Just as Xenon was about to speak, the doorbell rang. Leandra got up to answer it, hoping for a welcome distraction from the tension in the room. She opened the door to find Ryker standing on the porch, a concerned look on his face.
"Hey, how's Kael doing?" Ryker asked, his eyes scanning the hallway behind her.
Leandra smiled weakly. "He's doing better, thanks for asking."
Ryker nodded, his expression softening. "I'm glad to hear that. I was worried about him."
As Ryker entered the house, Xenon's presence seemed to fill the room. Ryker's eyes met Xenon's, and for a moment, Leandra wondered if there was a hint of tension between them.
"Ryker, good to see you," Xenon said, his voice neutral.
Ryker nodded, his eyes flicking to Leandra. "I didn't know you were here," he said, his tone cau
