Caravan

The rain stopped before dawn.

Washed clean by the rain, the cathedral’s round columns gleamed. The crisp, clear winter morning felt refreshing rather than merely cold.

Priest Dephanis, who had received a jar of sugar as a gift, narrowed his eyes instead of looking pleased.

“It’s only been a day since we said goodbye.”

“I didn’t say goodbye for good, Priest. Isn’t it nice to see you again?”

Enya gave him a genial smile.

She tried to laugh off her embarrassment, but Dephanis looked at her as if she were something disgusting.

He narrowed his eyes and stared at her for a long moment before sighing and speaking.

“Nice, my foot. You didn’t come to pay your respects, so I bet you’re here because of the young lady behind you, aren’t you?”

“That’s half the reason.”...