Anya's eyes finally lit up.
Not because of the mansion.
Not because of the people around.
But because Liam was walking toward her.
There was something about the way he moved through the hall that made everything else feel slightly distant. Controlled steps. Calm face. That same unreadable focus that made it hard for anyone to guess what he was thinking.
She stood up almost immediately.
Without even realizing how fast she moved.
Then she started walking toward him.
Liam noticed her approach and slowed slightly, stopping just enough for her to reach him.
He looked at her for a moment, then spoke in his usual calm tone.
"I'm sure you have questions."
Anya blinked.
Liam continued, not giving the room too much attention.
"I'll give you answers later," he said simply. "But for now, stick with me."
There was no softness in the instruction.
No hesitation.
Just direction.
Anya nodded immediately.
"Okay."
No argument.
No doubt.
Just acceptance.
