Chapter 27: A Smile in Shadows

A Convenient Opportunity

The day had begun with an official notification for Lyris from the Ministry, requesting her presence for a high-profile concert in Civic Sector Delta’s central district. She was to perform at a government-organized event promoting unity between humans and Archons. As always, the Ministry’s orders left no room for negotiation.

Gaona had noticed her hesitance before leaving. “You’ll be fine,” he had said, trying to reassure her. “You’re amazing at this. Just… come back soon, okay?”

Lyris had looked at him for a long moment before nodding. “I will return promptly.”

As she departed, a cheerful knock echoed from the door. Gaona opened it to find Aria standing there, her radiant smile brightening the space.

“Good morning!” she chimed. “Looks like you’re free today! How about we do something fun?”

Gaona blinked, caught off guard. “Uh… fun?”

“Yes, fun,” Aria said, stepping inside and placing a hand on her hip. “You know, that thing people do when they’re not working or sulking at home.”

Gaona chuckled nervously. “I’m not sulking…”

“You are,” Aria teased, grabbing his wrist. “Come on. You deserve a break. And I know just the place.”

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The Amusement Park and Pool

Aria led Gaona to one of Civic Sector Delta’s rare gems: an amusement area with a sprawling public pool. The place was alive with laughter and splashes, the air thick with the smell of grilled food and sunscreen.

Gaona felt out of place at first, his modest clothes and introverted demeanor standing in stark contrast to the lively crowd. But Aria’s enthusiasm was infectious.

Portillo / Eternal Code /

Portillo / Eternal Code /

“Come on!” she said, pulling him toward the ticket counter. “I’m not taking no for an answer.”

Soon, they were riding water slides, floating in lazy rivers, and trying carnival games. Aria’s laughter rang out like a bell, and for a brief moment, Gaona forgot the weight of his daily struggles.

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A Captivating Presence

When they finally reached the pool area, Aria emerged from the changing room in a stunning two-piece bathing suit. The design accentuated her petite yet athletic figure, and her confidence made her even more striking.

Gaona felt his face heat up. “You… uh… look great.”

Aria beamed at him. “Why, thank you! You don’t look so bad yourself.”

He glanced down at his simple swim trunks, suddenly feeling self-conscious. “Yeah, right…”

Aria splashed him playfully. “Lighten up, Gaona. We’re here to have fun!”

They spent the next hour swimming and playing in the water. Aria was graceful and playful, her laughter drawing the attention of everyone around them. Gaona couldn’t help but notice how effortlessly she blended into the moment, as if she belonged in this world of carefree joy.

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A Moment of Intimacy

As the sun began to set, they sat on lounge chairs by the pool, the golden light casting a warm glow over the area. Aria leaned back, her hair damp and her smile soft.

“Thanks for coming out with me today,” she said, her voice quieter than usual.

“Yeah,” Gaona replied, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s been… nice.”

Aria turned to him, her eyes catching the fading sunlight. “You know, Gaona… you’re different from anyone I’ve met.”

He blinked, caught off guard. “Uh… thanks?”

Portillo / Eternal Code /

Portillo / Eternal Code /

“I mean it,” she said, leaning closer. “You’re kind, thoughtful… and you see people for who they are. That’s rare.”

Gaona felt his heart race as she inched closer, her face now just inches from his. Before he could react, Aria closed the distance, her lips brushing against his in a soft, lingering kiss.

His mind went blank, his body frozen. When she pulled back, her cheeks were flushed, and her smile was both shy and radiant.

“Sorry,” she said, looking away. “I just… wanted to do that.”

Gaona opened his mouth to respond, but the words never came. His vision blurred, his head spinning as a sudden wave of exhaustion washed over him.

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The Betrayal

“Gaona?” Aria’s voice sounded distant as his body slumped forward. She caught him gently, her face unreadable.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, cradling him in her arms.

The nerve agent she had slipped into his drink earlier had worked exactly as planned, leaving him unconscious but unharmed. She brushed a damp strand of hair from his face, her eyes shimmering with unspoken emotion.

For a moment, she hesitated, her hands trembling. But then she steeled herself, lifting him effortlessly and carrying him toward a discreet exit where a black transport awaited.

As she placed him inside and climbed in after him, she glanced at his peaceful face one last time. “This is for you,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. “To keep you safe… even if it means breaking your trust.”

The doors closed, and the transport sped off into the night, leaving the laughter and joy of the amusement area far behind.

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