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“An acquaintance maybe. Sorry, this is also the first time we've seen the boy,” the staff answered politely, changing the topic.

Axel was brought upstairs and ushered into the kitchen, where Marina’s husband, who is also the owner, worked. Thomas was there, leaning on a long rectangular table, supervising the chefs. He had bushy brown hair that stubbornly stuck out of his chef’s hat. His beard also took up the upper and lower spaces of his mouth, tracing his jawline right up to his ears.

“Tom,” Marina left Axel at the door and patted her husband’s shoulder.

“Yeah?” Thomas was still buried in paperwork, double-checking the remaining ingredients.

“Look who’s here.” She excitedly pulled on his shoulder so he would turn towards the door. When he saw Axel’s face, his eyes brightened with a wide smile.

“My dear boy, Axel!” He rushed at Axel with a bear hug and tackled him.

Axel almost lost his balance.

“Why did you just come now? How are you, little brat? Tsk, you’ve grown taller!” Thomas ha