"So," Lucy said as they settled into the luxurious transport that would carry them to Raiju Beta, "is Noah betrothed to anyone?"
Lucas nearly choked on his drink. "What? Why would you—that's a weird question, Lucy."
"I'm merely curious about your companions," Lucy replied smoothly, but there was something calculating in her expression that made Lucas deeply uncomfortable.
"He's with Sophie," Lucas said firmly. "They're together. Have been for a while."
"Ah." Lucy's tone was neutral, but she looked oddly disappointed. "Well, that's... unfortunate."
"Why unfortunate?" Lyra interjected, looking between the siblings with growing curiosity. "And why are you asking about Noah specifically?"
Lucy waved a dismissive hand. "Just making conversation. Though I must say, it's refreshing to meet someone from Earth who carries himself with such... presence."
