Micah, clearly dissatisfied with the lack of response from Ilyas, turned his attention toward Darcy. Without any subtlety, he nudged him sharply with his elbow.
"Say something," Micah muttered under his breath, his teeth clenched just enough to keep his voice from carrying too far. "You're the one who said you'd take care of him."
Darcy exhaled slowly, the faintest hint of weariness passing through his expression before it disappeared just as quickly.
"I have already arranged for Aria to come," he said. "She will stay with him while I take care of a few things."
Micah studied him for a brief moment before nodding, his stance relaxing slightly. "That is good," he said, turning back toward Ilyas. His tone softened noticeably as he reached out to pat Ilyas's shoulder in a reassuring manner. "Aria is wonderful company. You will not feel uncomfortable with her around."
As though summoned by the mere mention of her name, a knock sounded at the door.
