"Let me check if he's awake first," Zayden said, standing in front of his room's door. He glanced over his shoulder at Soren and Rihaan, who waited behind him.
Earlier, when Rihaan had been offering his so-called expert advice, Soren had pointed out that it made little sense to take advice from someone who didn't even know Ren. Naturally, Crown Prince Rihaan took that as a challenge—and insisted on meeting the man himself before saying another word.
"You'll see. My advice was perfectly on point," Rihaan said, a smug smirk tugging at his lips.
Soren exhaled slowly through his nose—a deep, deliberate breath.
"Is that how you pursued your lover? I almost feel sorry for them," he said, his voice distant and cool, with just a trace of mockery.
Rihaan's eyes narrowed, but before he could snap back, Zayden interrupted.
"We can go in," he said, pushing the door open.
Inside, Ren sat with his back resting against the edge of the bed, his gaze lifting toward the unexpected guests.
