Sharing Everything That’s Happened

Lassim shifted uncomfortably in his seat, the weight of his mother's playful, expectant gaze nearly unbearable. The warmth of the dining hall, with its magical fires and inviting atmosphere, now seemed to amplify the blush creeping up his neck. 

"She's—she's not my girlfriend," he stammered, his voice cracking slightly. "At least… not yet, I think? Maybe?" His words tumbled over themselves, and he groaned inwardly at his inability to sound remotely composed.

Gryphon let out a bark of laughter, slapping his knee. "Not yet, huh? Sounds like there's a story there, boy. Spill it."

Egelina's hand tightened slightly on Lassim's arm, "Oh, do tell us, darling. It's been years since you last mentioned her in your letters. You two were so close at the Academy that you made sure to also have us grow our ties with the Alisone family, much to your father's chagrin."