"Tael!" Iris beamed the moment she spotted him, her lips curling into a bright smile, yet her eyes were dull, cold, and far from the warmth her voice carried.
"How are you, Iris?" Tael asked, his tone gentle.
"Fine as always." She pouted, leaning forward slightly. "Seriously, you couldn't even visit me once. You're so mean, Tael!"
"I'm sorry," Tael said quickly, rubbing the back of his neck. "I've been… quite busy." His words came out awkward, like he knew excuses wouldn't satisfy her.
"Humph. Since today is Tael's birthday, Iris won't hold it against you!" She huffed, puffing her cheeks in annoyance.
Tael blinked in surprise. "Wait… how did you know it's my birthday?"
"Iris just knows!" she grumbled, turning her face away. Then, narrowing her eyes, she turned back to him as she looked him up and down. "Also, when did you get so tall, Tael?! Iris is jealous!" She stomped her foot lightly, her pout deepening.
