Interlude: Snowy Love (XI)

With that, they made their way to the tall pine trees near the event area.

The soft crunch of snow beneath their boots was the only sound for a moment—until Eleonora suddenly looped her arm through his.

Aestrea stiffened.

"...What are you doing?"

She leaned in slightly, her voice smooth and warm.

"Oh my~ It's cold, isn't it?"

"...You have mana. You don't get cold."

She laughed softly.

"My, my~ You're no fun, are you?"

Aestrea sighed but didn't push her away.

When they reached the tree, Aestrea quickly spotted a rolled-up scroll tied with a red ribbon.

He bent down, grabbing it from the snow.

Eleonora clapped her hands lightly.

"Oh my~ Such sharp eyes~ I do love a man who's quick with his hands."

Aestrea paused mid-motion.

"...You're doing this on purpose."

She smiled sweetly.

"Doing what, dear~?"

Aestrea squinted at her before handing her the scroll.