"Why is he taking so long again?" Thalia muttered, her expression growing increasingly irritated.
"Maybe he's busy with his work or something…" Raven replied, her lips curling into a smirk.
Thalia's eyes twitched. Those were the exact same words Raven had used last time.
Before Thalia could respond, "Hello, guys!" Aether strolled in casually, as if nothing had happened, and sat down—right beside her.
Thalia raised a brow, glancing sideways at Raven, who also shot a frown in Aether's direction.
Sensing the tension, Aether blinked in confusion. "Is something wrong?" he asked, looking between the two women who were now glaring at him.
"Nothing," Raven answered coolly, her voice calm but her eyes narrowing slightly. She placed a small crystal ball on the table between them, activating a barrier that sealed off their surroundings, ensuring no one could eavesdrop on their conversation.