The atmosphere in the apartment crystallized into pure tension as Minister Reign's steely gaze fixed on Noah. The man's military uniform seemed to absorb light itself, medals and insignias catching the evening glow ominously.
"And you are?" His voice carried the weight of someone used to commanding armies.
Noah stood straighter, painfully aware of his casual attire. "Noah Eclipse, sir. I'm—"
"He's my boyfriend, daddy," Sophie interjected, her tone carrying an unusual edge of nervousness. Behind her father's back, her fingers were moving in an odd pattern – one hand snapping quietly while the other traced crossing motions.
Minister Reign's eyes narrowed. "Eclipse? I don't recall any Eclipses among the Eastern Sector's command..."
"I'm a student at the academy. First generation sir!"
