Outside, Allen's car steadily drove away from the house. It wasn't nearly as luxurious as Jonathan's expensive sports car, but it was clean, comfortable, and reliable enough for everyday life.
Young Aether rested his head against the passenger-side window while quietly watching the city lights drift past one after another, yet his expression remained distant, as though his thoughts were somewhere far beyond the road ahead.
Allen glanced toward him several times before finally gathering the courage to speak.
"Bro... are you angry?"
Young Aether remained silent, his eyes never leaving the scenery outside.
Allen sighed quietly.
"I really didn't want to do this, but... this was serious, brother. You know I only have one family."
Young Aether finally spoke, though his voice carried no resentment.
"I understand. You wanted to protect your wife and your daughter from me."
Allen's grip tightened slightly around the steering wheel.
