They made it halfway to the door.
Which, in this house, meant six meters, three conversations, and a distant promise of freedom that lasted exactly twelve seconds before someone called Elias's name.
He winced internally, while externally he looked like the very image of a polished researcher and heir used to this type of attention. He turned, smiled politely, and straightened his spine, bracing himself for what he was going to have to endure.
Victor, next to him, made a low sound that was probably a laugh.
"You're enjoying this," Elias muttered without moving his lips.
"I'm enjoying you," Victor said, entirely too pleased with himself.
A woman from one of the aerospace branches was approaching in a glittering gown, press-pass necklace, and the distinct confidence of someone who thought being in proximity to Victor meant access to Elias too. She started speaking before she was even within formal greeting distance.
