Meanwhile, Javier sat next to his father, shoulders slumped as the back-and-forth kept going.
Ugh… how long will they keep arguing like this? he thought to himself. That stiff, noble tone, with smiles and hidden jabs… it's exhausting just to listen. Am I really supposed to talk like that when I'm in my father's seat someday?
He breathed out hard and rested his chin on his hand.
Behind his chair, Liana leaned in, her whisper brushing his ear.
"Young master?"
"Yes?" Javier whispered back, still looking straight ahead.
"Is something bothering you?"
"…Yeah." He slightly tilted his glass, speaking softly. "Can you refill my drink with wine? I'm tired of this juice."
Liana stiffened. "…But, young master—"
"Please?" Javier slid the cup under the table edge, a faint grin on his face.
She bit her lip, torn between duty and giving him what he wanted, as Garius and Kimar's polished argument echoed through the room.
