“This is an odd texture, but it’s delicious,” mused Muss as he savored the tea confectionery—soft mochi dusted with kinako powder—served in the reception room. Despite its grand name, the room was nothing more than a simple space furnished with a sofa and table.  

“I told you to come here if you had something to discuss, but I didn’t mean to come immediately,” Yuu said, his tone far from welcoming.  

“You used to invite me into your living room, but now you’ve set up a reception room,” Muss remarked casually.  

“I don’t want someone as ill-mannered as …