While Elara had an odd encounter outside, Ethan was getting scolded like never before. It wasn't loud, but it was intense in a way that hit far harder than shouting ever could.
They had paused briefly when Elara stepped outside, both of them watching the door close behind her, the soft chime of the bell lingering in the air.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
But then Mark continued from where he had left off.
"I feel like I already lost you," he said, his voice quieter now, but heavier. "And ever since you gained your Title… it's like you've become a different person."
Ethan leaned back slightly, rubbing the back of his neck.
"And you're still changing," Mark added. "Every single day."
Ethan shrugged lightly.
"I'm right here, mate."
He was trying to lighten the mood, but it didn't work.
Mark's jaw tightened.
"That's not the point," he said. "What you're doing - it's not healthy. Throwing yourself into gates, chasing power like this…"
