Chapter 78: Tokens of Friendship

The door to Daphne's office clicked shut with a soft thud, leaving Mariana and Quam alone in the sterile silence. Quam ran a hand through his hair, a hint of weariness in his sigh. "Interesting reception, wouldn't you say?" he remarked, his gaze flickering around the room before settling back on Mariana. "Seems everyone gets a little… tense when I'm around you lately." Mariana shifted uncomfortably in her seat, the weight of his words settling on her shoulders. "What do you mean?" she inquired, feigning ignorance. "Come on, Mariana," Quam chuckled, a touch of wryness in his voice. "We both know Daphne wasn't exactly thrilled to see me here. Not that I blame her, given the rumours." A pang of guilt stabbed at Mariana's conscience. "It's not your fault, Quam. People can be judgmental." Quam's smile faltered for a brief moment, but he recovered quickly. "Exactly. Which is why I haven't exactly pushed things, you know? Didn't want to cause any unnecessary trouble." He paused, hi