Leaning back on the wall of the dimly lit hallway just outside the living room, Elize exhaled softly with her back pressed against the cool surface as Brandon gently leaned into her.
The quiet sounds of laughter and clinking glass filtered up from downstairs, where Eira, Dhayun, Yverine and Ravene were arranging the snacks and setting up the projector for movie night.
A soft giggle escaped Elize's lips as Brandon wrapped his arms around her waist and nestled against her like a boy seeking comfort.
She hugged him back warmly, her hand gently stroking through his hair "Kael…"
He smiled at the sound of his name on her lips and placed a sweet kiss on her cheek, murmuring, "Aunt Elize…"
She let out a sigh of affectionate exasperation, "The girls downstairs are preparing movie night and snacks and drinks… and here you are, having a little secret romance with me?"
"I know," Brandon whispered against her collarbone, not even pretending to be apologetic.
