Page 269 of Axis of Fire

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.