Robin didn't think he could feel any lower. Every laugh, every smile that Star shared with that... stranger... cut him like a knife. Or multiple knives. He had never felt like he did now, a steady ache that seemed to steadily increase every time he saw the two of the together. Star and ... the stranger... for lack of a better word. Robin couldn't believe how easily she seemed to fall for him. Robin had never really said anything or done anything to show her his feelings, but he had felt it a bit for granted. All those lessons in Earth culture, did she really think he had done them for no reason?
"Glorious Icefire!"
Apparently so. Robin forced himself to not look at whatever captivated Star. He had to do something. Anything. Because clearly, the hands off approach was not working.
"Hey Star!" Robin forced his voice to sound normal and cheerful as he walked over to where she sat, across the long dining table next to Icefire.
"Hello friend Robin! I have not seen you at all today! Were you able to find everything well without my assistance?"
'Perfect. She just gave me a reason to hang out with her.' "Actually, I haven't Star. This place is huge. I've been looking for a training room, but I can't seem to find one. Would you show me where it is?"
"Of course, friend Robin! I would be most delighted to show you our room of the physical fitness."
Robin felt great. Things were definitely looking up.
"Princess? You are needed with the royal dressmaker for your wedding dress measurements. You need to come immediately." A servant came up and kneeled before Star.
"Oh no! I..." Star seemed to be unable to come up with words. For some reason Robin could not tell she seemed to really want to show him the training room. 'Maybe she does like me... no of course not. I can't get my hopes up.' Robin stared at Star for a few moments. Then she brightened considerably. "I know! Icefire can show you the training room!"
'She wasn't thinking about spending time with me at all. She was just trying to find someone to show me the room. And of all people...'
Robin looked up to see Star sweeping out of the room. Now that she was back in Tamaran she wore dresses to match her role as princess. Namely long, prom-like dresses with a small train. He saw the servant follow her, several feet behind, mindful of the train. Robin moved forward to open the door only to find it already open for her.
Star smiled at Icefire as he held the door and still managed to bow. "I will be most delighted to show Robin our finest facilities,".
Things were definitely NOT looking up for Robin.