Victor returned a few minutes later with a glass of water.
I glanced at it briefly before taking it from his hand, the coldness of the glass settling into my palm exactly as I expected.
"No… this won't do," I said softly, already turning away. "She needs something warm."
I didn't wait for his response.
"Come with me," I added lightly, glancing back at him.
"No. You go," Victor replied, his voice low as he sat beside Elena, pulling her closer into his arms.
I paused for a second, watching them.
Then I turned and walked toward the kitchen.
When I returned minutes later, the cup in my hand was warm, a thin curl of steam rising gently from it. Elena took it with trembling fingers, her hands shaking so badly the water nearly spilled.
"Slowly," I murmured, my voice calm, almost soothing. "This will help you relax."
She forced it down, her throat moving unevenly as she swallowed.
A small smile settled on my lips.
Perfect.
