Diplomatic Affairs

Chapter 8: Pollings Ahoy

The rest of the week seemed to pass in a blur, and there I was, in my room, preparing for my mother's campaign fundraiser. As I sorted through my outfit options, Ari poked her head through the door, delivering a message from Michael. "The yacht leaves the marina in half an hour," she informed me before making herself comfortable on my bed. "How are you feeling?" she asked, her concern evident.

"Surprisingly, good," I replied, a sense of relief washing over me. "I think we've managed to divert some attention away from the scandal, which is a relief."

Ari nodded triumphantly. "See? I told you things would work out."

As I continued to get ready, Ari's curiosity got the best of her. "So, how's it been between you and Alex?" she inquired.

"I'm not entirely sure," I admitted. "Not seeing him around as much is strange, but I understand why we can't. We don't want anyone to catch on that Sebastian's just a ruse while Alex is actually the one in the photo."

"Alex doesn't seem too concerned about people finding out," Ari pointed out.

"I've had to deal with a lot lately with the press and my mom, and I don't want him to go through the same thing," I shared, my worry for him evident. Our conversation carried on until we finally made our way out of the room. A short while later, we arrived at the marina to a picturesque scene-a luxurious yacht gently swaying in the water, with the sound of vibrant music emanating from its deck.

Stepping onto the yacht, I felt a sense of readiness for the evening's festivities. As I barely settled onto the deck, a voice I knew all too well called out my name in a familiar yet unexpected tone. Turning, I spotted my mother making her way toward me, her face lighting up with a mixture of surprise and joy. Without hesitation, she enveloped me in a warm hug.

Surrounded by the attendees of the fundraiser, a blend of familiar faces from the academy and others I didn't recognize, I recognized the atmosphere of grandeur that the event held. As we broke from our embrace, my mother held onto my hand, her gratitude evident as she spoke, "You came."

With a reassuring smile, I replied, "Of course, Mom."

She shifted her gaze, a hint of bashfulness in her expression, admitting, "I was worried you might not, given how I acted at the academy."

Gently squeezing her hand, I reassured her, "It's alright, Mom. I know you're just under a lot of pressure." Her eyes sparkled with appreciation as she whispered a heartfelt "thank you."

Finding myself on the deck, gazing out at the water as the yacht gradually departed from the dock, I couldn't help but observe the gathering of royalty, world leaders, and influential figures from Veridia. Glancing at my mother, a shared smile exchanged between us, I remarked, "The turnout is good."

Her smile grew as she responded, "Thank you for extending the invitation to your classmates. Their parents might not have attended if it weren't for your involvement."

I nodded, a genuine grin forming. "Glad to contribute," I offered.

As my mother and I exchanged words, our conversation was momentarily interrupted by the approach of an important-looking man. Engaged in the discussion, she seemed preoccupied, leaving me to find a seat and gaze out at the serene waters. I was soon joined by Sebastian, who settled beside me with a casual "Hey."

"Hey," I replied in kind.

His observant eyes assessed me before he quipped, "You've got the look of a lost puppy. What's on your mind?"

I let out a sigh, admitting, "It's been a challenging few days. I guess I'm just craving a break from everything." He responded with a sympathetic smile, saying, "I totally get it. Fortunately, the academy is going on break."