When Mariel matched his pace with Delphia's, the woman quickened her steps as if wanting to avoid being close to him. And soon, they arrived at dining room.
"Please sit," Delphia said, pulling out a chair for Mariel.
However, Mariel didn't sit immediately. Instead, he stopped in front of her. Delphia instinctively tried to step away, but Mariel held her back. Both of his hands grasped hers, forcing their eyes to meet.
"Did I do something that made you not want to be near me?" Mariel asked with a regretful expression. "I'm happy to see you again, Delphia, truly. But should I not have come?"
"No, it's not that." Delphia's face remained formal. "You're more dangerous than the typical definition of 'dangerous'. I must be extra cautious. So, can you release my hands, Mr. Mariel?"