Javier shrugged, tilting the phone slightly so she could see Gracelle and Celine on either side of him.
"Not really. Just enjoying the beach with Gracelle and Celine."
Liana's expression softened slightly, but her eyes narrowed with quiet expectation.
"When will you come to the hall? Everyone is waiting. The feast has already started, and the delegations are all here. It would be good for you to make an appearance."
Javier's face shifted. His smile thinned, his eyes flickered with something between dread and reluctance, and his shoulders slumped just slightly.
"Eh? Do I really need to go? I mean, it's just a feast. Father has everything handled. And my brothers are there. I don't think I'm needed there."
Liana let out a weary exhale, her gaze fixed on him with a knowing look.
"Father-in-law asked for you to come. And he specifically said to bring Gracelle and Celine with you."
