[Song rec: Night- Ludovico Einaudi]
Uriel's eyes widened, they were waiting for him?
He smiled briefly, nodding. "I'm back.."
Lin Yue rose from the sofa, adjusting Auriel against her shoulder. "Go wash up. Mira's been keeping dinner warm. We'll be in the dining room."
He nodded and headed to the bathroom. He splashed cold water on his face and dried his hands, avoiding his own reflection.
When he came out, the dining table was already set. Mira moved quietly in the background, arranging the last of the dishes.
The bassinet sat beside Lin Yue's chair, and Auriel was already inside, kicking his little legs.
Lin Yue was already seated. "You need to eat. You've been training all day."
Uriel took his seat.
The food was warm, hearty.
Lin Yue chatted about her day—the interviews she had planned, the list of vacant positions.
She spoke lightly, easily, as if nothing in the world was wrong.
Uriel listened.
He nodded.
Made the appropriate sounds.
