The grand halls of the Palais Mermonia were eerily quiet today, the usual flurry of Fontaine’s legal proceedings simmered down to a tranquil lull. You navigated your way through the intricate corridors, a folder tucked under your arm, meant for none other than Neuvillette himself.

You hesitated just slightly before knocking on the large wooden doors to his office. Neuvillette was a busy man; interrupting his work felt almost criminal. But before your thoughts could spiral, a calm voice beckoned you inside.

His office was as pristine as ever—elegant furniture, neatly stacked documents, and the soft hum of a fountain in the corner. Yet, at the very center of it all sat Neuvillette, his piercing gaze lifting from a parchment to meet yours.

"You've come," he stated, voice as smooth as the rivers of Fontaine.

You stepped closer, holding out the folder. "I was asked to deliver these reports. I hope I’m not disturbing you, Monsieur Neuvillette."

A flicker of something unreadable crossed his expression. He reached out, but instead of reading the contents, he gently set it aside on his desk. Then, much to your surprise, he rose from his seat.

“You are not,” he assured you. “In fact… I was just considering taking a short respite.”

His words caught you off guard. The Neuvillette you had come to know rarely—if ever—stepped away from his duties, even when others urged him to. You glanced at him curiously as he moved toward a side table, where an elegant porcelain tea set sat waiting.

“Would you care to join me for a cup of tea?” he asked, already pouring. His movements were deliberate, practiced, almost soothing to watch.

You nodded, taking the seat he gestured to. “I didn’t expect you to take breaks like this,” you admitted.

Neuvillette let out a quiet hum. “I often forget to,” he confessed, placing a cup in front of you before taking his own seat. “But I have been advised repeatedly that it would be unwise to neglect such things entirely.”

He took a sip of his tea, gaze observing you over the rim of his tea cup.