Dinner was delicious but silent. Willow could feel their eyes on her as they ate, and even though her thoughts were scattered all over the place, her appetite didn't leave.
By the time the night had deepened, Navian was already asleep on the longest couch, his breathing calm and unbothered.
Willow and Evren were left to clean up, moving around each other in silence as they stacked the dishes in the sink.
Then, out of nowhere, Evren spoke. "I'm sorry, Willow."
Willow blinked, startled by the sudden apology. "What… why are you apologizing?"
Evren hesitated, biting his lower lip as if he was searching for the right words. His usual bright energy dimmed, replaced by hesitantance.
"I've known Sylas since we were kids," he began quietly. "He's… disciplined. Logical. The kind of guy who thinks emotions are weaknesses. I don't know what he said to you, but—" he let out a heavy sigh. "—you don't have to let it get to you. You don't have to shut us out because of him."
