Chapter 129: Birthday
Dune moved through the crowd quietly, keeping his breathing steady, his thoughts distant.
Until someone appeared, stepping in front of him with a smile that caught too many eyes.
Sylvie Ceresey.
Her eyes were bright as polished emeralds, catching the light whenever she tilted her head. Her lips were soft pink, her smile balanced between playful and practiced. The black dress hugged her form delicately, flowing loose below her waist but cinched just enough to trace her curves.
"We meet again, Dune," she said, her voice light, lilting, just teasing enough. "As you can see, your friend Atlas abandoned me, his heart is taken by someone else."
Dune blinked. "That's not like him."
She laughed softly, stepping closer without hesitation. "Aren't you just like him, cold. Neither of you boys know how to talk to women, do you?" Her eyes glinted. "But at least you're not running away from me. That's... refreshing."
What is she talking about? Dune stayed silent, only watching her.
She smiled deeper, as if pleased by his reaction. "You've made a name fast. Atlas told me you're not part of any family yet." Her hand grazed his sleeve, before slipping away as if it never happened. "Are you planning to join anyone? Or are you one of those lone wolves I keep hearing about?"
"I don't plan on being claimed by anyone," Dune said, his tone calm, as if he were stating the weather.
Sylvie's lips twitched upward. "Dangerous thing to say in Rendely. Families here don't wait for you to choose. King will choose for you." She leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "But maybe you already know that."
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