The Vermillion estate was buzzing with activity as servants prepared for Nao's grand birthday celebration. Chandeliers gleamed, the air was filled with the rich scent of fresh flowers, and the grand hall was adorned in crimson and gold. Every detail exuded luxury, yet Nao's mind was elsewhere.
Seated in the back of a sleek black car, he gazed out the window, lost in thought. Adrian sat beside him, arms crossed, exuding his usual indifference. However, Nao knew better—his brother was always alert, always watching.
"Elias hasn't answered my calls since yesterday," Nao finally spoke, breaking the silence. "I'm worried about him. I want to check on him before the party."
Adrian let out an exaggerated sigh. "Why? He's just a friend, isn't he?"
Nao turned to face him, eyes narrowing. "You met him, didn't you? In the library?"
Adrian stiffened. "That has nothing to do with this."
Nao smirked knowingly. "Then why are you so defensive?"
"I just don't see why you're so concerned about one absent call." Adrian diverted his gaze to the road.
Nao sighed. "Because he's sick, Adrian. He wasn't well when we last spoke. And unlike you, I actually care."
Adrian frowned, the grip on his wrist tightening slightly. "...He's sick?"
"Yes," Nao said firmly. "If you don't want to come, I'll go alone."
Adrian clicked his tongue. "Forget it. I'm coming."
When they arrived at Elias's house, the warm glow of the setting sun cast long shadows over the small yet cozy home. Nao barely stepped out of the car before his phone rang. He glanced at the screen—Mr. Den.
"I have to take this," Nao muttered, stepping aside. "Go ahead without me."
Adrian scoffed but obeyed, walking up to the front door. He hesitated before knocking, swallowing down an odd nervousness he refused to acknowledge.
The door opened moments later, revealing Elias. The boy looked pale, dressed in loose, comfortable clothes. His golden-brown eyes widened in surprise upon seeing Adrian standing there.
"...You?" Elias whispered.
Adrian exhaled sharply. "Don't look so surprised. Nao told me you were sick."
Elias blinked before lowering his gaze. "I thought Nao was coming..."
"He's taking a call." Adrian glanced away, before hesitantly stepping forward. "Here."
He extended a small bottle of medicine.
Elias stared at it, then up at Adrian. "...You brought this for me?"
Adrian frowned, shoving the medicine toward him. "Just take it. You look awful."
Elias chuckled weakly, his fingers brushing against Adrian's as he accepted the bottle. The accidental touch sent a jolt through both of them.
For a long moment, neither spoke.
"Thank you," Elias finally murmured, his voice soft.
Adrian cleared his throat, stepping back. "Don't mention it."
Just then, Nao reappeared. He grinned upon seeing the two standing close together. "Elias, feeling any better?"
Elias glanced between Nao and Adrian before nodding. "A little."
Nao smirked at Adrian. "You really didn't have to bring him medicine, you know."
Adrian turned away. "It's nothing."
Nao chuckled. "Well, since you're feeling better, I expect to see you at my party tonight. Don't even think about skipping."
Elias hesitated. "Are you sure?"
Nao winked. "Positive. You can't miss it."
Elias smiled faintly, unaware that tonight, at the grand Vermillion estate, destiny awaited him—and Nao as well.