Life Beyond the Doors

Chapter 76: Endanger

Marlin turned to see Everi looking at them with a raised eyebrow. "If you want privacy, just say so," Everi said, giving them a knowing look. Marlin felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her, but Ethan just grinned and waved at Everi.

"Thank you for understanding, Everi, but we're fine for now," Ethan said, still wearing his charming smile. Everi nodded and walked away, disappearing into the crowd.

Marlin turned back to Ethan, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. "So, what did you want to talk about?"

"Why don't we go somewhere private?" he suggested, offering his arm to her.

Marlin hesitated for a moment, not sure what to expect, but then she nodded and took his arm, allowing him to lead her to a nearby room. Once inside, Marlin was surprised to find it empty, the only sound the faint murmur of the ball guests outside.

As they stood facing each other, Marlin felt her heart rate pick up again. She took a deep breath, gathering her courage before speaking up.

"By the way, Your Highness, I was meaning to tell you something...," she began, her voice a little shaky.

Ethan's expression turned serious as he waited for her to continue.

"I might have a clue where Aiden might be," Marlin said, her eyes locked onto Ethan's, waiting for his response.

Marlin felt uneasy under Prince Ethan's scrutinizing gaze as she revealed her knowledge about Aiden's possible whereabouts. She couldn't decipher the smile that played on his lips, and the pat on her head made her flinch involuntarily.

After a moment of uncomfortable silence, Prince Ethan spoke, his voice laced with a hint of excitement and greed, "The magical door, you say? That is a valuable piece of information, Marlin. Thank you for sharing.

She couldn't shake the uneasy feeling that was slowly creeping into her heart.

But she tried to ignore her doubts and focused on giving him the information he sought. "Yes, the magical door," she said firmly, "but I don't know how to open it."

Prince Ethan's smile turned into a smirk as he moved closer to her. "Don't worry about that. Leave it to me."

Marlin's heart skipped a beat as he invaded her personal space, but she tried to keep a calm facade. However, when Prince Ethan suggested they find somewhere more private to talk, Marlin couldn't help but feel nervous.

She followed him into a room, and as he asked her what she had to say, Marlin took a deep breath and revealed the information she had. Prince Ethan's eyes darkened, and a chill ran down Marlin's spine.

As she looked at him, she realized that being alone with him was not a good idea.

Everi took another sip of her cocktail as she leaned against the balcony railing, looking out at the magnificent view of the city. She had been waiting for what felt like forever, wondering what was taking Marlin and Prince Ethan so long.

As she was lost in her thoughts, she suddenly felt a strong pair of arms wrap around her from behind. She jumped in surprise, but then quickly recognized the person by his scent. It was Mathias.

She turned around to face him, a mix of emotions flowing through her. "You scared me," she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

Mathias only smirked in response. "You're not surprised, huh?" he said, with a hint of playfulness in his voice.