The moment Avril's voice rang out, Galvis, who had been about to continue showing off his extensive knowledge, froze on the spot as if an invisible hand had seized him by the throat.
"COUGH, COUGH, COUGH…"
He gave a few dry coughs to hide his awkwardness, but his feet subconsciously shuffled toward Roland. He ended up like a startled ostrich, trying to curl his tall, thin frame behind Roland's broad back.
Just then, the sound of light, hurried footsteps grew closer.
The next moment.
"BANG!"
The kitchen door was thrown open.
The young woman's brown hair danced in the flood of sunlight, shimmering with the luster of honey.
The moment she stepped inside, she squinted slightly. Her small, pert nose twitched as she let out a heartfelt sigh of admiration.
"It smells so good, Roland! Your cooking is getting better and better. Looks like I got here just in time!"
"Welcome, Avril…"
Roland glanced at the Minstrel huddled behind him, long since accustomed to this scene.
