Royal Straight Part II

“By the way, where’s Uncle? It’s almost five o’clock.”

“Yeah, isn’t he here yet, Madame Fon!?”

The growing cacophony from the group shattered the shop’s earlier calm. The dozen or so teenagers quickly settled into seats but all turned toward the counter, looking expectantly at Madame Fon. She could only shake her head and glance over at Artit and Joke.

The two men exchanged knowing smirks, chuckling softly as if the uproar was no surprise.

“Uncle’s not here yet, but someone else is. Can I substitute for him?” Artit asked with a grin.

“Tid!”

The group of young players shouted in excitement, rushing over to greet the shop’s big brother figure, who burst into laughter.

“You guys are as loud and rowdy as ever. It’s New Year’s—why not try being a little more composed?”

“Come on, you’re literally the last person who can say that!”

The group greeted Artit enthusiastically, but as they approached and noticed Joke standing nearby, they froze in unison.