"Just thinking about what tomorrow holds, Mia," Akira lied smoothly, the Silver Tongue skill making his voice sound like warm velvet. "It's a lot of pressure, but as long as I have you by my side to keep me grounded, I think I can handle it."
Mia's expression melted. The jagged edge in her voice disappeared, replaced by soft, almost trance-like adoration. "I'll always be by your side, Akira. I'll make sure nobody else gets close enough to distract you."
Rina snorted from across the table. "You guys know there are other people here, right? The next thing we'll know is you two making out right in front of everyone."
"Is it any business of yours?" Mia fired back.
Across the table, Mei's eyes narrowed. She'd felt the shift in his voice, the new magnetic pull of his charm, and it only increased her desire. She stood up, clearing her plate with a clatter.
"Well, it's getting late," Mei announced. "I think we should all head to bed. Akira-kun needs his rest, after all."
