Yesterday, Phedre had mentioned to Xyla that she had a business meeting scheduled for today, and at the time, she had every intention of keeping it. Even going as far as giving the mauvian a strict time limit before she intended to retire for the evening.

What she couldn’t have anticipated, however, was Zinkenite’s return or the events that followed.

With a quiet click of the bedroom door behind her, Phedre stepped into the living room and crossed to the couch, retrieving her phone from the purse she’d abandoned the night before.

Phedre glanced at the time displayed on the screen before drawing a slow, steadying breath.

Monsieur Clise had known her since infancy. He had stood beside her grandfather for decades, first as brothers in arms and later business partners in numerous ventures. As her godfather, he was one of the few people she considered family in every way but blood.

Her grandfather’s condition truly had worsened over the past week, and after everything that had happened yesterday, she simply wasn’t prepared to spend the afternoon discussing contracts and investments. However, using him as an excuse sat uncomfortably with her.

Still… Her eyes drifted towards the closed bedroom door, a faint smile softening her features.

There were worse reasons to postpone a meeting than choosing to spend a little more time with someone who had unexpectedly found his way back into her life.

It took a moment to finally collect herself before finally dialing the familiar number.

The call was answered after only a few rings.

“Clise Properties, how may I assist you?”

The voice was familiar to her, and she addressed him by name. “Hello, Caleb. This is Phedre DeCoure. I’d like to speak with Mr. Clise, if he’s available by chance.”

“Hello, Ms. DeCoure.” There was a brief pause followed by the quiet sound of keyboard clicking. “I see here that you two have a meeting scheduled for today at three o’clock. It doesn’t look like anything has been scheduled beforehand, but I’ll see if he’s able to take your call.”

“Thank you,”

Soft instrumental music filled the silence while she waited.

Only a few moments passed before an older, warmer voice came over the line. “Phedre. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Good afternoon, Monsieur Clise. I hope I’m not interrupting anything.” Phedre greeted warmly.

“Not at all,” His voice carried the same warmth he’d known since childhood. “Though I must admit, I am looking forward to seeing you this afternoon.”

The affection in his voice only deepened the guilt she was trying to ignore.

“So was I.” She hesitated. “Actually… that’s why I called. I was hoping we might postpone it to later this week.”

There was a brief pause before he answered.

“Has something happened?” He asked, voice laced with concern.

“Nothing serious, I assure you. There has been an unexpected delay with my proposal, and given everything that’s been going on with my grandfather this week, I haven’t been able to give it the attention it deserves. I don’t feel it’s ready for your review just yet.” At least it wasn’t all a lie. The proposal had been finished two days prior, which was why she was enjoying a pleasant meal alone when Xyla had found her.

“You’re grandfather has been having a rough few days.” His observation carried no accusation, only understanding.

“He has,” Phedre’s shoulders eased.

“Family comes before business, Phedre. You know I’ve always believed that.” His voice was firm yet kind in its conviction. Although he may be more strict with his children, and subsequently grandchildren, Monsieur Clise was a family man above all else.

“I do.” Her voice warmed with gratitude. “Thank you for understanding.”

“We’ll reschedule when you’re ready. Besides, I’d rather see the proposal when you’re satisfied with it.”

A quiet chuckle escaped her. “I had a feeling you’d say that.”

“One more thing.”

“Yes, Monsieur?”

“Don’t work yourself too hard. Your grandfather would be disappointed if I let you.”

A fond smile tugged at her lips before responding, “I’ll do my best not to disappoint either of you.”

“Good. We’ll speak again soon. Give your grandfather my regards.”

“I will. Thank you, Monsieur Clise.”

She ended the call and let out a slow breath before setting her phone back in her purse.

For the first time all week, Phedre allowed herself to set aside the weight of responsibilities and instead enjoy the freedom she reclaimed with someone who made the world feel a little less heavy.

The day was theirs to do as they pleased, be it to visit the Wishing Tree or attend the lantern festival, something she had hoped to experience with him but had never been given the chance.