Unveiled Secrets: The Promise of the Fae

Chapter 31 – Will you be allowed to do that?

“I know that part, but like… you liked him in that instant?” She’s not dumb enough not to know what a racing heart means, but she’s curious how Aaron managed it.

“He’s your type of guy?”

Well, Aaron has his own charms.

“Will you be allowed to do that? I mean, you’re a noble.” Vince’s focus was clearly different from hers… Nate rolled her eyes, and yet, she’s also concerned. Aaron’s a good friend.

“I wasn’t a noble to begin with. It was only granted to me because of my importance. I can throw it away anytime.”

“You haven’t confirmed it yet. You really like him? You even thought so far as to consider throwing away your noble status?”

Hannah struggled for a moment. She already made it as obvious as she can, but it would seem getting confronted and having to confirm it are a different matter altogether. Do they really need to ask? Also… yes, she has already considered things that far. This is the only time she’s giving herself a chance to go after what she wants, after all.

“Yes. I like him.” She replied in resignation. They’ve been spending time these last few days and yet… she was tempted to read his thoughts but she promised. He doesn’t seem to think anything of it, though. He’s simply being friendly. It does look like he’s inexperienced in the relationship department, with a girl. An intimate romantic relationship.

“Do you need help? He seems unaware.” As soon as she said that, Vince grunted.

“Like you’re any better.”

She can’t argue, but… “Which is why I might understand him better.”

Hannah watched them bicker. Actually, she had a way to understand him if she hadn’t made that promise to him. In a way, it provides her with a mystery. But it’s frustrating.

She hadn’t considered that he may not have experience. At his age, he should’ve at least liked a girl previously. Maybe she can ask randomly. He’s not one to overthink other people’s intentions. Even if he does, then it’s good. He’ll realize she’s into him.

“There is no need to bother with my issues. I’ll find my way.”

“Oh, alright. But if you do need help, don’t hesitate to ask.”

Vince nodded behind Nate as she reminded her.

“Alright.” Hannah smiled at the two of them.

Though Selene is much younger, she’s very attentive to details. She can tell Hannah’s intentions but seeing how Aaron doesn’t respond to her, she’s a little puzzled.

She directly asked while setting the table to dinner, “Do you like Hannah?”

Aaron looked up at the question, he’s feeling tired today from all the practice they did. After trying it once on a dead carcass, Hannah made him try plucking little branches from trees. It’s almost the same thing, she said.

“Hannah?” He repeated her name. “She’s a good person.”

Selene rolled her eyes at his answer. Philip just entered the kitchen and saw this scene. He chuckled before sitting down.

“What she meant was… do you like her? You know, like how Nate likes Vince? Oh wait, I meant like how Vince likes Nate.”

Their questions are a bit…

Maybe aside from him, everyone else did notice the way Hannah looks at him. He was sometimes conscious of her whenever they’re together. He couldn’t even look at her directly for too long. He gets uncomfortable with her stare, so he hadn’t actually witnessed how much she stares at him. She’d been really helpful.

“Like how Vince likes Nate?” Aaron repeated the question aloud.

“Uh huh.” Philip glanced at his sister for a second before watching Aaron’s expression.

“That…” Being presented with such a question, he had to evaluate himself and his feelings. He’d never liked anyone before. Hannah… he’s reminded of all the times they were together. He didn’t think too much of it then. Before he can continue, he’s reminded of one fact.

“She’s a lady. A proper lady.” And that’s one obstacle he couldn’t overcome even if he’s sure with his feelings. With that fact, he didn’t bother himself with anything else. She’s a good friend and that’s what she is to him.

“So? You’re not going to try and pursue her because of it?” Selene was puzzled. Technically, she is also a noble. Given how their parents died early, Philip can only access the family wealth upon knighthood. They get a decent allowance, but nothing over the top.

“More like I won’t even consider having feelings for her since she’s a noble.”

“Ouch. I’m feeling hurt for her already.” Selene couldn’t help but sympathize with the woman.

“Why would you?” Aaron was finding it a little funny.

“Have you seen how she looks at you? She’d be heartbroken if she hears you say that.”

Aaron sighed. “How would you know? Have you been watching her all the time?”

“No, but the times I’ve seen her are enough to let me know.”

Philip watched them in amusement. “You’re dense. That much is true.”

He fully supports his sister’s observation.

Aaron’s gaze trembled a little, wavering. It only took a few seconds before his resolve solidified again. He can’t get involved with a noble. Heartbreak lies there. Why bother having feelings with someone you can’t be with?

He sighed, and the siblings finally let him have a break. They had a quiet dinner. Selene teased him by asking Pyro questions about Hannah, though the questions are mostly innocent. She’s a gentle soul.

As he lay on his bed that night, his chest felt a little prickly. He kept his eyes open. Their comments made their way into his head. He would see her image when he closed his eyes. He groaned. He needs to sleep early. They would be going to the fae tomorrow. He needs his rest or he’ll embarrass himself. He can’t have that. When he managed to sleep, he dreamed of her. Oddly, it made him feel rested when he woke up the next morning. He quickly prepared to go. They’ll have breakfast with the king and then off they go.

He glanced at Hannah when he arrived at the dining hall. She had a bright smile on her face. The comments from last night came back to him. No, he can’t. He reminded himself. Even so, his heart was feeling prickly again. What was it about?

“Are you okay?” Her voice floated to him, laced with concern. When he glanced over, he can tell she’s worried.

“Yeah, just nervous.” He replied with a forced smile. He’s still feeling nervous. The upside, he momentarily forgot about Hannah’s supposed interest in him. Does she really? When he glanced over, she was still looking at him. It startled him so he looked away quickly.

The prince and princess arrived together before the king. Their greetings were mostly smiles and hello.  

“Eat. There’s not much to say. We’ll only scout the lands today. You have been briefed on the map locations. You have been reminded of some important rules. The moment the lights appear, hold onto each other. If you can, grab Vince or Nate.”

“Yes, my lord.” Aaron replied. His anxiety was apparent. Vince smiled at him.

“It would be a simple outing today. Don’t be too nervous. Think of a stroll in the grounds.” He reminded Aaron; at the same time, he’s reminded of his first time alone in that world. Yes, he was nervous back then, too. He won’t say that, though.

Nate rolled her eyes at him, and Hannah actually giggled at her reaction.

His heart is being pricked again at hearing her laugh. He stole a glance.

This sight made Nate raise an eyebrow. Woah, is he checking her out now?

 Vince saw it, too. Both of them decidedly didn’t comment on it. It would be nice not to force it and let it come naturally for the two of them.

On the other hand, Hannah was prepared to wait for him. No matter how long it takes. Internally, she giggled at the thought. Thankfully, her curse doesn’t work on the same man. No matter how many times he makes her heart race in his lifetime, it’ll only let her turn back to her younger self one time. They would basically grow old together. If they would be together, that is. She’s not sure how to break the curse. If he falls for her, would that end it? If she promises to love only him and no one else, she’s bound to die with him when he does, right? At least, that’s as much as she can analyze her situation. Thankfully, he’s also keeping to his promise of treating her like any other teenage individual. He hadn’t slipped, not once. She’s thankful for that, makes him even more likeable.

If King Edward noticed anything, he didn’t comment on it. After breakfast, they went through the plan again. Maybe Elise would be able to provide others to assist them. Surely, they would need other fairies to fly them to those territories. Given her royal status, it shouldn’t be too hard.

When they formed the circle, Aaron and Hannah were next to each other. He held her hand firmly. She secretly smiled at the feel of his warm hand on hers. It felt comforting. She stared at their joined hands. When Aaron glanced over to her, he was relieved to finally see she’s not looking at him. Following her gaze however, he realized his mistake. He bit his lip as he can’t let her hand go. She did feel him stiffen, though. And so, she looked into his eyes. He caught his breath when she did.

“On three.” Nate signaled so he looked over to her, dismissing what was happening earlier.

“One. Two. Three.” Vince counted and they both silently chanted. In a while, bright lights enveloped them.