"What about all those other deities you said were chasing after him?" I ask, doing my best to keep the bitterness from my voice.

"Those?" Thea laughs. "They only want him for his market value. If he paid attention to them, they would get a social boost and then they'd be able to get better matches. Behind his back, they despise him." She shrugs.

"I think you're being too harsh on him. He has his good points. But if no one gives him a chance, how can he demonstrate them?"

Thea tilts her head as she studies me.

"You've become quite the Ze defender."

My cheeks heat up.

"I just think he deserves a chance. He's really not that bad once you get to know him," I murmur, averting my gaze.

Just in time, someone knocks at the door.

"Enter," Wyn calls out.

The door opens to reveal Cer. He's wearing a fine suit in dark blue, his blazer held together at the waist with a wide black belt that houses his weapons.

"Cer!" Wyn calls out, jumping out of her seat and rushing forward to greet her brother.

Thea doesn't move, though a gentle smile appears on her face as she watches the interaction.

"You look beautiful, Wyn. I can't believe my baby sister is all grown up," he says as he hugs her carefully to not ruin her dress and hair.

"Thank you. I'm so happy you made it. Are you alone?" she asks eagerly, not even masking her interest.

"Unfortunately." He chuckles. "Who would I have with me?"

"I don't know. A date? Your friend?" Wyn bats her lashes at him.

Cer laughs as he wraps an arm around her shoulders and walks alongside her into the room.

"No female would have someone with my schedule," he jokes.

"Then maybe you should retire. You're the oldest. When are you going to give me nieces and nephews?"

"Easy now, sis. I'm not that old."

It's odd to see Cer so carefree—with a smile on his face. Until now, I didn't even realize the man could string together more than a couple of very short sentences. Yet with Wyn, it's like watching a transformed man. He's genuinely happy to see his sister, his eyes shining with affection.

"Just a bit. But it's okay. I don't hold it against you. In fact," she says in a chirpy voice, "older people are wiser, no? They are more weathered by experience," she mentions, her eyes meeting Thea's.

Thea sighs and rolls her eyes, knowing where Wyn is going with this. Only Cer is still unaware of the true topic at hand.

"What about your friend? I remember you saying he'd come with you," Wyn continues, blatantly fishing for information.

"You mean Aethon?" Cer blinks.

Wyn nods enthusiastically, hope blooming in her features.

"He's... He's still missing." He purses his lips. "Which is why I'll be leaving as soon as your ball is over. I'm sorry, sweetie."