Vlad stared at him, his expression unreadable. “And?”
“And,” Asher continued, meeting his friend’s gaze, “I can’t think of anyone better suited for the role than you.”
For a moment, Vlad was silent, processing the weight of Asher’s words. Then, a slow smile spread across his face. “You’re serious?”
“As serious as I’ve ever been.”
Vlad leaned back, his grin turning cocky. “Well, it’s about time you acknowledged my greatness.”
Asher rolled his eyes, chuckling. “You’re insufferable.”
“True,” Vlad said, raising his milkshake in a mock toast. “But now, getting more serious, I am flattered, Asher, I really am. But….”
Asher raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more. “But?”
Vlad sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. “But... I’m just a simple warrior. I come from a simple family, no
