The Sole Star (Final Fantasy XV Fanfic)

Chapter XXIII

"So, we're heading to Hammerhead, then?" Lorelai questioned, walking with the guys to their vehicle.

"The Regalia could really use a tune up," Ignis told her. "We won't stay long if that's what you're wondering."

"Oh, it's alright," she replied, climbing into the car ahead of Noctis. "We can stay as long as you need, I don't mind. I might see if there are any hunts to take while we're there. Maybe see if Cindy needs anything."

"You know Cindy?" Prompto asked, looking back at her from his seat in the front.

Ignis pulled out of the parking lot and headed down the rode away from Galdin. A sly grin spread across Lorelai's lips. "Haven't you guys learned anything? I know lots of people all around Lucis. I've been to Hammerhead before and I know Cid and Cindy."

Prompto inwardly frowned. His old crush and his new crush both in the same place. He didn't know if he'd be able to handle it. He hoped that with Lorelai being there, his mind wouldn't even think about Cindy. After all, his infatuation for the mechanic was steadily dying down and growing for Lorelai instead. After thinking on it, he figured that it would stay that way. There was no need to fret about it. He only needed to think of how close he's gotten to Lorelai in such a short amount of time. He was never able to get anywhere with Cindy, and everyone even said that she was already married to her work. He finally smiled to himself, erasing the thoughts from his head.

"Well if you're gonna go on any hunts, I wouldn't mind tagging along," Gladio said. "Y'know, just to be safe. I'd hate to let a pretty lady go off on her own."

Lorelai giggled and rolled her eyes. "I can take care of myself, but if you want to come, then whatever."

Prompto felt a tinge of jealousy at that. He trusted both Noctis and Ignis alone with Lorelai, but Gladio was so good with people, especially women, that he was a bit afraid that something may happen between the two. Lorelai was one girl he did not want to lose. But he knew he needed to trust her and Gladio. He pushed back the worrisome ideas and simply joined in the conversations between his friends.

Arriving in Hammerhead, a familiar mechanic approached the vehicle. "Howdy there, prince," Cindy greeted as the group got out of the car. "Fancy seein' you boys again." Lorelai smiled brightly as Cindy's eyes landed on her. "Well I'll be. Is that Lora I see there?"

"The one and only," Lorelai replied. "Long time no see." She gave Cindy a quick hug that the mechanic eagerly returned. "Still smell like oil and grease, I see."

The two pulled apart, Cindy laughing at her friend. "Course. Nice of ya to visit, and with the prince, no less." Cindy looked around Lorelai at the men. "So, what can I do ya for?"

"The Regalia needs a tune up," Ignis answered. "Among other things, I believe the oil needs changing and one of the tires could use a bit more air."

Cindy smiled. "I'll get right on it! It may be a bit on the pricey side, but I'll throw in a free polish for ya."

"Sounds good," Noctis said.

"Alright then. It'll probably take me a bit, but by the time I'm done, I'll have the ol' girl runnin' smooth and lookin' purdier than ever."

Before Cindy could turn back toward her garage, Lorelai asked, "There's nothing I can help you with, is there?"

With a hand on her hip, Cindy hummed in thought. "Mmm, I don't think so." She then laughed lightly, knowing what her friend was wanting. "If you're lookin' for work, I suggest askin' Takka at the diner."

"Will do." Lorelai twisted on her heel and headed straight for the diner.

Gladio followed her. "I'll come too."