Masha smiled, picked up her lemonade, and took a sip.
"Former Marine Headquarters lieutenant commander, Masha."
"I'm retired now."
"I'm only here to have a meal with my son. No need to be nervous, Mr. Zeff."
Zeff was inwardly startled.
A retired lieutenant commander could not possibly have raised an ordinary son in the usual sense.
This young man's strength had probably long since surpassed that of ordinary Marine officers.
Zeff fell silent for a moment, then the solemnity and pride of a chef returned to his face.
"Since you all appreciate fine food, I'll personally prepare the main courses for you."
Lorne nodded.
"Thank you, then."
Zeff turned and returned to the kitchen.
Before long, footsteps sounded from the passage again.
This time, alongside the heavy tread of Zeff's prosthetic leg came a much lighter set of footsteps.
Zeff emerged carrying a huge silver platter.
Behind him followed a little boy with side-swept bangs and curly eyebrows.
Little Sanji carried a plate of delicate desserts and a pot of hot black tea, his eyes wide as he studied Lorne curiously.
His gaze landed on the pair of slightly twitching black beast ears atop Lorne's head, and his eyes immediately lit up.
"Wow, are those real ears?"
"So cool."
Zeff glared at Sanji.
"Sanji, don't be rude to our guests!"
Sanji ducked his head.
But he still could not help letting his gaze wander between Lorne and Kuina.
Zeff placed the dishes from the platter onto the table one by one.
"These are Baratie's specialties: beef tongue braised in red wine and our special seafood bisque."
There was unmistakable pride in Zeff's voice as he introduced the dishes.
"Please enjoy."
Zeff bowed slightly.
Sanji set down the desserts and black tea as well.
He looked at Kuina, his cheeks slightly