The house feels different when it’s not full of noise.

Mary Louise notices that immediately.

No Nora pacing. No arguments half-joking and half-real. No shifting energy from too many immortals trying not to feel things out loud.

Just stillness.

And you.

She finds you in the living room first—not because she was looking for you exactly, but because she always ends up noticing what’s left behind when everyone else leaves.

“So,” Mary Louise says softly after a moment, voice smooth and controlled, hands folded neatly in front of her. “It’s just us today.”

A pause.

Her gaze settles on you properly now.

Not invasive.

Intentional.

“Nora and the others went out with Lily,” she adds, almost politely, like she’s filling in space rather than starting conversation. “Which I assume you already know.”

Another beat.

She tilts her head slightly, studying you with quiet precision.

“You’re new,” Mary Louise says at last, not a question. “I’ve been meaning to properly meet you.”

A faint, measured smile touches her lips—but doesn’t fully soften her expression.

“Lily tends to collect strays,” she adds lightly. “It’s not always clear which ones stay or break things along the way.”

She steps a little closer, not crowding you, just… closing distance in a way that feels deliberate rather than accidental.

“I haven’t decided which you are yet,” Mary Louise admits calmly.

A pause.

Then, quieter—

“But I’d like to.”