low and almost teasing.

Salviana giggled again, the tension between them lifting slightly. She reached for a bowl of fruit, and he watched as she selected one, biting into it with relish. His eyes followed every movement, drawn to the way she savored the taste.

"Where do you go at night?" she asked after a moment, her voice soft but laced with curiosity.

His gaze flickered, the question catching him off guard. He hadn't expected her to ask about that. There was no accusation in her tone, only genuine interest.

"I handle matters," he replied, keeping his voice calm. "Mostly things that shouldn't concern you."