Ethan excused himself from the table, smiling at the playful chatter of the twins and the light banter between Jordan and Jessica.
"I'll be back in a bit," he said casually. "I just need to hit the restroom."
Nobody questioned him as he stepped away. He needed air, not because of the lively dinner but because the warmth of the gathering brought a strange weight to his chest.
The gathering was perfect. It was actually a rare moment of joy amidst the chaos his life had become. But the perfection only amplified the unease in his chest. The more he cherished the moment, the more a strange weight pressed down on him as if warning him it could all vanish in an instant.
"Now I really need some fresh air," he muttered.
Ethan slipped outside, feeling the cool night air brush against his skin. He let out a long breath, his hands slipping into his pockets. The four Ghosts—Ezra, Yamal, Steve, and Maya—were stationed discreetly, keeping watch as he had instructed.
