My heart thumped a little faster, nerves twisting in my stomach as I glanced at Leora. She gave me an encouraging nod, her gaze warm and knowing, but I barely noticed.
My mind spun, searching for something to say that wouldn't betray the chaos in my thoughts. I swallowed, shifting my gaze back to Aeliana, who watched me with that gentle curiosity in her eyes.
"Actually," I started, rubbing the back of my neck and forcing a casual smile. "I don't have anything… serious to talk about right now. Just… maybe we could have lunch together?"
Aeliana's face lit up, and she nodded. "I'd like that."
I could feel Leora's smirk burning a hole in the back of my head as I led Aeliana out of the room, trying to keep my expression calm despite the thrill running through me. Being alone with Aeliana even for something as simple as lunch felt like the most exciting idea I'd had all week.