"Big brother, you're so cool!"
The little girl whispered, amazement in her tone.
She had vibrant light-green eyes, pale skin, rosy cheeks with hints of baby fat, and honey-blonde hair.
Alden resisted the urge to flinch.
'What is a little girl doing here?'
Alden's mind raced.
The white-haired young man flicked his gaze back to Kael, who looked ahead, seemingly unaware of the child's presence. Strange. Discreetly, Alden noticed that no one else in the viewing chamber seemed to be cognizant of the little girl's existence.
A tinge of unease pricked Alden's heart.
He ignored that for the moment, returning his full attention towards the little kid.
…Both his expression and tone softened as he did.
"Hello. What's your name?"
"My name is Maeve!"
The little girl bounced in her seat, excited energy pouring out of her in vast waves.
"Maeve, what a lovely name. I'm Alden. What brings you here?"
"Big brother is very handsome."
Maeve giggled.
