Aww. He’s well-rested.
The dark circles under his eyes were lighter. His shoulders were relaxed instead of rigid with tension.
This was the first time I'd seen him look so peaceful.
The room's reaction was instant.
The Claws sat up straighter. Kaede's expression softened—barely, but it was there. The twins shifted in their seats—left then right, a choreographed ripple of respect. Even Toma stopped grinning, his face settled into something resembling respect. Daisuke, who had been blending into the setting, actually waved like he wanted to be noticed.
Their leader is here. They’re so different with him around.
It made me happy that I got to see their energy in Hiro’s absence. Now I fully understand how devoted they were to him.
Hiro nodded at each one and continued walking.
There was an empty chair next to the twins—clearly Hiro's spot.
But he didn't go there.
Instead, he walked directly toward where Reo sat.
Right next to me.
What’s he doing?
Hiro stopped there, looked at Reo, and said nothing.
What’s going on?
Reo kept a neutral expression, stood without hesitation, and picked up his tea.
What is Reo doing?
Still carrying his tea, Reo walked away. Seconds later, he stopped at the empty chair by the twins and sat down.
O-kay. . .
Yawning, Hiro sat in the empty chair beside me. His shoulder grazed mine, but that tiny touch carried weight, acceptance, and unexpected warmth.
The Claws' eyes widened slightly. Kaede's eyebrow raised. Toma's knowing grin returned. The twins tilted their heads in unison, processing. Daisuke nodded once, making note of something.
Confused, I leaned toward Kenji and whispered, “Why did that happen?”
Kenji’s lips brushed my ear, sending a shiver down my spine. “Hiro is putting himself next to you. The Claws follow him. If he sits beside you, it tells them you're not just mine. You'reours. Family. They'll trust his judgment.”
Okay. That makes complete sense.
The realization hit me all at once.
Hiro’s scent swarmed around me next.
Hmmm.
Today, he smelled like toasted sugar and cherry blossoms.
Warm, sweet, and dangerous.
Yawning again, Hiro reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out two red-and-gold lollipops.
