The sun was already low, painting the festival in golden tones. Lukas tried to slip through the stalls, but Luiz, like a hunting dog, refused to leave his side.

  — So, I already spoke with my fan, — Luiz announced proudly — and guess what? She agreed to bring a friend.

  — Don’t tell me it’s… — Lukas stopped mid-sentence when he saw her approaching.

  It was exactly her: the demi-human with the scarf, from the Inari clan. White fur, almond-shaped eyes, a timid smile that seemed to beg for protection… and a fluffy tail swaying softly.

  — Of course it had to be her… — Lukas thought, feeling the folded scarf still tucked in his bag.

  Morgana nearly jumped with joy inside his head:

  — I knew it! This girl is your destiny, chocolatinho. I can already picture you two in winter, she serving tea and you… serving other things.

  — Shut up, Morgana. — Caesar tried to stay serious. — She’s the perfect bait. If you fall, there will be no turning back.

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  Luiz opened his arms, introducing them as if it were some official event:

  — Lukas, this is Aika. Aika, this is my brother, the Invincible Skinny. Lukinhas, you’re officially introduced.

  Aika bowed politely. — It’s a pleasure… I’ve heard many things about you.

  — Oh, really? — Lukas swallowed dry. — I hope they were… good ones.

  Before he could recover, Luiz’s fan arrived, beaming. — So, it’s settled! Tonight, after the festival’s trial, the four of us at the “Pavilion of the Moon.” It’s the best place for music and drinks.

  — And don’t worry, — Luiz added — I already reserved a table for couples.

  — Couples?! — Lukas nearly choked.

  Aika tilted her head, her sweet voice cutting in. — Oh… you don’t want to go with me?

  Morgana screamed with delight:

  — Just say yes already, for heaven’s sake! Look at that face! Look at that tail wagging!

  Caesar, on the other hand, went into battle mode:

  — Lukas, listen to me… don’t look at the tail. Don’t look at the tail. DO. NOT. LOOK.

  But it was useless. The tail swayed, and Lukas looked away too late.

  — It’s decided. — Luiz clapped his hands. — Tonight, you’ll shed that monk’s shell and thank your older brother for improving your life.

  — I’ll thank you when you stop pushing me into a grave. — Lukas muttered.

  — It’s just a date… — Luiz grinned. — What could possibly go wrong?

  Morgana answered instantly:

  — Everything. And I’ll enjoy every second of it.

  End of chapter 21