Ashwin set an easy pace as they moved down another polished corridor, the muted light catching on carved cornices and sleek sconces. Elias kept his hands in his pockets, eyes sweeping over every detail—anything to keep his thoughts occupied and not circling back to the same questions he wasn't ready to face.
"This entire floor is considered Victor's private wing," Ashwin said quietly as they passed another pair of closed doors. "Not many are allowed here. You're… an exception."
Elias huffed a dry laugh. "He does enjoy making exceptions for himself, doesn't he?"
Ashwin's mouth curved faintly, but he didn't disagree. "Here," he added, pausing before another archway. "The dining area."
Elias stepped through and stopped.
