Verena's cheeks burned with an intense shame as she realized she had accidentally dozed off, resting her head against the girl's shoulder.
Her pride was shattered to the point that she couldn't even meet the gaze of the girl, who had been softly whining throughout their walk.
"Did my shoulder feel that good? You were out cold!" Vivienne's smile stretched far too wide, her innocent eyes gleaming with pure, unguarded delight.
There was no hidden agenda in her expression, just genuine, guileless curiosity.
Yet, that very innocence only fueled Verena's frustration, though the girl remained blissfully unaware of the irritation she was sowing.
A low groan escaped Verena's lips.
After this, at least, the entirety of volume one would finally come to a close.
It was this small consolation that had kept her going, pushing relentlessly forward, overcoming every obstacle in their path with Saphira's unwavering aid.
