The morning garden was quiet except for the soft sound of wind moving through the trees.
June Astral was standing very close to Lucas de Hein now.
So close that she could clearly see the reflection of herself in his silver eyes.
Her finger was still lightly touching his chest where she had tapped him.
June looked up at him with a playful smile.
"You still didn't answer properly."
Her brown eyes sparkled with curiosity.
"Why are you really here?"
Lucas looked down at her calmly.
He didn't move away.
Instead, he slowly raised his hand and gently caught her wrist before she could pull it back.
The movement was slow but firm.
June's smile didn't disappear, but her eyes sharpened slightly.
"Oh?"
Lucas studied her face quietly.
His voice was low.
"…You."
June tilted her head.
"Me?"
Lucas stepped just a little closer.
Now the distance between them was even smaller.
"You intrigue me."
The wind moved June's long brown hair, brushing it lightly across Lucas's shoulder.
June looked at him for a moment.
Then she laughed softly.
"You came all the way from the Magical Tower just to say that?"
Lucas didn't release her wrist yet.
"No."
His voice remained calm.
"I came to confirm something."
June raised an eyebrow.
"And what is that?"
Lucas's silver eyes locked with her brown ones.
"…Whether you are as dangerous as I think."
For a moment the garden became completely silent.
Then June slowly leaned closer.
Her rose-colored lips curved into a mischievous smile.
"Careful, Tower Master."
Her voice was soft.
"If you keep getting closer…"
Her eyes sparkled with playful challenge.
"You might not be able to leave so easily."