Chapter 85:

  First Impressions

  (Lucas's POV)

  Today was the day. Four tickets. All access VIP passes delivered the day before. Hannah almost fainted when she received hers, overcome with joy.

  Now, she bounced excitedly in the back of the vehicle that was taking us to the concert.

  "I can't believe it!" she excimed, gripping the minated pass in her hand, "Thank you! Thank you!"

  She practically beamed brighter than the sun, sitting there in an autumn themed dress and winter leggings. It was modest and dark brown with a deep russet orange shawl to keep her warm. Denny sat next to her, watching with wry amusement. She wore jeans with a bck shirt underneath a dark grey wool jacket.

  "You're ridiculous," Denny teased, "It's just a concert."

  Hannah gasped, leaning real close to Denny with a serious expression on her face.

  "It's not just a concert!" she chided, "It's a charity! All the proceeds are going to help those affected by Gate Breaks or otherwise dispced! It-"

  "Alright, alright!" Denny pced her hand on Hannah's face and pushed her off, "I got it, alright! Damn..."

  "Hmph," Hannah huffed and sat back down, folding her arms, "You just don't get it. Julian is an angel. They are not only handsome, but beautiful and kind! I can't believe you got these tickets!"

  With stars in her eyes, she csped her hands together and stared at both me and Elizabeth.

  "How did you do it!?" she wondered in amazement.

  I exchanged a look with Elizabeth, remembering our time in the garden. Sharing a knowing smile, I simply shrugged.

  "Ellie simply asked for a favor," I expined, "You know, Julian is a huge fan of her."

  "Woah! Really!?" Hannah grew fascinated, leaning forward with excitement, "I thought I knew everything about Julian, but I mean...it makes sense! Big Sis El is amazing! Tell me, how did you two-"

  Elizabeth held up her hand, trying to hide her discomfort on the subject of Julian.

  "For your sake, Hannah..." Elizabeth said with slight apprehension, "It'd be best if you don't ask what I think of them."

  "Oh...right," Hannah chuckled awkwardly, sitting back in her sit, "I forgot you don't really like Julian that much, do you?"

  "Not really...no," Elizabeth answered honestly, then gnced at me with a tender gaze, "But...Lucas requested this, and so I couldn't say no. You should thank him more than me."

  "Nonsense, my love," I nudged her, "You were the one who asked."

  "And you asked me," she retorted with coyness, "Regardless, I don't want to ruin this day for you, Hannah. So, just enjoy yourself, alright?"

  "Of course!" Hannah smiled widely, "Thank you, Brother!"

  "B-Brother?" I was taken aback by the sudden word, having not heard her use it before.

  "I mean...yeah," she grew a little sheepish suddenly, looking down anxiously before gncing up with a timid gaze, "You're the closest thing I have to one, and since you're dating both of my sisters...that makes you my brother. Plus you're Denny's brother, and she's my best friend, so..."

  "Wait, I'm your best friend?" Denny looked shocked by this, "Really?"

  "Mhm!" Hannah nodded vigorously, csping Denny's hands in hers, a pout upon her face, "Don't tell me...you don't want to be?"

  "Well...I didn't say that," Denny blushed slightly, clearing her throat as she looked away and muttered, "It's just...the first time anyone has ever called me that."

  Hannah giggled happily, content that Denny accepted her friendship. I looked towards Elizabeth who wore a well-tailored bck suit today, though without a tie. She looked stunning as always. I myself had on a sleek outfit of dark dress pants and jacket with a mandarin colr, and a dark blue shirt underneath.

  I adjusted the colr and cuffs of my jacket, feeling a little confined.

  "Is it too uncomfortable?" Elizabeth asked, noticing me fidget.

  "A little, but..." I shrugged, smiling up at her, "It isn't because it doesn't fit. I guess I'm just nervous. Never been to a concert before."

  Wrapping an arm around me, Elizabeth hugged me close and kissed the side of my head.

  "It'll be alright," she whispered, "Just stay close to me."

  I smiled, pressing myself against her.

  "Oh, that's easy," I chuckled, much to Denny's chagrin.

  "Ugh, do you have to do that with us in the car?" Denny groaned, rolling her eyes in mock disgust.

  "Just because you're jealous..." I teased, pyfully pushing her leg with my foot, "Don't worry, you'll find someone to love you one day."

  "Woooow," Denny shook her head in disbelief, "Who said I don't?"

  "She doesn't," Hannah quipped instantly, earning a look of betrayal from Denny.

  "Thanks, Hannah," she stated dryly, "And you just said I was your best friend."

  "You are my best friend," Hannah told her, "That doesn't mean I'll lie to you."

  "...You two suck," Denny scoffed, shaking her head; though despite her protests, there was a hint of a smile upon her face, "Maybe I don't want that right now."

  "And hey, I support you in your loneliness," I assured her jokingly, "There has to be at least one Aunt who is single and spoils their nieces and nephews."

  "I aspire to inspire," Denny said with a smirk before gently kicking my foot, "You're an asshole, you know that?"

  "I learned from the best, Denny," I responded simply, then grew a little serious, "Truly, though. I'm sure you'll figure it out. There's no rush."

  "I know. Just not my thing right now," Denny chuckled, then nodded over towards Elizabeth, "Though...I think you started something."

  Curious what she meant, I gnced over at Elizabeth to see a slight blush on her face and completely in a daze.

  "...Ellie?" I asked with intrigued amusement, gently poking her cheek, "Earth to Ellie, everything alright?"

  Looking over at me, her blush deepened as she took my hand in hers. She smiled with a deeply profound love and obsession, I felt a shiver run up my spine.

  "Children...with you," her smile grew tender, "What a wonderful thought~."

  I grew flustered at how intense she was, my thoughts filling with a life settled down with her. Soon, we were both just a mushy mess surrounded by stars in our eyes.

  "...I think we lost them," Denny sighed, speaking to Hannah.

  "I think so," Hannah giggled, sounding pleased, "It's nice, you know? Thinking of the future even with the world like this."

  "Yeah...I agree," Denny responded, leaning back in her seat.

  Their words snapped us back to reality as we recalled what we were fighting for. It didn't matter how much we dreamed about it if I didn't live long enough to see it. However, despite the somber mood that fell over us, Elizabeth cradled me tenderly and I in turn embraced her fondly.

  "It would be a lovely future," Elizabeth stated softly.

  "It will be a lovely future," I corrected and Elizabeth smiled warmly.

  "Indeed," she nodded and held me closer, "I'll ensure it."

  Denny and Hannah looked at each other with tender understanding. No one else said a word as we finished the ride to the concert in loving silence.

  Upon arrival, we pulled up to a rge park that had been sectioned off and patrolled by Pyers from Julian's Aurora Guild. There were thousands of people who had showed up for this impromptu concert. The air was abuzz with excitement.

  Inside of the park was a rge stage with multiple tiers and dazzling with various adornments. Crystal spires in two columns leading up the tiers, floating lights, and various screens so that those in the back could see and for special effects. There were also many food stalls out on the wn of the park and a few medical tents.

  People milled about, talking and eating as they waited for the festivities to fully start. We pulled up to a gate near the back of the concert were a guard stopped the car. Our driver presented our credentials and we were immediately let through into the parking lot at the back. Apparently, Julian had gone all out on our tickets that we were basically part of the production.

  As soon as the car parked, I nodded towards the driver who I had talked to earlier. They returned the nod and I opened the door and stepped out. Elizabeth raised a curious eyebrow, then smiled amusing as I offered her my hand.

  "My dashing prince," she said coyly, taking my hand as I helped her out, whereupon she stepped aside and wrapped her arm around me as I also helped Denny and Hannah out of the vehicle.

  "I just...wanted to do something," I blushed slightly as Hannah and Denny took my hand one by one, thanking me kindly.

  "Appreciate it, bro," Denny stated.

  "Thank you, Big Brother," Hannah said softly, a little shy, "And..."

  Suddenly, Hannah hugged me, surprising everyone. She held on tight, smelling of cherry blossoms.

  "Truly, thank you~," she whispered bashfully before releasing me and going to stand behind Denny, who she hooked her arms with, "I can't wait for this concert."

  "You're welcome," I replied awkwardly, rubbing the back of my neck, "Ellie is the one who made this possible though, so-"

  Elizabeth put a finger to my lips, silencing me.

  "Just accept it, my love," she told me, "If not for you, I wouldn't even be here. This is all you."

  "Hrm," I grumbled, not quite accepting her reasoning, but understanding what she meant, "Alright, well, I don't want to ruin this so...where exactly do we go?"

  Just as I asked that, a young woman with mousy brown hair in a messy bun spotted us. She wore a neatly pressed grey suit with skirt and bck leggings. Everything about her screamed professional, holding a tablet and making her way over to us.

  They were of average build with fair skin and green eyes. Yet something about them felt...off. Perhaps it was just my imagination.

  "Ms. Falcrest, Mr. Avington," she greeted us, bowing her head politely, then turning towards Denny and Hannah, "And you two must be Ms. Avington and Ms. Rosengard."

  "Uhm, just Denny is fine," Denny corrected and the woman made a note on her tablet.

  "Hannah, please," Hannah smiled and once again the woman made a note on her tablet.

  "Very well, Denny, Hannah," she smiled kindly, "My name is Julia, and I'll be your correspondent while you're here. Julian has requested that I see to your every need, and...they've heard you're a big fan, Hannah."

  "Uhm, well...yes," Hannah was growing nervous, tightening her hold on Denny's arm, "They know about me?"

  "Of course," Julia responded, "Julian does their best to learn the names of all their fans, though...you're a special case."

  "Sp-special...case...hehehe..." Hannah fully left us in that moment, melting against Denny, "They said I'm special..."

  It was at this moment that Elizabeth sighed heavily in annoyance. Gncing up at her, I was confused to see her gring at Julia, but before I could ask what was wrong, Elizabeth spoke.

  "Cut the shit, Julian," Elizabeth stated harshly, "I don't have time for your games, and Hannah came here to see you. I don't think it's very nice to py with her."

  Julia flinched, their smile suddenly frozen on their face.

  "Big Sis...?" Hannah inquired as Denny helped cool them off by fanning their face, "What do you mean...Julian?"

  "Ugh, it wasn't even clever," Elizabeth sighed, "Julia? Really? It's only missing the N."

  "Ah...guess I can't fool you, huh?" Julia/Julian stated as their image shimmered to reveal their true self.

  Their hair grew longer, tied up in a high ponytail that flowed slightly in the wind. The mousy brown turned to one of strawberry blonde with a red streaks within it. Their eyes shimmered, fading from green into more of a marigold yellow.

  The face of "Julia" became slightly more dainty and fair, with their clothes fading from professional attired to a more fashion oriented style. Tight jeans with chains and a belt that was glittering with gemmed studs hung haphazardly across their waist. A dark shirt that revealed just enough of their colrbone to be a little provocative y under a pearlescent overcoat that hung open.

  The overcoat didn't quite reach their wrists, stopping about halfway up the forearm. Upon their wrists were many bracelets of various types, many of them beaded however. Hanging from their neck were three different pendants of varying sizes yered one after the other. One was almost a choker with the symbol of the Aurora Guild upon it, a stylized AG within a circle. Hanging just below that was what looked like a fang upon a brown leather cord, and the third one just below it held a deepest red diamond set into what looked like a starmetal casing upon a bck leather cord.

  Sure enough, standing before them was Julian. The leader of the Aurora Guild. Now I understood why something felt off earlier, and why Elizabeth reacted how she did. Nothing got past her.

  "I apologize for the deception, I-" Julian began, only for Hannah to practically faint on the spot.

  "J-Julian...ah~," Hannah practically fainted at the sight of them, if not for Denny holding her up.

  "Damn it..." Denny muttered, sighing with slight exasperation, "And I had just gotten her cooled off..."

  Julian looked a little concerned even as they smiled. However, something beyond the smile caught my eye. Something that felt familiar, yet I just couldn't pce it.

  "Ah, sorry. I guess I startled her," Julian apologized, attempting to go and help Denny with Hannah, only for Denny to hold up a firm hand to stop them.

  "Oh no you don't," Denny told them firmly, "She might actually die if you touch her. I got this."

  "Denny, I'm fine..." Hannah assured unconvincingly as she struggled to stand, furtively gncing over at Julian.

  "Fine my ass," Denny chided, helping to steady herself, "You're a mess."

  Hannah blushed deeply, looking away in embarrassment.

  "So much for first impressions..." Hannah muttered, gncing over at Julian with an apologetic smile, "I'm sorry, I must look pathetic."

  "Oh, it's alright. You're not pathetic, dear," Julian dismissed it with a flourish of their hand, "I'm used to it. People faint around me all the time. At least your conscious."

  Hannah was on cloud nine after Julian called her "dear". So much so that either she didn't register the indifference in their tone after the fact or didn't care. Either way, I felt it again. Something I couldn't quite pce.

  "I told you, she's your biggest fan," Elizabeth chimed in with a sigh, shaking her head, "I can't understand it, but...she's happy, so you better show her a good time. Understood?"

  "Ah, right..." Julian chuckled nervously, "Come this way, I have a pce you all can rest before the show."

  I didn't notice it before, but Julian's voice was rather gentle and whimsical. A silvery sound that was rather smooth. It wasn't overly deep, yet not exactly high either. It was a little hard to pce the sound, but it wasn't unpleasant.

  Something was bothering me, however, and I couldn't quite pce my finger on it. "There it was again..." I pondered what I heard in their voice. It wasn't insincerity. They seemed genuinely polite and happy to see everyone, but it was something else. Something familiar. "What the hell is it...?"

  Before Julian showed us the way, they gnced at me and then at Elizabeth. We had our arms around each others waists, and for a brief moment...I swore I thought I saw Julian's face become a little pink before they turned and showed Denny where to bring Hannah.

  "...I think they definitely know," I muttered as they walked off, putting from my mind what was bothering me for now.

  "Should we give them a show?" Elizabeth asked devilishly, and I could feel her hand slide down along my waist to my ass, squeezing it ever so slightly.

  "Heh, maybe, but behave," I chided her, "We're here for Hannah. Remember that."

  "Yes, sir~," she teased, returning her hand to my waist.

  I could only roll my eyes and smile as we followed after them.

  ------

  (Lucas's POV, Moments Later)

  Julian brought us to a backstage room that felt incredibly out of pce. I knew we were in a park, and yet it was like I had just stepped into a small studio apartment. There were several pces to sit, including two different couches with a white wood coffee table between them. There was a rge ft-screen television against one wall, currently turned off. Several pnts decorated the corners of the room and hung from the ceiling as well, giving the otherwise pin white walls a refreshing vibe.

  There was even a small kitchen area where Julian walked over to the moment we entered.

  "Please, sit wherever you'd like," they spoke with a lyrical tone.

  Denny helped Hannah into the room, who was simply seeing stars. From the small fridge in the room, Julian pulled out a water and walked over to Hannah.

  "Here, you should probably drink something," Julian offered with a charming smile.

  Hannah giggled, hesitantly taking the bottle of water with a small smile.

  "Thank you..." Hannah said softly, blushing as Denny rolled her eyes.

  "Of course~," Julian replied with a dazzle that seemed to appear around them, and yet...

  "Again, there it is," I heard something in their words, an undertone that felt familiar. Not only that, but I saw it. Their eyes, sparkling as they were, held something so...cold. That's when it clicked. "Fuck..." I immediately felt my heart sink as I realized that despite Julian's exuberant exterior, they held a cold detachment. A distance between them and everyone else.

  It was just like Maya when I first met her. That's why it felt so familiar.

  "If even I can sense it, then..." My eyes passed over Hannah who was still awestruck by being so close to Julian. She clung to Denny as she excitedly talked to Julian, who responded in kind words, but that sense of distance remained. Something that it seemed Denny also realized as they looked upon Julian with a protective wariness, keeping a little bit in front of Hannah.

  Though, I couldn't really bme Julian, for a person in their position was often held to a certain standard. How many people like Hannah did they deal with on a daily basis? Julian had to have many fans who crushed on them, and possibly even stalkers. It made sense to keep a certain distance, but it also felt like there was more to it than that. A certain...sadness.

  "I guess it must be lonely at the top," my thoughts were understanding, though disheartened. Hannah had been looking forward to meeting Julian for so long. I couldn't help but feel like she might be disappointed, but for now, she looked happy. Which is what mattered.

  As my thoughts turned from them for a moment, I couldn't help but pass my gaze over Elizabeth, the same thoughts running through my mind about her. Wondering how many people in this world had a crush on her. How many stalkers?

  After all, she was a prolific figure in the Pyer community, being the leader of the number one guild in the United States, if not the world itself due to Aegis Unlimited. Her company provided the entire world with services that helped everyone. From cosmetics to electronics, and defense contracts to medicine. They had their hands in everything.

  On top of that...she was gorgeous, and I was sure I recalled something about her posing for a modelling shoot at one point, though my memory of it was foggy. "I'd actually like to see that..." I thought to myself, imagining Elizabeth posing in different outfits. Some of them for my eyes only.

  Elizabeth caught me looking and smiled, a glint of mischief in her eye.

  "What's on your mind, love?" she whispered and I blushed slightly.

  "...Nothing," I replied, though smiled coyly, "Something for ter, is all."

  "Oh? I can't wait~," she purred.

  Nestling against her, I was reminded of how lucky I was. Let the world and its people of their crush, she was mine in the end. The only thought that bothered me was that she may have stalkers. Of course...gncing up at her, I highly doubted that any of those stalkers were still alive.

  She'd not chance anyone endangering me. Something that would be bound to happen with such people. I was lucky that my own stalker wasn't as irrational, though she could definitely be a handful. I chuckled to myself, gazing fondly upon Elizabeth.

  "Shall we sit?" I whispered, and she nodded.

  Together, we walked into the room and took one of the couches, which seemed to prompt the others to sit as well. Denny and Hannah took the other couch, while Julian sat across from them in a chair. Ever dazzling, Julian remained smiling as they engaged with Hannah.

  "I hear you're a really big fan," Julian stated, crossing one leg over the other, "I was saddened to hear you weren't able to get tickets. Your big sister really must love you to have asked me for a favor."

  "Heh...yeah," Hannah gnced over at Elizabeth with a slight blush and grateful smile, "I think I've said thank you a million times by now."

  "Just a couple million," Elizabeth teased, pcing her arm around me as she pulled me close, "The real one to thank is Lucas, though. He told me to do so."

  I nudged her pyfully and rolled my eyes.

  "It's nothing, really," I assured with a smile, "Just wanted to see you happy, Hannah."

  Hannah smiled warmly, her blush deepening. Denny also smiled, watching her friend fondly. Julian furtively gnced between Elizabeth and me, their face turning slightly pink before they averted their eyes entirely, shifting a bit in their chair.

  "Right, well..." Julian cleared their throat, "I was happy to do so. It's not every day that Ms. Falcrest asks for a favor. You know, I'm a huge fan of her."

  "Yes!" Hannah excimed excitedly, "I hear you're even a part of Big Sis El's fan club!"

  Julian's eyes widened as their face turned completely red. Definitely caught off-guard by Hannah's statement, their defenses dropped for a moment as embarrassment overtook them.

  "Well, er...yes, I am," Julian replied hesitantly, "She's someone to aspire to be."

  "Tell me about it!" Hannah exuded joy as she practically bounced in her seat, "She's amazing. Did you know that..."

  Hannah went on to talk admirably about Elizabeth and everything that she has accomplished. Her words were somewhat drowned out as I turned my attention towards Elizabeth, an amused expression upon my face.

  "A fan club, huh?" I whispered, much to Elizabeth's embarrassment as she ran a hand over her face.

  "Don't remind me..." she replied quietly, "I can't seem to get rid of it."

  "Heh, maybe I should join," I teased, "After all, I'm your biggest fan."

  "Gods, please no," Elizabeth said in horror.

  "Aww, what's wrong?" I chuckled, leaning in closer to her as I spoke softly, "Just imagine. A pce I can talk all about you. All the time."

  "I don't want you involved with them," Elizabeth practically shriveled at the idea, "If you want to talk about me, you can do it with me. Or Maya. Even Denny or Hannah. Your parents. Just...not those people."

  "Wow, so selfish," I joked, cing my fingers with hers, "Don't worry, why share what I think of you with others when I can show you."

  I chuckled, nibbling at her neck before giving it a gently kiss. She shivered, her hand tightening around mine. Her eyes told me I was pying a dangerous game, but life with her was always dangerous. This was nothing new.

  "Ahem," Denny cleared her throat, catching our attention, "If you two don't mind..."

  Hannah hid her face behind her hands, looking on with curiosity and shyness. Denny looked unimpressed and exasperated, while Julian shifted even more in their seat, their face having become even more red than before.

  Chuckling, I smiled bashfully.

  "Sorry, couldn't help myself," I told them, sitting back as I rested my head against Elizabeth's shoulder, "So, when does the concert start?"

  "Ah, uhm..." Julian shifted once more, looking a little uncomfortable, but not in an unpleasant way, "Well, we want to give people a chance to walk around the park. Get some food and buy some merchandise before starting. There will be a couple of acts before me, to warm up the crowd."

  "I see, and you're actually going to sing?" I asked, curious about how this all worked.

  "Yes," Julian stated pridefully, suddenly changing demeanor as we talked about their work, "I have a whole show pnned that I hope everyone will love. This is for charity, but I want people to enjoy themselves."

  I took a moment to assess Julian. Even with the distance they pced between themselves and others, I didn't think they were a bad person. After all, if they were, Elizabeth would have probably killed them by now. They also sounded quite genuine about wanting people to enjoy themselves. Which made me wonder...

  "Are you enjoying yourself?" I asked rather bluntly, curious about how they would react.

  They flinched slightly at the question, but otherwise kept a smile on their face.

  "Of course," they answered assuredly, "If I didn't enjoy what I did, then I wouldn't do it. Besides, how could I keep all of this to myself?"

  Hannah giggled as Julian motioned to themselves, while Hannah and Elizabeth rolled their eyes. I had to control myself not to roll my eyes as well, which was a little difficult.

  I didn't think they were lying, but at the same time it was difficult to discern if their confidence came from arrogance and conceit...or just a script that they were reading off from. A way to keep up appearances. It made me begin to understand more of why Elizabeth didn't like Julian much.

  They weren't completely honest with themselves, and the grandstanding was unnecessary.

  "Heh, right..." I scoffed with wry amusement, 'Can't have that, now can we?"

  "Of course not!" Julian excimed with a ugh, "What a travesty that would be! How would the people survive?"

  "...They'd live," Elizabeth muttered dryly.

  "Py nice," I whispered with a pyful nudge.

  She simply rolled her eyes and tightened her arm around me.

  "I, for one, would be devastated," Hannah said honestly, "Your music inspires me, and your fashion line is amazing, and of course...well..."

  Hannah blushed as she looked away from them, suddenly becoming shy.

  "Cat got your tongue?" I teased, earning a pyful scowl from her.

  Denny sighed and stood, turning everyone's attention to her.

  "I need to get some air," she announced quietly and began to move towards the door.

  "Denny, wait...!" Hannah reached out for her, taking ahold of her hand, "Are you really leaving?"

  Denny looked back at Hannah, who was looking up at her with lost puppy eyes. This seemed to trigger something in Denny who suddenly looked uncomfortable.

  "No..." Denny answered, shifting her weight a bit, "Like I said, I just need some air."

  "Hmm..." Hannah bore holes in her with an intense, scrutinizing stare, "Are you sure?"

  "...Yes, honest," Denny was practically sweating under the pressure, "If you can pull yourself away for a moment...you're more than welcome to join me."

  Hannah looked conflicted in that moment, gncing between her and Julian. It was obvious that she wanted to stay and talk more with Julian, but she also wanted to spend time with her friend. Seeing the conflict, Denny pried Hannah from her and gave as reassuring a smile as she could...however, I knew her better than anyone here.

  Beneath her smile, Denny felt slightly disappointed, but understanding. She didn't want to ruin her friends meeting with the person who was essentially her idol in all things.

  "It's alright," Denny told her warmly, "Enjoy yourself. Just not my scene. Besides...if I stay any longer..."

  Denny shot a quick gnce at Julian, a flicker of annoyance glinting in her eyes. It was only for a fraction of a second before it was gone.

  "I just need some air," Denny patted Hannah on the head, "I'll be waiting for you, alright?"

  "...Hmm, okay," Hannah smiled, though there was a sadness to it, "I'll meet you out there?"

  "Of course," Denny nodded and finally turned to go.

  "Ah, hold on a moment," Julian spoke up, reaching into their inventory, "Before you go, you should probably take this. It'll give you free access anywhere on the grounds."

  From their inventory, they pulled a nyard with a card on it that said "VIP: ALL ACCESS", with Denny's name and picture. They tossed it to Denny who caught it easily, with Julian pulling out three more right after.

  "You should all have these," they handed them to everyone, with Hannah taking hers carefully from Julian, clutching it excitedly, "It's different from the regur VIP badges, as it only gets them backstage for the meet ter. This will allow you to-"

  "...Thanks," Denny said dryly, not letting them finish, "I'll see you guys out there."

  With that, she quickly turned and left before anyone could stop her. Taking a deep breath, I let out a heavy sigh. I knew what was bothering her, but she was definitely going a bit overboard. Hannah looked concerned, watching after her friend.

  "Denny..." Hannah muttered softly, still clutching the nyard to her chest.

  "Did I...do something?" Julian asked, looking a little confused.

  "No, of course not!" Hannah decred as if perishing the thought, "She's just...well, I don't know, but..."

  Looking a little frantic, Hannah had a moment of crisis before she finally resolved herself. Standing, she half bowed in apology to Julian.

  "I'm sorry, but I-" she began, but Julian raised their hand.

  "It's alright," they assured her with a smile, "Go see to your friend. We'll have plenty of time to talk ter."

  "You promise?" Hannah looked up at them with sparkling eyes full of hope, catching Julian off-guard.

  "Uhm, yeah, of course!" Julian answered, causing Hannah to beam.

  "I can't wait!" she giggled again, practically dancing on the spot before rushing towards the door, "I'll hold you to that!"

  She waved goodbye and left the room, calling after Denny. As soon as the door closed, Julian let out a breath of relief, forgetting for a moment that we were still in the room with them. Noticing that, they cleared their throat and sat a bit straighter.

  "Ah, that was wild, right?" Julian tried to joke, noticing both Elizabeth and I watching them, "I didn't do anything wrong, did I?"

  "You're an idiot," Elizabeth told them bluntly.

  "Ellie..." I cautioned, sitting down on the edge of the couch next to Hannah, "I said py nice."

  She reluctantly conceded, leaning against the arm of the couch with a huff. Julian looked rather confused, as I adjusted and addressed them.

  "No, you didn't do anything wrong," I assured them, hesitating for a moment, "Not really, anyways. It's just..."

  "What is it?" Julian inquired, genuinely sounding concerned, "If I've done something, I'd like to rectify it. Denny looked rather uncomfortable in here."

  "It's just..." I shrugged, then decided to be serious and address the issue directly, "Julian, how do you feel about your fans?"

  The words came from my mouth like a knife. They cut sharp and true, piercing into the persona that was Julian.

  "I mean..." they shifted a bit, looking unsure how to answer, "I love my fans, of course! Without them, I'd be nothing."

  "Right, but..." I struggled to find the right words, as I didn't want to be rude, though there didn't seem a way to avoid it, "I'm sorry, it's not my pce. We've only just met, so-"

  "No," Julian was surprisingly firm as they cut me off, "Please, speak your mind."

  For the first time, they appeared serious. Their expression and eyes sharper than before. It seemed like they really cared to hear what I had to say, but it wouldn't be pretty.

  "It's just..." I took a moment to formute my words, "You don't really care, do you?"

  They balked a bit at my words, tilting their head as they assessed me. At the same time, I watched them closely, seeing how they would react.

  "I do care," Julian finally stated, a bite to their tone, "Never say I don't."

  "Julian..." Elizabeth's eyes glinted with an inner emerald fme, "Watch yourself."

  Julian sunk back a bit, wary of her. The tension was high, but I had my answer.

  "Rex, both of you," I cast a cautionary gnce at Elizabeth, who listened as she released a bit of the pressure she was exuding, but kept a close eye on Julian.

  "I apologize," Julian sighed, leaning back in their chair, "I'm just really passionate about what I do, and I did ask you to speak your mind."

  "Yes, and I will," I felt a little more confident tely, because I would have never said anything before, but now...I found that I couldn't hold myself back, ""Julian, Hannah really likes you, and while I understand you don't know her and you deal with people like her all the time...the distance you keep is too cold."

  "What do you mean?" Julian asked, and I simply sighed, "Isn't it normal to keep a certain distance?"

  "He means, Julian, that-" Elizabeth began impatiently.

  "Ellie, what did I say?" I warned, shooting her a hard gnce.

  She grumbled, but listened as she went silent.

  "But yes, to answer your question," I continued, returning my attention to Julian, "It is normal. After all, you can't get close to everyone you meet."

  "No, I can't," Julian agreed, though was watching me curiously, "I get dozens of love letters and confessions everyday. I even have stalkers. You probably don't know what that's like."

  Gncing over at Elizabeth, she avoided eye-contact with me as she feigned innocence.

  "Oh, I have an idea," I chuckled, "Regardless, you don't seem too disturbed about it."

  "Well..." Julian shrugged, "I can't bme them. I mean, I'm really popur."

  Elizabeth groaned, rolling her eyes so hard that I could feel the disdain. Pcing my hand on her thigh, I caressed it comfortingly to get her to rex. Entwining her hand with mine, she held it appreciatively.

  "Maybe this was a mistake..." I shook my head, "Let's just forget it."

  "What?" Julian looked surprised, "No, please. Finish what you were saying."

  "Look, you did us a favor," I told them with a sigh, "One that I really appreciate. Being here, meeting you...it means a lot to Hannah."

  Julian didn't say anything, just gnced over at the door where she had left. After a moment, they looked away contemptively.

  "All I'm saying is..." I took a deep breath, "Rex. You're trying too hard. Your fans will love you regardless. Just give them a chance."

  Julian froze, slowly looking over at me with as polite of a forced smile as I've ever seen.

  "Whatever do you mean?" they began, "I-"

  "Julian," Elizabeth interrupted, this time keeping her tone polite, yet serious, "My love is rather perceptive at the most...curious of times. He's noticed, as I have, how you aren't as genuine as you appear."

  Julian flinched at her words and in that moment, it was like all the walls faded away. Julian's posture faltered and they slumped back into their chair. Their eyes gzed over for a moment before a certain crity repced them.

  "Ah, was it that obvious?" Julian sighed, pcing a hand over their face, "It's not that I don't care, Mr. Avington."

  "Lucas is fine," I told them, "I also don't think you don't care. I just think there's a little bit of...disconnect."

  Julian chuckled softly, gncing over at Elizabeth with a slight smile.

  "Where did you find him?" Julian asked, "He saw through me almost as fast as you."

  "I met him long ago," Elizabeth answered honestly, though her eyes grew sharp like daggers, "Don't get any ideas. He's mine."

  "I wasn't, but noted," Julian assured her, turning their attention back to me, "I care about my fans, Lucas. I just...they see me as Julian, The Radiant. Not just...Julian. If that makes sense. I don't want to break that illusion for them."

  "I understand. You want to keep up appearances," leaning back against Elizabeth, I gave them a warm smile, "As I said, however, your fans might surprise you. Those who truly care, anyways."

  "It's not about me, though," Julian shifted in their seat, "It's about them. I act the part. Cool and aloof, yet excited when it counts. They want an idol, and I can give that to them."

  "You're an icon, yes," I agreed, but with a caveat, "However, you're more than that, and you need to give your fans that same chance. Sorry...again, we just met so I'm making a lot of assumptions."

  "No," Julian shook their head with a smile, "You're right, I am more than that, but it's what I am, and that's what I must be. So-"

  I couldn't stop myself from rolling my eyes as I clicked my tongue.

  "Look, just give some thought," I told them, "Be yourself. Not just Julian the Radiant. I can't speak for the rest of your fans, but I know Hannah would love that, and I just want to see her happy."

  "You really care for her, don't you?" Julian asked, and I nodded.

  "Of course I do," I stated simply, "She's family, and she won't shut up about you. I know things are complicated, but I'm also saying all of this not just for her...but you."

  "Me?" Julian looked surprised, "Really?"

  "Yes," I nodded and chuckled, speaking with tender warmth, "I know someone who was just like you. Restrictive. Distant. Afraid to get close to anyone. Afraid to be themselves. It's not wrong to be yourself. You can be both. You don't need to limit yourself."

  I watched as tears began to well up in Julian's eyes, but were quickly wiped away as they composed themselves.

  "Bold words, Lucas," Julian chuckled through the tears, "I'll...definitely think about what you said. I think I understand why Denny left earlier..."

  "Did you?" I asked, to which they nodded.

  "They were upset for Hannah," Julian stated softly, "They also noticed that distance I was keeping...and she felt like I wasn't being genuine, right?"

  "Smarter than you look," Elizabeth quipped with a smirk.

  "Ellie..." I chided lovingly, "Will you py nice, jeez."

  "No, it's alright," Julian assured me, "She's right. I can be...stubborn. You've helped me open my eyes a bit. Thank you."

  "It's fine," I waved a hand dismissively, "Sorry if I made things awkward. Talk about first impressions..."

  Julian chuckled and shook their head.

  "Nah, as far as first impressions go..." Julian looked at me with a dazzle in their eyes, beaming as they smiled, "I'd say this was my favorite. Thank you for being honest with me. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go prepare a few things for the show."

  Getting up, they made their way towards the door to the room before pausing for a moment. Gncing back at us, there was a hint of mischief and knowing in their eyes, and a slight blush to their face.

  "Do try not to make a mess in here," they gave a wink and quickly left before we could reply.

  I stared after them in abject embarrassment that ran through my entire body. "Oh, they definitely know," I groaned and hid my face in my hands. Even as the embarrassment overtook me, I could take soce in the fact that Julian looked much better than before. There was a certain warmth in their eyes that repced the cold distance they had been keeping.

  I wasn't expecting any miracles, but it was good to see that I had made a difference.

  Just as I was getting over my embarrassment, I felt some rather...obsessive hands grip me as Elizabeth leaned into my ear.

  "So, shall we have some fun?" she whispered seductively, sending a shiver throughout my body and the embarrassment returned.

  "Ellie!" I excimed, looking at them admonishingly, "Don't be rude!"

  "Aww, you're not fun~," she chuckled, a glint of mischief in her eyes.

  Shaking my head, I leaned forward as I thought about what I had said to Julian, and hoping that Denny and Hannah were okay. I didn't want to ruin this for Hannah. At the very least...she still looked happy when she left.

  Elizabeth's hands trailed up my back as she leaned into me, resting her head against my shoulder. I smiled, reaching my hand up to caress her face. She smiled, grabbing my hand and kissing its palm.

  "You know..." she spoke softly, "I'm proud of you. You did good."

  "Did I?" I wondered with a soft chuckle, "I feel like I overstepped..."

  "No," she shook her head, "Julian needed to hear that."

  "Maybe, but-" I began to doubt myself, something that Elizabeth wouldn't allow.

  Tilting my head, she kissed me deeply, taking any words of doubt from my lips. I smiled into the kiss and gave into accepting what I had said and done. I couldn't take it back now, and maybe...just maybe, it would be for the best.

  As I lost myself to the sweetness of her lips, I felt Elizabeth's hands begin to wander. Catching them before they did anything naughty, I pulled away from her kiss, leaving her wanting.

  "No," I said softly, admonishing her, "Not here."

  "Hmph," she pouted, looking away in disappointment.

  "Heh, cute," I muttered, causing her to blush.

  Pcing a finger under her chin, I turned her to look back at me. I met her longing gaze with one of tender love.

  "Thank you for helping Hannah, my love," I told her gently, "I really appreciate it. Later, I promise, I will reward you again."

  Her eyes lit up, taking on that predatory glint.

  "Hmm, I'd like that~," she said, ying her hand upon my chest, "You also deserve a reward."

  "Oh?" I raised an eyebrow, "For what?"

  "As I said..." she told me fondly, "I'm proud of you. What you've done today and for Hannah. Also...just because I love you, Lucas~."

  There it was. The way she said my name filled with a warmth that burned even the sun. An endless love that swallowed me whole. I couldn't contain my own feelings in that moment, pushing her back against the couch as I took her head in my hands. Kissing her deeply, I poured my heart and soul into it, just so that she would know how much I appreciated her.

  She wrapped her arms around me and held on tightly. A tender moment of intimate understanding. A lover's kiss and warm embrace.

  We stayed like that for a while before it was time to meet the others.

  -----

  Nikushimi