Evelyn breathed a sigh of relief at her mother's response.

She held Alexis close. Since their return from Merblune, Evelyn had taken to sleeping in Alexis' room. Sometimes, in the dead of night, Alexis would wake to find Evelyn watching her quietly.

Alexis believed Evelyn's presence had hastened her recovery from the trauma.

Outside, fireworks lit up the sky, casting a warm glow in the wintry night.

Despite the cold, Alexis felt snug and content in the room.