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Where Airis was already waiting in the main corridor.

His eyes widened slightly.

His lips parted as though he were about to say something.

But I beat him to it.

“Don’t flatter yourself.

I definitely didn’t do this for you.”

Flicking my ponytail hard enough for it to brush against him, I headed toward the exit.

“I’ll pretend I believe you, Fireling.”

He matched my pace immediately.

Then took the bag from my hand.

Glancing over his outfit, I decided to return the favor.

“You look suspiciously overdressed for a simple sightseeing trip.”

He wore a blue button-up shirt with the sleeves rolled to his elbows, gray plaid trousers, and loafers.

“A sightseeing trip?” he raised a brow.

“Yes,” I replied.

“Did you forget?”

“About your torso.”

To my complete surprise, the corridor filled with soft, velvety laughter.

He actually laughed?

I glanced at him again, unable to hide my suspicion.

“Then it’s a very important sightseeing trip.”

“No, seriously,” I said.

“Where are we going?”

His expression shifted, becoming more serious.

“A few days ago, I had the chance to see Ria’s comfort zone.”

Our eyes met.

“Now it’s my turn to open up.”

A spark passed between us—

Almost invisible.

But enough to make my heartbeat falter.