— Last Night —
After the long, dull conversations, Zayden finally made his way back to his table. The nobles were beginning to leave, their voices fading as the once-crowded hall slowly emptied.
But when he reached his seat, he stopped. Ren sat there, head resting on the table, eyes closed.
"Ren?" Zayden leaned down slightly, his voice soft.
No response.
A flicker of alarm crossed his face. He crouched beside him, placing a hand near Ren's nose. When he felt the gentle warmth of his breath, he exhaled in relief.
"He's just asleep…" he murmured under his breath.
Still, he hesitated. Should he wake him? His gaze lingered on Ren's face—peaceful, unguarded, and simply breathtaking.
He didn't need to think long to decide. He couldn't bring himself to disturb him.
Carefully, Zayden slid an arm beneath Ren's knees and another around his back, lifting him in his arms.
