"Excuse me, Ms. Lia, Mr. Joker."
As the two were about to head toward the hotel’s dining hall, a composed voice called out from behind, causing them to pause.
When they turned, they saw a tall man with short brown hair standing before them, dressed sharply in a suit. His piercing eyes and nearly emotionless face complemented his polished, authoritative demeanor. He appeared to be in his early 30s, with fair skin, impeccable attire, and a straight posture that exuded confidence and power.
"Oh, hello, Mr. Albert. It’s been a while," Lia greeted him, her voice polite but noticeably more reserved than usual, enough for Joke to pick up on the subtle shift in tone.
Anyone who knew her well would recognize this wasn’t the voice she used when speaking to someone she trusted.
"Indeed," the man replied with a curt nod, his tone as restrained as his expression.
"What brings you to France?" Lia asked.