Nix tightened his arms around Rory, holding her as though she might slip away if he loosened his grip even a little. His soft, fluffy ears brushed against her cheek as he leaned closer, his warmth seeping into her bones.
"Female Master," he said quietly, his voice careful and almost shy, "since Jasper hasn't returned yet… could I sleep in your room tonight?"
He hesitated for a breath, then added quickly, as if afraid she might misunderstand, "I promise I won't overstep. The moment he comes back, I'll return to my own room and give him your space. I won't fight him for it."
He knew exactly how to retreat to advance.
Rory looked at him in silence, and in that moment, something crystallized in her mind. Whether it was Nix—who looked obedient and gentle on the surface—or Yuel, who appeared calm, refined, and courteous, both of them shared the same truth beneath the surface.
Soft exterior. Sharp instincts.
