Chapter 28. Guest

Ivy’s POV

We made the rest of the meal in silence. My movements were mechanical, and whenever Thaen got close to me to grab something, I would stiffen. It happened a few times, and he stopped coming near me. I don't know why I was being so awkward. Before the great calamity, even though I was a Norm, I've had my fair share of confessions, so why was I feeling so edgy?!

Thirty minutes later, when everything was set, he finally turned to me.

"I'll be going," he muttered.

I barely glanced at him and nodded. I started stirring the broth. He didn't leave, and I could feel him watching me. My grip on the wooden spoon tightened until my knuckles turned white. Then he turned and left without another word. My shoulders sagged, and I sighed in relief.

I turned to look just in time to see him walk through the wall into his hut. I sighed yet again, and my mind returned to his confession. I didn't dislike him, but I can't say