Game's Extra

After finishing his shower and changing into casual clothes, Aiden stepped out of his dormitory, ready for dinner with Elena. His dark jeans and simple white shirt contrasted sharply with the extravagant setting he would soon find himself in. As he approached the park, he spotted Elena sitting on a bench under the glow of the moon. Her elegant features were illuminated by the soft silver light, and she seemed lost in thought.

When she noticed him, her face brightened with a smile. "Finally, you're here," she greeted warmly.

Aiden brushed it off, rubbing the back of his neck. "Yeah, let's get going."

They walked side by side to the academy's parking lot, where Aiden stopped in his tracks. Parked ahead of them was a sleek, luxurious hover car with gleaming black paint and elegant curves. His jaw nearly dropped.

"Is this… yours?" he asked, incredulous.

Elena gave him a small, almost shy smile. "Yes, my father gifted it to me for my birthday."

Aiden was stunned. "Of course he did," he muttered under his breath. "Rich people…"

"Come on," Elena said, opening the car door with a graceful gesture. "Let's go."

As Aiden climbed in, Elena instructed, "Alpha, reroute to the nearest route to Astara Grand Hotel." The car's AI beeped in acknowledgment, and they set off, gliding smoothly through the bustling city streets of Astara.

Aiden stared out the window, taking in the towering skyscrapers and glowing holographic billboards. When Elena mentioned the Astara Grand Hotel, he blinked in confusion. "Wait, did you say Astara Grand Hotel?"

Elena nodded. "Yes, it's one of the best restaurants in the city."

Aiden's thoughts raced. The best? How am I supposed to handle this?

When they arrived, the sight of the towering building left Aiden speechless. The grand entrance was adorned with luxurious designs, a sprawling garden lobby, and rows of expensive vehicles parked neatly in the lot. The opulence of the place screamed wealth.

What did I get myself into? he thought.

They entered the grand lobby and headed to the restaurant. The polished floors gleamed under the chandeliers, and the air smelled faintly of lavender and rich spices. At the reception desk, a well-dressed receptionist greeted them.

"Good evening," the receptionist said with a polite smile.

"Good evening," Elena replied. "I have a reservation."

"Your name, please?"

"Elena Starwind."

The receptionist's expression brightened as she checked the name on her holographic screen. "Ah, Lady Starwind. Your table is ready. Please follow me."

Aiden followed Elena as they were guided to their table. The restaurant's interior was breathtaking, with panoramic views of the city and lavish decor. Aiden couldn't help but admire the view as they were seated.

When the waiter handed them the menu, Aiden nearly choked at the sight of the prices. 10,000 aurens for one dish? he thought, his eyes widening. "Dayum," he muttered under his breath.

Elena noticed his reaction and leaned closer. "You don't have to worry about the cost," she whispered. "Just eat as much as you like. It's my treat."

Aiden hesitated, feeling out of place. "You don't have to do this. Really. A simple meal would've been fine," he whispered back.

Elena shook her head, smiling. "Nonsense. This is my way of thanking you. Besides, you just came from the gym. You need to recharge your energy."

Their eyes met for a moment, and Elena's cheeks tinted a soft pink. "If you don't pick something, I'll choose for you," she added playfully.

Aiden sighed internally. I forgot. She's the princess of Starwind Industries. Of course, this is nothing for her. He nodded reluctantly. "Alright, I'll leave it to you."

Elena's face lit up, and she called the waiter, listing their order. Soon, dishes began arriving, one after another. Aiden stared at the feast in disbelief. The luxurious presentation of the food was overwhelming.

"This is too much," Aiden said, looking at the spread.

Elena giggled. "Don't worry. Just eat." She watched him with a content smile as he started to eat.

Must be nice to be rich, Aiden thought, sighing to himself. Despite the awkwardness, he couldn't deny the food was amazing.

The evening passed in pleasant conversation, with Elena's laughter filling the gaps. By the time they finished, it was already midnight. As they left the restaurant, Elena's driver brought the car around, and they began their journey back to the academy.

Once they arrived, Aiden stepped out and stretched. "Thanks for the dinner," he said sincerely. "Do you want me to escort you to your dorm?"

Elena hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "That would be nice."

As they walked, the campus was quiet under the glow of the moon. Their footsteps echoed softly on the cobblestone path.

"You didn't have to go all out for dinner," Aiden said.

"I wanted to," Elena replied. "You've done more for me than you realize."

Before Aiden could respond, Elena stumbled in her high heels. Aiden's reflexes kicked in, and he caught her before she could fall. The scene froze for a moment. Under the moonlight, with her in his arms, Elena looked up at him, her face flushed.

"Th-Thanks," she stammered, quickly fixing her balance.

"Be careful," Aiden said, brushing it off as they resumed walking. Elena's blush deepened, and she kept her gaze forward.

When they reached the women's dormitory, Elena turned to him. "Thank you for walking me back. Goodnight, Aiden."

"Goodnight," Aiden replied with a nod. As she disappeared into the building, he glanced up at the night sky. The stars were bright, and the moon cast a calming light over the campus.

With a sigh, Aiden turned and headed back to his dormitory. Once inside, he sank onto his bed. Today had been unexpectedly eventful. He closed his eyes, letting the comfort of his pillow lull him to sleep.