"Eclipse"

CHAPTER 34: RUSHFORD KINSTON POV

I was gazing at the early morning sky, its pale hues slowly brightening with the promise of a new day. I hadn't been able to sleep all night because of the relentless rainfall. Finally, as morning broke, the rain ceased.

A knock at the door startled me from my thoughts.

“Come in, Enz—”

“Rushford,” my brother called softly, cutting me off.

It had been more than a month since our argument, the moment we stopped talking.

“Good morning,” I greeted him, attempting a smile.

“How have you been?” he asked, concern etched on his face. He knew the rain always had a profound effect on me.

“I'm doing good,” I lied, but I could see from his eyes that he wasn't convinced.

He stepped closer, gently touching the dark circles under my eyes. “I'm sorry, Ford,” he said softly.

“For what?” I asked, though I had a suspicion. He had already told Nicole every information he needed and I highly doubted he would regret his decision.

“For the birthday ball,” he replied. “I know how much this season affects you, but we still went ahead with the party. I came here today to tell you that you don't have to come if you're not comfortable. I'll convince Father.”

I looked at him, taken aback by his concern.

“I'll tell him you're sick,” he added, trying to reassure me.

“You don't have to do that,” I whispered.

“No, listen. Although we've checked and found that the chances of rain are slim, I still don't want you to force yourself,” he insisted.

I understood his point. The ball was to be held in the east palace, renowned for its stunning views. If it rained, the sound would be impossible to avoid and would surely trigger me.

“It's your birthday. I wouldn't miss it for the world,” I said with a smile.

He returned my smile, albeit sadly. “You should get some sleep now,” he said, glancing at my dark circles again.

I watched as he left, feeling a mix of gratitude and guilt. “I can't sleep today; I have to prepare someone for their first ball,” I whispered to myself.

I quickly changed into my ‘Ruki’ clothes and headed towards the Eclipse.

On my way, I spotted a plum tree. “Would he like this?” I wondered aloud, climbing to pluck a few ripe fruits. Only time would tell.

I entered the shop, washed the plums, and placed them in a basket. I started brewing some floral tea that would pair perfectly with the fruit.

We would talk over tea first, then start the lesson. He was going to be here all day, so there was no need to rush.

The jingle of the front door opening caught my attention. Noah walked in.

“Your Highness, how have you been?” I asked, bowing slightly.

“I'm doing good,” he said, though his appearance told a different story. While I had stayed awake all night because of the rain, it seemed he had been crying all night.

“What happened?” I asked, my concern growing.

“Is it that evident?” he chuckled, but there was no humour in his voice.

“Would you like to talk about it?” I offered, gesturing to the table where the tea was ready.

Noah sighed, sitting down and taking a cup. “It's just... everything feels overwhelming sometimes.”

I nodded, understanding all too well. “Take your time. I'm here.”