As the crowded marketplace bustled around them, Mila and Leo stood before a wealthy-looking merchant, Arne Antonovas. He was an older man with sharp, observant eyes, a well-groomed beard, and a smile that radiated charm. His attire was expensive, his coat embroidered with delicate patterns of gold and silver thread, which marked him as someone of great importance. Antonovas inspected one of Leo's canvases with great interest, tracing the brushstrokes with his fingers.

"This... this is extraordinary," Antonovas said with delight, his voice rich and smooth. "Your talent is undeniable, young man. The composition, the depth of color—it's exactly what I need to decorate the halls of my mansion. These walls need art, and you, my friend, have just the right touch."

Leo's face brightened with pride, and Mila couldn't help but feel a little relieved. It seemed like things were finally looking up. The merchant's interest in Leo's art could mean more than just a simple sale; it could offer them shelter, food, and maybe even the connections they needed to continue their journey.

"Thank you, sir," Leo said, his voice steady, though excitement flickered in his eyes. "It would be an honor to have my work displayed in your home."

Antonovas chuckled, his belly shaking with the sound. "An honor for both of us, I assure you. In fact, why don't you and your companion stay at my estate for a few days? My home is vast, and there's plenty of room. It will give me time to select the perfect pieces, and you can enjoy a bit of luxury while you're here."

Leo's eyes widened slightly. Mila could see the excitement bubbling inside him. After the rough journey they'd been on so far, the idea of staying in a grand mansion with all the comforts of a wealthy lifestyle was more than appealing. She gave him a slight nod, agreeing to the unspoken decision between them.

"That sounds wonderful, thank you for your generosity," Leo replied.

Antonovas waved his hand dismissively. "It's the least I can do. Come, come, I'll have my servants prepare your rooms."

As they followed the merchant through the bustling streets to his estate, Mila felt a mixture of excitement and nerves. Staying with such a powerful man could be risky, but the promise of a warm bed and a full meal was hard to resist. The estate was exactly what she expected—grand, with high walls and intricately designed gates. The house itself was massive, with large windows that gleamed in the afternoon sunlight. It was the type of place Mila had only ever imagined.

As they entered the grand foyer, Mila's attention was caught by a young woman descending the wide staircase. She looked about seventeen, with long, wavy brown hair and bright, curious eyes. She was dressed in a beautiful pale green gown that seemed to sparkle as she moved.

"Ah, there's my daughter, Irina," Antonovas said, his voice full of affection. "Irina, come meet our guests."

Irina glided down the steps, her posture poised and graceful, but her expression was sharp. When she reached them, she smiled—though it felt more like a practiced courtesy than genuine warmth.

"Hello," Irina greeted, her voice light but carrying a hint of entitlement. She glanced at Mila first, then at Leo. "My father's friends are always welcome, of course."

Mila smiled awkwardly, feeling the young girl's keen gaze sweep over her as if assessing her worth. "Thank you. It's a beautiful home."

Irina's brow lifted slightly, and for a moment, Mila thought she might respond with some remark that would emphasize their difference in status. But instead, the girl's face softened. "Yes, it is. I suppose I'm lucky to live here, but it can get rather boring."

Mila gave a small nod, unsure of what to say. It was clear Irina was used to luxury, a world apart from the simple village life Mila knew. Still, she tried to keep the conversation friendly.

"Must be nice to live in such a grand place," Mila said, glancing around the impressive foyer.

Irina's lips quirked upward in a slight smile. "It has its perks," she said, a bit more warmly now. "But sometimes, I wish I had more to do than just sit around looking pretty."

Mila chuckled lightly, realizing Irina wasn't as spoiled as she had first thought. There was something deeper beneath the polished surface, something that longed for more than the comfortable life she was born into.

"I understand," Mila said, glancing at Leo, who was busy talking with Antonovas. "Sometimes, we all wish for more."

The two girls exchanged a glance, and in that brief moment, Mila sensed a shift between them. Irina might have been entitled, but she wasn't without depth. Perhaps, like Mila, she was searching for something more meaningful in life.

Irina's smile widened. "Well, I think we'll get along just fine, Mila. You'll have to show me some of your work while you're here. I hear you're an artist like your friend."

Mila's heart fluttered slightly at the compliment. "I'd be happy to."

For the first time in a while, Mila felt like she might just be in the right place, alongside this rich and fabulous Lithuanian girl.