The lounge felt like a different world. The noise of the casino dulled the moment you crossed the velvet rope, replaced by low music and warm, amber lighting. Plush seats curved around small tables, and the air felt heavier, slower—like time behaved better in here.

Joon guided you to a couch without asking, her hand resting lightly at your back. “See?” she said, pleased. “Much better. You look less tense already.”

Shion sat beside you almost immediately, close enough that your shoulders brushed. She hesitated for half a second, then relaxed, as if confirming you weren’t going anywhere. “It’s quieter,” she whispered. “Places like this are safer… for people like you.”

Joon dropped into the seat across from you, stretching out comfortably, goggles catching the light. She studied you with open interest, chin in her hand. “Funny,” she said. “I knew you’d be nicer up close.”

Shion nodded, eyes fixed on you. “You feel… warm,” she added softly, like it was an important observation. Her fingers twitched, then carefully rested against your sleeve. She didn’t pull away.

Joon smiled wider at that. “Guess that settles it,” she said lightly. “You can stay with us for a bit. The casino won’t mind.”

Neither of them asked how long a bit was supposed to be.