As I was coming back from the academy with Roxy — the principal had called me in to check on a problem in the basement — we spotted Eris and Norn training. That’s when I truly realized how strong Norn had become. She was about to surpass me… Maybe it was thanks to Ruijerd.

  As we walked by, Eris greeted us briefly, and Norn turned to greet us as well. Unfortunately, you should never turn your back for even a second on the Mad Dog. Norn ended up flying five meters into the air.

  Panicked, I ran toward her.

  — Norn! Are you okay? Don’t move, I’ll heal you!

  I didn’t even have time to raise my hand — she was already back on her feet.

  — Don’t worry, she said. Our wounds are proof of our story.

  — Haha! That’s exactly the kind of mindset I’d expect from Eris, I said, turning to her with a smile.

  She just whistled, looking the other way, as if nothing had happened.

  As we entered the house, it was unusually quiet. Normally, we’re always greeted by Aisha, Lilia, or even Sylphy. But this time, no one was there to say hello. It probably had to do with the time — it was almost dinner.

  So after changing out of our clothes, Roxy and I headed to the dining room. There, the atmosphere was completely different. Everyone was already eating. And for some reason I couldn't quite expin, a wave of relief washed over me.

  — Big brother! Aisha shouted, jumping up from the table and leaping into my arms.

  — Aisha! Lilia immediately scolded her.

  — It’s okay, Lilia, don’t worry, I said, giving her a smile she returned.

  — Hi Mom! said Lara and Lily in unison, though without much enthusiasm.

  — Hello, my darlings! Roxy replied as she walked around the table to kiss them.

  — Did you save us a spot? I asked.

  — Yes, replied Sylphy. Rudy, you can sit here next to me, and Roxy can sit there. Eris didn’t want to eat.

  — Alright then, I replied, settling in beside Sylphy.

  After sitting down and starting to eat, Sylphy gave me a kiss on the cheek, which instantly comforted me.

  — So? Was it tiring? she asked, her gaze a little anxious.

  — Yeah, a bit... I think I’ll eat and head straight to bed afterward.

  — Ah... sleep, she said in a tone that hinted at some disappointment.

  — And you? What did you do today?

  — Not much, she replied, still sounding a bit bored.

  — Is something wrong? Why that face? I asked, leaning in closer to her

  — I’m fine, don’t worry, she said, reinforcing her words with a smile.

  — It’s just that today..., she continued, blushing in a matter of seconds, today… You know what? Never mind. Just keep eating.

  — Alright, I replied, slightly puzzled. After that, I went back to eating.

  Toward the end of the meal, the children asked me if they could leave the table. I naturally said yes, and right after that, Lilia and Aisha began clearing the dishes. Afterward, Sylphy and I chatted for a bit, while Roxy, who must have been tired, quietly slipped away.

  — Have you seen Leo? I asked Sylphy by the firepce.

  — This morning, yes. He was with Lara, but I haven’t seen him for about an hour now.

  — I think I know where he is.

  — You think he’s in her room? asked Sylphy.

  — Yeah. I know they’re connected, but I told him not to sleep with her. Do you think I’m being too strict?

  — No! Of course not! But like you said, they have a bond. I think being together might be good for them.

  — Alright, just this once. I can’t say no to you, I said, giving her a smile. Now, off to bed!

  It was at that moment that I realized why Sylphy had been a bit sulky during dinner. It was her day… Today, I was supposed to sleep with her.