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They were going out to dinner tonight. The three of them. Together as a family.
Iris bounced with excitement. She honestly couldn’t remember the last time they’d done this. Both her father and brother were always so busy with work, it was nearly impossible for all three of their schedules to line up. Especially considering how busy things were going to be with the treaty and with Gladdy heading off with Prince Noctis tomorrow for the wedding, Iris was honestly surprised her Dad had managed to pull himself away from King Regis for the night.
The sound of the door opening shook Iris out of her thoughts and she beamed as her father stepped through, running to tackle him in a hug.
Clarus laughed as he caught her in his arms and held her tightly. “Good to see you too, Iris.”
“I missed you,” she murmured before she pulled back to look at him. “I wasn’t sure if we’d really get to go.”
Frowning slightly, Clarus’ eyes looked sad as he apologized, “I’m sorry, Iris. I know I’ve been working a lot.” He sighed heavily and continued, “After tonight it will surely get a lot worse before it gets better, but hopefully tonight will be a memory that can sustain us.”
“You bet!” Iris said cheerfully. “What you and Gladdy are doing is important. I’m just glad we got some actual family time before his trip.”
Clarus smiled fondly at her. “Me too, Moogle.”
Gladio opened the door with a wide grin and asked as he stepped through, “So where are we going tonight?”
“Haven’t decided yet,” Clarus said with a smirk. “Figured I’d see where you two want to go. Dinner’s on Reggie, so price is no object.”
Iris’ eyes went wide with excitement. “Ooooh! Can we try that swanky noodle place that opened up recently on Shinra Drive? Everyone says their ramen is to die for!”
Gladio smiled warmly. “Sounds good to me.”
With a laugh Clarus teased, “I give my children an unlimited budget and the choice of any restaurant in the city, and they choose noodles.”
“Hey,” Iris pouted.
“What’s wrong with noodles?” Gladio asked with a raised eyebrow.
“Nothing,” Clarus said fondly. “Nothing at all.”
“Then, come on, let’s go!” Iris urged. “I’m starving! Maybe we can look at the menu in the car on the ride over.”
Amicitia family outings might be few and far between, but with the promise of fancy noodles and quality time, Iris was sure tonight would be a night to remember.