Thief of Twilight

Part Two: Chapter 67

I woke up the following morning feeling like dozens of weights were holding me down. I don't remember drinking that much. I just had a cup or two while Yohan and I had a nice conversation. I rolled onto my side to see him sliding on his boots. He often wakes up before me and tries his best to be quiet. But now I'm noticing when he's not here. It's like his warmth has slowly slipped away.

"Are you leaving already?" I noticed his ears turning red.

"Yes." he slowly turned to me. "I will be back after sundown. If there is anything that you would like for me to bring back from the palace, please tell me."

I sat up holding the blanket to my chest. My ivory waves spilled over my shoulders. I'm sure my hair is a complete mess. Ever since his rut, we've been trying some new things. He definitely doesn't hold back when he wants to pull my hair.

"Get some rest." he leaned back to kiss my lips. "I'll be back soon."

I have to tell him now. I have to say it before he leaves. Originally, I was afraid to leave the village. I was afraid to stay at the palace. But after hearing what he said last night, I think I can do it. I think I can at least try.

"Yohan..."

"Hm?" he stuck his arms through the sleeve of his robe.

"I think...I want to go...back..."

Yohan lowered his arms.

"I think I want to go back...to the palace..." I looked down at my legs. "I think I'm ready. I think I can do it." when I looked up, I saw Yohan staring at me with wide eyes. "I think I can handle it. I was nervous at first. Well...I still am...but-."

Yohan wrapped his arms around me. "Are you sure?" he took my shoulders in his hands.

I gave him a confident nod before taking a breath. "I can do it."

He cupped my face in his large hands before kissing me deeply. "Then I will make the necessary preparations. I will come back tomorrow morning."

I could feel my body trembling. Yeah, I'm definitely still nervous. But I can't stay nervous forever. I can't sit back and just hope that one day, I'll get over it. I at least have to try.

I climbed out of bed and freshened up for the day before heading to see So-hee. I told her that I would be returning to the palace tomorrow morning and she was more than happy for me. Although, it didn't take long for her to come to the realization that I would no longer be staying in the village.

I paid a visit to Hyemi as well. She didn't seem to be too upset. It was almost like she suspected as much.

"So you're going back to the palace? Good." she was busy massaging her fins. "That's where you belong anyway."

I rolled my eyes. "Hyemi, I'm going to come back and visit."

"Human, you are not coming back to visit me." she laughed. "You will be living the lavish life of a Lady of the Palace with expensive food, tea, and wine."

"You have my word." I said. "I'm going to come back to see you."

Hyemi shrugged. "Yeah, okay." she plunged herself into the water before swimming to the cave entrance. I pursed my lips as I was left alone on the rocky shore. I reached for the basket at my side and placed it before me. I don't have many friends for obvious reasons. But as far as the people that I have met since coming here, I do want to keep them close for as long as I can. So I will make sure that I cherish every person I meet. And to every person who has shown me kindness, I promise to repay them.

___

"Have you seen the emperor?"

"He's absolutely glowing!"