Chapitre 27: bye
Cior's dress, a stunning half-shoulder gown, flowed gracefully with each step. However, as she moved, a scar on her neck became visible—a mark from her past, a reminder of the painful experiments she'd endured.
Ziven, ever observant and curious, noticed it right away. "If I may ask, why such a terribly good-looking lady has such a sad scar?" he said, his voice soft but full of genuine concern.
Cior glanced down at the scar for a moment, a shadow passing over her face. "Hmm, oh, it's nothing. Just an accident," she replied quickly, masking the hurt behind a smile. The scar had been a result of the brutal experiments from her childhood, a painful memory she'd rather not revisit, especially not now.
Ziven seemed to accept her explanation, but there was still a hint of curiosity in his eyes. "I see. My lady, would you care to step outside for some fresh air? It's a good way to change the mood, I think."
"Yeah, a good change," Cior agreed, grateful for the distraction. The room was starting to feel stifling, and the air outside would offer a welcome reprieve. Plus, it would give her a moment to breathe without the constant pressure of being recognized or trapped in conversations.
With a slight nod, Ziven led her toward the door, guiding her outside into the cool night air, away from the chaos of the ballroom.
Ziven's words hung in the air as he gazed at Cior with an intensity that made her heart race. "I have to confess something," he began, his voice both serious and playful. "I've liked you since I first met you. But you are my best friend's fiancé, so it's better to move on. However, some wise man once said it's better to confess than to never confess at all. So, reject me, and allow me to move on, my lady."
He took her hand gently and kissed it, his gesture both respectful and bold, his eyes never leaving hers.
Cior blinked, feeling a warmth spread through her cheeks as she processed his words. She had not expected this at all, and yet, she couldn't help the blush that crept onto her face. "Thank you for liking me, but I hope you find someone better," she said, her voice a little flustered, not quite knowing how to respond to such a sincere confession.
She didn't have feelings for anyone at the moment, but his words and the way he looked at her stirred something in her, causing her to blush like crazy. The situation was a bit overwhelming, but she tried to stay composed, even though her heart was racing.
Ziven smiled softly, not seeming offended by her response. Instead, he chuckled lightly, clearly understanding. "As expected of you, always so graceful. I'll take that as a rejection, then. But I'll move on, as you said." He straightened up, letting go of her hand. "Still, it was worth confessing. Now, I can move forward knowing I said what was in my heart."
Cior smiled awkwardly, relieved that Ziven was taking it so well. "I appreciate your honesty," she said, still a bit red in the face but grateful for the respect he showed her.
As Cior and Ziven stood outside, the evening air around them feeling light and peaceful after their conversation, suddenly, the sound of footsteps approached. Before Cior could react, their friends, including Arven, Mateo, and the others, arrived, all with wide grins on their faces.
"Lady Lunette, it's lovely to meet you!" they all greeted in unison, bowing slightly, though the enthusiasm in their voices didn't hide the awkwardness they felt, especially as they looked at her.
Except for Amaias. His eyes narrowed slightly as he studied Cior, who was still in her mask and gown, looking like the enigmatic Lunette. The look on his face was unmistakable—he gave off a clear "What are you doing here and why are you dressed like this?" vibe. Cior felt his gaze and tried to act natural, though she could feel the weight of his scrutiny.
The other boys, except for Ziven and Amaias, were still a little tense, unsure of what to say or how to act. They still had lingering feelings for her, and seeing "Lunette" standing before them just made it more complicated. Their awkwardness was palpable, and they each seemed to struggle with their emotions, not sure if they should treat her the same way or try to remain distant.
Cior, feeling the atmosphere growing thicker, gave a polite smile. "Well, it's been a pleasure, but I must be going," she said quickly, trying to escape before anyone could recognize her. She subtly adjusted her mask, hoping that they wouldn't realize that "Lunette" was, in fact, Cior.
With a quick wave, she began to back away. "Goodbye, everyone," she said, keeping her voice light to avoid drawing attention.
They thought that Lunette and Cior were two different people, and she intended to keep it that way for now.
As Cior turned to leave, she could feel Amaias' gaze still lingering on her, his suspicions growing with every second. She hoped that he'd let it slide for now, but she knew it was only a matter of time before the truth would have to come out. For now, though, she was content with the confusion she left in her wake.
État de l’alimentation hebdomadaire
-- Classement
Power Stone 
-- Power
stone