Evangeline, sensing Sev was struggling - and despite the cat's earlier protests - rests her hand gently on Sev's cheek and softy massages her skin, running her fingers through Sev's fur. She puts a slight pressure on Sev's cheek to bring her gaze up from the floor to meet her own, a warm smile crossing her face.
What it means to be friends is that you can be forgiven for mistakes made. I told you from the moment I decided so that you are worth forgiving.
Isn't that right, Fumika?
Evangeline's sudden change of tone decidedly imposing over her employee.
Fumika, standing firm and confident as her previous life as corporate noblesse taught her, responds immediately, her voice direct and emotionless.
Yes. I understand.
Evangeline smiles again and ushers herself forward down the empty hallway, beckoning Fumika to follow her, still with the sleeping child in her arms.