17. The Hawk

When Albert Hawkbone escorted Jayden out of the school, he led him directly to a café nestled in the heart of town. This café was more than just a place to grab a bite—it was practically a local institution. Birthdays, graduation parties, or even small victories were celebrated here. The aroma of sizzling patties and toasted buns traveled through the air, and the café's burgers were their claim to fame. Naturally, Albert ordered two of them without hesitation. “Hope you’re not allergic to meat, are you?” Albert asked, his tone casual but with a hint of something mischievous. His eyes glinted as he looked at Jayden, clearly enjoying some private joke. Jayden frowned. “No! Why would I be?” Suspicion flickered in his mind, but he couldn’t quite pin down Albert’s angle. “Perfect!” Albert exclaimed, confirming the order with a tone that felt oddly theatrical. Jayden shifted uncomfortably in his chair. “I don’t need anything, really. I’m fine,” he said, trying to shake him off his tail. But