Erend turned to Arty and their mother with a smile but also firm expression.
"Mom, Arty. There's something Eccar and I need to discuss privately. It's nothing for you to worry about, but it's better if the two of us handle it alone."
Arty's lively demeanor softened and their mother's warm smile never changed. They exchanged a quick glance and nodded almost simultaneously.
"Alright," Arty said with a small shrug, though her eyes lingered on him. She was curious but also understanding. "Just don't take too long. And no secrets forever. I hope."
Their mother placed a reassuring hand on Arty's shoulder. "We'll be here if you need us."
Erend offered them a grateful smile before motioning for Eccar to follow him out to the backyard.
---
A few minutes later, the two sat across from each other in the backyard chairs, the gentle breeze ruffling the leaves and the scent of coffee mingling with the cool night air.
