The atmosphere in the mansion after the press conference was heavy, like a dense fog. Although the media had eased up a bit, the tension between Thersia and Luka was still very much felt. They continued to act united when in public, but behind closed doors, the divide between them seemed impossible to bridge.
In the evening, Thersia was in the softly lit living room when she heard Luka's footsteps getting closer. She glanced up, anticipating his typical brief nod before he went to his study, but this time was unlike the others. He stopped at the door, his face showing a contemplative look. "Can I sit with you?" he inquired, speaking in a surprisingly gentle tone.
Thersia was surprised but agreed, indicating the vacant chair next to her. Luka took a seat, causing the leather sofa to
