Leaving Rina to rest, Erin and Lucian departed as Gwen urged them to leave.
The two walked upstairs toward their rooms, the silence stretching between them. Erin wondered what to say, her mind scrambling for a topic to fill the quiet.
"You went to the market today?" Lucian finally asked, breaking the silence.
"Hmm… yes," Erin replied. "I went with my brothers."
"I hope you enjoyed it," he commented.
"I did."
The silence returned. Erin glanced at him, feeling the awkwardness settle. It seems like it will always be like this—quiet, with nothing to talk about. He might prefer silence, but I can talk. It's alright.
"How's your wound?" she asked, deciding to try again.
"It's fine now."
"Have you changed the dressing?"
"I will once I return home."
"On your own?" she pressed.
"Hmm."
"Maybe get a servant to do it."
"I can manage."
This stubborn man, she thought, frowning inwardly.