They freshened up without much fuss, though Elias would have claimed it was only because Victor made the process effortless. A towel was handed before he could ask, warm water was already running, and a shirt was laid out with simple, quiet acts that belied the arrogance the alpha wore like a second skin.
Elias stood at the sink brushing his teeth, glasses perched crookedly on his nose, damp hair curling rebelliously over his forehead. Victor moved behind him, unhurried, straightening the collar of the shirt Elias hadn't buttoned right, fingers brushing lightly against his mark in the process. It was irritating. It was comforting. Elias let him.
They didn't talk much. By the time they made their way to the dining room, the morning light had filled the manor's halls in soft gold. The long table was already set, steam curling from beneath polished silver domes, the air warm with the scent of fresh bread, citrus, and brewed coffee.
