At Shalma Hughes's earnest invitation, Sharon Morton stayed at Winslow Garden for dinner. After the meal, the three women chatted for a while longer. Seeing that it was getting late, Faye Fordham and Sharon left together. Since Sharon hadn't driven there, Faye offered to drive her home.
Though the July night carried a hint of summer heat, a gentle evening breeze made it pleasant. The car's air conditioning was off, and all four windows were rolled down. Faye sat in the driver's seat. Beside her, Sharon rested one hand on the windowsill, gazing out. At night, Aethelgard resembled a seductive queen, overflowing with dazzling extravagance and flickering neon lights.
Sharon remained silent, her eyes fixed on the passing scenery. Faye glanced at her and eventually broke the silence. "Sharon, why did you suddenly come to Aethelgard?"
Hearing Faye's voice, Sharon slowly snapped back to reality. She paused before replying, "I got tired of Eldoria, so I came here."
