It seemed Ayen was not immune to seeing a charming child. Ayen did not know if that was indeed the case. At least, he found the child pleasing to the eye.
Even his usual indifference when looking at the strangers had softened significantly. Ayen exuded an assuring presence no less than Khal's.
The child glanced at him, averted his eyes, and looked at the ground. As seconds passed, the child slowly lifted his gaze again and looked at Ayen, then at Khal and Devion.
None of them urged the child; they were only waiting for his response.
The child bit his lips and slowly approached with careful steps. Once he was at the table, Ayen motioned to the seat beside Khal. The child hesitated again.
For the child, Khal was the most dangerous existence. Although Devion was also scary, he felt the biggest threat was from Khal. The child was perceptive indeed.
Khal seemed to sense why the child was reluctant to sit with him. He stood up and carried the chair beside Ayen's.
