No Warmth

Chapter 22- Soiree

Akari stole a glance at Kaname and Seiren; both of them were looking out the window of the vehicle.

Ayano worked hard on my hair, nails, and make up. I have to do my best today, so that her efforts don't go to waste. Akari thought. Though, it would have been nice if I could have gone to the event with the others.

"The Head of the Aido family, Hanabusa's father, is the host of tonight's soiree. You'll have to thank him as he made it possible for your name to be added into the guest list." Kaname turned to look at Akari. "You're the first child born into the Hio Clan who isn't a Pureblood, so you might have some unpleasant encounters. However, you still need to behave."

Akari looked at him in mock surprise. "You don't have any faith in me? That hurts, Dorm President."

Kaname looked unamused.

"Relax. Even if someone says something distasteful, I promise not to resort to violence." Akari smiled. "If I can have a civilized conversation with you, I'm sure I can be courteous with them too."

"I hope so." Kaname looked out the window again. "Don't forget I can always cease helping you."

When they arrived at their destination, Akari stepped out of the black car and looked around. The building was missing a front door, the walls were stained, and one of the windows was broken. What is he trying to pull? She gave Kaname a side-long glance. "The soiree is going to take place in an abandoned building?"

"No need to be on guard." Kaname walked past her. "There is an underground mansion that belongs to the Aido family beneath this building."

Before they could enter the building, Akatsuki walked towards them.

"I'm glad you're here, Lord Kaname. Something happened before you arrived." Akatsuki said. "For some reason, Yuki Cross was lying unconscious outside the building. Hanabusa took her to another room...he's currently with her."

"What a troublesome girl." Kaname muttered.

"I'll go and scope the place to make sure nothing is awry. Call for me if you need me, my lord." Seiren bowed.

"Very well." Kaname then turned to Akari. "You can go on ahead too. Akatsuki will take you to the ballroom."

Akari shook her head. "I think it's better for me to wait until you enter. I was invited because you spoke with Lord Aido, so it wouldn't feel right for me to be there if you're not present."

"Do as you please." Kaname walked away without sparing her another glance.

Akari followed Kaname into the room Yuki was staying in.

"Lord Kaname, she still hasn't woken up." Aido stood up from his chair.

"Thank you, Aido. I'll take it from here." Kaname said.

"Alright. I'll see you both in a bit." Aido left the room.

"I'll wait outside." Akari went to stand outside the door. Maybe I should have gone on ahead after all.

Akari's thoughts were interrupted by Takuma's voice. "Hey, Akari. Is Kaname still inside?"

Akari nodded.

"Come in, Takuma." Kaname frowned. "Now, you come get me?"

Takuma and Akari entered the room and closed the door.

Takuma smiled. "Kaname, please don't treat me like a nuisance. You're the one who finally agreed to attend a soiree. The host and guests are all waiting for you. Yuki is awake, and she'll be safe if she stays in this room."