章 379: When in Doubt, Go in the Opposite Direction

"Hey, what are you doing here alone? Everyone's sleeping already."

Vernon's voice and the pat on Calix's back pulled the latter out of his stupor. Tearing his eyes away from the bottom of his teacup, he looked at his elder brother in surprise.

"Brother?"

"Uhuh, it's me."

Calix quietly stared at Vernon. Instead of wearing pajamas like him, his elder brother was more comfortable in his loose tank top and long cargo pants.

Calix didn't expect to see anyone else at this hour. He thought everyone was tired after their barbecue party which concluded a few hours ago. 

The entire villa was shrouded in white noise, including the faint sound of the rolling waves hitting the shore. The fireworks show from the festival ground had ended long ago.

"I can't sleep. Sit down ah," Calix gestured to the high stool beside his, welcoming Vernon's presence. He reached for another cup on the bar counter, "Fancy a drink?"