The noise settled into something softer as time passed, no longer chaotic but full, like a room that had accepted everyone inside it. The children moved between them freely now, no longer choosing sides, dragging both Drogo and Karen into their little world whether they agreed or not.
It started with a small girl tugging at Drogo's sleeve.
"Doctor Vetter… come and sit here."
Before he could decline, another child had already pulled a small plastic chair into the center of the room. It was far too small for him.
Drogo stared at it.
Karen, from across the floor, didn't miss the moment. Her lips curved slightly. "Go on," she said lightly. "You look like you belong there."
His eyes flicked to her, unimpressed. "And you look like you've overstayed your welcome."
A few of the older children gasped softly, not fully understanding the tone but sensing something in it.
Before it could stretch further, the same little girl clapped her hands. "No! No fighting!"
