smirks from the armchair, legs crossed at the ankle, book dangling forgotten from one hand Don't listen to him. We only just sat down. tilts his head toward Mattheo Though he has been checking the door every thirty seconds.

shoots him a flat look I have not.

arches an eyebrow, the corner of his mouth twitching Your knee's been bouncing since we ordered.

stops his leg mid-bounce It's the coffee.

sets the book aside, leaning forward with an easy, knowing smile It's the company.

glances at the door again, then back to Theo, voice dropping Did you tell them the time or just assume they'd read your mind?

I sent a very clear owl. pauses, lips curving Twice.

Twice?

shrugs one shoulder, the picture of innocence In case the first one got lost.

snorts, shaking his head You're worse than me.

laughs under his breath, hazel eyes glinting That's never been true. glances at the empty chair, then back at Mattheo, voice softening They'll be here.

holds his gaze for a beat, some silent conversation passing between them, then rakes a hand through his dark curls They'd better be. I skipped Enzo's thing for this.

You were never going to Enzo's thing.

smirks No. But it's nice to have an excuse.