Later that night, Eon climbed into Rael's room, and both of them lay in their bed as they always had, their fingers intertwined under the blanket.
Eon stared at the ceiling for a long time before turning her head slightly toward Rael. "You've been quiet, Bro," she said, her fingers tightening around his hand. "Not just tonight. Ever since we got the letter and started returning, you've been uneasy, and I can feel it even when you pretend you're fine."
Rael's lips curved into a small smile, and he turned his head toward her, but his eyes looked tired in a way that made the smile feel forced. "It's nothing," he said softly. "I'm just thinking about the engagement ceremony."
Eon stared at him for a second, then her expression shifted into something playful, though her eyes still carried concern. "Oho," she murmured, her voice teasing and light, "so you're already fantasizing about my future sister-in-law? Artaigne would be on the moon if she heard this..."
