When Ruby stepped back into the house. The place was quiet, unusually so. Shoes lined up neatly by the door, dishes done, and the cushions in place.
She didn't need to look far—Julian was sitting in the living room, curled up on the edge of the couch with his chin resting on his knees. He looked up the moment he heard the door, but his expression didn't brighten.
Ruby tilted her head. "What's with the long face?"
Julian looked away quickly, trying to pretend nothing was wrong. "Nothing. Just thinking."
Ruby raised an eyebrow. That wasn't his usual gentle, eager tone. Something was off.
"…Brother Karl's already cleaned the room," he muttered after a pause. "He said he'll change the sheets. Jett's gone now, so… I'll be sleeping with him again."
Ruby blinked. "And that makes you… sad?"
He didn't answer immediately. His shoulders slouched, fingers fidgeting with the hem of his sleeve.