章 999: A Time Of Wants, Part 3

It was louder now.

The rambunctious cheers, the high chimes of flutes echoing harmoniously with the soft strum of strings, and other lively noises of the same note gave away the vibrant and vivid impression of a township rife with fanfare. 

"They have a red carpet rolled out too?" I said, finally calling attention to it. "I mean, I know it's my birthday and all… but don't you think this is a little much now?" 

"I'd have gone bigger," Ruria was quick to reply, her tone as dry as her smirk. "Fireworks, an entire dance number, ten-foot-tall cake. Only makes sense for someone of your grand eminence and stature." 

"A country boy working as a full-time barista?" 

"And I'd give that modesty a whole lot more if only you'd take it. Unfortunately, you being you means you're just much too modest to try." 

"Not tonight, remember? You got a shameless bastard of your own making tonight. Do your worst, I'll take whatever you got to throw at me."