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Chapter 34 — Above the City
As the elevator doors slid open, Suzune stepped out—and froze.
She was on the rooftop.
In front of her stretched an infinite pool, its surface merging seamlessly with the sky beyond. The city lay far below, glowing quietly, while a soft breeze brushed against her hair. The doors closed behind her with a faint sound, leaving her alone in the open space.
Then she noticed him.
Ayanokoji was in the pool, resting casually against the edge, water glistening on his skin.
His calm voice reached her before he turned.
"Miss Suzune Horikita.
Hello there."
Suzune straightened instinctively.
"May I know the reason for your visit?"
Her eyes drifted to him for a second too long. Realizing it, she quickly looked away, her cheeks flushing.
"Last time… at your party," she said softly, "you saved me from getting harassed. I came to thank you."
She held up the box she had been carrying carefully.
"I made these cookies as a thank-you gift."
Ayanokoji let out a faint chuckle.
"There's no need. I only stood up for my guest."
He rose from the pool effortlessly, water sliding down his body as he stepped out.
"And cookies…" he added calmly, "I never thought a rich and beautiful woman like you would know how to cook."
Suzune's face burned red.
"I—I only know a little."
He opened the box.
Inside were three heart-shaped cookies, neatly made.
For a brief moment, Ayanokoji paused.
Then he picked one up and took a bite.
Silence followed.
"They're good," he said honestly. "I must say, you're a great cook."
Suzune smiled shyly.
"It's nothing, really."
She took a step back.
"I should take my leave now."
Ayanokoji nodded.
"Alright. Be safe on your way back home."
"Yes. Thank you once again."
She turned and entered the elevator. As the doors slowly closed, Ayanokoji's eyes remained fixed on her—watching until she disappeared from sight.
Only then—
"Wow," a voice said lazily from the corner.
Ryuuen was sitting there, legs crossed, eating popcorn.
"She didn't even notice me. That kind of hurts."
He smirked. "But it was fun to watch."
He tossed a piece of popcorn into his mouth, then shouted,
"Oi, Ayanokoji! One cookie's mine!"
Ayanokoji glanced at him coldly.
"Fuck off," he replied flatly.
"They're mine."
Ryuuen burst out laughing.
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