"Look who has finally returned," a large man spoke with a grin that was similar to many others in the family.
When Theo saw him, he quickly brisked toward him, offering him an elbow tap, only for the man to pull him into a crushing bear hug instead.
"I MISSED YOU, LITTLE BROTHER!" Lucien shouted, squeezing Theo tightly in his embrace.
Theo stiffened his muscles instinctively, prompting a whistle from Lucien.
"Did Father put you through that hellish training too?" Lucien asked, pity flashing across his face instead of feeling proud and happy now that his brother was jacked.
Theo just nodded, trying his best not to get squeezed.
'I am surprised by how fast the ants are moving all around my body, Ant Queen. Are you giving them the orders, or are they acting on their own?' Theo asked through their bond.
All the ants had already shifted their position, swarming around his trousers instead of his abdomen, which was currently getting squeezed.
