The question hung in the air between them. Three women, three different expressions. Sophie's careful composure. Lila's guarded hope. Seraleth's patient waiting.
Noah looked at each of them in turn, trying to organize thoughts that refused to organize. This wasn't a tactical problem with clear solutions. This was people, feelings, the kind of complexity that made fighting Harbingers seem straightforward by comparison.
'But I care about all of them. That's not complicated. That's just true.'
"Yes," Noah said finally. "I want this. All of this. With all of you."
Lila's smile was immediate, genuine relief washing across her features. Seraleth's expression softened into something warm. Sophie nodded once, satisfaction evident.
