Anik smiled, ruffling her hair affectionately. "I was just exploring this beautiful city."
Rose stepped forward, her tone playful. "Anik, is this your sister Rina? She's adorable!"
Rina blushed slightly but managed a shy smile. "Thank you, Sister Rose. And thank you for taking care of my brother." She grabbed Anik's hand. "Come on, dinner's ready. Mother's waiting for us."
Rose and Anik exchanged a quick glance before following Rina through the sleek hallways of the building. The dining hall was grand but inviting, with warm lighting and a large table laden with food. Anik's mother, Seraphina, sat at the head of the table, her regal presence softened by a welcoming smile. Beside her was General Alston, Rose's father, who gave them both a nod of approval.
As they sat down, the warmth of family and companionship filled the air. Anik couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of belonging in this moment—a stark contrast to the grandeur and isolation of his home on Paradise of Eternity. Here, amidst the chatter, laughter, and shared meal, he felt more connected to the world around him.
Rose, stealing glances at Anik, felt the same. For the first time, the vastness of the cosmos seemed less daunting, and her dreams of adventure felt closer than ever.
The warmth of the evening meal lingered as Seraphina rose from her chair, her gentle voice cutting through the comfortable silence. "Come on, children. Let's get some rest. After a long day, a good night's sleep is essential."
Anik and Rina obediently followed their mother, their footsteps echoing softly in the hall. General Alston walked alongside Seraphina, explaining the advanced features of the guest rooms. Rose, however, lingered by the doorway, her gaze fixed on Anik.
"Anik," she called, her voice playful yet inviting.
Anik turned back, curious. "Good night. Sweet dreams," he said warmly.
Rose crossed her arms and raised an eyebrow. "Not good night just yet. Come with me to my room. I have so many ideas about my story! Let's make the most of this night—please?" Her eyes sparkled with excitement.
Anik hesitated but couldn't resist her enthusiasm. "Alright, let me ask my mother."
He jogged back to Seraphina, who smiled knowingly as he approached. "Mother," he began, "can I sleep in Rose's room tonight? She wants to discuss her story."
Seraphina chuckled softly. "Okay, my dear. But remember—mind your manners. Don't argue with her or do anything annoying."
Anik nodded, a little sheepish. "Got it."
When he returned to Rose, she tilted her head expectantly. "What did your mother say?"
"She just said… not to argue with you," Anik replied quickly, avoiding the rest of the details.
Rose grinned. "Smart woman."
With that, Seraphina and Alston departed to their rooms, and Anik followed Rose to hers. As they approached, the door to Rose's room slid open with a soft hiss, the sensor recognizing her presence.
"Welcome to my humble abode," she said with a dramatic wave.
Anik stepped inside and marveled at the cozy yet futuristic room. A large bed dominated one side, while sleek lockers, a high-tech computer, and an advanced window overlooking the city completed the setup.
"You can sit on the bed," Rose instructed, opening a locker. "I need to change into my nightwear."
Anik, already curious about her gadgets, asked, "Can I turn on the computer?"
Rose nodded. "Go ahead." She grabbed her nightwear and headed toward a smaller adjoining room. Before disappearing, she turned back, pointing a finger. "And don't even think about coming in here!"
"Hey, what do you take me for?" Anik said, feigning indignation.
As Rose disappeared, Anik powered on the computer, but the sleek screen prompted him for a password. He frowned, tapping the desk absentmindedly. Soon, Rose emerged, her hair loose, her cheeks flushed from the warm water. She leaned over him and swiftly entered the password, her fingers brushing the keys with ease.
"Unlocked," she announced, the screen lighting up with various options—games, social media, search engines, and more.
"What do you want to do?" she asked, drying her hands. "Games? Videos? Something else?"
"Let's play games," Anik decided, scanning the list.
Rose chuckled. "You pick one. I'm going to do a quick face wash."
As she stepped away, Anik muttered to himself. "Hmm, let's see. Crossfire? Alone Pt. 2? Red Light? Some of these names are hard to pronounce…"
When Rose returned, her face fresh and her expression curious, she found him still scrolling indecisively. "Haven't picked one yet?"
"I think we should leave it for now," Anik admitted. "It's getting late, and tomorrow I want to explore the city more."
Rose smirked. "Alright, Prince, as you command. But let me fix the bed first. You'll need a good sleep."
"Don't call me 'Prince,'" Anik grumbled, climbing onto the bed as Rose arranged the pillows and blankets beside him. When they finally lay side by side, the ceiling above seemed dull and uninviting.
Rose suddenly sat up. "Let's change that." She grabbed a controller, and with a few clicks, the ceiling transformed into a mesmerizing display of the cosmos—galaxies spiraling, stars twinkling, and nebulae glowing in vibrant hues.
Anik stared, mesmerized. "Now this feels like home," he murmured. "I used to watch this kind of night sky from Paradise of Eternity. It's incredible."
Rose smiled, pleased with his reaction. "So," she began, "let's talk about The Great Cosmic Adventure. I've got so many ideas.
The main character—you—is the leader of a group of heroes from different universes. The antagonist is the Voidbringer, a powerful villain with a mysterious past."
Anik's eyes lit up. "That sounds like a great story! Heroes with complex histories, friendships, rivalries, and epic battles… Tell me more."
Rose's voice softened, her excitement fading into a gentle tone. "There'll be themes of friendship, adventure, even a little romance… but I'm so tired right now." She sighed, her eyelids growing heavy.
Anik chuckled. "Don't push yourself. We can brainstorm more tomorrow. I'll even pitch in some ideas."
After a pause, Anik's voice grew thoughtful. "You know, life will change for you soon. You'll grow up, start working, maybe get married, have kids… Life will move on." He hesitated, then added, "What kind of person do you like?"
Rose turned toward him, her cheeks warming. "The kind of person I like most… is someone like you, Anik. Your type of guy is what I admire."
Her heart pounded as she waited for his response, hoping he'd catch her meaning. Anik, a little slow to realize, replied casually, "Oh, someone like me? That person would be lucky."
Disappointment flickered across Rose's face, though she quickly masked it. He didn't get it, she thought, biting her lip. But before Anik could say more, he noticed Rose had fallen asleep, her breathing soft and even.
Anik stared at her for a moment, realization dawning on him. Wait… did she mean—? He glanced at her peaceful expression, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Sweet dreams, Rose," he whispered, before letting himself drift into sleep beside her.
At 4 o'clock in the morning, Anik stirred awake, the dim light of dawn filtering faintly through the advanced window. He glanced at Rose, who lay peacefully asleep, her expression serene and unguarded.
For a moment, a warmth filled his chest as he noticed how calm she looked. Not wanting to disturb her, he quietly slipped out of bed, tiptoeing to the bathroom to freshen up.
After splashing cold water on his face, Anik stepped into the corridor. The silence was comforting, broken only by the faint hum of the ship's systems. As he walked, the rising sun's rays began to pierce through the large windows, casting golden reflections that danced on the metallic walls.
Anik paused to admire the view, feeling a rare sense of tranquility. It reminded him of home—the quiet moments before the world fully awakened.
Ahead, he noticed General Alston standing by a window, hands clasped behind his back, watching the sunrise. The older man's posture exuded quiet strength.
"Good morning," Anik greeted as he approached, standing beside Alston.
Alston turned his head slightly, a smile playing on his lips. "Good morning, Anik. You're up early. Did you sleep well?"
Anik nodded. "Yes, it was a good sleep."
Alston chuckled. "Rose didn't annoy you, did she? She can be a handful sometimes."
Anik shook his head, smiling faintly. "No, she was very nice to me."
Alston's expression softened. "That's good to hear. She doesn't let people in easily. You're probably the first real friend she's had in years."
Anik's brow furrowed in curiosity. "Why doesn't she want to make friends?"
Alston's gaze returned to the horizon, his voice tinged with melancholy. "After her mother passed away, she changed. She became withdrawn, guarded. She didn't trust anyone—not even me completely. I've done everything I can to make her feel loved and safe, but the loss hit her hard. She hardly ever leaves this place."
Anik's heart clenched. He thought back to their conversation the night before. Rose had seemed so spirited and confident, but Alston's words revealed another side of her—a quiet pain she carried beneath her brave exterior.
"She didn't seem lonely to me," Anik admitted.
Alston smiled wistfully. "That's because she's good at hiding it. But I see it in her eyes sometimes, the weight she carries." He sighed. "I just hope you can be someone she trusts."
Anik nodded solemnly, his resolve strengthening. "I'll do my best."
Alston's demeanor brightened. "Enough of that. Come with me—I'll show you my workspace. I think you'll find it interesting."
Curiosity piqued, Anik followed Alston to an elevator. As they descended, Alston explained the facility's functions. The doors opened to reveal a vast control room, filled with holographic displays and advanced interfaces.
The sight left Anik in awe. "This is incredible," he said, taking in the holographic projection of Earth spinning in the air.
Alston chuckled. "This is where I oversee everything. Every movement, every order—it all comes from here."
Anik's gaze lingered on the controls. "I noticed the city is highly advanced, but there aren't many AI or robots. Why is that?"
Alston's expression grew serious. "One great thinker once said, 'Artificial intelligence is far more dangerous than nuclear weapons.' Humanity learned to rely on itself, not machines. AI here is advanced, but limited—we only use it where it's absolutely necessary. The rest is powered by human ingenuity."
Anik nodded thoughtfully. "That's a fascinating philosophy. It must take a lot of discipline."
"It does," Alston replied. "But it's worth it. Now, where are you off to next?"
"The rooftop," Anik said with a grin. "I need to stretch and train a bit."
Alston laughed. "Go on then, but don't miss breakfast!"
Anik waved as he left, the elevator whisking him to the rooftop. The fresh air greeted him as he stepped out, a gentle chill mingling with the warmth of the risen sun. He breathed deeply, taking in the view before starting his exercises.
Meanwhile, Rose stirred awake, instinctively reaching for Anik's presence. Finding the bed empty, her heart sank. Where did he go? Did he leave without saying goodbye? Her mind raced with scenarios, each one more distressing than the last.
She hurriedly got up, still in her nightwear, and dashed to her father's workspace.
"Dad," she called out breathlessly. "Where's Anik? Did he leave already?"
Alston, turning from his console, couldn't resist teasing her. "Oh, you're too late. He and his family went home this morning."
Rose froze, her face paling. Her chest tightened as disappointment and sadness overwhelmed her. He didn't even say goodbye?
Alston burst out laughing. "Relax, my dear. I'm joking! He's on the rooftop, probably exercising."
Relief flooded Rose's features, quickly replaced by irritation. "Not funny, Dad!" she huffed, spinning on her heel and heading for the elevator.
As the doors closed, Alston suddenly realized, "Wait, she's still in her nightwear!" But by then, it was too late.
The elevator chimed as it reached the rooftop. Rose stepped out, squinting in the sunlight. There he was—Anik, mid-stretch, the sunlight casting a golden glow over his figure.
"Anik!" she called, her voice carrying a mix of relief and annoyance.
Anik turned, surprised to see her. He smiled, wiping sweat from his brow. "Good morning, Rose. What are you doing up here?"
Rose crossed her arms, trying to hide her flustered state. "You disappeared without a word! I thought you left!"
Anik chuckled. "I wouldn't leave without saying goodbye. I just needed some fresh air and exercise."
Rose sighed, her irritation melting into a soft smile. "Well, next time, let me know, okay?"
"Deal," Anik replied, grinning.
Anik looked her up and down, noticing she was still in her nightwear. A slight smirk tugged at his lips. "But why are you still in your nightwear?"
Rose froze, glancing down at herself and blushing furiously. "Oh no! I forgot!" she said, trying to brush it off with a wave of her hand. "Anyway, enjoy your exercise. I'm going back down to change. Afterward, I'll take you to see more of this place."
"Sounds good," Anik said with a grin. "Let me finish here first."
Rose quickly turned and headed for the elevator, still feeling the warmth of her embarrassment. The doors closed, and she sighed, her heart racing. Why did I rush up here without thinking? she chided herself, but a small smile played on her lips.
After about 30 minutes, Anik finished his workout, his muscles humming with a pleasant ache. He wiped his brow and looked out at the city below, appreciating its serene beauty. The golden glow of the planet filled him with a deep sense of peace.
"This place is incredible," he murmured to himself. "I wouldn't mind living here forever."
He headed to the elevator and descended to the room he shared with Rose. As the doors slid open, he stepped inside, only to pause. The bed was covered with a chaotic pile of clothes, clearly a result of Rose preparing for the day. The sound of water running told him she was still in the bathroom.
A tired smile spread across Anik's face as he walked over to the bed. His exhaustion from the workout caught up with him, and he flopped onto the mattress, sinking into its softness. He closed his eyes, letting the momentary rest rejuvenate him.
Rose, meanwhile, was finishing her shower. Wrapping a fluffy towel around herself, she stepped out of the bathroom, humming softly. Her gaze fell on Anik sprawled on the bed, his eyes closed and his chest rising and falling steadily. A mischievous glint sparkled in her eyes.
She moved toward the bed, grabbing a loose top and shorts from the pile of clothes. As she changed, an idea struck her—playful and impulsive. Smirking, she climbed onto the bed and, with a small laugh, jumped on top of him.
Anik's eyes snapped open, and he let out a startled yell. "Ahh! My stomach, Rose! Get off me!"
Rose burst into laughter, her grin wide and teasing. "What's the matter, prince? Can't handle a little weight? And you dream of becoming like your father!"
"Come on, Rose! That's not fair!" Anik groaned, squirming under her. His annoyance quickly shifted to discomfort as his gaze accidentally drifted downward, noticing how her loose top clung to her form. His cheeks flushed a deep red, and he quickly turned his head to the side.
"Rose, please… get up!" he said, his voice uncharacteristically awkward.
Rose raised an eyebrow, noticing his flustered state. With a smirk, she teased, "Oh, my prince is blushing. How adorable!"
"Rose!" Anik protested, his voice rising in exasperation.
"Alright, alright," she said, laughing as she rolled off him. "You're no fun, Anik."
Anik sat up, rubbing his stomach and still avoiding her gaze. "You're impossible."
Rose grinned, her eyes twinkling. "Come on, let's go have breakfast. You'll need your energy for today's adventures."
Anik sighed, finally looking at her and shaking his head with a small smile. "Fine, but you owe me an apology for that ambush."
"Apology? Never!" Rose said, skipping toward the door with a laugh. "Hurry up, slowpoke!"
Anik followed, his annoyance melting into amusement. Despite her antics, he couldn't help but appreciate her playful spirit—it was moments like these that made him feel truly alive.
The dining hall was filled with the warm aroma of freshly baked bread, fruits, and brewed coffee. Alston, Seraphina, and Rina sat at the grand table, chatting casually and enjoying their breakfast. The room was bathed in soft sunlight streaming through the large windows, casting a golden glow on the tableware.
Rose and Anik entered together, their laughter from their earlier playful exchange still lingering. Rose's face lit up as she greeted everyone, taking a seat beside Rina. Anik followed, settling in next to Seraphina.
"You two seem lively this morning," Alston remarked with a knowing smile.
"Rose wouldn't let me have a peaceful morning," Anik quipped, earning a playful glare from Rose.
"You deserved it," she replied, her tone teasing but her eyes soft.
The conversation flowed easily, ranging from Rina's stories about her recent studies to Alston sharing an anecdote about his youth. As they ate, the group began discussing the day's plans.
"Where should we explore today?" Rina asked, her voice filled with excitement.
"The botanical gardens are beautiful this time of year," Seraphina suggested. "Or perhaps the crystal caverns?"
Rose chimed in, "The crystal caverns are amazing. Anik, you'll love it. They sparkle like the night sky."
Anik nodded, intrigued. "Sounds perfect. Let's do that."
For a moment, everything felt light and joyful. But as the meal came to an end, Seraphina glanced at Alston and then addressed the group.
"Well, we've enjoyed our time here, but tomorrow we'll be returning home," she announced, her tone gentle but firm.
The cheerful atmosphere dimmed instantly.
"Already?" Anik blurted out, his fork pausing mid-air. His brows furrowed, and his voice carried a hint of disappointment. "That's... so soon."
"Yes," Seraphina said with a small smile. "There are duties waiting for us back home. Alston has kindly offered us his spacecraft for the journey."
Anik leaned back in his chair, trying to mask his frustration. He felt an unexpected pang of resistance—he didn't want to leave just yet.
Across the table, Rose's cheerful expression faltered for a split second. Her heart sank at the thought of Anik leaving. Already? He's leaving tomorrow? she thought, panic and sadness swirling inside her. But years of practice helped her mask her feelings. She forced a smile, lowering her gaze to her plate to avoid meeting anyone's eyes.
"That's... wonderful," Rose said softly, her voice steady despite the tightness in her chest.
Alston, oblivious to her inner turmoil, said warmly, "You'll have a safe and comfortable journey, and you're welcome to visit again anytime."
Rose nodded, her fingers curling into fists under the table. She had grown so used to Anik's presence in such a short time—his kindness, his curiosity, his ability to bring life into even the dullest moments. The thought of him leaving felt like a sudden void opening in her heart.
Anik noticed her uncharacteristic quietness and glanced at her, sensing something was off. But before he could say anything, Rina spoke up, trying to lighten the mood.
"Well, we still have today, don't we? Let's make the most of it!"
"That's the spirit," Alston said, raising his glass. "To making today unforgettable."
Everyone echoed his toast, but Rose's smile didn't quite reach her eyes. As she sipped her juice, she resolved to make today special for Anik, even if her heart ached at the thought of saying goodbye.
Anik, meanwhile, couldn't shake his unease. He didn't understand why the idea of leaving felt so wrong. He glanced at Rose again, catching her in a rare moment of vulnerability as she stared at her plate. Something stirred within him—a desire to stay, to know her better, to not let this chapter end so quickly.
The table's lively conversation continued, but beneath the surface, both Anik and Rose wrestled with unspoken emotions, their thoughts tinged with the bittersweet inevitability of tomorrow's departure.
The group stood in the grand atrium of the estate, where sunlight streamed through the high windows, casting intricate patterns on the marble floor. Seraphina adjusted her cloak and turned to Anik with a warm smile.
"Why don't you go with Rose today?" she suggested. "Explore more of this beautiful city, just like yesterday. Alston, Rina, and I will take a different route."
Alston nodded. "There's plenty more to see, and Rose knows all the best spots. She'll be an excellent guide."
Anik smiled, grateful for the suggestion. "Of course. I'd love to see more."
Rose managed a small smile, but her heart wasn't in it. She clasped her hands behind her back, her fingers fidgeting nervously. "Sure," she said quietly, avoiding Anik's gaze.