Renee's hand had barely retreated when Toph swiftly caught hold of it and calmly placed it back on his arm.
"Toph—"
"I know there are plenty of great restaurants in Jangasas. Come on, let me treat you to a lavish meal!" Toph interrupted, pulling her along.
Renee was momentarily stunned before a smile spread across her face as if she had just won the world.
"Renee, did you know that my parents met in Jangasas?" Toph continued to chat as they walked. "The hotel where they had their first date was called Regalia Hotel, and they had lobster risotto..."
...
When Zuko returned to the presidential suite, Lina had been unpacking and hadn't spoken to him since the afternoon.
The atmosphere felt peculiar.
He could sense a clear sense of detachment emanating from Lina. There were several instances when their eyes met, and Lina looked at him with suspicion.
Zuko approached her, intending to say something, but the words eluded him. He could only manage a somewhat forced smile.
His awkward smile took Lina aback. "What are you doing?"
"Oh, nothing." Zuko casually placed his hands in his pockets as he glanced around and engaged in small talk. "This room is quite nice!"
Lina replied absentmindedly, "Of course, it's the presidential suite. How could it be anything less?"
"If I had known we could switch rooms, I would have come earlier to keep you company!" said Zuko.
Lina was startled and looked up at Zuko. She couldn't help but soften a little when she saw him grinning foolishly and making an effort to please her.
"What do you mean?" Lina furrowed her brow. "Isn't it nice here? Besides, the hotel manager just switched us to this spacious suite."
"Um, I think the energy here isn't quite right." Zuko conjured up a serious explanation. "Ever since you came to this room, you've been ignoring me."
Lina was momentarily taken aback, then burst into laughter.
She had also been contemplating how she could inquire without appearing too deliberate and still get him to reveal the truth. After all, it was just her suspicion.
What if he didn't have any special identity? Bluntly asking him like this might hurt his self-esteem.
"Okay." She gently caressed his face, speaking softly. "Then tell me where you want to stay."
Zuko's heart started racing irregularly. The words "Irwin Manor" lingered on the tip of his tongue.
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