Chapter 389 - A Definitely Not Awkward Dinner (Patreon)

YELLOW TIER ANNOUNCEMENT!

Hey, people! I'm going to take next week off after I put out the second weekly chapter for the Green tier. The last few weeks have not been the best, and I think I need some time to just rest and do nothing. My last time off was really just editing book 3, as were most of my breaks over the last three years of writing. I always end up spending them editing or catching up on stuff.

I'm happy to refund you for this month if you'd like. Just DM me if need that. I'll recharge my batteries and be back to work on the 23rd!

Ty everyone!

A/N: 3k chappy!

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Kai stood still in the hallway, shoppers streamed around him as if he were a rock in a river, and a jumble of thoughts raged in his head. Pressing his palms to his eyes, he let out a heavy exhale. Once he saw it, he couldn’t deny he had feelings for Valela. 

What were they exactly though? What should he do? He needed to talk with her. Possibly, after he figured out what to say. 

“How did I end up in this mess?” He only realized he’d spoken out loud after the words left his mouth.

“By ignoring half your mind until it was too late?” Flynn gave him an empathetic pat on the shoulder. The pile of Lys’ boxes rested at his feet. “Don’t worry too much, man. Lucky for you, Valela’s understanding, even with idiots. She'll forgive you. Just make sure you know what you want before you talk.”

I’m working on that. 

“Thanks,” Kai said. The solution wouldn’t magically hit him standing here, and he had more immediate problems to fix. “Maybe I should just cancel the dinner with Isadora.” Despite him stating he had no romantic intentions, clearly there'd been some willful misunderstanding. 

“Nah, you’re not gonna get out of that so easily. Two mistakes don’t make one right. You told that girl you would go. You should tell her that in person if you have no interest in her.” 

“Hmm, fair point,” Kai said. “That dinner is gonna be so awkward.”

Flynn grinned. “Oh, incredibly. That’s why I’m coming too.” 

“What?”

“Didn’t you invite us just earlier? Were you lying?”

“I did…” Kai bit his cheek, recalling his panicked attempt to salvage the situation. “And no, you can come. I just didn’t think you’d want to.”

“Hey!” Flynn flicked his ear. “What else are friends for? Can’t let you drown on your own. Knowing your precedents, you’ll end up engaged to that girl before dessert is served. Not to mention, I can't miss watching you stumble through the dinner and break every social convention.”

“Yeah, thanks…”

“Eh, don’t mention it. Happy to sacrifice myself for the cause.” Flynn chucked. His gaze fell to the dozen bags still hanging from his arms. “Though, if you’re still feeling in debt, you could help me deal with Lys’ stuff. I can’t believe that girl ditched me with a hundred mesars of goods. Offer a hand and they take an arm. Really, I’m too nice for my own sake.”

“Right.” Kai gave an exasperated shake and bent to pick up a bundle of three lacquered boxes tied together with a red ribbon. The mark of a boutique gleamed on each side in gold leaf—one of thirteen similar packages. Even with her headstart, he was mildly impressed. 

How did she visit so many shops in two hours? Should I ask her for tips on efficient scheduling? 

“I’ll take half. We can get them delivered to her room. I’ll cover the fee.” 

“Good idea, let’s delegate!” Flynn crouched to pick up six packages without upsetting the balance of the boxes he already carried. “So, how much do we have till your non-date?”

Kai glanced up. A clock of onyx and polished quartz hung at the intersection of each hallway. “About an hour?” 

“Curses! Why didn’t you say so? Let’s deliver this stuff and get going. We need to still get you presentable and deal with that thing you call hair.” 

“Wait! Why? It’s not a date.” 

Flynn looked him up and down. “And that’s why we’re stopping with the hair. But just cause you’re not interested in her, it’s no reason to appear as you strode out of a sparring field. You want to turn her down, not insult her.”

But I did just leave Combat Magic…

***

Kai stood before the velvet lights of The Amorette. 

The restaurant claimed a cozy corner spot along the inner promenade of the Wing Aurea’s third floor. Panes of red-tinted glass etched with rose vines glimmered in the light. The scent of floral herbs, flowers and spices drifted each time the door opened. Through the crystal doors, candles flickered on linen-draped tables, where elegantly dressed couples leaned over in quiet conversation. 

Why did I agree to this again…?

Kai lingered on the threshold, feeling shabby in his plain academy's uniform and aware of the scuff on his boot. Tension laced his shoulders, sore from sparring and spellwork. The broad hallway flowed with the Wing Aurea’s usual restless bustle from professionals in pressed uniforms, students between late errands, the distant hum of lifts climbing. 

“Definitely nothing romantic, huh?” Flynn laughed. He’d dressed in a sleek three-piece suit of black and charcoal gray. “Didn’t the name clue you in?” A golden sign hung above the entrance: a wrought rose with petals curled into stylized flames, glowing with soft emberlight. 

“Please, shut up,” Kai huffed. He himself only wore an ironed uniform. His finger brushed his hair, now short and neat. A worthwhile concession, it’d cut the time he needed to prepare each day. “She said she'd book something modest. And… I wasn’t paying much attention, okay?”

“Yeah, I’d guessed that.” Flynn chortled again. “Well… no point in dithering. Let's go meet your non-date.”

“Stop calling her that!” 

“Sure, bud.” Flynn mimed zipping his lips. “I promise. Tonight, I’ll just play the awkward and bumbling third wheel.” He clutched his chest with dramatic anguish and staggered forward.

“Such noble sacrifice. Don’t enjoy yourself too much.” Taking a deep breath, Kai strode up to the entrance. 

The handsome server greeting patrons at the door eyed him critically, though he spoke with terse professionalism. “Mister Veernon! Of course, we’ve been waiting for you. Please, follow me this way. Miss Forlow is already at your table.” If the man didn’t expect Kai to be accompanied, his polite smile gave no sign.

Crossing the crystal doors, the interior decor, glittering chandelier and silver cutlery gave an air of intimate luxury. The server led them past a row of private booths. Wards and engraved partitions protected the privacy of each patron, though even Kai could smell the romantic undertones beneath the thick scent of roses. 

They walked past a low-lit booth, where he spotted a familiar girl in a dress. 

“Oh, Mat! You’re here! I’m so glad you made it.” Isadora stood up upon seeing him. Her face lit with a beaming smile. Fiery copper curls fell on her shoulder, glinting in the candlelight. Her dress was a darker red velvet, hugging her figure with a deceptively simple cut. “Nice haircut. It suits you. You look marvelous. Who’s your barber? Please, sit. ” 

“Good to see you too.” Kai inclined his head in a tepid greeting. Any hope she hadn’t considered this a date died in an early grave. “You didn’t need to book such an expensive place.”

“It’s no bother. Really, the least I could do since I invited you. Don’t worry, everything’s already paid for.” She waved him to a chair. “Come, we’ve so much to talk about—” 

Behind him, Flynn lightly cleared his throat—though it might have also been a stifled laugh.

Before the awkwardness could choke him, Kai made the introduction. “Remember how I mentioned I might bring some friends. I hope you don’t mind. Flynn’s an old friend. He’s in Martial Studies. Flynn, this is Isadora of House Forlow from my own course.”

“Uh, who are you calling old?” Flynn snorted indignantly, then turned to Isadora with a charming smile and a courteous shake. “I hope I’m not imposing. Mat insisted I come too since I’m his team leader in Mixed Combat. I heard you wanted to discuss sparring and spellcasting. From your rank at the Trials, you must be incredibly skilled.” 

Her bubbly visage cracked, showing the cooler thoughts beneath. A moment later, she turned bright again. “No, of course not. No problem at all. There is plenty of space at the table. I’m curious to meet any of Matthew’s friends. How long have you known each other?”

Ignoring her pursed lips, Flynn took a seat across from her. “Well, we go way back. A whole fifteen months! You won’t believe it, but Matthew used to be even shorter. Actually, the first time we met…”

Spirits have mercy. Maybe this wasn’t such a great idea…

Feeling like a stiff block of wood, Kai reached the backseat of the next chair when another high-pitched voice intruded. 

“You’re all already here. Wonderful!” Lys slipped into the booth with a breathless smile. “Forgive me if I’m late.” She smoothed the puffy layers of her pink dress. Wavy frills spilled along her shoulders, sleeves and the hem of her skirt. “Oh, Mat. Thank you for holding my seat. Always such a gentleman.” With a flirty wink, she gracefully settled into his chair. Tucking back her golden curls, she looked between them with an expectant smile. “So, are you ready to order? I’m famished.”

Kai stared blankly. 

Isadora pressed her lips into a thin, bloodless line. 

Flynn only looked mildly surprised, eyes gleaming with amusement.

I did invite her too…

“I’m glad you could make it,” Kai said and threw a glance back. For a heartbeat, he expected to see Valela’s graceful figure glide toward them, auburn hair held back by a braid and a subtle smile curving her lips. She didn’t. No one else was coming. He found himself a little disappointed. 

I’ll talk to her. 

Left standing alone, he walked to the last chair in the shaded corner. From the glares Lys and Isadora exchange beneath the amiable smiles, Kai opted to skip introductions. 

I just have to survive this dinner. How hard can it be?

"It's always nice eating in company. Shall we order?” Lys picked up the menu with two fingers. Her little nose scrunched at the roses and hearts embossed in the scarlet leather. “How charmingly quaint. A little heavy-handed, but there are people of all tastes. I love new experiences.”

“The Amorette is among the most renowned establishments at Realion.” Isadora wryly smiled, her voice cool, lacking her usual liveliness. “You need to book weeks in advance for a table.”

“Really, weeks?” Flynn looked up from his perusal of the dishes. “I thought you only invited Mat a couple of days ago.”

Lys clicked her tongue at him with a tiny shake, then turned to Isadora. “Oh, honey. Please, don’t listen to him.” She daintily patted the girl’s hand. “Have you been planning this dinner since the Trials?” 

“I—” Isadora bit her lip and pulled back as if a snake bit her, her face a shade closer to her hair. “I called in a favor to find a spot. Since Matthew’s from the outer territories, I wished to show him the best the academy had to offer. He must not have had many chances.”

“That is very sweet of you.” Unperturbed, Lys flipped a page and rubbed her fingers together as if somehow measuring the quality. “Such a cozy establishment. Maybe I could pick the place next time. The provinces also don’t seem to have the same standards of the capital.” 

Isadora’s smile wilted a little. “What are you trying to say?”

“Nothing. I’m only appreciating your choice.” Lys gestured airily, flipping another page. “What do you think I’m saying?”

“Maybe it’s just not your taste. People love the Amorette.” 

“What a curious choice of word. Love. I’m sure some people do. How do you like it, Mat?”

Two pairs of eyes turned to regard him with dangerous intensity. Flynn sipped a glass of wine to hide his smile.

This must be my punishment. 

Kai swallowed, discovering a sudden interest in the tablecloths and the woven rose of the centerpiece. “I don’t have much experience. Looks nice though. A little tight for a group.” 

“An excellent point!” Lys’ pearly smile shone with vindication. 

“He said he liked it.” Isadora giggled instead. “And we’ve yet to taste anything too.”

As they each reinterpreted his answer, Flynn raised an arm to call a server and order food. Naturally, the ingredients, preparation and condiments grew into another point of contention. 

Kai soon lost track of their insinuation and arguments, offering the occasional nod and wishing he could sink through his seat. At least, the steaming plate of grilled vegetables and seared meat in bittersweet sauce gave him an excuse to stuff his face and say nothing. Not that he could get many words even if he wanted.

Watching them trade jabs and sharp smiles, he bent over his plate. Each time the conflict waned, Flynn merrily poured fuel on the flames with some harmless remark. 

Definitely no risk of romance. Though it might have been less painful to come alone.

“…Mat.” Isadora brushed his hand over the table. “You must’ve taken a fascinating route in the Mid-Term Trials to rank first?” 

Having since lost track of the conversation, Kai just hummed and nodded sagely. Alas, it wouldn’t be polite to say more while chewing. And he chewed very slowly.

Instead of being deterred, Isadora beamed and delved into a retelling on how she had recruited a team and earned seventh place. “Well, not everyone did as well… but your stories must be even better, Matthew. I heard there were some accidents in the underground maze. Even rumors of sabotage! Is that true?” 

“Uhm…”

“Can we not talk about more monstrous spiders? Please, we’re eating.” Lys nibbled on a bite. “Some arrays malfunctioned. It happens. I’m sure the academy took care of it.”

Just some strangely coincidental and suspicious malfunctions. But yeah. Would the Dean tell me even if he found anything?

Kai nodded along, not wishing to discuss it.

Despite Lys and Flynn throttling any romantic vibe in the crib, Isadora never lost her smile or abandoned her attempt to involve him. When dessert was served at last, the tropical sorbet tasted like salvation. Still, the two fought to pay. In a rare accord, they silenced him with a glare when he offered to cover it. 

Patricians are so weird. Well, I definitely didn’t get engaged. Not sure about not making her feel insulted, though. 

Even more surprisingly, she still insisted on going to spar after dinner. 

“I hoped to discuss spellcasting with you.” She threw a not-so-subtly look at Lys. “I have many skills I’d like to show you.”  

“Wonderful idea. I’m also curious to see Mat.” Lys slid between them. 

“Where are we going?” Flynn stretched his arms with a radiant, unaware grin. At least one of them had enjoyed the dinner. “I could use a little exercise.”

Isadora dug her nails into her palms. Eyeing Lys’ frilly gown, she sniffed. “In that dress? You wouldn’t want to ruin it.”

“Don’t worry, I always bring a spare.” Lys brilliantly tapped her enchanted purse. “I have friends who could join us too. If you don’t mind, of course.”

“Maybe another time. We’re barely going to make my reservation. I only booked the arena for an hour. They wouldn’t make it in time.” 

“I see.” Lys pouted. “It’ll be just us today then.” 

Thank the Spirits. 

Reaching the muted whirr of lifts, they left the Wing Aurea and trailed the cobble paths toward the main cluster. The chatter cooled into a companionable quiet as they entered the Caelus Tower and descended to the underground levels. The dueling hall opened in a chamber carved from arching granite, its ceiling ribbed with steel and runes. Layered wards thrummed within the stone, controlled through a crystal cube on a dais. 

By the time Kai found a fitting set of enchanted protections, Isadora already stood in the marked circle, her face brimming with liveliness. “Why don’t we go for a bout, Miss Fairmont?

“How could I intrude on your time? After all the trouble you went through to bring Mat here. You seemed so curious about his skills.”

“Alright, I’m ready.” Kai stepped forward before the argument could escalate. 

Unlike the verbal sparring, the bouts passed painlessly. Spells sparked and faded without bite, more to shake off the evening’s stiffness than a true challenge. The room’s wards glimmered to absorb the impact.

Despite her persistent goading, Lys crossed her legs on the benches and offered bright commentary. By the time they settled into a rhythm and cycled through their Magic skills, the time was already up. 

“I’ll see you in class, Matthew.” Isadora marched off with a huff. 

“Sleep well. We should do this again!” Lys cheerfully waved, twirled her puffy dress to stand, and whispered to him. “A pleasure dining with you, Mat.” 

“Yeah… same,” Kai dryly said, feeling more tired than after an actual session of grueling sparring.  

With a wink, the petite girl skipped away. “I can’t wait to tell Valela how it went.” 

It’s finally over. 

Flynn clapped his back. “Hey, cheer up. That was the best dinner I’ve had in a while. And the entertainment was top-notch.” 

“Glad I managed to amuse you.” Kai stared at him darkly. The whole affair had been even more awkward than he’d imagined, though he couldn’t argue with the results. He did feel a little bad. Honestly, Isadora kept her cool more than was reasonable. 

I doubt she’ll ask me out again. One less problem. 

They remained in the deserted dueling hall. 

“So, have you decided what to do with Val?” Flynn asked.

“Actually… yes,” Kai muttered, surprised by his own answer. Somewhere along the odd evening, his thoughts crystallized into a decision. "There's a lot going on. For now, it's too weird for me to think about being with anyone. I like Val, but you know…” He took out the privacy ward Rain gifted him. “I have memories of a life before this one. Even if it didn’t last that long. I don’t want to mess things up. At least for a few more years." 

“Sounds fair. If that’s what you want.” Flynn shrugged. “Who knew you could be so patient. Though you should be honest with her. Don’t leave her hanging. Who knows, maybe she'll put a pin in it. She certainly deserves the truth.”

“Yeah…”

That conversation was definitely not gonna be extremely awkward too.