Page 167 of Salt Between the Wolves

Looking out across the sea, down at the city, and at the unfamiliar woman reflected faintly in the glass.

Then she turned toward the door. Toward the waiting evening. And toward whatever version of Leander she had yet to discover beyond the one he allowed the world to see.

The dining room overlooked the western side of the estate, and even at night the sea remained visible through the tall windows, stretching into the darkness with an endless, living presence.

Eira paused briefly before entering, listening to the voices drifting from within. Although there were only three or four people at most, the atmosphere felt more like a lively gathering than a formal dinner, bearing little resemblance to either Frostvein or Ironfang.

When she stepped inside, the conversation paused only for a moment, not because she had entered, but because the others were acknowledging a newcomer before naturally returning to their discussion.

To Eira's surprise, the table was already occupied.

Leander sat near the center, and beside him was a broad-shouldered man in his forties whose weathered skin and beard touched with silver immediately marked him, in Eira's eyes, as a sailor.

Across from him sat a younger woman surrounded by ledgers and notes that she clearly had no intention of putting away during dinner.

At the far end of the table sat an older gentleman who, judging by the stack of correspondence beside his plate, appeared to have arrived prepared for battle, though paperwork seemed to be winning.

Leander looked up first, and the briefest hint of approval crossed his face when he noticed she had changed clothes. It was neither admiration nor surprise, but rather the quiet satisfaction of someone pleased that another person looked comfortable.

"Good."

The word escaped before he seemed to think about it.

Eira raised an eyebrow.

"Good?"

"You came."

The younger woman laughed immediately, while the sailor let out a groan.

"Oh, we're starting with that?"

Leander sighed.

"We are not."

"We absolutely are."

The woman closed her ledger and shook her head.

"That was terrible."

Eira looked between them and saw that while Leander appeared resigned, everyone else looked delighted, creating an alarming combination.

The older gentleman spoke next.

"Do not be deceived."

"By what?"

"That expression."

He pointed directly at Leander.

"It convinces outsiders he possesses dignity."

The sailor nodded with exaggerated solemnity.