The two heads off to their restaurant and stayed there for a few hours chatting about the presentations and random things from time to time in their conversation to lighten the mood as the research topics are in-depth with information to process.
"There were many topics on magic that I could barely write them all down by the time they finish, that's why I thought of reading their papers once it is published" said Laura.
"I can understand that too, the mechanics of magic and technology seems to be advancing much faster than I could keep up as well...even a metal pole seems to be too advanced for me...."
"I don't think so Ms.Gear, you were simply distracted when you run into it" Laura comforted her.
"Right, I guess so...."
Aerina then took a deep breath and look at Laura, trying to hold her gaze.
(S-She's so beautiful, I can't look too long or I will go blind~....)
"Is there something on my face?"
(No! Your face is perfect!!!)
"No, it's.....just that....before...."
"? Yes?"
"You called my name"
"Oh. My apologies, I was caught off guard"
"Oh, no, that's fine. It's just....I don't really hear my name that often in the Academy, that's all"
"Well, your family is famous after all, few would casually address you with your first name"
She could give an example, but that person simply is too bothersome for her, even just mentioning him.
"I really...don't mind you call me by my given name..Ms--Lau--ra?", Aerina shyly look up at her while whispering her name softly, the sight made Laura happy and relief that Aerina treat her like this.
"Well, I hope we can get to know more about each other and get along well in the future as well, Aerina"
(Wah! So graceful!)
"Thank you, Laura, I look forward to it as well"
The two smiles at each other, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the restaurant. One of the server was distracted and overwhelmed by the atmosphere that he fainted.
_____________
At Alaine's room.
"Congratulation Alaine!"
"Thanks, Shin"
"Here's your congratulation kiss"
"
"And a gift!"
"Oh, thank you"
Shin handed Alaine all sorts of things with a smile on his face.
(Alaine completed her iconic spell, and what's more its even more powerful than usual because of my help! Now's the reward in my hand so I can give it to Alexia and pursue her!! Two birds with one stone, hahaha!)
"So, what's next?"
"Well, that's all"
"Nothing...else?" she look up at him, eyes full of expectation and anticipation.
"Maybe~?"
He leans in forward prompting Alaine to do the same.
But put a finger on her lips.
"So, what is it that you want from me?"
"....I-I-I-I"
"Hehehe"
"Want a sleepover!"
"? That's it?"
"You can't?"
"On the contrary, no", he then pushes her down on the bed and crawl on all four towards her.
"But, we will not be sleeping though~"
Alaine's eyes widened in surprise, before her mouth slowly turn upward.
"Then, why don't we do it then~?" in a sultry tone.
"....."
Minutes later.
That sound rang throughout the room, much louder and stronger than the claps from a crowd of audience.
_____________
"Have a good night, Senior Rualan"
"Aren't you forgetting something?"
"
"....."
"Oh, here's your apple"
"....You actually kept it?"
"Yes, I used ice magic to keep it fresh while you were presenting so it should still be as fresh as before"
"I appreciate it, but that isn't why I ask that question"
"Oh, then what is it then?"
"What's my name?"
"Senior Rualan"
"And when we're not in the Academy?"
"Ms.Mavik"
"....Are you testing my patience, Callum?" she asked her smile emitting a sinister vibe to Callum.
"Yes"
"I didn't know you have such a side to you"
"Well, I'm glad to be able to surprise you"
"....", she smiles again, more often than usual, so much more than she realizes.
"Have a good night, Rualan"
"Yes, you too, Callum"
Though reluctant, the night came so the two had to part ways.