The conversations among the family continued. They spoke openly, revealing their children's tastes, achievements, and strengths.
"Without a doubt, they all possess the mindset necessary to become great adults. Their abilities in their subjects and studies are remarkable," the host said, offering them a gentle smile as he observed them. "This may not be directly related, but since all of my children excelled in physical activities, I'd like to know if any of you practice or enjoy a particular sport."
"Both Erick and Jenny belong to the soccer team," Helena replied, continuing without hesitation. "They'll be heading to the national tournaments in six months, each in their respective leagues."
She praised her children generously, clearly trying to show that they were prepared for anything.
"Not bad. I remember when you were younger, you practiced archery. The center of the target was never enough for you," he said with a light chuckle, then shifted his gaze toward John, waiting to hear about his activities.
"Well, my little man here has been training since he was seven, back when he joined the gym I founded," Romeo said proudly, ruffling John's hair. "Now he's a true prodigy in martial arts. He fully masters five disciplines: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Boxing, Kickboxing, Taekwondo, and Karate. At present, his level is comparable to people with three to four more years of experience."
"And not only that," Camila added calmly, maintaining her relaxed demeanor. "He also practices basketball and volleyball, having participated in tournaments at different times over the years. He's genuinely gifted—a prodigy in physical disciplines."
"Oh my God…" the host murmured. "That is… fascinating. John's talent exceeds what I imagined."
His expression barely conveyed the true extent of his surprise.
The words lingered in the air, followed by an uncomfortable pause. Helena's smile tightened ever so slightly, while Dmitri crossed his arms, failing to fully conceal his discomfort.
"Well…" Dmitri cleared his throat. "I suppose every child develops at their own pace. Early talent doesn't always guarantee long-term consistency."
Romeo smiled calmly, without a hint of provocation, as if the comment hadn't affected him at all.
"Of course, that's true," he nodded. "That's why we've never pressured him. John trains because he enjoys it, not because we demand it."
"And besides," Camila added, "it's not just about strength or technique. He also knows when to stop, observe, and learn. That's the hardest thing to teach."
The host let out a soft laugh, shaking his head.
"Discipline, self-control, and talent… at his age, that's truly uncommon." His eyes settled once more on John. "You have a very interesting future ahead of you, young man."
"Thank you, sir," John replied politely, his voice steady and respectful.
Jenny watched the scene closely, studying her cousin. He didn't seem boastful or intimidated; on the contrary, there was something unsettlingly serene about him, as if he had no need to prove anything.
"And you?" she suddenly asked, breaking the atmosphere. "With everything you do… what do you like the most?"
John thought for a few seconds before answering.
"I like improving and understanding," he finally said. "No matter what it is."
The silence that followed was different from before. This time, even Helena refrained from making comments. For the first time in the conversation, comparison no longer mattered.
Minutes later, the host placed his cutlery on the plate and wiped his hands with a napkin, signaling the natural end of lunch.
"Well," he said calmly, "this has been a rather productive lunch. I believe it's a good moment to conclude it."
Helena nodded, adjusting herself in her seat.
"Yes, there's still plenty of day ahead."
Dmitri leaned back slightly, crossing his arms. There was no longer open tension—only quiet vigilance.
Romeo responded with a slight nod.
"Thank you for having us. The food was excellent."
Camila looked at John. He remained calm, without signs of fatigue or distraction, waiting for instructions as always.
"You may stand up," she told him.
John did so without delay.
The host stood and gestured toward the hallway leading deeper into the house.
"I hope you're enjoying your stay in my home and that it continues that way. There's no rush or strict schedule today. Feel free to settle in, rest, or use the common areas."
"We appreciate it," Romeo replied.
The adults slowly began to disperse, each heading in a different direction. The conversation had ended, but the atmosphere remained charged with an expectant calm.
Jenny lingered a few steps behind and looked at John with renewed interest.
"Hey," she said. "If later you want to go out to the patio with my older brother, there's plenty of space to train a bit of everything."
John evaluated the proposal immediately.
"If it doesn't interfere with other plans and the conditions are appropriate," he replied, "then it's acceptable."
Jenny couldn't help but smile.
"Then I'll let you know later."
John nodded once and continued walking.
As the voices faded and the house returned to its usual rhythm, the host stopped in the middle of the hallway, watching as each of them went their separate ways.
"This lunch…" he thought, "went better than I expected. I hope things go just as smoothly when it comes time for business."
The coexistence had only just begun,
and the time they would spend under the same roof would reveal far more than any conversation at the table ever could.