Out on the balcony, Declan remained silent.

Rafael, growing impatient, asked, "Why did you call me out here? What do you need to say?"

Declan looked at Rafael and suddenly burst into laughter.

Rafael's expression grew even darker.

"Rafael, you should really look at yourself in the mirror right now."

Declan chuckled, "Just look at yourself; even Abel, who's been by your side for years, probably wouldn't recognize you."

Rafael pressed his lips together, remaining silent.

After a moment, he spoke, his tone heavy, "I'm not in the mood for jokes."

Leaning against the railing, Declan gazed into the distance, "I know, and I'm not joking. Ever since you discovered...