As he reached downstairs. Cynthia had already prepared Parfait and delicious-looking meal — and the scent hit me the moment he stepped down.
"Please, eat. This is a good-luck meal," she replied, fussing a little as she set the plate in front of me. "I don't mean it'll magically win the tournament for you, but stay strong. Defeat Luthar for me."
"Don't worry," I said. "You don't have to keep reminding me. He'll be defeated." I didn't bother to tell her that if I wanted to finish him with a single punch, I could — no matter what tricks he's learned.
Cynthia looked worried, but she nodded. "I hope what you say is true. I believe in you. I'll be out for a bit — close the door when you leave." She shrugged into her apron, picked up her bag, and left.
It looked like Cynthia had been in a hurry, Nolan thought, glancing at the empty apron left behind.
