Lara turned toward him expectantly, her dark eyes fixed on the young man who had suddenly appeared beside her.
Under her gaze, the young man unexpectedly faltered.
For a brief second, he looked almost nervous.
"Well…" he scratched the back of his neck awkwardly. "What's your name?"
Lara blinked.
No one had ever asked her that question so casually before.
Most people around her either barked orders or addressed her as "young miss."
Still, she answered honestly.
"Lara."
The young man smiled.
"Aquilo," he replied warmly. "Aquilo Vibora."
"What a unique name."
There was no mockery or hesitation in Lara's tone—only straightforward curiosity.
Aquilo chuckled softly, his youthful face brightening.
"Credits to my father," the eighteen-year-old boy said proudly. "Aquilo means eagle… though in some meanings, it's also connected to the wind."
"The wind…" Lara repeated quietly.
A rare smile slowly appeared on her face.
It was small and fleeting, but genuine.
