The Academy For The Aces: BOOK 1 OF THE ACE SERIES

Chapter 22

Chapter 22

"So, where exactly is your dance class being held, Professor Andrew? I had to lie to your sister and Daiyu about where I'd be for the next hour," Faith said, a playful glint in her eyes. "I was barely convincing."

After literally scarfing down her lunch and telling a little white lie to Antheia and Daiyu about her whereabouts, Faith felt a surge of excitement. The mission felt top secret, and she was eager to discover what Prince Andrew had in store for her.

"Smart girl," Andrew responded with a grin, leaning against the wall. "Though, you're probably the worst liar I know. I wouldn't want my sister to know about this. So thanks for keeping it a secret," he stated, genuinely appreciating Faith's willingness to play along.

Faith raised an eyebrow, a hint of sass in her reply. "Then why did you choose me for this little plan of yours if I'm a terrible liar?"

"Oh, come on, Faith," Prince Andrew replied, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I chose you because I knew you'd be up for a challenge. Besides, even if you're a terrible liar, your determination and curiosity make up for it."

Faith couldn't help but scoff playfully, trying to hide her amusement. "Oh, so you're saying I'm your only hope in pulling off this secret mission?"

"Exactly," he said with a wink, his playful demeanor matching hers. "Who else could I trust to keep this little endeavor under wraps? It's our little secret, just between us."

Their banter continued as they made their way to the forbidden East Wing, both fueled by a sense of adventure and camaraderie. Faith's heart raced with anticipation as she pondered what Prince Andrew had planned.

"Fine, fine, I'll do my best to keep this 'top-secret' mission safe from prying eyes," Faith finally relented, a smile tugging at her lips.

Prince Andrew chuckled. "I knew I could count on you, Miss Holmes."

As they approached the East Wing, Faith couldn't help but stop in her tracks, causing Prince Andrew to turn and look at her. A mixture of worry and shock showed on her face.

"Isn't the East Wing off-limits...?" Faith questioned, her concern evident.

Prince Andrew raised an eyebrow, a mischievous smirk playing on his lips. "Well, Miss Holmes, you did say you wanted an adventure, didn't you? The East Wing is the perfect place for a secret dance lesson."

Faith's worry only deepened, but she couldn't deny the thrill of the unknown. "But what if we get caught? I mean, it's off-limits for a reason, right?"

He shrugged nonchalantly. "True, but that's part of the fun, isn't it? Besides, it's not like we're going to cause any trouble. Just a harmless dance session between friends."

Faith hesitated, torn between her desire for adventure and her instinct to follow the rules. "I don't know, Prince Andrew. It sounds risky."

He took her hand, his touch sending a shiver down her spine. "Come on, Faith, trust me. It'll be worth it. Think of it as a chance to experience something most students never get to see."

With a sigh, Faith finally relented, knowing she was about to step into the unknown with Prince Andrew. "Alright, but if anything goes wrong, you owe me big time."

He chuckled, squeezing her hand reassuringly. "Deal. Now, let's head to the East Wing and prepare for our secret dance lesson."

As they ventured into the forbidden territory of the East Wing, Faith couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement mixed with a hint of trepidation. With each step, she felt her heart race, unsure of what awaited her beyond those grand double doors.

"Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?" Prince Andrew asked a glint of excitement in his eyes.

Faith took a deep breath, feeling a sense of trust and connection with him. "Ready as I'll ever be," she replied, a smile gracing her lips.

Prince Andrew opened the doors, and as Faith stepped through, her breath caught in her throat. Before her lay a magnificent ballroom, bathed in the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. The walls were adorned with elegant tapestries, and a grand piano sat in the corner, waiting to fill the room with enchanting melodies.

"It's beautiful," Faith whispered, her eyes filled with wonder.

Prince Andrew followed her inside, his eyes never leaving her face as he watched her reaction. "I knew you'd like it," he said, a touch of pride in his voice.

Faith turned to him, a soft smile on her lips. "You were right. This is something I never expected."

"Well, I thought it would be the perfect place for our secret dance lesson," he said, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "And it seems like I was right."

Faith chuckled, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside her. "So, are you going to be my dance instructor, Professor Andrew?"

He offered her a gallant bow, a playful twinkle in his eyes. "At your service, Miss Holmes. Shall we begin?"