Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SI: Chapter X: Warm Blankets

Days passed, and the summer sun continued its journey across the sky, casting shadows that painted the courtyard of John the Merchant's estate.

Peter, growing increasingly anxious about Alice's absence from the garden, decided to concoct a reasonable excuse to visit her home. Worries of whether something had happened to her or if she had changed her mind about their secret friendship lingered in his thoughts.

Crafting a story about potential trade discussions with John, Peter arrived at the merchant's house, determined to sneak a glance at Alice and ensure her well-being.
As he engaging in a dialogue that involved John and Alice's older brother, Henry— the courtyard served as the backdrop for their strategic dialogue.

Peter, with a convincing tone, remarked, "John, I've heard rumors of a potential expansion in the wool trade. I thought it would be wise to discuss the prospects and perhaps collaborate on acquiring some quality wool from your sources."

John, intrigued by the prospect of a profitable venture, responded, "Ah, wool, a commodity in high demand. Henry, what do you think about this potential collaboration?"

Henry, caught in the web of Peter's diversion, nodded in agreement. "It sounds promising. If it benefits the family business, we should consider it."

With the attention diverted and John and Henry deep in discussion about the potential trade collaboration, while walking to their inventory area— Peter seized the opportunity to discreetly explore the house. Sneaking through hallways and discreet corners, he searched for any sign of Alice.

As Peter moved through the house, his steps silent on the medieval floorboards, he discovered Alice in a corner of a bedroom, immersed in a Galician book, her form hidden beneath a cozy blanket. Startled, Alice nearly screamed, but Peter swiftly covered her mouth with his hands, their eyes locking in a shared moment of surprise.

Whispering, Alice questioned, "How did you get here?"

Peter, his eyes darting around as he explained his ruse, expressed genuine concern for her well-being. "I've been worried sick about you, Alice. You haven't been in the garden lately, and I feared something might have happened."

Alice, touched by his concern, managed a shy smile. "I appreciate that, Peter, but you really shouldn't sneak into people's houses."

Just as Peter was about to respond, Alice's eyes widened as she glanced at her clothes hanging by the window, half wet. Blushing furiously, she whispered, "Can you get away first?"

Confused, Peter asked, "Why?"

With a mix of innocence and humor, Alice replied, "Because I'm not wearing anything underneath." As she pointed to her half-dried clothes, a playful awkwardness hung in the air.

Peter, caught off guard, stammered, "Oh, uh, right. I'll go, but promise me you'll be in the garden soon."

Alice nodded. As the diversion reached its peak, Peter, sensing the imminent return of John and Henry, stole a quick glance at Alice. Without a word, he placed a gentle peck on her forehead—a tender gesture that left Alice momentarily flustered.

Their eyes met, a silent exchange in the medieval tapestry of emotions, and Peter tiptoed away, leaving Alice with a heartbeat echoing in the quiet corners of the house.