Duban blinked.
He stared, like his brain short-circuited for a second.
And then—
"Oh, yes."
His lips curled into a small smile.
Not at all expecting Malik to talk like that, but understanding anyway.
Duban hesitated but then, with clear effort, met Malik's covered gaze.
"I never got to—"
He stopped.
Swallowed hard.
Exhaled and said it:
"Thank you."
Malik shrugged.
"Just did what had to be done."
No more. No less.
Duban's smile widened at that, a little more real now, a little less careful.
"I've already compensated One Thousand Nights, but since you're standing here, I'm guessing that means you're no longer with them, yeah?"
Malik paused for a moment before stiffly nodding.
"I... I'm not, no."
"Then you're welcome for compensation here."
Duban casually gestured toward his father.
"I'm sure the Commander will agree."
Malik arched a brow under the cloth.
"You're sure, huh?"
Duban smirked, crossing his arms.
