Forbidden Flames

Chapter Fithteen

Resting in bed with Colette, I missed these moments. We used to read stories together and gossip all night.

"Are you sick of hearing about my wedding?" she asked as I set my book down.

"I'm not sick of it, but it has rather consumed you," I honestly answered, and she let out a deep sigh, nodding in agreement.

"I apologize. I haven't been a good friend. It's just there is so much to get done, and this wedding has to be perfect," she confessed.

I laughed, knowing she was serious. Since we were little, Colette has always dreamed about her wedding. Her behavior isn't a surprise because this is something she's dreamed about.

"Regardless, how are you and Mr. O'Corner?" she asked, raising her eyebrows.

"He is rather handsome, and that ginger hair. You two will have the cutest babies," she laughed as I nodded my head, thinking about it.

Alaric has been sweet, and plus he's good friends with Damon. But there was just something missing between us. The man could hold a conversation, dress well, was smart, yet I still haven't felt a spark.

"It's been nice. My mother is more overjoyed than I am though," I answered.

"I think she'll always be more excited than you. She's been dreaming about this moment," she replied, nudging my shoulder.

I laughed in agreement as that was true. "It's good Cassian is back before the New Year's party," I said.

Colette nodded her head. Each year, the Royal family threw the biggest gala to celebrate the new year.

"Do you actually think Alaric will propose?" I asked. The thought has been on my mind for a while. While we're still courting, I couldn't say I disliked him entirely, and plus love can grow.

"Damon told me not to say, but he is," Colette cheered. My heart stopped at the realization. Would he actually do it? My mother would be greatly impressed, but I never thought it would happen so soon.

"I'm shocked... Colette, this is crazy," I said, feeling my cheeks warm.

"I was jumping with glee when I found out. I know you don't want to get married, but Alaric is truly a good man, Lilith," she pleaded, holding my hands tightly.

I laughed as this was all surreal. "This is a lot to take in," I confessed, feeling hot.

"I should go get us some water," I said, removing the covers and walking to the door.

Walking down the halls, I went towards the back staircase to not wake Colette's parents. I paused, seeing August outside his room. He was just standing there with his head hung low. He looked almost drunk.

"August, are you okay?" I asked, catching his attention.

"Are you going to accept his proposal?" he slurred, walking towards me.

"Excuse me?" I asked, confused by his sudden question. It was obvious he was drunk from the way his eyes dropped low, and he was talking odd.

"I went to the pub and couldn't think about anyone but you. There were so many ladies throwing themselves at me, but none smelled like you," he confessed, playing with my hair.

"I used to love your hair like this... you stopped wearing it," he added, now face to face as his hands blocked me from moving.

I was breathing heavily as I didn't understand what was going on with August. We've never been this close before, and he's never spoken to me like this.

"August," I laughed. "What- what are you saying? You're probably drunk and need to rest," I added, lightly trying to push his body away, but he wouldn't budge.

"My hearts" he proceeded.

I was still completely confused on what he was talking about.

"I'm not sure-" before my sentence could finish, August placed his lips on mine, surprising me as my eyes grew wide.

It was a sloppy kiss as I quickly pushed him back. He stumbled, confused by my action, but quickly snapping out of it.

"Lilith, I- I apologize," he stuttered.

I was too shocked to say anything, and I only ran back to Colette's room, leaving him alone in the hallway.