"Is someone in there?" Rowan added, stepping forward.
Elias laughed nervously, his mind racing for an excuse.
"What? No way. Why would anyone be in my room? Probably just... the TV or something." He gestured vaguely, his heart pounding. "Rowan, can you get that dinner? I'm starving."
Rowan hesitated, his eyes narrowing, but he nodded.
"Yeah, sure. Be right back." He turned and headed down the hall, while Jace lingered, his expression unreadable.
"You sure you're okay?" Jace asked, his voice low. "You're acting... weird."
"I'm fine," Elias said, his tone sharper than he intended. He softened it, forcing another smile. "Just tired. Long day."
Jace didn't look convinced, but he nodded.
"Alright. We'll check on you later." He turned to follow Rowan, casting one last glance over his shoulder as Elias closed the door.
Elias leaned against the door, his breath shaky. He walked back to Nathan, who was stirring again, his eyes fluttering open.
