The Good Crown

Chapter 31

I shifted uncomfortably in my layered dress, tugging at the corset that seemed to tighten with every breath. The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows across the field as I stood near the exit, my back pressed against the cold stone wall.

In the town we never had to wear such fancy dresses. Haven would only dream about being princesses prancing around in these but after wearing them for this long he started to dislike them.

I felt out of place here, a girl in an oversized dress waiting for a boy she barely liked. The sound of laughter and shouts from the players finishing practice drifted over, making me feel even more out of my element. I glanced down at the hem of my gown, already stained with dust from standing in the same spot for too long.

Why am I doing this? I thought for the hundredth time, though Elara's voice echoed in my mind. I had to play the part, get close to Noah to learn more about the king. This wasn't about me, it was about the rebellion. Still, it didn't make this moment any easier.

Finally, I spotted Noah jogging toward me, his hair disheveled, and his shirt untucked from running around the field. He looked surprised, his face lighting up when he saw me waiting.

"Daniella!" he called out, coming to a stop in front of me, slightly out of breath. "You came."

I forced a smile, trying to hide my discomfort. "Yep"

Noah's eyes softened, and that eager look of his returned. "I wasn't sure you'd really come."

I glanced around, making sure no one was watching us too closely. The last thing I needed was someone reporting back to my friends that I was seen walking with the prince. "We should probably go," I muttered, avoiding his gaze. "Before anyone sees us together."

He chuckled, raising an eyebrow. "You think anyone cares if we're seen walking together? It's just a walk, Daniella."

I stiffened, the weight of my dress making it hard to stand still. "I'd rather not take any chances. You don't know how people talk."

His smile faded a bit, but he nodded. "Alright, I get it. We can be discreet." His tone was light, but I could tell he didn't really understand why it mattered so much to me. He started walking, and I followed, my steps careful as I tried not to trip over the ridiculous layers of fabric. Noah walked slowly behind me, his hands casually in his pockets, like this was the most normal thing in the world.

I kept my head down, eyes focused on the gravel path ahead. As we walked toward his dorm.

Noah walked behind me, keeping a respectable distance like I'd asked, though I could still feel his eyes on me as we made our way through the dimly lit path. My heavy dress rustled with each step, and I struggled not to trip over the hem. The air was thick with the quiet tension between us. Despite the silence, I knew Noah was trying to be respectful, but I could sense his confusion—why was I being so insistent on keeping our distance?

As we reached the door to his dormitory, I felt the weight lift slightly. No more watchful eyes, no more worrying about being seen. I paused for a moment, taking in a breath before stepping inside. The building was quiet, most of the other students likely still out or resting after the day. It was a strange relief to know no one would be around to ask questions.

I barely had time to gather my thoughts before I felt Noah's hand wrap around mine, gently but firmly. The sudden contact made me freeze, my heart skipping a beat as he tugged me toward the stairs.

"What are you doing?" I asked, my voice coming out sharper than I intended. I glanced down at our joined hands, his warm against my cooler skin.

He didn't seem fazed. With a smile, he pulled me closer, leading me up the narrow staircase. "We're in a discreet location now, Daniella. No one's around. I can hold your hand if I want."