Hirvan fidgeted with the hem of his worn shirt as he looked down, avoiding Drake's piercing gaze. His voice came out hesitant.
"I am not against it, but you have to ask Rosaline first."
Drake's lips curled into a sly smile as he said.
"That's it, then. I will send Rosaline to a remote area first. Once my business here is settled, we can go to her. In the meantime, you better keep a low profile. Don't do anything that might draw attention. I can't visit you until everything is sorted out. Understood?"
Hirvan nodded slowly, his head bobbing not by conviction but by resignation. He knew there was no other way. He couldn't do anything anyway, so he accepted Drake's words.
Drake stepped closer. He reached out and ruffled Hirvan's hair with a surprising gentleness. For a moment, the intensity in his expression softened, replaced by something almost tender.
"Wait for me, I promise we will live freely soon."
