A snowy December night in Paris, already past 9 PM.

Three shadows sat side by side in a small cafe. Although it was close to closing time, the reason they weren't receiving glares from the female part-timer was likely thanks to Charles's charming face.

Charles sprawled out with macaron crumbs on his lips. The catalyst for the situation was those cat-like golden eyes. As if melted by the sweetness of the chocolate, Charles leaned in close to Loki, letting his body go limp.

"Hnyang~, this is it. It's too cold outside, I don't want to leave."

"...Did you think the 'acting cute' tactic would work?"

The part-timer stole glances at them while wiping cups, and every time, Charles would notice with supernatural precision and flash a sly smile.

"Of course~. It's never failed once♪"

Though Loki chided him as if asking if that was something to be proud of, he naturally offered his shoulder so Charles could lean comfortably—an unconscious consideration only possible between people who have known each other a long time. Charles giggled and whispered in a small voice.

"Look at that~. Hugo must have been hungry. He ordered and is eating every single éclair left in the shop♪"

Hugo's hand, which was picking up an éclair, flinched for a moment. However, he soon resumed taking a bite as if nothing were wrong, and the sight of him munching with his cheeks full of éclair was quite different from his usual calm impression.

Even though he had looked at Charles acting cute for the part-timer with disdain just a moment ago, he was the one who had unconsciously let the corners of his mouth lift slightly upon seeing it work.

"...You must have been very hungry. Please eat your fill while you're in Paris."

Loki also seemed to find the sight quite funny, speaking while trying to suppress his laughter. Charles, never one to miss such a moment, began teasing the eldest like a cat that had found a new toy. Loki chided Charles with a sighing voice, but Hugo surely knew that his tone was subtly encouraging the mischief.

In front of Loki sat a half-eaten chocolat chaud, and in front of Charles were macarons and cocoa. At Hugo's seat opposite them, éclairs were piled high on a plate, and the sweet aroma drifted softly through the Parisian night.