Hidden Flame 102

**Avery**
After Thanksgiving, the whirlwind of Christmas preparations began. I had ambitious plans to handcraft gifts for my
friends, but they also insisted on buying some. Our trip to Talos was postponed due to King James being called away
unexpectedly – I suspect it’s all tied to Cora. Lately, I keep catching glimpses of a mysterious woman with snakes for hair.
“Alright, folks, time to hit the shops!” Trisha declared as we exited the school. Let the holiday shopping madness begin!
It was my first time at a mall for Christmas shopping, and I was both excited and slightly overwhelmed by the sheer size
of the place. The twinkling lights and festive decorations made me feel like I had stepped into a winter wonderland, and I
couldn’t wait to start browsing for gifts for my loved ones.
As I wandered through the bustling corridors with one of my mates or friends beside me, I was struck by the variety of
stores and the endless options for presents. From cozy sweaters to shiny jewelry, there was something for everyone on my list. But the prices began to wear on me.
Conner pulled me aside, “Avery, the cost shouldn’t impact what you wish to get for any of us. You are our ultimate gift. So
if you want to get Trisha the makeup and organizer, do it. What is ours is yours. We love you, so let’s finish that list!” My mates are nothing like they were when I first arrived in Naga. These men around me only resemble those boys when they
look at me with a naughty glint in their eyes. He soothed my anxiety with a gentle touch, a soft sweet kiss, and then
handed me a sweet treat. As I wandered through the labyrinth of shops, each turn revealed a new treasure waiting to be
discovered. The food court beckoned, and I couldn’t resist stopping with Cassius to recharge with a steaming cup of hot
chocolate and a freshly baked cookie. My favorite tea was nowhere to be found, but the tantalizing scents in the air only
added to the festive ambiance, lifting my spirits.
After hours of browsing and deliberating, I finally emerged from the mall with bags full of carefully chosen gifts. I couldn’t wait to see my loved ones’ smiles when they unwrapped their presents on Christmas morning. As I made my way home, I
couldn’t help but feel grateful for the magical experience of my first time at a mall to go Christmas shopping. It was a day
I would always remember fondly.
After hours of careful consideration, I emerged from the mall laden with bags filled with carefully selected gifts.
Anticipation bubbled within me at the thought of the joy on my loved ones’ faces when they unwrapped their presents
on Christmas morning. Gratitude filled me as I reflected on the enchanting experience of my first-holiday shopping trip to
a mall – a day I would always cherish.
Upon returning home, I realized I had forgotten a bag and gifts for our teachers. With the mall still open for a few more
hours, Clint suggested we fly to the boundary and walk a few blocks to reach it. It would be a welcome break for Regina
and Carter. Releasing Regina, I swiftly mounted her and sped off like a rocket. In a moment of jest, I challenged Clint to
catch me, my cheeks burning with embarrassment. I clutched the medallion Draven had given me, its power keeping my
thoughts hidden from my mates for a few more hours – the only way to preserve the surprise of their gifts.
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I was enamored with the sensation of flying. The sunlight danced off Regina’s scales as we soared through the clouds, the
wind tousling my hair. Beside us, Clint rode on the back of Carter, his dragon with gleaming golden scales and a fierce
determination in his eyes. As we glided over the rolling hills and verdant forests, I stole a glance at Clint. He winked and
whispered, “I will always be there to catch you, Avery.”
As we entered the mall, my stomach rumbled. “I believe sustenance is in order before we continue our shopping spree.
Let’s retrieve my bag from the clerk and then indulge in a meal.”
Clint chuckled, “I think you have been reading too much lately because you are talking like the characters you love. As for
food, you will need it because I have something special planned for you.”
We retrieved my bag and settled down to eat. Clint couldn’t resist playfully flicking a french fry at me. I retaliated by
tossing a napkin his way, and before we knew it, a full-blown food fight had erupted. The other diners watched in
amusement as we laughed and flung food at each other with abandon.
Ketchup splattered against the walls, noodles soared through the air, and popcorn kernels scattered across the floor. The
chaos only heightened our excitement, and we couldn’t contain our laughter as we dodged each other’s attacks. Amidst
the food fight, our love for each other shone brightly. Despite the mess and mayhem, there was an undeniable sense of
joy and connection between us. We were lost in our own world, reveling in the sheer silliness of it all.
After the epic food fight finally came to a close, we collapsed back in our seats, breathless and completely covered in
food. Despite the mess, we shared a sweet moment, locking eyes with a mix of love and mischief. As we began cleaning
up the chaos we had created, it was clear that our bond had only grown stronger, fueled by laughter and a mutual sense
of fun.
Leaving the food court that day, our stomachs and hearts full, we knew that we always had each other to turn even the most ordinary moments into something extraordinary. Love, for us, wasn’t just about grand gestures or romance, but
about finding joy and connection in the simple, playful moments that made life truly magical. I’m grateful that I let them
into my life, because now I understand the true meaning of love, and I believe they do too.
“We’re going shopping for new clothes,” Clint exclaimed, dragging me into a store and ushering me into a dressing room.
In a cozy dressing room tucked away in a bustling department store, I gazed at my reflection in the mirror. Clint had
handed me a stack of clothes, each more fabulous than the last. Trying on each outfit, I felt a rush of excitement and
confidence wash over me. The way the fabric hugged my curves and the colors complemented my skin tone made me
feel like royalty.