Chasing Our Lost Stars [Completed]

Day three of Paris

As they approached the Louvre Museum on their third day in Paris, Vel's excitement was almost tangible. The grand architecture of the Louvre seemed to ignite a spark within him, making him quicken his pace. Krit followed, his steps slower, but his heart full as he watched Vel's reaction.

"This place is massive," Vel exclaimed, his eyes wide as they walked through the glass pyramid entrance. "I've always wanted to come here, but I never thought I'd actually make it."

Krit smiled at Vel's enthusiasm. "Why didn't you think you'd ever make it?" he asked gently, curious about the thoughts that had kept Vel from pursuing his dreams.

Vel shrugged, though there was a hint of vulnerability in his expression. "I guess I just didn't think it was possible. Life has a way of making you forget about things like this, you know?"

Krit nodded, understanding all too well the weight of responsibilities and the way they can bury dreams. "Well, I'm glad we're here now," he said. "You deserve to see the world, Vel."

Vel's smile brightened, and he led the way into the museum, practically dragging Krit along. The moment they entered, Vel was lost in the art. They wandered through galleries filled with ancient sculptures and Renaissance paintings, Vel's eyes absorbing every detail.

"Look at this one!" Vel called out, standing in front of a grand painting. "The detail is incredible, Krit. Can you believe this was done by hand?"

Krit stepped beside him, glancing at the painting but focusing more on Vel's face. The pure admiration in Vel's eyes made Krit's heart swell. "It's amazing," Krit agreed, though he barely glanced at the painting. "But you seem to appreciate it even more."

Vel laughed, a sound that echoed softly through the gallery. "I just love art, you know? It's like you can see the soul of the artist in their work. I wish I had more time to explore things like this."

Krit noticed the hint of sadness in Vel's voice. "You will," he promised. "We'll make time."

Vel's smile returned, more tender this time, and they moved on. As they wandered deeper into the museum, Vel's excitement only grew. When they reached the Mona Lisa, he practically bounced on his toes.

"Here it is," Vel whispered reverently. "The Mona Lisa. I can't believe I'm seeing it in person."

Krit watched as Vel carefully took out his phone and snapped a few pictures. Vel's reverence for the painting was evident, and Krit felt a deep sense of contentment watching him. Vel was in his element here, surrounded by art, absorbing every bit of knowledge the guides shared.

"Do you think she's smiling?" Vel asked, his voice soft as he studied the famous painting.

Krit tilted his head, looking at the Mona Lisa through Vel's eyes. "I think she is," he said. "In a way that only someone who's seen the world would understand."

Vel nodded thoughtfully, still gazing at the painting. "There's so much mystery in her eyes. It's like she knows something we don't."

They stood there for a while, lost in their thoughts, before Vel finally pulled himself away. They continued exploring the museum, Vel asking questions and Krit listening, more interested in Vel's reactions than in the art itself.

At one point, they found themselves in a gallery filled with statues, and Vel stopped in front of a marble sculpture of a Greek god. "Look at the detail in the muscles," Vel said, tracing the air above the sculpture with his fingers. "It's like the artist knew exactly how the human body works."

Krit stepped closer, his gaze fixed on Vel rather than the statue. "You know a lot about this," he said, his voice full of admiration. "You must have studied art."