Chapter 159: Chapter 159: System's First Temptation

When Lila finally pulled away, her cheeks were flushed, embarrassment and something else Elio couldn't quite identify.

"I'm sorry," she murmured. "I didn't mean to be so... effusive." Her golden salamander, mirroring her emotions, shifted its colors to a soft pink.

"It's alright," Elio said softly, Ember chirping reassuringly on his shoulder. "I understand how much this means to you and your family."

Lila looked at him, and for a moment, Elio saw something more than gratitude in her eyes. The intensity of her gaze left him breathless for an instant.

Elio found himself lost in Lila's gaze for a moment, his heart beating a little faster than normal. Ember, sensing his heightened emotions, nuzzled closer to his neck.

He cleared his throat.

"Uh... well," he began, his voice a bit hoarse. "As I was saying, we'll review your case and see what we can do."