"Yiee~" Frederick, Sophia, Edgar, Sarrah and Bethany smirked.

Oliver's face became flooded with a sudden rush of warmth, transforming his cheeks into a vibrant shade of crimson.

     Gregory's lips tightened, and his brows knitted together as he witnessed his friend blush. Looking away, he took a quick bite of his bread. As he chewed and swallowed, he returned the loaf to his plate. Gregory then stood up and cleared his throat.

"I'll go out for a quick stroll. I'll return in a moment," Gregory said as he dismissed himself.

     A pang of concern tugs at Oliver's heartstrings as he witnesses Gregory's departure from the group. Sensing an undeniable pull within him, Oliver places a hand over his chest. Worry weighs him down, but he combats the weight and rises, facing the direction where Gregory has ventured.

"May I be dismissed?" Oliver asked kindly.

"Sure! As long as you return before we devour all the delicious food," Frederick nodded, raising his eyebrows playfully.

"Got it," Oliver nodded.

     Oliver hurried and trailed behind Gregory. As he hastens and follows his friend, Oliver keeps his steps light, minimizing unnecessary noise. Oliver begins venturing into an area with taller grass, pushing the green blades away from his face. As he parts the grass, he emerges into an open space, seeing the warm daylight and Gregory far ahead.

     Gregory takes a stroll along the serene shore of the lake. He fixes his glance on the calm waves crashing on the sand and stones. Gregory then halts upon hearing leaves crunching behind him. Swiftly, he turns around and sees his friend, Oliver, and their eyes lock on each other.

"Greg," Oliver called out as he approached Gregory.

"Oh, Oliver," Gregory responded, adjusting the front brim of his top hat to shield his eyes from the sun's rays. His hands then laid on his back as he resumed his walk.

Oliver fell into step beside his friend. "So, what brings you to these tranquil shores today?" Oliver inquired as they walked.

"Taking a relaxing walk near the Asbranne Lake to calm my nerves. Didn't you hear what I said earlier?" Gregory stated with a stiff and monotonous voice.

"Oh, yeah. Silly me," Oliver scratched his head as he smiled. "Wait. To calm your nerves?" he looked at Gregory with worry.

"Yes," Gregory sighed.

"Why? What's wrong? Did something bother you?" Oliver asked politely.

"No," Gregory responded.

"Are you sure?" Oliver locked his eyes on Gregory.

"I am," Gregory tightened his lips and quickened his pace.

Unconvinced by his friend's dismissive answer, Oliver pressed further. "...Honestly, it seems like you're upset. What has caused you to feel that way?"

"I assure you... I am neither upset nor sad," Gregory retorted, rolling his blazing eyes.

"Tell me," Oliver grabbed Gregory's hand and pulled him back.

Gregory turned around and faced Oliver. "What?"

"Come on. Please admit it. I know something is bothering you." said Oliver.

Gregory sighed as he clenched his fists. "Fine..." Gregory revealed. "I admit... I'm upset."

"Why...?" Oliver asked timidly.

"...Mr Frederick asked if you like someone. Then, you blushed. Why were you blushing earlier when he asked you about that person?" Gregory interrogated Oliver.

"Greg... where is this coming from?" Oliver's voice trembled in disbelief.

"Ask yourself where is this coming from?" Gregory scoffed.

"Why are you acting like this??" Oliver's brow furrowed, pressing his feet against the soil.

"I. Was. Jealous," said Gregory.

Oliver's eyes widened in surprise. "Jealous? But why?" Oliver probed, genuinely curious about Gregory's feelings.

"Forget about it," Gregory turned around and crossed his arms.

"Okay, I'll admit something, too. I was spying on you yesterday," Oliver admitted as he crossed his arms and spread his legs.

"What!? You were spying on me!?" Gregory exclaimed, stepping away from Oliver.

Oliver nodded. "Yes, but I saw you giving food to those poor and homeless dogs on the street. Your actions spoke about your kindness and compassion. It made me realize that you have the qualities of a good father," Oliver stated as a smile formed on his lips. "And with that behaviour, I'm sure someone out there probably likes you. So, there's no need for you to be jealous if I like someone."

"So, you like someone..." Gregory murmured.

     Gregory turned around and glared at Oliver, and his stare impaled his friend's heart. Sighing, Gregory began walking away with quick strides. In mere moments, he had distanced himself several yards from his friend.

     Meanwhile, Oliver stood rooted to the spot, feeling his heart sinking into devastation. His breath shivered as he struggled to be steady. His gaze shifted to the ground, and his frown deepened with each thought. Wrapping his arms tightly around himself, Oliver let out a heavy sigh.