i wish that i could run // back into your arms

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax shoots a balled up, crumpled piece of paper into the basket next to him as he waits for the appointed time.

It's a bit below his station to do so, but on occasion, the CEO of Nizhnii Corp likes to surprise people and pop into interviews or other people's offices. He gets restless in his own office, not always enjoying having to deal with the board of directors or investors. There were many that say he doesn't really fit his position, that his demeanor wasn't good for being the CEO of a company. Diplomacy was never his strong suit, but despite that the company still managed to flourish. Happy employees always made for better work- and though Ajax himself was a ruthless businessman, he still treated all his subordinates like they were family.

And that's how Nizhnii ended up with such a good reputation, and how he finds it so easy to find good applicants.

Today was no exception, and Ajax plans on making a surprise appearance for this part-timer who's hoping to land a job here. Adjusting his cufflinks on his suit as he walks down the hallway, he makes his way towards the conference room where they generally conduct interviews- and he tells HR that he'd like a little time with the potential hire first. She's already gone through their first interview, and passed it with flying colors, so now he's interested to see who exactly it is who's gotten the interest of their hiring managers. He's timed it so she should be waiting in the conference room already, provided she wasn't late- but he's sure that he wouldn't have to worry about that.

The first thing he does is pop his head in, smiling warmly at the girl waiting patiently for someone to come in to start the interview, before coming in and walking up to her.]

Good morning! Sorry to keep you waiting. I had a small matter to attend to before I was able to come down. I'm Ajax Volkov, it's a pleasure.

[He offers a hand for her to shake, before he'll politely take a seat across from her at the table.]

HR will be with us shortly, but I thought I'd take some time to get to know you a little better before we start asking the stuffy, boring questions of the interview. I hope that's alright.

Comments

[viatriix]

( She's just gonna ignore the fluttering in her heart and she has to push it away. He's a customer right now, his stare throwing her off her groove, before thankfully he gave her an answer. Immediately turning down to the form to focus on that and his words instead. Otherwise, she'd end up right rosy cheeks that she will not ever let free.

Amidst writing down her notes as well as thinking of a good white flower to add with the yellow roses. Until he leaned against her counter, looking up and instantly regretting it. He was just staring at her, into her soul, as she felt like a deer caught in headlights.

'Good thing Aether is not here or he'd be teasing me for the rest of our lives.' She feigns a cough into her fist, feeling her face warm up just a bit. Heart pounding faster, before breaking eye contact and looking down at her notes. He wanted white flowers added in? )

Anyway, we can add in white hydrangeas would be a good match. They mean long-lasting friendship, so it'd be a very good choice. Unless your friend your gifting them to knows floral meaning, then you should be alright. We can even throw in some greenery to put it together.

[monoceroscaeli]

[As he stands there, having this conversation with Lumine, some things don't go unnoticed about her behavior. He's always been a very perceptive person, it's been helpful especially when reading a potential investor or employee within the realm of his business- and now, he can tell she's getting a little distracted by his eyes. Part of him wonders if he's staring at her a little too hard, which he definitely didn't mean to do...or if there's more to it.

But that can't be. They've really only just met, so he dismisses that idea, despite finding her a bit enchanting, if he allows himself to go down that road. But he needs to focus now, he's handling a transaction, and her cough brings him back out of his reverie to the real world.]

I think that all sounds wonderful. Go ahead and put me down for that kind of arrangement. I'll come pick it up closer to the wedding. It's ah...in three weeks, on Saturday. I suppose I'll have to drop by the day before to get it, then?

[Unbeknownst to Ajax, he's gotten so entranced with Lumine that he doesn't notice the two kids standing at his feet, finally with a cute purple and blue arrangement of flowers they've finally picked out. They're waiting patiently for brother to be done talking to Miss Lumine...it would be rude to interrupt, and they were taught proper manners!]

[viatriix]

( Biting the inside of her cheek to stop with all her might the curve of a smile peaking through. Writing down his order and the date he'd like to pick it up. Going to her calendar so she can write the exact date. This was his copy of the quote after all. Thankfully she had an opening in her commissions slots, so she goes over to her schedule to write his name down and his order number.

Huh? What a coincidence... She had a wedding to attend as well, but there was no way it was the same wedding. There could be so many different weddings happening that Saturday. So she just chalks it up to that possibility. )

Yes, unfortunately, my shop will be closed for the evening. I also have a wedding to attend to Saturday.

( Once she puts his total down when he picks it up of sixty, ripping his copy of the quote to hand to him, seeing movement and she expects him to turn to address his siblings. But he doesn't and she lets a shy laugh escape, before doing the honors of stopping this conversation. She smiles down at the two though they weren't as small to her. )

Did you two pick something for your mother? Let's see it.

( She pats the counter and Paimon, seeing the chance to get two treats, goes over to the two kids to mew. With a shake of her head and a roll of her eyes, she tells the two to hold their hands out and puts a treat each. Quickly going over to her door to switch her sign to closed before heading back to the counter. )

That's it you silly cat, no more customers for you to use for treats. These are great choices you two. ( Turning to Ajax and finally happy to get him out of her shop so she can stop feeling her heart ready to burst. So strange. ) Twenty-five, sir.

[monoceroscaeli]

[They're both busy people, it seems, since she's booked that same Saturday for the same reason. Taking the piece of paper, he quickly takes a look at the price and folds it, not quite yet putting it in his pocket. His eyes are still tracing the shape of Lumine's cheeks, noting her small, cute lips before the act of her shifting her attention to the kids next to him makes him realize that Teucer and Tonia were done. The kids put the arrangement up on the counter as prompted, holding out their hands while they wait for Lumine to put a treat in their hands. They're so happy when Paimon eats the treats out of their hands, and they both reach to pet her, cooing good kitty at her while they pet her gently.]

Not a single opportunity wasted to get a treat, I see, [he says as he laughs, handing over his credit card to Lumine.] Now you two, be nice to Paimon or else she may not let you pet her in the future.

We are!!! Thank you for letting us pet her Miss Lumine!!!

[The kids continue to shower attention onto the cat, leaving Ajax the time to turn his attention back to the pretty lady behind the counter.]

Just charge me for everything. You allow tips on your sales as well, yes?

[viatriix]

No she won't. But you're welcome, you guys. She likes the attention.

( Lumine takes his credit card to put his charge for their flowers. Smiling at the two children, as she looks up at him. She can see in the corner of her eye, Paimon happily soaking in all the attention from the kids, purring as loud as her small body could make. Ringing up his charge, she gives a nod of her head. )

Of course, but I don't take tips for regular sales, only commissions. Unless the customer insists, but I try not to.

( Besides, the kids helped themselves to any selection while their older brother kept her company at the counter. Ready to swipe his card into her machine, ready for him to just get out of here before her heart pounds out of her chest. )

How much did you want to tip, sir?

[monoceroscaeli]

[She's being modest, though in his opinion, she deserves to be paid well for her services. Her flower arrangements are very good, and paying well for good works of art has always been his style. He may be a CEO, but he knows when not to be cheap, and this is one of those moments.]

Just call me Ajax. There's no need to be so formal.

[First, and foremost.]

Go ahead and put another fifty mora on there. I think you deserve it.

[His voice carries a light, endearing quality to it- maybe more than he intended to let on, but it's earnest and honest.]

[viatriix]

Huh?

( She feels herself stumble with her numbers, surprised by the tip, turning to him with wide eyes. She didn't expect that much, really. Lumine had to take a moment before looking at him again to see if he really was serious. Lips parted in surprised appreciation, blinking a few times, before going ahead and putting it in. )

Thank you, I really do appreciate it.

( If he does want a refund of it she'd gladly put it towards his commission fee, but she gives him his card back with a receipt for the flowers.

Not so much the mora itself, but the fact he thought her work was worthy of such a big tip in the first place. Breaking out of her feelings of appreciation, she turns to the two kids with a smile, handing the kids back their arrangement with a smile. )

I hope your mother likes them!

[monoceroscaeli]

[He offers a warm smile back to her, glad that she appreciates it and a bit amused by her surprise. Either way, if it helps her, that's all that matters, and sometimes a little goes a long way. It makes him happy just to help, and he takes his card and receipt, tucking it away and Tonia takes the arrangement of flowers.]

She totally will! It's they're such pretty flowers!

[Teucer seems very excited about the prospect, so you can tell who won out in the end when picking the flowers. His shining eyes look exactly like Ajax's, only with more youthful vigor to them. Seven year olds...]

Right, it's very nice, isn't it Teucer? Well, [he says as he taps her counter a few times,] I guess we should get going. I'll see you again soon, the Friday before the wedding. Thanks, Lumine.

[He gives her one last smile, before he turns to lead the two kids right out of the shop, like a little happy family on their way home from having a big day out in the city.]

[viatriix]

( Paimon mews in agreement as Lumine smiles in return happily to the seven year old, her heart filling with glee at their excitement. Just knowing people loved her hard work can make her the happiest. Lumine watching with a smile as she turns to Ajax next, giving a nod. )

Your welcome, ... Ajax. ( It's strange his first name leaving her lips felt familiar and she had absolutely no idea why. )

It'll be here waiting for you.

( Lumine walked them to the door with Paimon nestled in her arms, giving the three a wave before turning in to clean up her shop and get ready to go home. Once the register was done with her usual closing duties, her tips in her purse and the shop's revenue in the safe. )

Friday before the wedding

( It was the day before the wedding and she wanted to make sure everything was perfect. The arrangement for Ajax, she had ready and because of the generous tip he'd given her, she put in a few extra pieces. Lumine was putting the finishing touches on his before putting it away to keep it fresh. Paimon was with Aether at home, so she was not in the shop with her today. She wasn't sure who he was sending to pick it up, honestly she had half a mind to think he'd send Ekaterina to pick it up since it was a gift for a friend. )

[monoceroscaeli]

[It'd been a nice night when the Volkov siblings finally arrived home, with flowers in tow. Their mother had absolutely loved it, because of course she did, and there was space made for the flower arrangement in the kitchen so she could always see it in front of the window. Weeks go by, and Ajax continues his normal, daily routine, but during this time he doesn't seem to be able to get Lumine off his mind. When he's not distracted with work, or other hobbies, his mind wanders back to her and her little shop. And as it gets closer to the date to pick up the flowers, he feels the flutter of something in his chest, something he writes off as nerves.

Maybe it was because he wasn't sure if he'd made a good second impression on her when he'd bought the flowers from her shop. Maybe she was just being polite with him for the sake of keeping it civil and so he would come back and buy more. He doesn't realize how much he cares about it, so when the door opens to her flower shop on Friday, he's weirdly nervous. Not in any great capacity, but he can feel the slight edge of anxiety on his mind. He walks in, spots her at the counter, and has to take a deep breath as he approaches, putting on that same smile he always wears, doing his best to act normal.]

Hey there, [he says with a little wave,] hope I'm not too late. I couldn't remember what time you closed, so I hope I haven't held you up waiting.

[His eyes go to look around for Paimon, not seeing any sign of the cat. If memory serves, she would've already been up on the counter asking for treats, but it seems that isn't the case today...]

[viatriix]

( Lumine heard the small jingle of the bell and for some reason she felt her heart skip a beat. This was ridiculous how quickly she'd gotten feelings for this man. She chalks it up to just results of his charisma and it should be bound to go away. She almost wished it was Ekaterina coming to pick up the flowers, but she was unknowingly happy that he did arrive instead. )

Hey. ( She gives him a shake of her head to assure he hadn't made her wait too long. ) It's quite alright. I close around six, so you made it.

( She sees him looking around and almost knowing what he was thinking, because her regulars wondered as well. A smile appeared on her face before she gave a soft shrug. )

My brother had off from work today, so Paimon's with him. It's just me today. ( Turning around to go and get his arrangement, hoping he liked it, and most importantly the receiver loves it. Coming back out to present it to him with the finished product. ) I thought I'd add in some yellow alstroemeria to give variety. I hope that's alright.

( Letting him take a look at it and to let her know if he needs any changes. Hopefully it was changes she can fix without ruining the entire arrangement. ) Let me know if you want to make any changes.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Relieved he'd made it in time, he steps up to the counter, to politely wait for Lumine to get the flower arrangement. Looks like she noticed that he noticed there was a very obvious absence from the shop, in which he gives a slow nod of understanding. Probably for the best to keep the cat at home where she can't use every visitor as an excuse for a treat whenever possible.]

No, I think it's perfect just the way it is.

[Ajax looks it over, noting the different kinds of pretty yellow and white flowers she's used. His pupils dilate to take it all in, impressed with it and very happy with her work.]

It'll make for the perfect gift alongside the rest of the wedding gifts. Thank you, it's beautiful.

[He picks up the arrangement, cradling it in such a way as to keep it safe, as if one wrong move was made, the flowers would wilt right out of it.]

I appreciate you doing this on such short notice.

[viatriix]

( Hearing the compliment of her work and lets him take it in with a pleased smile. Hands clasped behind her as she hears him compliment her work. It swells her heart with pride and glee. )

Your welcome, I'm glad you like it. It was a lot of fun to make.

( Pleased to see him handling it with care, she had already put in the floral food so his friend can feed it with water. His appreciation of taking the job on short notice brought a surprised look on her face. Not many people cared for her time to thank her for anything short notice like this. Seems they both have quite the appreciation for each other's time. )

It's quite alright, I've had to turn down huge orders people make at the very last minute. You gave me enough time. I hope your friend loves it.

( Well, who knows when the next time she'd see him be. Which would be best, he's already made her heart beat enough to where it's concerning at just their second meeting. )

[monoceroscaeli]

I'm sure they will.

[Really, he loves it, and it shows. And if he loves it, he's sure his friend will as well. He nods his head at her, because he really shouldn't waste her time and he has things to do as well, so it's time to say goodbye.]

Then, I suppose until next time. I won't hold you up, because I know you also have a big day tomorrow. I'm sure I'll be able to make another visit to your shop in the near future~

[And with a wink and a wave, he says goodbye, to leave and go home to prepare for his weekend plans.]

---

[The wedding is nice, a beautiful setting that's out in a field that has a perfect view of a waterfall as the backdrop. Of course, there's a building nearby that will have the dinner and reception in it once the ceremony is done, and all the gifts are inside. Ajax watches on as his friend gets married, clapping happily for him and getting up to head inside for the rest of the festivities. The wedding colors of green and lavender fill the reception hall, and he starts to search for where his spot is. He heard they had assigned seating for guests, so families could easily be together who were invited, and it's not long before he finds his.

Strangely enough, he notices the name assigned next to him at the table.

Lumine.]

What...?

[He looks up, immediately looking for the flower girl of the shop he'd just came from the day before, and there's barely a moment that goes by until he catches a glimpse of her.

He can feel his heart immediately speed up, his eyes widening, and his nervousness come back tenfold...he hadn't expected to see her here today. He calls out to her, waving a hand, unsure of what he's doing now. It's like his body just decided to move and speak on its own.]

Lumine!

[viatriix]

( Lumine was happy to see her friend getting married, being sat with her brother during the ceremony. The twins talking happily with some friends as they were entering the reception hall. Looking for their seats, Lumine jumped at her name being called, looking up to spot Ajax waving to her. With a friendly, surprised smile she gives him a wave back, her heart for some reason pounding rapidly.

Leaving her brother's side to come over, he was still in full conversation, and it's then she sees that her assigned seat was here as well as Aether's. )

Hey. I didn't think we were attending the same wedding.

( Taking a seat in her spot, her bag resting on the back of her seat. Had she known the floral arrangement was for a mutual friend's wedding, she'd have given a discount for the commission. )

[monoceroscaeli]

[He can feel his own chest buzz, delighted that Lumine looked happy to see him and came right over. Ajax is trying his best to completely compose himself, letting his eyes sweep over her as he finds himself admiring her and how pretty she looks. He's in a simple suit himself, but now he feels like he should of dressed better just to impress her. But he can't have any regrets now, so he tries to push that thought out of his mind- now, he just wants to be happy that they're at the same event.]

Neither did I. Who would've guessed? Seems the world is small after all.

[Ajax goes to sit down next to her, glad that he's gotten so lucky today. Might as well sit anyway since they're at their spots, and they can talk for a bit.]

At least now I've got someone else to talk to. I'm afraid I really don't know too many people here otherwise. You look really nice today, Lumine.

[He blurts it out before he even thinks about it, just saying the honest thing on his mind. He doesn't even think twice about it after it leaves his mouth either, his words earnest, like lying would be something difficult for him to do.]

looool nooo it was good we couldve pretended lol no worries

[viatriix]

( Lumine definitely didn't think she dressed too fancy, her short blue dress and her short hair pinned neatly behind her head. He was dressed more formal than Aether, who she got to agree to matching with her. Tilting her head when he spoke about not knowing anyone, she thought he'd known almost everyone in the city. He could've fooled her. )

Well, that makes two of us then. My brother is the more social of the two of us.

( The compliment brings her to blink and bashfully smile, cheeks tinted a soft peach as she was not expecting a compliment at all. Scratching her cheek with a shy smile on her face. Lumine isn't a stranger to compliments, but she doesn't know why his makes her heart pound and her stomach make her want to vomit out of butterflies. )

Thank you, Ajax. You look very nice today too. The soft colors makes your hair and eyes stand out.

( It was true, he should wear lighter colors much more often. Aether soon comes over when he sees his sister sitting and smiles at her. )

This is our seats, Lumine?

Hm? Yeah, your's is here. ( She pats the spot on her other side. Before turning to Ajax. ) This is my brother, Aether. Aether this is Ajax, the one I told you about?

( Aether nods in understanding, this was the guy who'd made Lumine upset that day. But he won't hold a grudge since it seems she forgave him and was here talking to him. So, to be a sport Aether brings his hand out for the other to shake with a smile. )

Nice to meet you, Ajax. Don't let her bore you. Hey! Anyway, I'm going to talk some more before I come back.

( Giving him a smile, she turns back continue her conversation with Ajax. )

Now you have another person to talk to.

[monoceroscaeli]

[He could swear in the moment after he compliments her, that is breath is taken away and his heart begins to beat a little faster. He can tell she enjoyed the compliment, might even feel a twinge in her own heart about it coming from him. That bashful look tells him a little bit, and the look in her eyes betrays her feelings. But he hopes he's not reading into it too far, because he can't dismiss that he becomes a bit of a bundle of nerves around her. It's not like him to be like this, and it's becoming increasingly obvious to him that Lumine might mean more than just a nice flower lady that he gets along with well. But the spell breaks as soon as Aether comes into the picture, something he's a little glad for so he can recompose himself. Ajax takes Aether's hand to give it a shake, nodding his head in acknowledgement and cracking a smile at his joke.]

It's a pleasure to meet you too, Aether. Don't worry, boring is hardly something I'd use to describe Lumine here.

[Not after both of their interactions so far, definitely not. He gives Aether a small wave before he sets back off to enjoy socializing, giving Lumine a warm, appreciative smile.]

I do, and thank you, haha. Having the opportunity to socialize with others outside of work is a rare one for me, so I intend to take advantage of it today. So...

[Because it's the first thing that comes to mind...]

...who's the lucky one who's sitting at home with Paimon while you're both here? I remember you said she had some separation anxiety.

[viatriix]

( It's absolutely funny, sure she's had dates or crushes growing up. However, none have made her feel this way in so long. It surprises her with how just his strong eye contact alone makes her just a bit bashful. The compliments were another thing. He'd compliment her in front of her brother brought a blush to her cheeks, sure he was going to tease her once they got home. Looking back at him to continue the conversation, his question of Paimon made her laugh lightly. )

I was thinking of bringing her, but I know some friends here are allergic. But she's with a friend of ours. She absolutely loves him so she should be okay.

( Paimon always did enjoy being with Kazuha, so Lumine and Aether thought it'd be perfect for him to cat-sit. )

Aether says he's leaving early after the reception, so he'll be picking her up afterwards.

( It wasn't until she remembered his siblings had bought their mother flowers that she was actually excited to hear. She didn't get to ask him yesterday as they were busy. )

Did your mother enjoy the flowers?

[monoceroscaeli]

[There it is again, and he got her to blush. Maybe what he noticed about her before wasn't a fluke, or just something in his head. But again, maybe he just embarrassed her in front of her brother. He never would have guessed she'd get so easily embarrassed, and it never occurs to him that maybe there's more to it than just that.

Though it sounds like the cat is okay, and honestly, that will always be funny to him. Paimon's so bad she needs a cat sitter for a night to make sure she's okay. Goodness, what a character.]

She loved them, and after we told her where we got them from, she insisted that we come back just to patronize your store. But really, she didn't need to tell us that.

[Implying he would have come back without her recommendation. Ajax sends Lumine a wink at that point, smiling wide and flashing his teeth at her.]

She also sent along a message. She wanted me to tell you that your work is superb and that she'd be recommending you to all her friends. Sounds like to me that word of mouth is going to spread pretty quick about your flower business. Oh, and she also said that if I'm annoying you, to just tell me off and put me in my place.

[Ajax just laughs though, letting his elbow rest on the table so he can let his head rest in his hand, just like he did back at the flower shop. His body has shifted in his seat so he can face Lumine almost fully, subconsciously closing himself off to the rest of the world and only letting her be a part of it. Ajax's eyes gleam, having no problem staring into her own while they talk, almost as if he's been captured by the golden hues of her own eyes.]

I told her that's rather mean. Surely, I couldn't possibly have the capacity to do something like that, wouldn't you agree?

[He says like the interview day had never happened...]

[viatriix]

( Butterflies in her stomach ignored when he began to tell her about how his mother felt about the floral arrangement his siblings had decided on gifting her. She loved knowing works she worked hard on were appreciated. Hearing her tell them to come back to her store for services brought a sweet smile to her face. High praise, really, especially with so many other floral shops that she's sure there are in the city.

Hearing she had a message, she pays more attention to his words, wondering if she had suggestions or anything. But to hear she'd recommend her services to her friends brought happiness to fill her chest. Grateful for the word of mouth, but chuckles soon escape at her last message.

Raising a brow at him with a smirk, shaking her head in amusement. She'd 'started new' at her shop so she can't bring up the interview. Lucky him. Staring back into his own, a weird, familiar sense of comfort in just staring at him. And the way he was giving her his undivided attention like in her shop, when if she hadn't acknowledged his siblings she's sure he'd still be stood there staring at her. )

Mm, I suppose I can agree, not yet anyway. You've not yet given a reason for me to tell you off after our reconciliation.

( Sighs, she feels a little bashful and moving in her seat, but not breaking eye contact. )

We moved on from it, so I won't bring it back up again.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Give him time Lumine he'll give you a reason LOL

Ajax grins in response, happy that she's agreed with him on this, chuckling lightly and finally breaking eye contact with her to look down at the table for a moment before looking back up again. He's aware he's got some nerve sometimes to act like things really didn't happen or aren't that big of a deal...and Lumine wouldn't of caught his eye to start if she hadn't told him off in their interview.

But all in all, he's more happy that she really isn't holding it against him.]

Haha, see, I knew she was scolding me for no good reason.

[He looks so pleased with himself, wishing now he had a drink. He doesn't know why, but his mouth feels just a little dry looking at her. He's got to get more of a grip...he can't be getting all bashful and nervous now.]

Anyway, now that we've been granted more time and I'm not impeding your work, why don't we enjoy the rest of the night together? Actually, I've been looking forward to this wedding not only to see our friends have the greatest day of their lives, but also...because I've been waiting for a good excuse to get on the dance floor.

[viatriix]

( She feels like she almost knew he'd find some way to push her buttons, intentional or not. Almost a strange sense of familiarity.

A roll of her eyes with a smirk as she would gladly like to let him know of his previous time he had bothered her. She feels like it's not the last time she's gonna have to tell him off for something or another. Almost like a weird sense of comfortability. )

Oh yeah, for no good reason alright.

( Lumine is initially surprised by the invite to enjoy the rest of the party night together. Then mentioning the dance floor, she couldn't help the embarrassed laugh that escaped her at herself. Bringing a finger up to scratch her cheek, bashful as she feels like she should confess something. )

I'd hate to disappoint you, but I... don't really... know how to dance. I wouldn't want to bruise your feet with my unpracticed dance steps.

( Aether comes over to let Lumine know he has to leave, but to call him to pick her up. Not wanting his sister to walk home or get a driver. She smiled and gave a nod, just to appease him. Aether smiles to Ajax and holding his hand out for a goodbye shake. )

Sorry I didn't get to know you more, but I've got an early morning tomorrow. Lumine, don't act tough and just call me to pick you up, okay?

Yeah, yeah.

( After saying goodbye to the newly-wedded couple, her brother left, thankfully he had let the couple know ahead of time that he was not able to stay the entire length of the party. Which they were grateful of him just showing up. Lumine turned back to Ajax and smiled. )

I don't mind keeping you company though.

[monoceroscaeli]

[Ajax makes sure to say goodbye to Aether and shake his hand one last time, making sure he is on his best behavior in front of Aether to ensure he doesn't incur her brother's wrath for the moment. There is always a time and a place for everything, and this one calls for being a good boy and not provoking someone he'd rather be on their good side. Maybe another day he'll get the chance to know Aether a little better, but for now, his focus is squarely on the charming girl in front of him...who seems embarrassed that she can't dance.]

I'd like that, [he begins,] but, if you really don't know how to dance, I'd be more than happy to teach you some small steps. I don't think you'd be able to hurt my feet, anyhow. I'm pretty good at dodging attacks, haha.

[He chuckles at his own joke, but his eyes stay bright and earnest towards her.]

I'd be impressed if you managed to step on me at all. You can consider that a challenge.

[viatriix]

( Lumine takes a deep breath that slowly brings her face to a smile, amused and appreciative that he is not poking fun at her inexperience. Of course, she found her and Aether unnaturally good at learning new things. So, perhaps she really did just needed to try it at least once in order to get the hang of it. Feeling a sense of unknown familiarity, she gives him a nod of her head. )

Don't give me a challenge, I will do my most to succeed in that challenge. But alright, I'm not liable for any pain or dirt on your shoes.

( Picking off invisible loose threads from her dress, watching the married couple do their first dance. Swaying in her seat, soon this whole hall will be filled with music blaring in the speakers. It's funny how easy it is to just sit here, comfortable with a guy that she's met a few weeks ago. )