Author's Note: Holy! I completely forgot I had this story on as well! I keep only updating the story on AO3 because it's what I primarily use these days! Well, the next four chapters will be add over the course of the next two weeks so it's caught up.

Yukino tried her best not to gasp at the sight of the mansion. It was so elegant and expensive-looking.

The large stone pathway and beautiful black metal gates shone in the sun. Along the front garden were the most vibrant roses she had ever seen – blue, black, and red roses obviously cultivated and treated with care and attention.

This was her first time seeing and visiting her friend's home.

She looked at Sting, who smiled at her.

Yukino would have never guessed Sting was the child of a rich woman. She had met her fair share of wealthy people, and they were snobbish, arrogant, and rude – always judging others based on their wealth and looking down on the world because they had money.

But Sting... He was different.

He was humble and kind-hearted, with a love for his friends and family, a strong sense of justice, and a gentle face with soft blonde locks.

Yukino blushed when her thoughts wandered elsewhere.

'We're just friends! I mean, besides, it's not like I think he's cute! I mean, he is! Wait?! What am I even thinking!'

"Hey, Yukino! Are you coming?" grinned Sting, who had already walked ahead.

Yukino's face flushed red when they reached the door.

Sting opened the door, and they walked inside.

Yukino was amazed at the interior decor. It was fancy and tidy, but at the same time, very inviting and welcoming.

"Thanks for having me," said Yukino shyly.

Sting smiled and patted her head.

"Of course! You're my best friend. I care about you deeply."

Yukino felt her saliva get stuck in her throat as she choked at such bold words.

Sting blushed and stuttered heavily as he desperately tried to correct himself.

"No-no! I mean I care about you! Like a friend! I care about you as a friend!"

The two stood silently, trying their best to calm down.

After some time passed, Sting cleared his throat.

"Want me to show you around?"

"Sure," answered Yukino with a nod.

So Sting gave Yukino a quick tour of the first floor of his house. They started with the living room, the bottom library study, the dining hall, and lastly, the kitchen.

Yukino was in awe. The first floor of Sting's house was bigger than her own humble cottage that she shared with her older sister.

"Hello!" greeted Irene as she walked down the stairs.

'Oh my goodness! That's Sting's mother?! She is so beautiful!'

Irene reached the bottom of the stairs and smiled at the two.

"Aren't you a pretty girl! Are you perhaps Sting's girlfriend?" Irene asked with a mischievous smirk.

"Mom!" Sting protested, very embarrassed by his mom's antics.

Yukino's face was beet red as Irene playfully teased the two.

Irene found herself really adoring Yukino. She was a well-mannered and bright girl.

Irene learned that Yukino was a Celestial Key Mage, which piqued the woman's interest heavily.

For such a young girl to possess such power at this age was incredible. So Irene made the bold proclamation that she would train Yukino.

Yukino was beyond excited while chatting with Irene.

Sting was just worried his mom would bring up his embarrassing memories for Yukino during their training sessions. He wanted to be the cool brother for once...

Author's Ending Note: Any suggestions on who Irene should date? Should I add a second parent? A lot of people messaged me from AO3 and said that Selene(From Fairy Tail 100 Year Quest) would be a great candidate for her? I don't know? What do you think? Comment any suggestions you have!