The cool Bremen night wrapped around them as they stepped out of the house, the quiet hum of the neighborhood settling like a blanket over the narrow street. Lukas shoved his hands into his jacket pockets, walking side by side with Javi, who for a moment didn't speak. The silence wasn't uncomfortable—just… heavy in a way Lukas couldn't yet place.
Javi broke it first.
"So," he said lightly, "how's life treating you, Superstar?"
Lukas huffed a small laugh. "It's okay. Busy. Very busy."
He kicked a stray pebble on the pavement. "Some days it feels like everything is happening way too fast, but… I love it. I really do. I wouldn't trade any of this for anything."
"And school?" Javi nudged him with his elbow. "Still managing both?"
"Trying my best," Lukas replied. "It gets difficult sometimes, but I've worked out a routine. I'm coping."
"That's good."
But Javi's voice wasn't teasing anymore. There was a sincere undertone—something like quiet pride mixed with worry.
