His Majesty Adores Me

Chapter 2: Asher

Chapter 2

I decided to just open it and deal with the consequences later. I will never know since this place is hidden. Only selected individuals can openly roam around this area. This Cabin might be strangely built in the middle of nowhere but my Mom assures me that this place is safe.It is either he found me by accident or searched me for a reason. I was trying to convince myself that this person is not a bad person. 

I opened the door. I saw a man drenched wet from the rain. I studied his figure. His clothing tells me that he is not a commoner. He has a muscular figure and as the rain drenched his clothes it emphasized his body muscles. Our eyes met, he had deep blue eyes and dark colored hair. Now that I realized it, we are almost the same age. I thought that he was an old man because he was wearing a dark cloak! That cloak is a trick. He’s wearing something like a uniform. He must be a noble if I am correct.

“Pardon my intrusion, my lady. It seems like the rain came unexpectedly. Do you mind if I come in?” He said in a serious tone. I almost became speechless with his gentle and calm voice. I realized I was taking too much time to reply and I finally snapped out of it.

“Yes.” I said. “Come in.” I said and led him to a sofa. I quickly searched for a clean towel and handed it over to him. He reluctantly accepted and thanked me.He removed his cloak and I took care of it and hung it.

I noticed the badge on his chest. He’s a nobleman. I was told that nobles carry badges on their chest to show off their family crest. I can clearly tell that he belongs to high society. This is a little unsure.  I need to treat him well. He must have lost his ways

“Pardon me for asking, but do you live alone?” He asked and I sat across from him. I tried to not met his gaze because he’s clearly staring at me for a while now.

“I am not but right now I am. My mother just passed away and our maid is running errands to the capital. Pardon if I am the only person that can serve you right now, my lord.” I said and he shook his head. He was a little shocked.

“No. That’s not what I meant. I offer you my condolences. I was just wondering how come a beautiful woman like you was left alone. It’s dangerous.” He said and I shook my head. I blushed when he called me beautiful. I am used to being alone anyways. “Thank you for letting me in.” He said and I nodded.

I tried to ignore it until now but wherever I look at him, he is screaming perfection! How can God tempt me like this? It’s been a while since I entertained a guest. He looks attractive, I need to focus. “I will prepare tea. Please sit comfortably.” I said and he nodded. 

I went to the kitchen to prepare tea. A noble like him won’t like anything plain right? I started blending red tea and some herbs to prepare them. My Mom taught me various things in cooking and brewing tea. During these times, I am thankful that she taught me well enough. I’m glad I paid attention to her. I prepared the red tea and put it on a tray to serve.

“Pardon me for waiting.” I said and put the tray down on the table. “These are red tea that I brew personally. I hope you like it.” I said and he nodded.

He looks like someone who doesn’t speak much. He was carrying a sword as well and maybe he’s wearing his uniform? He must be a knight. I wonder how he found me here. He’s still stealing glances at me from time to time. Is there something on my face?

“These teas are good.” He commented.

I smiled at him, “I am glad you liked it.” I said and he blushed. How is this man so adorable? I wonder if he has a fiancé. Oh! What am I thinking? He must have. It’s impossible for a handsome man like him to be single. 

“I forgot to tell you my name. I am Asher.” He said and I replied, “My name is Celeste, my lord.” I said and he turned to me. Did my name sound weird?

“Let’s drop the formalities. I am in debt to your kindness. Please call me Asher.” He said and I smiled.

“Alright, Asher.” I said and he nodded.

He told me that he was on his training and he was curious on what’s on the other side of the wood until the rain poured down heavily and found the cabin. He wasn’t expecting anyone to live in the forest. He was surprised that I live here. I also told him a bunch of stuff like how I ended up alone in this cabin. He was a good listener and we are having a great time. His posture, tone of voice and his handsome face makes it hard to focus. This is the first time I’ve seen such a handsome man!

I think if he will ask me to become his friend I will agree to him.

“Celeste, can I ask your age?” he asked out of the blue.

“Eighteen. How about you?” I asked him too.

“I’m twenty four.” he said and I nodded. He was still young so I thought our age gap would not be that huge. “You spent all those years here in the Cabin?” he asked.

“Well, it’s not as bad as you think. This place is my home. You see, I've always been curious about the Capital. I want to confirm everything that I have read from books. I wonder if it’s as beautiful as the words describe. However, this place is my home. I have no reason to feel sad. When I think about this place I can remember my mother. I know someday I will leave this place too but it will never be replaced.” I said.

“This place suits you. No, peace suits you. The Capital is not as nice as you think. There’s slaves, beggars, thieves and evil merchants that will scam you. Therefore, don’t think highly of the Capital. How about the Imperial garden instead? I think being surrounded by beautiful things is better.” he said and I blushed. Where did he get those words? How can he say that in such a careless manner. I blushed.

“The Imperial garden is impossible for me to get into.” I chuckled. How can I dream of something fancy?

“If you want it I will give it to you.” he said without a pause and his eyes staring straight at me.

“What..” I was speechless.

“If you want it I will offer it to you..” he said and reached for my hand. “My lady.” he said and I blushed.

Just who is this person I am talking to?