Chapter 45: Forgive Me...

A curious expression overtook Abrial's excitement.

"What present?"

Shin Minyeo didn't answer. She simply shrugged mysteriously, then slipped off the bed and towards the dresser. Off the dresser she lifted two long articles of clothing that had been laid out. Abrial realized, staring at them as Shin Minyeo brought them closer, that they were intricately embroidered robes.

"All right. First, this one is for your friend Finley."

The robe that Shin Minyeo held up was light and flowing as a brook. It radiated the air of a pale rose, melding from pure white to a rosy pink at the hems. When the robe was turned around, Abrial saw that all along the back, sparkling golden crocus flowers had been woven, intertwining with threads of pale pink and green vine. It was so well-woven that the flowers seemed to sway in some breeze, their petals rippling as the cloth of the robe shifted.

A soft cloud of air puffed out of Abrial's mouth.