They had just finished discussing a plan that would involve catching these half-demons, with each of them contributing ideas on how to draw in Zurin and Xylo.
When they were done, Ethan turned toward Francesca, who had been standing quietly by the corner. "Francesca, could you help Ishtar get settled back in her room?"
She nodded, moving toward Ishtar with a gentle smile. "Come along, dear."
Ishtar followed Francesca upstairs, while Rayleigh naturally fell into step behind them.
Bella rose from her seat and moved toward him. Then leaned in and left a light kiss to his cheek.
"I'll be inside, babe," she said, though her tone had this heaviness to it, or some frustration she was trying to mask.
Ethan noticed, and understood why. He nodded, watching as she turned and made her way toward the stairs. The whole situation still bothered her, specifically Rayleigh nearly dying.
He intended to make it right. But first, he and the system needed to have a little chat.
