Elias hesitated, glancing at Jace for support. Jace gave him an encouraging nod.
"It's quite... complicated," Elias said slowly. "My sister's been sick, and we needed a safe place to stay while she gets better. Jace offered to help, and I didn't have anywhere else to go."
Mrs Voss tilted her head, her gaze softening further. "You and Jace... are you two dating?"
Jace choked on air, coughing loudly. "Mom!"
Elias's face turned red, and he shook his head quickly.
"No, we're just friends. Jace is helping me and Lila, and I don't want to be a burden to him. Someone like me... I can't be with someone like him."
Jace opened his mouth to protest, his eyes wide. "Elias, that's not..."
Ethan, who had been quiet until now, cut in, his tone sharp.
"What gender are you, Elias?"
Elias flinched, his hands clenching tighter. He took a deep breath, his voice low.
"I'm an omega."
