The atmosphere at the dining table carried a faint heaviness.
Only Kaelith and Hades sat there tonight—unlike the usual evenings when Luna and Peri also joined them.
The red-haired matriarch glanced at her son. "Upset?" she asked knowingly. She was well aware of the state his mates had returned in after their training.
Hades lifted his eyes, then shook his head. "Concerned." He let out a sigh. "They forbade me from being upset."
Kaelith chuckled softly. "And what excuse did they give you?"
Leaning back in his chair, eyes dropping to the table, Hades replied, "Don't stop us, and don't get angry. This is for our betterment. She said Avalin was being considerate."
Kaelith winced. "Avalin being considerate? That part is certainly a lie."
Hades let out a faint laugh. "I've seen their wounds—I know they lied. But I trust their judgment, Mother. If they believe this is for their growth, then I'll stand by their decision."
