Ryuto glared at Roland, who was practically rolling on the floor in laughter. Nina's face fell as she turned back to Ryuto, her eyes narrowing. "Wait… you didn't like it?"
Ryuto froze. This was one of those life-or-death moments that no amount of swordsmanship or magic could prepare him for. He felt Celeste's gaze on him too, the weight of her smug satisfaction pressing down like a ton of bricks.
"Uh, I wouldn't say that, Nina… It's just… different!" Ryuto fumbled, waving his hands in defense. "You know, like, an acquired taste?"
Nina's eyes turned stormy, her hands on her hips. "Acquired taste? You mean you hate it, don't you?"
"No, no!" Ryuto stammered, but it was too late. Nina had already snatched the fork out of his hand and speared a piece of steak. Before Ryuto could stop her, she popped the piece into her mouth, chewed, and,
