The noise of the cafeteria had dulled into a low, steady roar. A background hum of voices, laughter, and the clinking of metal trays.
But at Wade's table, silence had descended.
Sebastian finished the last of his drink and set the mug down with a quiet thunk.
His expression was calm, but there was something new behind his eyes. That kind of look that said he was perfectly aware that a storm was coming.
He exhaled softly and stood, his chair scraping faintly against the floor.
"Eat well," he said simply. "You'll need your strength."
Rowan gave him a half-hearted salute, his usual grin dimmed but not gone. "See you tomorrow, boss."
Sebastian nodded, his gaze flicking briefly over each of them.
For a moment, Wade thought he might say something else. Maybe some reassurance, perhaps, or instruction, but instead, he turned and walked away, leaving his tray behind.
Wade watched him go, the sound of the captain's heavy boots slowly fading into the din.
