Though the hour of closure had not yet arrived, it was evident that it was drawing near. The sight of patrons finishing their meals, workers tidying up the tables, and some already departing from the tavern indicated the approaching end of the evening. Taking my place on a barstool, I promptly requested my customary ale from a passing female server. As I awaited the arrival of my drink, a familiar voice called out to me.

"Takahiko! You've come? I thought you wouldn't be joining us today?"

"Good evening, Cordelia. My business didn't fare well in the morning, so I decided to switch to the night shift. I just finished for tonight, you see," I responded, noticing that her expression appeared softer and less playful than usual.

She let out a sigh of relief and said, "Thank goodness. I was worried you didn't want to see me anymore." casually implied as if my sole purpose for coming to this tavern was only to see her.

"So, what will you have tonight?" She continued to pick my order.

"Oh, don't worry, I've already ordered my ale," I replied, thinking nothing of it.

However, Cordelia pouted "You cheater! You're not allowed to order from other girls other than me!" she exclaimed in displeasure.

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"Why?!" I couldn't help but retort to her unreasonableness.

"Didn't you say that I'm the most charming and the brightest smile in this tavern? Was it a lie?" Her deliberately playful nature has returned.

"Don't twist my words like that! And even if it were true, it doesn't mean I can't ask for my drink from another girl!" I retorted her response.

"What a horrible person you are! After you grow tired of me, now you want to play with another girl?!" she replied, feigning a crying voice.

"Umm... excuse me?" another female voice joined. It was the girl who had taken my order just moments ago.

"Here's your ale, and please continue your spousal quarrel at home, will you? There are still other customers here," she reproached us calmly.

"I apologize," I said sincerely, feeling a bit embarrassed by the scene we had caused.

"I'm not sorry. It's not my fault," Cordelia continued to pout unreasonably. Are you a teenager going through a teenage rebellious phase? But I knew better than to voice that thought aloud.

I can feel that everyone watched and laughed at our silly banters. Well, as long as they understand this is just a deliberate play, I'm willing to give them a little comedy. See, even the tavern master there also laughed.

I leaned in closer to Cordelia and whispered, "I have an answer for you from last night. Will you be available to meet me after this?"

She looked surprised for a moment but quickly composed herself and replied, "Alright, let's meet outside the tavern after closing time."

I agreed, and then finished my ale, paid for my drinks to the tavern master and went outside.