"Then, let's make some more." With Lucien and Edric helping out, Emma bought another batch of sea beasts and tipped extra star coins for express delivery. … That evening, when Silas came home, the moment he stepped into the manor, a rich aroma filled the air. He quickened his pace, following the scent that only grew stronger. "Emy, did you make something delicious?" Emma walked out of the kitchen carrying a tray of golden-brown sea beast nuggets. She picked one up and held it to Silas' lips. "Try it. Edric, Lucien, and I made them together." She'd made several flavors—honey glaze, barbecue, and sweet chili. Silas leaned forward, his tongue brushing against her fingertip as he bit into the nugget. "Mmm. That's amazing." It really was.The sea beast smelled good—but she smelled even better. Emma's face flushed instantly. This man never missed a chance to flirt, no matter the time or place. "If you like it, go wash your hands. Dinner's ready." She pulled her hand back and turned toward the kitchen. "Emy." Silas caught her arm, his voice dropping low near her ear. "You didn't forget what you promised me this morning, did you?" As he spoke, he tugged loose the tie on his military shirt—a small, casual movement that somehow carried dangerous intent. Thank goodness Lucien had done the same thing earlier today, or Emma would've melted on the spot. "I remember. Now, hurry up and wash your hands." She tried to sound calm, urging him toward the sink before slipping quickly back into the kitchen.Silas frowned slightly as he watched her leave. Was it just his imagination, or did she seem unaffected by him all of a sudden? Gone was the warmth and longing he'd seen in her eyes that morning. Still wondering, he headed to the bathroom. … The dinner table was already set with a feast. Edric went to call Marcus. Marcus didn't care much for food—eating was more of a chore than just drinking nutrient fluid, but since the huntress had sent this snake to fetch him, he climbed out of his crystal coffin anyway. He straightened his rumpled clothes. Meeting the huntress while looking sloppy would be disrespectful. Once he was presentable, Marcus cast a tired glance at Edric. "Buddy," he asked weakly, "how long till you reach Rank 10?" Edric hadn't expected that question. He frowned. "Why do you ask?"Marcus sighed, his voice dry and faint. "So, you can hurry up and bond with Ms. Tibarn, of course. Once you're done, it'll finally be someone else's turn. I'm at the bottom of the list, and honestly, I can't wait to die—so could you move a little faster?" Edric stared at him, speechless. Honestly, he wanted Marcus dead too, but bonding with the huntress wasn't exactly up to him. Without another word, Edric stormed off toward the dining room, scowling. Marcus trailed lazily behind him. By the time they arrived, Silas had already washed up and taken the seat beside Emma, his gaze burning with open desire. In front of the other males, he made no effort to hide his feelings. Emma focused on her food, pretending not to notice. Lucien couldn't be bothered to comment. Edric didn't want to. But Marcus—always the reckless one—sat right across from Silas, his eyes flicking over the man's face as he spoke, voice thin but sharp as a blade. "Aren't you a petalyn therian? Why do you act like such a flirt?" Even more so than those smooth-talking Enchanters. Lucien and Edric almost burst out laughing. Marcus wasn't done. "The way you're looking at Ms. Tibarn, it's not like you're here for dinner. Looks more like you're planning to devour her." Emma knew it—Marcus had the biggest mouth in the house and no sense of self-preservation. Deadly honest, with venom to match. Silas almost laughed from sheer disbelief. Then, he actually did laugh—but the sound carried a chill that made the air crackle. "So what if I flirt? I only do it for my huntress. It's called chemistry. You wouldn't understand, Marcus. When your only goal in life is finding a way to die, jealousy doesn't really suit you." "Enough," Lucien cut in, his tone sharp as a whip. His gaze sliced across both of them. "If you two want to fight, take it to my study later. You can scream your heads off there. But right now, you will keep quiet and let Ms. Tibarn eat in peace." Unbelievable—bickering in front of their huntress. Marcus and Silas fell silent instantly. They ate quietly after that, neither daring to test Lucien's patience again. Emma, unaffected, finished her meal calmly. She knew Silas wouldn't actually fight Marcus—he wouldn't stand a chance. And Marcus couldn't be bothered to fight anyway. It was all just noise—mild entertainment at best. After dinner, Emma headed straight to the training room to practice. … The moment she left, Silas stood up too. "I'm full. I'll head back to my room and finish some work." Tonight, Emma was supposed to come to his room—so he needed to get it ready.