Initiating the Bond (Ch.111)(R)

Lyra and Aelira made their way back to the dormitory, their footsteps echoing in the quiet hallways. The excitement of the night still buzzed between them, an electric current of unspoken tension. As they reached Lyra's room, Aelira leaned against the doorframe, a mischievous glint in her dark eyes.

"So," she drawled, "are you going to invite me in, or what?"

Lyra rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. She pushed open the door, gesturing for Aelira to enter. "After you, oh impatient one."

As soon as the door clicked shut behind them, the atmosphere shifted. Aelira turned to face Lyra, her usual bravado softening into something more vulnerable. She reached up, fingers brushing the silver hair ornament Lyra had bought her. "You know," Aelira said, her voice low, "I've never had anyone do something like that for me before."

Lyra stepped closer, drawn in by the rare display of sincerity."