âThe only thing I can offer you right now is a few drinks. But thatâs not what you want, is it?â
What exactly was he planning to ask for?
I asked in a slightly skeptical tone.
But it seemed Rick hadnât actually decided on an answer yet. He let out a thoughtful groan.
âHmm⦠In a relationship that only exists beyond the mask, what could I possibly ask for? If we knew each other outside, we could at least enjoy a casual walk or a meal together.â
âWe can share drinks here too, canât we?â
âDo you enjoy sipping through a veil, afraid of revealing your face? I donât consider that a proper social activity.â
âDonât ask me to reveal my identity.â
âDonât worry. If anyone understands that the freedom of the Sacred Salon comes from anonymity, itâs me.â
ââ¦â¦â
Just as I pulled my mouth away from the straw, I met the gaze behind the Skull Mask.
Our eyes were only a handspan apart.
But he wasnât just looking at me for the sake of conversationâhe was gazing as if he wanted to capture me within his sight.
â¦As if he were imagining what lay beyond my mask.@@novelbin@@
I hastily leaned back against the sofa.