XVII: At Noon

Zayden tilted his head to the side, meeting Zara's amber eyes. He returned his gaze back to the mansion's gate.

"Uh, I can't see Angie around. Where's she?" Zara blinked, though he didn't look at her. He wasn't going to indulge her, and the earlier she realized that, the better for her.

"She is resting inside her room." Zara may try to put up a show of being the most caring sister, but Zayden could see right through her already wearing-off façade.

"Oh, okay." She bit her lips, wracking her mind for what to say. "Uhm, you left your family to protect my stubborn little sister. You must be missing them, especially your lover." She tucked her hair behind her ear.