Kaelix trailed behind, feeling more and more out of place with every step. He wasn't part of their easy camaraderie, their inside jokes and long history. He was an outsider here, and the realization sat heavy in his chest.
He watched as Eirik was whisked away by his siblings, leaving him in the hallway like a forgotten accessory.
Julian, ever observant, noticed Kaelix's quiet presence behind them and couldn't resist. He turned on his heel and called out, "Hey, you don't have to follow us. This is a family thing. The last I checked, you're not related to us... by blood." His words dripped with condescension, his smile sharp.
Ella joined in with a light laugh. "Yeah, you should probably head to your own quarters, Kaelix. We'll see you at dinner or something. Shoo shoo!"
Kaelix's face remained impassive, though inside, their words stung.
