Marcellus leaned over to Cedric, whispering something just loud enough for Javier to catch. Cedric chuckled in response, shaking his head.
Javier exhaled in frustration, pinching the bridge of his nose.
Celine tilted her head slightly, noticing Javier's reaction. Her cheeks flushed, and she glanced away shyly, raising her fan to cover half her face.
"If I may ask… did I say something improper? Was my tone too forward?"
Javier quickly shook his head. "Ah, no… it's not you. My brother is always like that. He's probably teasing me for something."
"Oh… I see. I apologize if my manner of speaking caused any… unintended amusement."
"No, don't worry about it. Once you get to know them, you'll understand. Especially those two." Javier gestured casually toward Marcellus and Cedric, who were still grinning like mischievous children.
"I… I see." Celine lowered her fan slightly, a small, relieved smile on her lips.
