Rex shrugged, ordering a plate of seared salmon with herbed butter, grilled vegetables, and a glass of chilled lemonade. The staff were pleasant, the food arrived fast, and the breeze was gentle. He spent the next forty minutes quietly enjoying his food and the view—no disturbances, no pressure. Just peace.
Before leaving, he had them pack two extra portions—seared salmon with herbed butter and sides—same as him, figuring it wouldn't hurt. Victor and Kaelan had refused earlier, sure, but the food was delicious, and he didn't mind spending a bit to build some goodwill. They were going to be spending a lot of time together from now on, after all, and a good meal was as good a starting point as any.
