The change in the atmosphere happened instantly, and everyone in the room could feel it without needing to look around.
Harold's expression darkened in a very clear way, and the calm control he had been maintaining until now began to crack slightly under the pressure of the situation. His eyes narrowed, and although he did not speak, it was obvious that he was no longer treating Ethan as someone insignificant.
At the same time, Dominic reacted in the opposite manner. His smile widened, and there was a visible sense of satisfaction in his expression, as if Ethan's words had only made things more interesting for him rather than creating any problem.
Before either of them could respond, Ethan raised his hand slightly, making it clear that he was not finished speaking yet. The gesture was simple, but it carried enough authority to stop both of them.
"However," Ethan said in a calm and steady voice, "I am not committing myself to the Aurora Clan at this moment."
