It had been two weeks since one of her soldiers announced the arrival of Aether and his companion. In that time, she had meticulously managed her schedule, ensuring that all her tasks were completed in a measured pace so her focus could remain on meeting him. She wasn't entirely sure why she felt such an intense eagerness to meet the boy; perhaps it was because they shared the common bond of being from worlds beyond this one.
Meanwhile, Aether had just wrapped up another commission. Exhaustion was etched into the dark circles under his eyes, his fatigue apparent with each weary step he took.
He sighed and sheathed his sword, pulling out a map to check his next destination.
"Paimon thinks we should get some tasty Sticky Honey Roast after this last commission!!" Paimon exclaimed, her voice tinged with excitement as she drooled at the thought of the delectable meal.
Aether groaned at the child's insistent greed but quickly relented, knowing he could use a hot meal himself. He couldn't deny that he missed the great food of Mondstadt; there was something about the culinary delights here that made him feel at home.
He tucked the map away into his inventory and continued walking until the familiar, inviting lights of Mondstadt came into view.
Approaching Sara's food stand, he paused as he noticed a new face among the usual patrons. The woman's attire was strikingly unfamiliar, making her stand out like a sore thumb. As if sensing his gaze, she smirked and made her way towards them.
"You seem rather drained. Let me guess... Commissions?" she inquired with a hint of sarcasm, placing a finger to her lips. Aether blushed slightly, rubbing the back of his neck nervously, though he kept his guard up.
"It's nothing that can't be handled. But, uh, yeah, it's commissions. I'm Aether, and this is Paimon." He chuckled lightly, offering a polite smile as he gestured to the small figure hovering beside him.
"It's nice to meet you, Creepy Cat Lady!" Paimon chirped, spinning behind Aether. He shot her a scolding glance, but the woman merely laughed.
"Oh? It's nice to meet you both. My name is Selina Kaiwara. I've heard some rather intriguing stories about you."
Selina's gaze lingered on them, her voice dripping with authority and confidence. Aether sensed that she was an important figure, but he wondered why he was only meeting her now.
"You two must be starving. I noticed you were heading towards Sara. If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to join you." She crossed her arms slightly. Aether nodded in agreement, and they all headed towards Sara's stand.
"Three Sticky Honey Roasts, please!" Paimon declared, practically salivating at the thought of the meal. Sara chuckled softly before her eyes widened as she took in Selina's presence. She straightened up, and Aether and Paimon exchanged puzzled looks.
"Oh—Ms. Kaiwara, I didn't realize you were here. My deepest apologies. It's a pleasure to see you. What can I get for you today?" Sara asked, her smile sincere as she looked to Selina.
"I'm with these two. Just add the meals to my tab—Is there anything else you need?" Selina asked, the two, her tone polite yet firm. They shuck their heads no as Sara nodded and went to prepare the order.
"Three Sticky Honey Roasts coming up!" she called out as she retreated to the oven. The trio made their way to a table, with Selina occasionally sneaking glances at Aether while he was distracted.
"So, what are you two up to after today?" Selina asked, her eyes locking onto Aether's golden ones. He shifted uncomfortably under her intense gaze, offering a lazy smile before answering.
"Well, we were on our way to finish our last commission, but Paimon got a bit hungry. So we decided to take a break," he explained. Selina observed his discomfort and nodded, crossing her legs beneath the table.
"I see. You know, I could lend a hand next time you tackle your commissions." Her offer sounded more like a command than a suggestion. Aether chuckled nervously, shaking his head.
"I wouldn't want to trouble you. I know you're probably very busy—"
"I insist," Selina interrupted, her tone firm yet warm. Aether stiffened at her change in tone but nodded hesitantly. Paimon gave him a curious look but continued to enjoy her food.
The atmosphere grew slightly tense, but a comforting calmness settled over them as they continued eating in silence. Aether was eager to learn more about the mysterious woman.
"How come I've never seen you around Mondstadt before? You seem like an important figure here. Could you tell me more about yourself?"
Selina's gaze fixed on him, and Aether's confidence wavered. He blushed and stared at his empty plate. "That is, if you don't mind sharing."
She chuckled at his bashful demeanor, finding his nervousness endearing. Her heart fluttered as she gazed into his captivating eyes.
"Well, I'm also a traveler, much like you," she began, her tone surprisingly candid. Aether and Paimon's eyes widened in surprise.
"I've been in Teyvat for over five centuries, my world is far from here. Naturally, I've made many acquaintances—and enemies. The reason you haven't seen me often is simply personal preference. I prefer to stay away from the city, residing in a manor not too far from here, in a more discreet area."
"After all, I'm a busy woman." She winked, causing Aether to blush slightly. He nodded, absorbing the information slowly.
"O-Oh, that explains a lot," Aether replied sheepishly, rubbing his neck. Selina noticed he did this frequently when anxious or nervous. She smirked to herself, leaning back in her chair as Paimon twirled in her seat.
"Paimon thinks Creepy Cat Lady is cool!" Paimon exclaimed, causing both Aether and Selina to laugh.
As the evening wore on, they continued to chat and enjoy each other's company. Selina eventually rose from her seat, giving Aether a warm smile.
"I look forward to meeting with both of you again, especially you, Traveler. I must be going now. Please take this opportunity to rest—you'll thank me later." She chuckled and waved as she prepared to leave.
"It was a pleasure chatting with you, Selina," Aether said with a smile.
"See ya, Miss Kaiwara!" Paimon added, waving enthusiastically.
Selina offered one last smile before paying for the food and disappearing into the night.
As Aether watched her leave, he felt a sense of fulfillment he hadn't expected. Ever since their first meeting, he knew that Selina was someone special... and dangerous.
♡︎
That grey area in my heart has now been fulfilled, Ever since i laid my eyes on your golden ones, i knew from that day forward.. You were something special.
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