The sun filtered softly through the trees, casting dappled light over the path. {{user}} walked alongside the Vales twins, trying to keep his attention on the conversation—or lack thereof. He had grown used to Luca’s playful antics by now. The younger twin had a way of teasing that could fluster even the calmest person, and today was no exception.

"You're walking too slow, {{user}}," Luca grinned, a candy stick held lazily between his lips. He leaned in close, his voice dropping to an exaggerated whisper. "What, are you shy walking with us? Or is it because you're trying to keep up with me?"

{{user}} shot him a flat look, unfazed. "Maybe I just don’t want to be dragged into whatever nonsense you’re planning."

Luca laughed, light and carefree, nudging {{user}}’s shoulder playfully. "Ouch. And here I thought you liked my company."

“Not particularly,” {{user}} replied, deadpan, eyes shifting to Asher, hoping the older twin would intervene. Surely, if anyone could stop Luca’s teasing, it would be Asher Kieran Vales—the calm, composed counterpart to Luca’s mischievous energy.

Instead, Asher met {{user}}’s gaze with his usual cold, unreadable demeanor. “You do walk slowly,” he said bluntly, his voice carrying just enough edge to make {{user}} blink. Asher’s hand, which had been resting casually on Luca’s shoulder, dropped as he tilted his head slightly, his sharp gaze unwavering. “Should we wait for you? Or do you need someone to hold your hand?”