Ace's POV
I stared deeply into Khaleed's eyes, a mix of curiosity and suspicion bubbling within me. "What are you doing here?" I asked, my voice steady but laced with tension.
His face bore signs of anxiety, a light sheen of sweat glistening on his brow. "Ahhmm, I just need to speak with Chief," he replied, his words hurried as he stepped inside the house.
"Chief, we've removed the two bodies of the werewolf bandits from the road. I also informed the villagers that the village is safe," Khaleed stammered, his voice shaky and uncertain of the response.
"Thank you, Khaleed," Chief Gareth acknowledged, his tone warm but firm. Khaleed turned and left, avoiding my gaze completely.
Lingering by the doorway, I noticed the way he slipped away, the unease in his posture sparking a smile from deep within me. I joined Ray at the table, the air thick with unspoken secrets.
