"I can't go on a vacation with you alone," Jian Ci said, his tone flat, eyes still locked on Caelus as the boy disappeared into the exam room. "We have to invite other people."
Alarna blinked, her smile faltering. "But I meant just you and me—"
"I am going in," Jian Ci cut her off, already turning.
"Wait, I brought you—" she started, lifting the food bag.
But he was already gone, striding away without a glance back.
Alarna stood frozen, her hand still outstretched. Her lips pressed into a thin line before she forced herself to smile and turn, walking away with measured grace. Inside, though, she was seething. If he won't come to me willingly… then I will just have to make him want to.
Jian Ci had no idea she was already scheming. He stomped toward the exam room, his steps heavy with irritation. He didn't know why he felt so restless. All he knew was that something in his chest was tight and unsettled. He pushed open the door and scanned the room.
