Zeke chuckled softly. There was something oddly endearing about the little girl in front of him, so guarded, yet expressive. But her eyes still watched him carefully.
So, he tried a different approach.
"I know Uncle Xavier," he said casually.
Claire's expression lit up instantly. Her eyes widened, and the corners of her mouth lifted in delight. "You know Uncle Xavi?"
Zeke nodded, amused by the sudden shift. "Yeah. I'm friends with his brother-in-law. I've even had his cooking."
Claire moved closer, eyes gleaming. "Uncle Xavi's cooking is always yummy! He always makes me delicious cakes and soup."
Zeke couldn't help but smile at her excitement, but something else stirred beneath the surface. A small flicker of… jealousy?
This little girl clearly admired Xavier, her eyes sparkled just at the mention of his name.
He tilted his head slightly, pretending to keep it light. "Sounds like you really love your Uncle Xavier, huh?"
