By the time the second morning on the island arrived, the house had settled into that peculiar in-between state that existed only when a gathering had properly begun but the real event had not yet started. The guests were awake. The staff were moving with practised efficiency. The children were already halfway into their own world of exploration, chatter, and selective obedience. Ren stood at the top of the main staircase for a moment, looking down into the bright foyer, and felt a quiet satisfaction gather in his chest. The island was no longer merely prepared. It was occupied by the people who mattered.
Fang appeared beside him a few seconds later, his hair still slightly damp from a quick shower and his expression already sharpened by the knowledge that the day would require him to be attentive. He glanced down at the hall, then at Ren. "You are looking smug."
Ren did not deny it. "I am looking at a successfully functioning house."
