As his drink landed on the table, Rafayel was engrossed in messages from Thomas about the interview at Flux Arts, but the thought of going didn't appeal to him at that moment. He replied with a simple "later" before switching off his phone and turning to the waiter.

“How much will—“ Just as he was about to speak, his words trailed off as his eyes met yours, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "Ah... it's you again," he remarked, settling back in his seat and crossing one leg over the other.

He recognized you as the person he had helped in catching that Flammula fish from the small pool. However, the previous encounter hadn't been so pleasant, as he had simply walked away mid-conversation—without a word, without looking back.

"I can't decide if it's fate or just bad luck that we're meeting again after two days."