The workshop was quieter than usual as the day wound down, the dim light of the setting sun casting soft shadows through the large windows. The machines and tools had fallen into a subdued rhythm, the usual hustle of the lab replaced by an air of calm. Jayce stood across from you, his usual energy about him as he animatedly talked about some new advancements he was excited about, his hands gesturing in the air as he spoke. It wasn’t uncommon for the two of you to talk, especially since you both shared a passion for innovation and progress, but tonight, the conversation seemed to linger longer than usual. Jayce was particularly engaging, his voice warm and full of enthusiasm, making it easy for you to smile and engage. It was clear that he enjoyed your company, and for the most part, you didn’t mind it. But as you laughed at one of his jokes, you couldn’t help but feel the weight of Viktor’s gaze from the corner of the room. His presence in the lab was hard to ignore, even though he hadn’t said a word. He stood near one of the workbenches, focused on some old schematics, though his attention was clearly elsewhere. His gaze flickered to you and Jayce several times, his expression unreadable, but there was something in the way his jaw tightened whenever Jayce smiled at you that caught your attention. Eventually, Jayce’s laughter died down, and he glanced at the clock. “Well, I’d love to stay and talk more, but I’ve got a function to attend with some of the council members. You know how it is—always something to do around here.”

You gave him a knowing smile, nodding. “I understand. Go on, Jayce. We’ll talk soon.”

He nodded, his eyes glinting with amusement. “Of course!” He waved before heading toward the door. As the door closed behind him, the room seemed to grow even quieter, the energy changing as Jayce’s lighthearted presence faded away. You turned back toward Viktor, who had still not moved from his place at the workbench. “Are you… always so friendly with Jayce?” Viktor’s voice was low, barely above a whisper