The Lady And Her Felines

Chapter 23: Journey begins

3rd POV

As Aria sat by the campfire with Grayson and Peaches, she watched them happily chatter, their laughter filling the air. The sight of their newly built friendship brought a smile to her face.

Just yesterday, Grayson had wanted to eat Peaches, who had fled from him in fear. It was a game of cat and mouse, but this one involved a big lion and a flying piglet. Whatever had happened during their hunting trip had brought them closer, and Aria was happy to see it.

When Leon returned, having finally quitting his job, Aria patted the seat next to her. "Leon, come, sit. Don't just stand over there," she invited warmly.

Leon, in his brown lion form, transformed back into his beast man form and quickly put on his clothes before joining her.

Just as Leon sat down next to Aria, he felt a sudden chill that made his skin tremble, as if a cold breeze had swept past him. He turned his gaze away from Aria and first noticed Peaches oinking happily as she munched on wildflowers. But when he looked up, he saw Grayson glaring at him. The intensity of Grayson's glare made Leon feel awkward rather than fearful as he sat across from him by the campfire.

"What's his problem?" Leon thought, confused how he still had a grudge against him.

"Here, this is for you," Aria said, handing him a skewered stick of meat.

For a moment, Leon was shocked by her gesture.

It made him blush slightly as he accepted it with a murmured "Thanks." Leon couldn't help but think about the significance of a female giving food to a male—a sign of affection and potential courtship. But it was not possible, he knew that Aria was simply kind-hearted and likely meant it as a friendly gesture. He felt lucky to have met such a kind and honest female, Leon couldn't get his hopes up. He knew it would only end in another rejection, and his heart couldn't take another blow.

He remembered the last female he had courted in the Dawn Lion tribe. She had accepted his courtship but had quickly forgotten him when a younger, more appealing male had come along.

From his observations, he could see that Aria had been raised with care and protection, perhaps unaware of certain customs among beastmen. She was carefree and caring towards others, a rare and precious trait.

While Leon ate, he watched and listened to the conversation between Aria and Grayson. Despite Grayson's clear dislike, evident from his glares, Leon ignored him. He couldn't understand Grayson's problem, especially since he had already apologized for the mishap earlier.

Observing his grumpy demeanor, Leon understood why Aria called him "Mr. Grumps."

The memory of Aria's words made Leon hold back a laugh as he watched Grayson's unhappy expression. It was something he found quite funny when Aria first told him.

Unexpectedly, when Leon slightly turned to glance at Aria, their gazes met. Surprised to be caught staring, Leon blushed as Aria smirked at him. Her sneaky smirk felt like a playful blow, and she laughed, as if they both knew what the other was thinking. They shared a moment of silent understanding, especially when they both glanced back at Grayson's face.

Grayson, who wore a grumpy expression, noticed and frowned at the two.

"What's so funny?" he grumbled.

"Nothing," Aria replied, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

When Aria smiled brightly, it caught the two lion beastmen off guard.

Grayson, who had been grumpy earlier about interrogating Aria for more answers, had stopped. Seeing her smile was a rare treat for him. He had seen it once before, and it always made him feel flustered. He didn't know why but that bright smile was genuine and her usual smile were faint.

Aria's cheerful demeanor and smile were undeniably adorable, and he felt his cheeks heat up slightly as he turned away, embarrassed.

"Alright," Grayson muttered, trying to hide his reaction.

Leon, observing the interaction, also found Aria's smile endearing. Her ability to find moments of joy and laughter was truly captivating. Sitting next to her, Leon felt a growing sense of warmth and admiration for the spirited woman who had touched his heart.

His heart pounded intensely, different from his past courtships. This time, both his heart and body were allured by her in a way he had never experienced before.

Leon covered his face with one hand, hiding his mouth and half his cheeks, as he looked away from Aria toward the nearby forest and trees. Despite Aria's frequent smiles, Leon noticed that her usual smile was faint and she seemed obviously unhappy, likely sulking about something she had lost.

He found it strange that he wished to see more of her bright, genuine smile.

Aria's laughter and warmth filled the night, bringing a sense of normalcy and comfort to the group. As the fire crackled and the stars began to twinkle above, Leon made a silent vow to protect and support her, hoping to see that true, radiant smile more often during their journey.

Leon knew that he and Aria might part ways once they arrived at the village of Strawberry, he was aware that the journey would take a couple of months. This extended time gave him the opportunity to get to know her better.

For Leon, this journey was not only about helping Aria but also a break from his tiring attempts at courtship and his constant struggle to find a mate. He saw this journey as a chance to relax and find some peace.

Although other beastmen might see it as a waste of time, Leon knew it was his duty as a male to ensure the safety of those he traveled with.

When he became a warrior, he had vowed to the beastgods to protect the weak and those in need, keeping them safe from harm.

As he sat by the campfire, he glanced at Aria, who was talking animatedly with Grayson and Peaches. The warmth of the fire illuminated her face, highlighting her curly pink hair and mesmerizing golden eyes. Her laughter, so genuine and bright, filled the night air, creating a moment of serenity and comfort.

Leon couldn't help but feel a deep admiration for her. Despite the heartache she might have endured, she still found joy and laughter in the simplest of moments. He was determined to make the most of their time together, to protect her and perhaps, in turn, find a bit of solace for himself.

"Leon," Aria's voice broke his thoughts. "Are you okay?" she asked, noticing his thoughtful expression.

Leon smiled, his eyes meeting hers. "I'm fine, Aria."

She returned his smile, her eyes softening. "We'll get there, together. Thank you for being here with me."

Leon nodded, feeling a surge of determination. "It's my honor that you agreed to bring me along," he replied sincerely.

As the night wore on, the three of them shared stories around the campfire while Peaches oinked listening to it. Despite the struggles that they may encounter in the future. Leon for once had hope.