The sun rose over Hollywood, casting golden light over the bustling streets. Ayato stretched, feeling unusually excited for the day ahead. After breakfast at the hotel, Diantha and Elesa joined him in the lobby, both dressed casually yet effortlessly stylish.
Ayato's sharp eyes noted every detail—the confident posture of Elesa, the natural charm of Diantha, and the way both girls carried themselves with grace.
"Ready to explore?" Ayato asked, smiling.
"Absolutely!" Diantha said enthusiastically.
Elesa nodded, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she added, "Yeah… let's go."
A Day of Sightseeing and Playful Jealousy
The trio wandered through the streets, enjoying the scenery. Ayato guided them to small cafés, photo spots, and even a vintage Pokémon merchandise shop.
At one moment, Diantha laughed while Ayato helped her pose for a photo with a large Eevee plush. Elesa's expression darkened just slightly—though she tried to hide it, a subtle tension grew.
Ayato noticed immediately. With a teasing smile, he said, "Elesa, you're smiling too. Don't pretend you aren't enjoying yourself."
Elesa's cheeks flared red. "I… I am!" she stammered, clearly flustered.
Diantha's eyes flicked toward Ayato, a twinge of jealousy crossing her expression. "Ayato… I think you're favoring her," she muttered quietly, more to herself than anyone else.
Ayato, ever perceptive, caught the look. "Diantha… don't worry. You're just as wonderful as she is."
Diantha's blush deepened, but Elesa's gaze softened, realizing that Ayato's attention wasn't exclusive to anyone. Yet the rivalry, playful as it was, had begun—a subtle tension that kept the trio on their toes.
Elesa's Modeling Audition
Later in the afternoon, Elesa had her modeling audition. Ayato walked beside her as moral support, while Diantha watched from a distance, arms crossed but secretly concerned.
Backstage, Elesa's nerves surfaced. Ayato placed a hand lightly on her shoulder. "Relax," he said calmly. "You're talented. Just be yourself."
Elesa nodded, taking a deep breath.
During the audition, Ayato quietly observed. Every pose Elesa struck, every turn she made, radiated elegance and confidence. Diantha, peeking through a side entrance, couldn't help but feel a pang of envy—but also admiration for Ayato's patient, encouraging demeanor.
When the audition ended, Elesa walked out, slightly breathless but smiling. "I think it went well," she said.
Ayato grinned. "It went perfectly. You impressed everyone. Even I'm a little speechless."
Diantha approached them, her expression unreadable. "Good job, Elesa." Her tone was polite, but the jealousy was evident beneath the surface. Ayato noticed immediately, the subtle competition already forming between the two talented girls.
Evening Reflections
That evening, the trio returned to the hotel. Over dinner, Ayato encouraged both girls equally, praising Elesa for her professionalism and Diantha for her recent audition success.
"They're both amazing," he said softly to himself, watching the girls exchange glances. "And both have something unique that draws me in."
Diantha's eyes softened when Ayato complimented her. Elesa, meanwhile, blushed at his praise but kept her head high, determination sparking in her gaze.
Ayato's quiet charm, intelligence, and attention had inadvertently ignited a friendly rivalry between the girls—a rivalry that would push them both to grow, while strengthening their bond with him.
As the night settled, the three retreated to their rooms—next door to one another. Outside, Hollywood glittered like a thousand stars, but inside the hotel, the tension, admiration, and subtle affection between Ayato, Diantha, and Elesa were already beginning to shine.
And for Ayato, the week promised to be unforgettable.