I am aware that the night is growing late, and I am reminded of my responsibilities to continue selling my goods at the market tomorrow. So I addressed Cordelia, my thoughts sincere.
"Cordelia, I have heard your feelings for me loud and clear, and I must confess that I am pleased by your confession. However, for now, let us bring this evening to a close as we both have work to attend to tomorrow. I also need to give serious thought to my response. Let us arrange another meeting before I depart from Vermina."
Cordelia nodded silently, maintaining her composure.
"Very well, I agree," she replied.
"Allow me to accompany you home," I offered, extending my hand in a gesture of assistance.
"Oh, there's no need for you to trouble yourself," she began to retract, despite her initial closeness.
"It is no trouble at all. Consider it an opportunity to spend a little more time together," I reassured her, hoping to convey my genuine intentions.
Cordelia appeared taken aback. "I didn't expect you to be so forward, Takahiko. In that case, I shall gladly accept your offer."
"Just to be clear, I am merely offering my escort, nothing more and nothing less."
She chuckled, the sound ringing in the air. Whether she truly understood the implication or not, only Cordelia knew. We continued on our way, each step taking us closer to her abode.
As we walked, we engaged in light conversation, discussing trivial matters that seemed to momentarily distract us from the weight of the evening. Several minutes later, we arrived at her dwelling, conveniently located within the same complex as the Rusty Dagger tavern.
I turned my body to continue walking towards my own lodging, bidding her farewell.
"Have a restful sleep, Cordelia."
"Oh, please wait, Takahiko," she said, her voice filled with urgency. She reached out and took hold of my hand, bringing her face close to mine. In a surprising gesture, she pressed her moist lips against my right cheek. I was momentarily stunned, unable to process what had just happened. As she continued to hold my cheek, she whispered softly.
"Thank you for tonight. I will eagerly await your answer." With that, she released her grip and stepped back, leaving me standing there, feeling confused.
Cordelia had left me in a daze, unable to gather my thoughts. I watched as she hurriedly entered her house, offering a fleeting wave before closing the door behind her. Left outside alone, I wonder how my face must have appeared in that moment—bewildered, perhaps even a touch of anticipation.
I turned and made my way back to my own lodging, my mind filled with questions and the weight of an impending decision.
YOU ARE READING
The Merchant and Tavern Master
FantasyIn this world, there are adventurers, knights, mystical races, magic spells, and treasures. But this is not stories about them. This is just a story about a humble man working as a traveling merchant who dream to become rich to support his family. O...
