"Who cares about that," Ikem muttered under his breath. "He's already a bad influence on her."
Boros shook his head, a faint smile forming across his wooden features.
Ikem had always been an easy target for this sort of teasing ever since he was born. Growing up around Tweet had been relentless; if you weren't quick on your feet, you were finished.
Now it seemed Ursula had discovered just how entertaining that could be.
And she was enjoying it.
Boros gave Ikem's shoulder a light squeeze before withdrawing his hand.
"You will survive," he said simply.
Ikem exhaled slowly. From the distance, Ursula's laughter rang out again, bright and unrestrained.
And despite himself… The faintest trace of a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
After some time, Ikem's realm began to echo with warmth. Laughter rolled through the open halls like wind through chimes, mingling with the low murmur of familiar voices.
