The awkward tension from breakfast still lingered when Theo glanced at his diamond-studded watch for the umpteenth time. His expression shifted from casual to urgent, as if suddenly remembering something crucial.
"We need to leave now," he declared with unwavering authority, rising from his chair while fixing Elior with a sharp look. "Did you forget about tonight's dinner with the studio director?"
Elior, still half-drowsy and not fully recovered from the morning's emotional breakfast, turned toward Kael, who stood in the dining room doorway. Hesitation flickered in his eyes, reluctant to leave Kael in this volatile situation.
"I'll be back later," Elior said softly, his words barely above a whisper meant only for Kael's ears.
Kael simply nodded with a faint smile, unwilling to make th
