At that moment, Cesare's gaze lingered on the child. And that's when she noticed him.
For a split second, Cesare felt a twinge of dismay. His experiences on the battlefield, starting at a young age, had left him with an air that often frightened children. This little girl, already lost and frightened, would likely be even more intimidated by him.
But instead of cowering, the child's reaction surprised him.
Upon seeing Cesare, her already large eyes widened even further. A curious light filled her gaze, the gold and green in her irises shimmering like sunlight filtering through leaves. A breeze carried the scent of lilies as she suddenly dashed toward him.
Without thinking, Cesare crouched and caught her in his arms. She flung herself into his embrace, clinging tightly as she burst into tears.
