Five minutes later, Vessara descended the stairs. Thea paced near the end of the stairs, her movements jerky, a panicked glint in her eyes that Vessara noticed but chose not to question.
They moved toward the door, but Leander emerged from his study just then, his voice cutting through the tension.
"Vessara."
They both turned to look at him. Leander stood there, steady and authoritative, his gaze settling on Vessara first.
"Where are you headed?"
Vessara opened her mouth, but Thea spoke first, smooth and quick.
"We are heading to the bookstore to get some school supplies." She linked her arm with Vessara's, her grip firm on her skin.
Leander's brows creased. Vessara met Thea's eyes briefly; a silent understanding passed between them, and she nodded in agreement.
"Yes, just some supplies."
"It has to wait," Leander said.
Thea's posture stiffened. "Why? We really need to go."
