Marco's confusion only deepened at Rafael's response, and he couldn't help but glance at Ian again.
Noticing the tension in the air and Marco's growing stare, Ian placed a hand on Marco's shoulder as he stepped closer.
"I didn't say I exactly know him," Ian said, his voice light but with an undertone of unease.
He coughed a little before continuing, "I overheard you two bantering as you entered the hall, and that's when his name stuck with me."
"Oh…" Marco finally relaxed, the tension that had gripped him loosening slightly. However, the same couldn't be said for Rafael, who eyed Ian warily.
There was something unsettling about Ian. Rafael couldn't put his finger on it, but he had a nagging feeling that trouble was lurking beneath his composed exterior. Shaking the thought off, Rafael tried to focus on Marco's conversation with Ian, but the unease lingered.