As the airship's ramp lowered with a soft hiss, a figure suddenly sprinted toward Zane and Sera. It was Valerie — unmistakable with her striking purple eyes and determined stride.
Sera's heart fluttered, expecting a warm embrace for herself. But before she could react, Valerie wrapped her arms tightly around Zane.
Sera froze, eyes narrowing slightly as a pang of jealousy stirred inside her.
Zane stood there, stunned, cheeks flushing, utterly bewildered by Valerie's sudden affection. Valerie's fingers brushed gently against his hand, as if trying to hold it.
Nyx's voice echoed in Zane's mind, dripping with amusement, "Well, well, looks like someone's got the sister's attention — and you don't even know why yet!"
Zane wanted to say something, anything, but his mind scrambled to catch up with the moment.
Sera cleared her throat, masking her surprise. "Hey, Valerie... huh, I see you're very... friendly with Zane."
Valerie glanced at Sera, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Of course. Zane's the reason I'm here."
Sera shot a quick look at Zane, whose confusion was growing by the second.