Over the course of the next month, Luka took every opportunity to see Mai. It became so often that the courtiers began to notice, and soon the kingdom was buzzing with news of the Prince's secret escapes. Luka spent hours with her, learning as much as she would allow. On one particular afternoon, he decided to take it a step further. He arrived to their meeting spot in his best jacket and trousers, and had brought a small bouquet of flowers from the Royal Gardens. He shifted a bit, running a hand over the back of his neck.
"If I didn't know any better, Luka, I would guess you were nervous." He heard the smile in her voice as he turned, his own nervous smile brightening his features. She shook his hand gently in their customary greeting, and he sighed inwardly at the feel of the gloves she wore. He'd give anything to actually feel her skin against his own.
"I have no idea what you're talking about." He kept his tone light as her eyes moved over his form. He saw the confusion set in her gaze and he straightened a bit. "Mai, there's something I want to ask you." He stepped closer, offering her the flowers and taking a deep breath. Her eyes widened. "There's a ball coming up in a few weeks, and I was hoping you would attend as my guest." He could feel his face warming as she gave a small surprised smile. He saw a flash of something in her gaze, before she quickly covered it.
"Are you sure about this? I mean, surely you would prefer a lady or even a duchess." Luka could see the gears working in her brain as she worked through it all.
"There's no one I would rather have on my arm. Please? I will cover any expense you need; the dress, shoes, anything you wish." He knew he was starting to beg now, but he couldn't help it. She gave a small chuckle and held up a hand.
"Alright, Luka, I will go. However, I will not let you pay for any of it." Mai sniffed the flowers a bit as he opened his mouth to protest. "No, no argument. I won't allow you to spend that money on me. Put it to something more worthwhile." She moved past him towards the log, bending her head to smell the flowers with a small smile.
"Thank you, Mai. I can't wait to introduce you to everyone." In truth, he was more excited for other events planned for the night, but having her there to meet his friends and family would be wonderful as well. He sat next to her, and they discussed the plans. It was decided they would meet at the ball, and they would find each other inside. Luka knew it wouldn't be hard; he'd simply look for the most beautiful woman there.
YOU ARE READING
Paralyzer
Fantasía"You could come back with me." "Be careful who you invite to your home, dear Prince. You may not find it as agreeable as you hope." The strange woman in the wood draws Luka like no one else. He wants nothing more than to be close to her, but she is...
