Third Arc (Fallen Heart) - 41. Scars of The Past III

"Give us some time so we can get to know each other better, including finding out what I am," he whispered.

Rose fell silent. His words reminded her of their argument last night which ended with a whisper that dimmed the anger and the pain in their hearts, like a flame dimmed by a breeze. And Rose had to admit... With all of those scars on his body, everything that Angel said last night was true. Indeed it was too absurd, but he didn't lie. That explained why he was so angry last night.

Her guilt pierced her heart. She always hated people who gave wrong judgments and spoke bad things about her family. Yet she did the same to Angel, the man who had done so much for her. Still... It was weird since he didn't know about himself either.

"You really don't know what you are?" she clarified once again.

"I swear by my father's name. I don't know. I have tried to find out about this, through the old books, myths, even the ancient history of the dark king. But I didn't find any similar story to mine," he replied. This was the reason why he visited various cities in Euphorion and other kingdoms over the years. Also, the main reason why he learned the Teleportation spell. Because he wanted to know about himself, his father's killer, the dark crystal and the mysterious woman's voice. As for the others, like important information about trading, the royal families' rumours and political issues were bonuses that he could use for his kingdom. Unfortunately, he had not found any information regarding this.

"Let's find it out together then," she whispered. Her fear and confusion still filled her heart and head. Indeed, she was afraid, but now, at least she knew that Angel wasn't lying. Although... The truth sounded weirder than a lie.

"Thank you..." he whispered.

After that, they fell silent. It was weird since Angel knew their conversation was over and Rose was much calmer now. He should release his embrace but his heart refused. It made him stay in his position even though his embrace was not as tight as before.

On the other hand, Rose knew she could let go of his embrace in one gentle push, yet she found comfort from it. It was the first time her heart and mind kept jumping from one feeling to another. Just like her irritation and disappointment that turned into hope just with a single sentence last night. Now, her fear and doubt turned to a strange comfort and relief after he proved himself that he didn't lie.

Is it because of that kiss? Isn't it strange that she is afraid and falls in love with the same person? Or is it because of his weird devious charm? Or because love is blind?

Rose closed her eyes. Although it was strange, she decided to stay a little longer and enjoy his warmth, his scent, his embrace.

"I want to apologize." His voice restored her sense.

She opened her eyes slowly.
"For what?" she whispered.

"For the kiss. I shouldn't do that..." He was aware Rose didn't push him anymore nor complain about it so he assumed she didn't mind. Still, he had stolen a kiss from her.

"I also stole your kiss five years ago. We are even now." What she meant was their first kiss.
"I should be the one apologizing. I shouldn't have called you a liar last night," she continued.

"It's fine. It isn't the first time I've heard of that. I'm glad we've straighten things out now," he said. He was glad he was able to confess everything to her.

Again they fell silent. Angel knew he should put on his uniform since Cley and Flare were already waiting for him in his study room, yet his body refused to move. So was Rose. She remembered she had to get ready for her first breakfast with Angel and the other kingdoms' delegates, yet she didn't want to move either.

The knocking sounds accompanied by a male voice that came from outside startled them.
"Pardon me, Your Majesty. Cley and General Flare are waiting for you in the study room."

He turned towards the door and shouted.
"Tell them to wait a bit longer. I will see them soon." Then he returned his gaze to Rose. Hesitantly, he released his hands.
"I should go now," he said. His hand took his shirt and immediately put it on. He was late for the meeting so he had to hurry.

"Let me help you." Without waiting for his answer, her hands moved to button his shirt.

"You don't have to do it," he said as he put his gloves on.

"You are late because of me. I have to take the responsibility." Although her dress and what had happened embarrassed her, her hands continued to move.

"If you want to take responsibility, you should do something else for me."

Rose stopped her movement as she finished buttoning the last button.
"What is it?" she asked as she turned her gaze to Angel who was busy tidying his shirt.

He smirked and brought his lips to her ear.
"You should treat me better tonight." His words petrified her. Her heart was pounding again, this time for another reason, not fear.

Without waiting for a reply, he distanced his face and grabbed his blazer. His hands spun around that blazer before he put it on to cover his shoulders. Then he grabbed his sword.

But just as he turned and was about to walk towards the exit, Rose's voice stopped him.
"What do you mean?" she said in a stammering voice. Her blushed cheeks already said it all.

"You already know what I mean." After that he walked towards the door, leaving Rose who was silent with mixed feelings there.

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