So much for making an effort…
With a defeated sigh, he latched onto Laxus, pressing his face into his stomach as if to escape reality.
Laxus, as if sensing his distress, effortlessly picked him up and patted his back in quiet reassurance.
"It's okay, Rocco. You're just a late bloomer because of your weaker constitution. Once you turn fifteen, I bet you'll hit a major growth spurt."
"Sniff... Really? Will I grow up to be cool like my brother? Handsome like you, Laxus?"
"Of course! You'll become a refined, elegantly fragile young man, with a touch of melancholic beauty that makes you seem both mature and otherworldly. A stunning boy with an allure far beyond his years!"
…That's not what I meant!
Rocco wanted to be a handsome man, not some ethereal beauty!
He let out a strangled groan of protest, but before he could argue further, both his father and Sylas—who had already taken their seats—sent him impatient looks, silently ordering him to sit as well.
