Ash stood on the balcony, shoulders tense, gaze fixed on the gate. The night was quiet, broken only by the faint hum of approaching tires. As the car's headlights drew closer, he finally turned away and hurried down the stairs.
In the dining room, he plated a small portion of mashed turnips and waited, ears straining. Footsteps echoed in the hall, heart racing. He lifted the spoon and quickly shoved a bite into his mouth, chewing as casually as he could.
Adrian's voice cut through the quiet. "Why are you taking dinner now?"
Ash didn't look up, eyes still fixed on his plate. "Hunger doesn't wait," he muttered.
Adrian's eyes landed on the mashed turnips, widening slightly. He swallowed, trying to stay composed. Ash caught the movement from the corner of his eyes and smirked, then straightened, rubbing his stomach. "I wish I could finish it, but...I'm really full."
Adrian cleared his throat, looking away. "Why can't you just keep it in the fridge for later?"
