Chapter 76: Preparations for the Gala
As they approached the solarium, Ren suddenly halted, a spark of determination in her amethyst eyes. "I'll catch up," she declared. "I will go retrieve my comm. I need to check my grades from that history test."
Orion opened the ornate door leading to the solarium, its polished metal surface catching the sunlight as it swung inward with a soft creak. He stepped inside, his movements deliberate, hands clasped behind his back as he took in the vivid display of greenery and the faint scent of blooming flowers. By the time he reached the center, he adopted an air of mock solemnity, standing tall and poised. Valeria stood opposite him, her gaze sharp and suspicious, as though anticipating mischief.
"Lady Valeria," Orion began, his voice dripping with exaggerated formality, "may I express my profound gratitude for gracing me with your presence?"
Valeria raised an eyebrow, her lips twitching as though suppressing a smile. "Orion, what are you—"
Before she could finish, Orion swept into a deep, theatrical bow, gesturing as if presenting her to an invisible audience. "My esteemed lady, your wisdom is, as always, unparalleled, and your beautiful eyes rival that of the setting suns."
The words had barely left his mouth when she lunged at him, laughing.
"Come here, you little gremlin!" she exclaimed, swatting at him as he danced backward, grinning.
"Peace, Mother, peace!" he said, his tone a blend of amusement and exaggerated earnestness, as he raised his hands in mock surrender. "I was merely paying my respects!"
Valeria narrowed her eyes, her lips twitching with the hint of a smile she was trying to suppress. "Respect? Is that what you're calling this nonsense?" she said, striding toward him with mock indignation.
Orion took a quick step back, dodging her playful swipe with practiced ease. "Not just respect," he countered, a sly grin tugging at his lips. "Absolute devotion. The kind poets write about."
Before their laughter could settle, the grand doors at the far end of the hall swung open, hitting the wall with a loud thud.