The tension didn't disappear.
It just… shifted.
Like a blade being turned sideways instead of sheathed.
Right in the middle of that suffocating atmosphere, Lucas casually stepped forward and placed a hand on Alice's shoulder.
"Alice," he said, his tone warm—almost nostalgic, "it's been a while since we've spoken like this. We used to spar together all the time, remember?"
Alice stiffened.
Not visibly enough for most people to notice.
But I did.
Lucas smiled faintly, though there was something strained beneath it.
"I still remember how you used to charge straight at me without thinking," he added. "You were terrible at holding back."
Alice let out a small breath.
"…You weren't any better."
"Ah, but I learned," Lucas said lightly.
There it was again.
That subtle edge.
A hint of bitterness flickered across his face—just for a moment—before it was buried under that polished, noble expression.
