บท 26: The Encounter

While Anna was thinking about how to explain her idea to Edrick, she noticed someone approaching the table out of the corner of her eye. 

'Huh? I wonder who's coming for me now,' Anna thought as she focused on the person drawing near. 

To her surprise… 

It was Leo. 

The boy made his way through the dining hall's tables with his typical carefree energy and, once he arrived, greeted Anna with an easy smile. 

"Hey, Anna," Leo said, raising a hand in a relaxed gesture. 

'He looks happy, but I can tell he's a bit tense… did something happen?' 

Anna returned his smile, genuinely glad to see him. 

"Hey, Leo," Anna replied, her tone slightly enthusiastic. 

But then, the atmosphere subtly shifted. 

Leo and Edrick exchanged glances for a few seconds, and an awkward silence fell over the table. 

At first, Anna felt a burst of excitement inside.