Fate of deception

Chapter 3 - Umaizah's POV

The guy had a slim and tall figure with darkish, brown hair. I couldn't see his face as he was in the shadows. He was dressed in simple sets of clothes. Just a plain white shirt, black trousers and a jacket.

I hid behind a tree so he wouldn't be able to see me. I didn't want to give myself away too soon. That would be risking everything for nothing.

It seemed like he was alone, maybe talking to himself. I didn't see anyone else with him, so it can't be that he was with someone.

My heart was beating non stop. I didn't want to go back to the palace. What if this was to get me home faster, a plan from father? I quickly covered my mouth with my hand in an attempt to quiet my loud breathing.

I heard footsteps coming closer as I stayed in my spot. There was no point in running. I only had these indoor slippers with me. He would chase after me and I wouldn't be able to get away.

"Is anyone there?" The guy called out as his voice shook a bit. His voice made me tingle. It was very... deep. I didn't respond.

"I won't do anything," he added.

I felt him coming close.

Do I remain here or what?

I waited ten more seconds. If I stayed here he would go away, right?

Feeling defeated, I let myself out to him, not knowing if I would be in danger. He let out a quiet gasp as I faced him.

When I saw him he had a perfectly sculpted jawline, piercing green eyes and a charming smile that could light up any room. We stared at each other until he broke the silence.

"What are you doing here? Aren't you supposed to be in the palace?" He asked as if he knew me.

I felt like rolling my eyes at that question. I didn't know what to say, still processing the moment. I didn't respond which left him slightly worried.

"Are you okay? Maybe you need to sit down." His tone was so calm that I felt alarmingly safe. He gently placed his hand on my back and guided me to the log I sat on before. He kneeled on front of me, locking eyes. I finally had the encourage to speak.

"How do you know I'm supposed to be at the palace?" I felt nervous. Only because I've never spoken to a guy outside the palace. He gave me a smile and replied.

"Maybe because of your tiara." He pointed above my head.

Shoot, I forgot about that!

I was left dumbfounded.

He let out a chuckle. "Doesn't everyone know you're the Princess of Serendria?"

I kept silent.

"You know. I would like you to speak, instead of staring at my face." I widened my eyes, feeling the burn of embarrassment.

"Sorry." I answered, covering my face.

I let out a question, trying to change the subject to ease the atmosphere but to also ease myself. "What's your name?"

"Amir. Amir Neziha. And.. I'm guessing yours is Umaizah?" I let out a small laugh and answered with a nod.

The air was filled with silence. I could feel his gaze on me, it made me slightly uncomfortable. I tried avoiding eye contact to not make him feel suspicious. I then pondered asking him a question to understand him better, while also reducing his curiosity about why I'm here alone.

"What were you doing out here?" I raised a brow. I sensed that he felt a bit unsure of answering. He took a deep breath and gave in.

"I needed some alone time. I always find a quiet spot with nobody around so I can relax and clear my head. This might be weird but nature helps with this. Visiting the forest takes all away my stress." He answered.

"How about you. I thought that King Fahd never lets you out at night. Especially when you're all by yourself with no one watching over you."

He quietened the last part. I didn't need to let him know that I escaped. Although he seems nice, that image can disappear in just seconds. For now I think I should cover the truth. You never know what is listening in the Serendrian Forest.

"Well, there aren't many individuals in the forest after sunset, so my father permitted me to take a walk." I didn't know where to go with this stupid lie. His eyebrow went up, didn't it?

Did he not believe me?

"Are you going to go back then? The sun has almost settled, meaning that breakfast is almost near, right? I don't think you should be skipping breakfast for the sake of being here. However, it is calming out here." I felt his concern. I had to think of another cover up.

"Yes, but I told father I wasn't going to return for quite some time. He said it was okay for me to explore, just this once." I blurted out.

From Amir's expression I noticed he was quite stunned. Many people knew my father wasn't into the concept of "going out". He made it clear to everyone not to inquire about any other royal family members except for him, but I was an only child. There were no other members to ask for.

Unexpectedly, my stomach rumbled. I jumped a bit since I wasn't expecting it this early in the journey. Amir acknowledged it and gave me a concerned expression. I returned a smile in order for him not to think much of it.

He got up from the ground, holding his hand out.

"I should take you to have something to eat." He offered.

"There's a nearby café just five minutes away. It shouldn't be much of a struggle to go there."

I was unsure if I should go with him. I have only just met this guy, it's dangerous for me to leave with him. Mainly because he's a commoner. It would be easy for him to kidnap me, knowing I'm unarmed with only my nightwear on. I hesitantly lifted my hand as I placed it on his.

"How about my clothes? Don't you think it would be unusual for a princess to be in her nightdress early in the morning?" I quavered, hoping it went unnoticed. Amir looked at me, leading me to a pathway.

"You don't fully trust me do you?" He put out.

Nervously, I looked away and stuttered my words.

"N-not necessarily. I mean, I have only met you. How can anyone trust a person within meeting them for only such a small amount of time?"

"Yeah, you're right. I understand if I don't fully have your trust. Plus, we're only going for a small, quick bite. We can sort out your clothes later since there won't be many people out."

True.

Maybe if I eat something quickly I can think of somewhere to stay.

It'll all be fine.