Hypernova : A Sequel to Supernova

Episode 2.3 - We Need To Talk

The grand ballroom of the opulent Atrium Hotel was bathed in a soft, ethereal glow from the shimmering chandeliers that hung like delicate constellations from the high ceiling. The scent of fresh roses mingled with the tantalizing aroma of gourmet hors d'oeuvres, carried on a gentle breeze created by the subtle hum of air conditioning.

Guests glided through the room, their laughter and chatter blending into a harmonious symphony.

At the heart of the room stood a grand stage, adorned with a sleek, futuristic backdrop emblazoned with the NeuroMend Initiative's logo—an intricate design of interconnected neural pathways, glowing in an array of calming blues and greens. On the stage, a long table was set with crystal goblets filled with sparkling champagne, waiting for the moment of celebration.

Holographic screens hovered nearby, displaying information about neurological conditions and groundbreaking treatments.

Jorah's arrival was impossible to miss as several guests turned to get a glimpse of the young Eren heir. Ignoring the eyes on him, Jorah's gaze swept the room with a practiced ease, his eyes skimming over the crowd.

It didn't take him long for him to find that person because even from across the room, he stood out. Kailen Kim was at the far end of the room, surrounded by a small group of admirers. His sleek, tailored suit hugged his frame perfectly, and without his glasses, his eyes seemed to gleam more intensely in the ambient light.

The moment Jorah laid eyes on him, he felt a heat rising in his chest and his throat suddenly felt dry as he watched Nine smiling while he conversed in his group.

Even though that smile wasn't directed at him, it effortlessly disarmed Jorah with its beauty.

Clearing his throat, Jorah reluctantly pulled his eyes away as guests approached him to greet him.

On the other side of the room, Nine's heart lurched the moment he saw Jorah. "He's here." He thought to himself as the noise of the party faded into a dull hum.The sharp lines of Jorah's tailored suit and the familiar set of his jaw brought a rush of memories that made Nine's scalp tingle.

He quickly forced himself to look away from the Eren heir, plastering on a smile that didn't reach his eyes.

While they were still on opposite sides of the room, since Jorah's arrival, Nine felt like his attention was being unconsciously split between his present focus and the past Jorah represented.

"This isn't so bad, right?" Ontae whispered beside him, jolting Nine back to the present.

Nine smiled at him, "I told you."

"I'm not used to dressing up like this." Ontae tugged on the sleeve of his blazer. Nine looked at his friend who was dressed in a dark green velvet blazer over a crisp white shirt, collar slightly unbuttoned, paired with slim-fit trousers. His brown hair was styled in casual waves, giving him a polished yet approachable air.

"I think you look pretty nice." Nine complimented him.

"Not as good as you." Ontae replied.

"Let's call it a tie," Nine responded, dryly as he glanced once more to where Jorah stood.

"Deal." Ontae noticed the shift in Nine's mood as he followed his gaze to where Jorah stood.

Suddenly, a low murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd as Dr. Yong took the stage and stepped up to the microphone. He adjusted his tuxedo and flashed a radiant smile.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice smooth and commanding, "welcome to the launch of the NeuroMend Initiative. Tonight, we embark on a journey to redefine the future of neural science and mental health."