Section 3 – The Golden Retriever
218 Words
A loud, infectious laugh exploded from the side entrance, shattering the tension like glass.
“Objection overruled! Tacos for everyone — and make it quick!”
Kael Wood bounded in, golden retriever energy in a $10,000 tuxedo that looked two sizes too formal for his personality.
Gold hair tousled, blue eyes sparkling with mischief, a dimple flashing in his left cheek.
He carried a half-eaten taco in one hand, champagne in the other.
James Harper followed, gray-haired, blue-eyed, adjusting his master’s crooked bowtie with practiced exasperation.
“Sir, this is a gala, not a frat party in Manhattan.”
“James, my man! Lighten up! We’re in Texas — everything’s bigger, including the fun!”
Kael spotted Ruoxi and nearly dropped his taco.
“Holy—wow. You’re the princess, right? I’m Kael. From New York. Here to save the world. Or at least the tacos.”
He thrust the champagne flute at her with boyish enthusiasm.
Ruoxi took it — her gloved fingers brushing his bare ones.
Electricity crackled.
Kael’s grin widened. “See? Chemistry!”
James whispered urgently, “Sir, something’s off. The air smells… wrong.”
Kael winked. “That’s why we’re here, James. Adventure!”
Lin watched from across the room, his smile tightening.
Maria’s hand dug into his arm.
The crown gleamed.
- Writer
