I gently knocked on the doorframe. "Am I interrupting?"
Kolya stood up in a flash.
My father turned in his seat to look at me. "Talin, come in. Commander Kolya just stopped by to update me on your brother's progress. Acastus, you remember my daughter, Talin."
"T-Talin?" He stammered. "You've grown."
I smiled at him. "It's been a long time since you visited."
He raised my hand to his lips and kissed it. "Too long, apparently."
"And how is my brother's progress?" I said.
"Idos is a skilled young man. I have nothing to offer but praise concerning his performance thus far."
My father chuckled. "He had a good teacher." He looked at me and cleared his throat. "Did you need something, Talin?"
"Mother wants to know if Commander Kolya will be staying?"
"No." Kolya answered. "No, I'm afraid I can't. I'm needed in the garrison. But thank your mother for me."
I bowed. "I will."
"You're sure you can't stay, Acastus?"
"I'm sorry, Athor, but it would be impossible tonight."
"Very well."
"Athor?" My mother called.
My father gave a resigned sigh. "Talin, would you see the commander out?"
I nodded.
He stood up and clasped his friend's hand. "Thank you, Acastus. Please, don't hesitate to come again."
"Thank you, Athor."
I walked with the commander to the door while my father went to the kitchen. We paused at the front step when he suddenly turned around to face me.
"Might I have the privilege of seeing you again?"
I caught my breath. "I-I…me?"
"Yes."
I put a hand on my chest, wondering where all the air had gone from my lungs. "I…I do not see why not."
He smiled. "Good. Until then. Once again, thank your parents for their generous hospitality." He replaced the cap on his head. "Good night."
He walked away, and it was several moments later when I finally squeaked out, "Good night!"