Chapter 109. Part 2: Episode 11

TWO DAYS LATER

Carden sat at the dining table, his spoon turning slowly in the bowl of rice that had already gone cold. His shoulders slumped. Arden came in a moment later and sat across from him.

Carden let out a heavy sigh. “Shouldn’t we tell someone? I feel bad for their parents.”

Arden poked at his food without looking up. “Yeah, that’s true. But… won’t Zaylien be against us? You know how he gets.”

Carden clenched his jaw. “He doesn’t even see it. He thinks it’s just a game. But those families… they looked broken.”

Before Arden could reply, the soft sound of footsteps filled the room. Their mother walked in, her hair neatly tied back, a calm expression on her face. The boys went quiet immediately and focused on their food. She took her seat at the head of the table, glancing at both of them.

“Why are you two so quiet today?” she asked.

“Nothing, Mom,” Carden said quickly.

Arden nodded, forcing a smile. “Just tired, that’s all.”