'Should I greet him?'
Ezra slowed his steps without meaning to.
'Or should I just turn around…use another exit?'
It would not be the most dignified move. But dignity felt negotiable at the moment.
He took half a step back.
Too late.
The man turned as if he had sensed him. Their eyes met, and Ezra felt his muscles lock instantly.
"Captain Ezra!"
'Damn it.'
Ezra lowered his head at once. "Prince Aurien," he greeted smoothly, stepping forward despite the tension creeping under his skin. "What brings you here?"
Aurien wore a soft smile.
Gentle.
Almost shy.
Which somehow made this worse.
Seriously. Why was he here?
Especially when Helios had already left for the meeting grounds.
'Aurethys, please don't let this be about me.'
"I was hoping to have a brief conversation with you," Aurien said, tilting his head slightly. "If you do not mind, of course."
'Do I have a choice?' Ezra thought.
Outwardly, he remained composed. "It would be my honor, Prince Aurien."
