Xander took Aurora's hand, guiding her to the sit-out where Nene and the butler stood with the other staff, all waiting in eager anticipation.
"Welcome back, Mr. Scott," they greeted, bowing respectfully.
"Thank you," Xander replied with a nod, his gaze warm. The servants lifted their heads and stepped aside, allowing the couple to pass as they made their way into the house, settling into the cozy living area.
Aurora was quick to ask, "How was your mission?"
"Successful," Xander replied smoothly.
"And your arm?" she pressed, raising an eyebrow.
"It's nothing serious, just a graze," he answered lightly.
Aurora fixed him with a look, her gaze refusing to waver, clearly unsatisfied with his casual response. Realizing she wasn't letting it go, Xander sighed, offering, "Fine. The doctor put it in a cast to keep me from moving it too much—just to speed up healing."
