Hearts at War (AlanxJeff) VI

17

Jeff

My heart is still racing, and the bite tingles even more than the last time. It's so strange; it hurts and tickles in a pleasant way. This interaction between us is quite peculiar. When he gets so close, I find it hard to breathe and my heart pounds. I gently slap my cheeks. "Wake up, Jeff," I scold myself. Today you need to be better than ever in your role, to avoid raising any suspicions. Way... what will Way be like? Alan must trust him a lot to have told him the truth, and that fills my chest with an uncomfortable, strange, and annoying feeling.

At three o'clock sharp, I head to the meeting. The room is spacious and beautifully decorated, with an air of elegance and sophistication. The walls are adorned with rich, deep-colored tapestries depicting scenes of nature and the kingdom's history. Large windows allow sunlight to flood the space, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The tables are set with fine porcelain tea sets, each decorated with intricate floral designs. In the center of the room, a banquet table is laden with a variety of savory and sweet pastries, arranged so artistically they look like little works of art. "Don't look at them, Jeff. Just don't look at them." I stand tall as I'm introduced and try to smile as best as I can.

"His Highness, the Prince Consort," they announce as I enter, and everyone turns to look at me. "Breathe, Jeff, you can do this." How was it to walk again? Oh, right, one foot in front of the other, one foot in front of the other. I place my hands in my jacket pockets so they don't see how much they're trembling. If I leave right away, will it be too obvious?

Some people approach and introduce themselves, but I'm so nervous I've already forgotten their names. They lead us, apparently, to my personal table. Pean comes over to prepare some tea for me.

"Oh, you're much more handsome in person," I hear someone say with palpable excitement as they approach. "May I sit?"

"Yes, of course," I respond with a polite smile, reminding myself to be kind. In front of me stands a tall and handsome guy, with a smile so wide and beautiful it lights up the surroundings. When he smiles, it's impossible not to smile back.

"My name is Dean, it's a pleasure, Your Highness," he says, bowing slightly in a gesture of respect.

"The pleasure is mine," I reply, and my smile widens. Dean smiles again.

"We were all very curious, after all, you're from the north. But because of your accident, it's understandable that you needed to continue resting. These gatherings can be a bit boring or difficult. When people have free time, they can be cruel. So don't be surprised if they start gossiping and trying to tear someone down with their comments. When you feel better, I'll invite you to more exciting things if you like. Like exploring, the market, horses... oh, sorry. Your accident was with a horse, right?" he says, his voice reflecting a mix of concern and apology.

"Yes, but it was an accident. That doesn't mean I stopped liking horses," I say with a reassuring smile. Dean seems relieved, and his expression softens. He's a kind and straightforward person, and his conversation flows naturally. I like him.

"Do you like the outdoors? Here I am planning to invite you, and I don't even know if you like it," Dean continues with contagious cheerfulness.

"Yes, I like it a lot," I reply as Pean gracefully approaches and serves us tea, the delicate aroma of the tea filling the air and adding a touch of serenity to the moment.

"Oh, he's here," I heard Dean mention as I brought the cup to my lips. His voice was an excited whisper that blended with the soft murmur of the surroundings.

"Who?" I asked, curious, feeling a slight unease in my chest.

"Way, the guy who just walked in," he said, directing his gaze to the door. I followed his gaze and saw him. He was a truly beautiful guy, his presence filling the room with an ethereal grace.