Fragmented Dreams: Magical Past

CHAPTER 18: CASIMIR'S PAST LIFE

I stood under the branches of the giant oak tree, attempting to calm myself. The sun was now setting off in the distance, but I wasn't afraid of the night. I tugged on the edges of my cloak, feeling the chill of the autumn air as I raised my arms to adjust my clothes.

I'm crazy, why am I doing this? I thought. You haven't spoken to him in forever and now...

My brain was going around in circles, wondering if I should stay or go. I was fearful, yes, but I wanted to see him so badly that I decided to push all of my doubt and unease deep inside.

Please come, please, oh please.

My heart took flight as I heard the rustling of nearby tree limbs. Casimir appeared before me, much like he had when I last saw him all those years ago. He looked very much the same, only that his reddish-brown hair was longer, worn in a loose ponytail on his side. He had on his armor, which was battered but well taken care of. His cloak was dirty around the edges, the hood still up around his ears.

"Princess," he called out, his brown eyes meeting mine.

"Casimir," I whispered, willing myself not to cry.

I raised my arms up as he engulfed me in a hug. I could feel his breastplate press against me and it felt cool against my exposed skin. My mouth found him and we kissed vigorously. Gone was the awkwardness of our youth, the hesitation replaced only with desire. I felt a pull of longing ripple through my body as Casimir's hands traveled down my waist. My hands gripped the side of his face in an attempt to keep his lips pressed against mine. Casimir pulled away to stare into my eyes, I could tell he was worried.

"Please don't stop," I begged, tugging his face downward.

"Princess."

"Just Taya."

"Taya," he responded softly.

"I've missed you so much," I sniffled, the tears rolling down my cheeks.

"And I you," he replied, brushing away my tears. I was so thrilled just to be back in his arms that I didn't care who caught us at that moment. I gazed up into his face, studying his features. My fingers ran slowly across the edges of his cheeks, brushing lightly against his lips. I could touch him forever.

Feelings like this can't be wrong, I thought.

"I want to become one with you," I blurted out. My heart felt like it would hammer out of my chest as I watched him process my words, his face etched in concern.

"Are you sure?" he finally responded. Casimir's face inched closer to mine, our eyes locked together.

"More than anything."

I gathered my courage and pulled at the closure of my cape. It dropped to the ground in a heavy pile, revealing the sheer nightgown below. I enjoyed the thrill I felt as I watched Casimir's face blush red all over. I could feel an explosion of desire coupled with a flash of fear. He looked around, panicked, even though we were the only two this deep within the forest.

"T-Taya!" he sputtered, reaching down to grab my cape. He pulled it back up to let it rest on my shoulders. "Did you really travel through the castle with only that on?"

I made a face, pouting slightly. "I know I am not as beautiful as my sister or-"

"Stop," he commanded, not letting me finish my self-deprecating tirade. "You are so beautiful." He leaned over to kiss my cheek, wrapping me in another hug.