The others were already seated at the dining table by the time Lucian and I arrived.
I squinted when I spotted Auren. "I thought you left yesterday?"
"Nope," he replied easily. "Why would I, when Lord Blaze offered a free breakfast today?"
I paused, then laughed as I glanced at Lucian. "So… this is his true character?"
Lucian shook his head. "Not exactly," he said. "He just knows how to take advantage of hospitality."
Auren smiled faintly, unbothered. "I prefer the term efficient."
I laughed. "This is really a surprise."
Auren inclined his head slightly, completely unashamed.
Lucian pulled out my chair and waited until I sat down before taking the seat beside me.
As the maid placed the food in front of us and I lifted my plate, my eyes drifted across the table and stopped.
Thalor was staring at Vivian, who was seated to my left, his gaze filled with unmistakable curiosity.
And me, being the most supportive best friend and feeling a sudden urge to help.
