King of Hearts

41.

Dánica remains at the door while Garan approaches Val and the prince. "I am very sorry to disturb you, but Val, we ought to go now. It's gotten late."

Prince Ulio immediately changes his posture, playing with his ring with one finger. "Yes, it has indeed. I think I'll go rest as well." He gives Val one last look before entering the ballroom. A look full of mysteries and affection. A charming smirk. Adjusting his mask, he makes his way to the King, ignoring Satyn's presence. Val can't hear their conversation from outside. King Zain pats his shoulder and Prince Ulio makes his way out of the room. As her eyes are following Ulio she barely notices the King's on her. His gaze reveals interest. He even seems to give her a slight nod. Intimidated by his glance, Val looks away.

Garan inspects Val for a few seconds. His look is enough to make her blush. She hopes he doesn't misunderstand anything. "Could it be you're getting along well?" he then asks sheepishly. Val rolls her eyes although her facing is heating up madly. She doesn't respond because there is no need to. She also ignores Dánica's suspicious gaze. 

Together they leave the masquerade. A carriage is already waiting. Val wonders what time it is. The sky is almost black if it weren't for the stars. It must be very late, as she can feel the exhaustion in her bones. Though, there are still hundreds of people still celebrating as the night is young. Val partly enjoyed herself tonight, but she's glad to be finally leaving.

The evening didn't go as planned. Not that it turned out to be disappointing, not in the least. Foolishly, Val at first thought Ulio didn't feel any emotions. Maybe because of how apathetic and evil he can be. Maybe because he's a dangerous soul. But the fact that he has a soul is enough to believe he has feelings too, of course. That deep conversation was totally unexpected, and Val is somehow glad he confided in her. Although, it was her strangest encounter with the prince. Still, unforgettable.

Val is glad neither Dánica nor Garan make uncomfortable questions. They always seem to be perfectly aware of when to speak and when to leave it be. Val's mind is too busy to focus anyway. Mentally, she's still on the balcony with Prince Ulio. The way he smiled at her. How his brown eyes shimmered gold and she could see the reflection of the stars in them. His honey voice. His sweet scent of roses and fall rain. How come she never realized how beautiful he is?