Silver Lining

The Sun

A streak of sunshine pierced through the gap in the curtains, casting a warm glow on the man's face.

He stirred, opening his eyes to reveal the reddish-brown irises that reflected a hint of drowsy.

With a groggy sigh, he sat up halfway, casually running a hand through his tousled red hair.

He swung his legs over the side of the bed and stood up, stretching briefly before reaching for the jug of water on the bedside table.

Pouring a glass, he drank it in a few deep gulps, feeling the cool liquid wake him up further.

He headed to the bathroom, splashing water on his face.

The cool water on his face helped shake off the last remnants of sleep.

After freshening up, he changed into a comfortable attire—a simple shirt and trousers that allowed ease of movement while maintaining a degree of elegance.

Leaving his room, Cale initially intended to head straight to the dining room.

However, as he walked down the corridor, the sound of piano music and lively chatter drifted to his ears from the music room.

Curious, he altered his course and approached the room, the soft notes of the piano growing louder with each step.

The sight that greeted him was both enchanting and amusing.

The piano keys were moving on their own, clearly being manipulated by magic.

The room was bathed in morning light, the rays dancing across the polished surface of the grand piano.

The melody was light and cheerful, filling the space with a sense of calm and joy.

Cale immediately recognized the enchantment at work—it was Raon's doing.

As he turned his head, he was greeted by an unexpectedly serene scene.

Seated by the window was a young lady with ash-brown hair, neatly braided and draped over her shoulder.

Surrounding her were the three children, their eyes fixed on her as she meticulously worked on an embroidery piece.

The moment was so serene that for a second, Cale wondered if he was still dreaming.

The sunlight streaming through the windows cast a soft glow over the room, illuminating the peaceful tableau.

The piano's melody, still lingering in the air, seemed to accentuate the calmness of the scene.

Raisa, sensing his presence, looked up and noticed him standing there, lost in thought.

A gentle smile spread across her face as she called out to him.

"Cale. What are you doing over there? Come here."

Her words snapped him out of his trance.

He blinked, momentarily disoriented, before regaining his composure.

Without hesitation, he walked towards them, the serene atmosphere drawing him in.

Cale approached them and greeted them.

"Good morning."

Raisa looked up from her embroidery, a playful smile dancing on her lips.

"What morning? It's already afternoon, Young Master-nim,"

She replied, her tone light with amusement.

Without missing a stitch, she added.

"How can you wake up later than the children?"