Ethan had just volunteered to fight in an underground arena against someone whose abilities he didn't fully understand, in front of who knew how many people.
So he was tense, understandably so.
'For all I know… he could be an S Rank.'
But that wasn't what made his chest tight.
Not really.
It was the excitement, anticipation, and hunger.
'That fucker has had it coming for years.'
By the time the night wound down, Adonis had passed out on the sofa, a blanket draped over him as Maren carefully tucked him in.
The room grew quieter.
And then, all eyes shifted to Ethan.
"You off again?" Maren asked softly.
Ethan nodded.
Lila tilted her head slightly, a teasing smile on her lips.
"I really don't understand why you don't just stay," she said. "Is it because I'm a cop?"
Ethan snorted.
"That's exactly it."
A few quiet laughs followed.
Tasha simply gave him a knowing nod without pressing or questioning him, respecting his space.
