Kimi stood up from the couch abruptly. Bennett's eyes followed her movement, studying her expression with concern.
"We should go upstairs," she suggested, her voice carrying a hint of urgency.
Bennett nodded and rose from his seat. Though he was anxious to have this conversation with Kolton lingering nearby, he could sense Kimi's discomfort and respected her need for privacy.
As they walked toward the staircase, Bennett voiced his concern. "Are you going to be okay seeing his face around here all the time?"
Kimi's shoulders lifted in a dismissive shrug. "I couldn't care less. As far as I'm concerned, he doesn't exist."
The library on the second floor provided the sanctuary they needed. Kimi settled onto one of the plush couches while Bennett browsed the impressive collection of books lining the walls.
"No way. You actually have 'Tales from the Past of Arcane Cascade'!" Bennett's voice filled with genuine excitement as he pulled the rare volume from the shelf.
