A palpable silence hung between Julian and Ashton after Axel's outburst. They were truly speechless. Julian eventually broke the tension, trying to sound reasonable.
"How is it our fault that Zane kissed you?" he asked Axel, a slight edge creeping into his voice. "We're just trying to tell you that you're overreacting. You know what, let's help you get your mind off of it. Now, let's talk about something else, like the punishment the Disciplinary Committee gave you."
Julian's focus shifted, and he quickly noticed something about Aiden. Instead of his angry expression receding, it seemed to deepen, the lines around his eyes becoming more pronounced. Julian, concerned, took hold of Aiden's arm and began dragging him toward the sitting room so they could all finally sit down.
"What?" Julian questioned, his voice full of dread. "Don't tell me your punishment is heavy. Did they try to expel or suspend you? Oh my goodness, that's the worst possible scenario!"
