Standing before Celine Morvant's mansion, I let a slow grin spread across my face. The Goddess of Desire's orders were crystal clear, survive by charm, wit and pleasure. I'd been living that way all my life, except the survival part.. or the charm part.
Celine was tall, elegant, and wearing an expression that could slice marble. The kind of woman who made you want to behave and misbehave at the same time. Her arms folded under her chest, posture flawless, eyes sharp enough to measure me like a questionable wine.
She'd called me here again after yesterday's encounter.
Alright, Ren. Step one: survive. Step two: make her curious. Step three: ride that curiosity until it turns into something a lot more fun.
I bowed slightly, keeping my smile polite but not innocent. "Good morning, Ms. Morvant. I hope I'm not interrupting your routine."
Her eyebrow rose, slow and deliberate. "I keep a tidy house. Disruptions are not welcome."
I leaned in just enough for her to feel my presence. "I take care of my surroundings too," I said, letting my tone drip with suggestion.
Her gaze flicked to my lips for a split second. [Quest Progress: Step 1/5 | Tension Rising] flashed in the corner of my vision. I didn't move, didn't gloat. I just enjoyed the tiny victory.
"Oh?" she said, folding her arms tighter. "You'll need to prove that isn't just talk."
A grin tugged at my mouth. "Depends on your definition."
Her eyes narrowed. My pulse thudded with anticipation, and the system's faint hum in my head made me wonder if the Goddess was watching this like a live-stream.
"Well," Celine said, tilting her head, "I don't tolerate nuisances. Fail to meet my standards, and you're out."
I stepped closer, gaze steady on hers. "Then I'll just have to meet them and... maybe raise them."
She didn't back away. That was all the signal I needed.
"You are bold," she said.
"And you are breathtaking," I replied without missing a beat.
Her eyes flickered with something dangerously close to amusement. "Most tenants would apologize for showing up uninvited."
I let my shoulder brush hers as I shifted, straightening my jacket. Just enough contact to register without being obvious.
"I've never been one for subtlety," I said. "I find honesty more, how would i say it... stimulating."
[Quest Progress: +1 Charisma | Subtle Seduction Detected]
She tilted her head, still watching me like she couldn't decide if I was trouble or entertainment. "So how do you plan to prove yourself?"
I met her gaze, letting my smirk curl slow and deliberate. "Actions speak louder than words. And I'm very good with actions."
Her lips parted slightly before she caught herself. That tiny crack in her composure was worth every second of restraint.
[Quest Progress: +2 Charisma | Boundary Testing Successful]
I could feel her weighing her options. push me away, or see what I do next. She didn't move. Good choice.
"I'll allow you to stay," she said finally, her tone cool but not cold. "But don't mistake this for free rein. Earn your place."
I gave a slow, confident bow. "Oh, I intend to."
The system chimed again, soft and smug:
[Quest Update: Residence Secured | Step 2 Unlocked: Deepen Emotional Bond]
My grin widened. This was only the beginning. The Goddess wanted results? She'd get them. And I'd enjoy every second.