Looking into those eyes filled with quiet confidence, Nero couldn't help but smile. The spark of competition flared within him, that same flame that always came alive when she was around. There was something thrilling about facing Khione—her calm poise, her unshakable composure, and that faint, almost invisible smile that said she expected to win.
After a moment of contemplation, he leaned back in his chair, a small grin curving his lips.
"Let's play poker this time," he said, his voice steady but teasing. "Same rule as before—the loser does whatever the winner says."
Khione tilted her head slightly, strands of silver-white hair falling across her cheek. Her expression remained calm, but her eyes glimmered with a subtle challenge.
"Fine," she replied. "Don't regret it later."
"Me? Regret?" Nero chuckled. "Not a chance. This time I'll win, it's time for payback."
