Aside from the gossip, life in the Count’s private quarters was really peaceful.

Count Lark took the initiative to explain everything to Lith’s parents, taking the blame entirely on himself, and giving only words of praise to their son.

Raaz and Elina were actually quite angry, and wanted to give Lith a solid piece of their mind. But after the Count apologized, even bowing to them, they were too embarrassed and flattered to say anything, at least in front of him.

The whole family could not stop staring at the house. Walls made of stone, the luxurious furniture, the carpets. Everything seemed to come out straight from a fairy tale. Until that day, they had always thought they would never see such riches.

Lith started to wonder how long would it take for them to come back down to earth, when breakfast arrived. The delicious and sweet smell of the pastries immediately caught their attention.

“Just great.” Lith sighed inwardly. “I could expect my family’s reaction to the Count’s house, and luckily out hosts are overlooking their quite rude behaviour.

My only hope is that they don’t jump on the food like starving wolves. That would be too embarrassing!”