He stood just at the threshold, a half-empty cup in his hand, his brows drawn together in confusion, eyes flicking between their faces. His presence filled the narrow hallway like a sudden gust of wind. Arithra's breath caught in her throat, and her eyes widened, betraying the panic she didn't have time to mask.
"The guards," she blurted, a little too quickly. "They… might be looking for me."
Felix blinked. "Guards?"
Edna remained silent, her lips pressed tightly together as she glanced between the two, unsure whether to speak or not.
Arithra caught the look and subtly shook her head—just once, but firmly. Don't say anything, her eyes pleaded.
"Y-yeah," Edna added after a heartbeat, still unsure but trusting her friend. "Her mother warned her not to leave the palace again. If the guards find her here…"
