The living room lights were already dimmed by the time they left the dining hall. No one had said much after Ethan agreed to stay, but no one needed to. The mood had already shifted.
Soft cushions, warm throw blankets, and a faint trace of citrus-scented oil still lingered in the air, leftover from the house staff's daily cleaning.
The room felt lived-in, yet cozy, as if it belonged to a family that didn't mind staying in.
Ethan dropped onto the central couch, letting his body sink into the cushions. Everly flopped down right next to him, her head leaning against his shoulder without a word.
Evelyn took the spot on his other side, quiet but close, her fingers resting lightly on the curve of his forearm.
Across the room, Elowen moved toward the side cabinet. She didn't speak, didn't ask for input.
She just opened a drawer and pulled out a small black case. When she turned, the twins both smiled.
"Cards?" Everly asked.
Elowen nodded. "Or dice. Your choice."
