From a distance, Merdrick watched the interaction unfold, his blood boiling, at Lucien's closeness with Aria, Unable to contain his frustration, Merdrick called out sharply, "Darius!"
Darius, who had been lounging nearby, looked up in surprise at the sudden urgency in Merdrick's voice. "What's going on?"
Merdrick's jaw tightened as he gestured toward Lucien and Aria. "Follow me," he ordered, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Darius frowned but complied, trailing after Merdrick.
Meanwhile, Aria had already started walking away with Lucien. The winners' position was said to be announced later in the day, so she decided not to wait any longer. Her mind wandered as they strolled side by side, but Lucien's gaze followed her, scanning her from head to toe with an intensity that made her self-conscious.
