As they finished eating, the man returned, wiping his hands on a rag. He looked at Amelia, then at Kai, a teasing smile forming on his lips.
"You know, I've known this kid since he was this tall," he said, holding his hand low to the ground. "Back then, he was the cutest little thing, always following me around, calling me 'Uncle' every chance he got."
Amelia turned to Kai, surprised.
He had this side to him?
Thinking about it, she supposed it made sense. Before the Blackwoods had interfered, Kai must have lived a normal, even happy childhood.
Kai exhaled sharply, looking mildly exasperated. "I was five." He reached for his wallet. "And you don't have to tell her that," he muttered, handing over the payment.
The man laughed heartily. "Just reminiscing, kid." He patted Kai's shoulder and added, "Still, it's nice to see you bringing someone here. You should come by more often."
Kai nodded, and the man walked away.
