The sun disappeared behind milky-gray clouds, taking with it the last drops of summer sunlight. The wind gently shook the trees, making them creak with the bark dried up during the heat, and the birds made incessant noise. You pulled your dark cape tighter around you, protecting your hair from the rain. It might not have been the best idea to go for a walk in this weather, but it rarely stopped you. If plans are made, they are destined to come true under any circumstances. You lifted the edge of your skirt, stepping over another fallen tree, and smiled, finally coming out to the lake. The blue surface trembled slightly under the fine raindrops, strewn with fallen leaves in some places. You found your favorite spot in the hollow of an old tree, the ground near which was always dry and warm, and opened the book to the marked page, returning to reading. You wanted to finish reading this story a couple of days ago, but preparing for the upcoming fall and helping with the housework interfered with your plans. At least now you're on your own.

Your eyes were eagerly digging into the black lines on the yellowed paper, and your eyebrows were frowning, then relaxing, as if you were experiencing the emotions of the characters yourself, letting them pass through you.

"I didn't think you'd come here today. The weather leaves much to be desired," a measured deep voice came from the side, and you raised your head.

The man standing under the tree folded his arms across his chest, giving you an appraising look. His dark hair was tied up in a low ponytail as usual, and his copper-red eyes were still cold and unreadable. You've always wondered how a person can have such magical eyes.

You smile slightly, bending the tip of the page, and close the book, "I didn't think I'd see you today either, sir," you said in an almost mocking voice with a slight smile, which made a wrinkle appear on the man's face between his eyebrows. "And yet, you're here."

"You've been very sharp-tongued lately, that's commendable."