Chapter 209: Three Hearts, One Path
The summer heat had finally retreated.
In its place came a gentler warmth — the kind that brushed softly against the skin and hinted at the coming of autumn. The city of Valon had settled into that seasonal shift, with cooler breezes and longer shadows. And in the heart of its noble district, the top floor of the famed Mirae’s Restaurant had once again been rented out in full.
By Elyra, of course.
Mirae’s wasn’t just any restaurant — it was one of Valon’s most exclusive. The upper level, reserved only by those with money or influence (or both), boasted wide windows overlooking the city skyline, plush crimson seats, and tables crafted from enchanted whitewood that never stained or dulled.
This evening, one table in particular was alive with light conversation and soft laughter.
Noel sat at the head, relaxed but alert, a half-finished glass of chilled berry wine at his side. Around him sat the three girls who now filled his life with more chaos — and peace — than he’d ever expected.
Elyra wore her signature deep red, the color of her house — Estermont. Her long black hair was tied into a thick, precise braid draped over her shoulder. Her grey eyes scanned everything, as usual, but softened when they landed on Noel.
Elena was in soft yellow, matching her amber eyes. The cut of her dress was refined, subtle, with silver stitching tracing gentle curves across the fabric. Her platinum hair hung loose, with her pointed ears barely peeking through.
Charlotte, seated closest to Noel, was without the Sancta Veil. Her pink hair shimmered in the dim light, and her golden eyes were exposed without hesitation. Her dress leaned toward a warm blush-cream, elegant and feminine, her hands folded neatly in her lap.
Noel leaned back in his seat, arms crossed, his eyes drifting between the three girls sitting around him.
"You know," he said casually, "I don’t think there’s a guy in this entire continent luckier than me right now."
Elyra raised an eyebrow. "Hm? And why’s that?"