Darkness or light...?

10.

zaria's pov:-

As I descend the stairs, I catch sight of Cyria and Wish standing together, engaged in animated conversation. Their dynamic is immediately apparent: Cyria exudes a serene calmness, her presence like a gentle breeze, while Wish's vibrant energy seems to pulse with infectious enthusiasm.

Cyria's poise and grace are evident in every movement, her demeanor exuding an air of quiet confidence. Her deep, thoughtful eyes seem to hold the wisdom of ages, and her serene expression belies a strength that runs deep.

Beside her, Wish practically radiates energy, her excitement palpable as she gestures animatedly in conversation. Her eyes sparkle with enthusiasm, and her laughter rings out like a melody, lifting the spirits of all those around her.

As I walk down, the soft glow of the chandeliers casts a warm, golden light throughout the foyer. Amidst everyone else, my eyes lock on Aldric, patiently waiting for me at the foot of the stairs. His presence seems to illuminate the room, drawing me towards him like a moth to a flame.

As I approach, a smile tugs at the corners of his lips, and the intensity of his gaze sends a flutter of excitement through me. With a graceful step, I descend the final few stairs, and Aldric extends his hand towards me, a silent invitation. I take it without hesitation, feeling the warmth of his touch seeping through me like sunlight on a winter's day.

With a gentle, almost reverent gesture, Aldric brings my hand to his lips, pressing a soft kiss against my skin. His breath is warm against my ear as he whispers, "You look gorgeous." The words send a thrill racing through me, igniting a blush that blooms across my cheeks.

As Aldric helps me into the plush interior of the carriage, I can't help but notice the curiosity dancing in his eyes. There's a question lingering on the tip of his tongue, one he's been itching to ask ever since we set off on our journey.

For a while, we ride in comfortable silence, the gentle rhythm of the carriage wheels against the road providing a soothing backdrop to our thoughts. But I can feel Aldric's gaze lingering on me, his curiosity palpable in the air between us.

And then, finally, he breaks the silence with a question that catches me off guard. "Why did you agree to be my date?" His voice is soft, almost hesitant as if he's afraid of the answer.

I meet his gaze, studying the earnestness in his eyes for a moment before a smile tugs at the corners of my lips. "Because my mother wishes for me to engage with a prince," I admit, my voice tinged with a hint of resignation.

Aldric's eyebrows shoot up in surprise, a mixture of emotions flickering across his features. "A prince?" he echoes, clearly taken aback by my response.

"Indeed," I respond with a soft chuckle, turning to look out the window. "We should be at the castle in about 10 minutes."

Aldric nods, his eyes glinting mischievously as he leans closer. "Well, that is quite alright... as beautiful as you are, Zaria," he says, mischief evident in his tone and a playful smile playing on his lips. "I asked you because there is someone I want to make jealous."

His words catch me off guard, and I can't help but raise an eyebrow in surprise. "Make someone jealous?" I repeat, a hint of amusement lacing my voice. "And who might that be?"

Aldric's grin widens, his eyes twinkling with amusement as he leans in closer. "Ah, now that would be telling," he teases, his tone conspiratorial.

I can't help but laugh at his playful response, the tension of the moment easing with each shared chuckle. Despite the weight of our earlier conversation, Aldric's lightheartedness brings a sense of levity to the moment, and I find myself relaxing in his presence.