Invisible String

Chapter 3

"So, you want to tag along?" Raquelle asked, raising an eyebrow at Psyche. She and Aydelia had already made their plans for the day, and Psyche's unexpected request took them by surprise.

Psyche nodded, a playful glint in her eyes. "I do, that's why I'm asking."

"We're just heading out to buy some groceries, but of course you can join us," Aydelia said, her tone straightforward yet welcoming.

Psyche glanced at Aden, who was standing quietly beside her, listening to the conversation. "Can I bring Aden along too?" she asked, her tone light and eager.

Aydelia and Raquelle followed Psyche's gaze, glancing at Aden before sharing a knowing look. "If he'd like to come, I don't see why not," Aydelia said, earning a nod of agreement from Raquelle.

Aden's eyes widened slightly, taken aback by the invitation. He stayed quiet but offered a small smile in response.

With the plan settled, the four of them set off together toward the bustling market. Upon arrival, Psyche turned to Aydelia and Raquelle, a grin on her face. She gave them a humorous gesture, as if shooing them away, and said, "You two go ahead with the groceries. I'll show Aden around."

Aydelia jokingly huffed and nodded, understanding the hint, while Raquelle light-heartedly rolled her eyes but couldn't hide her amusement. They headed off to the stalls as Psyche eagerly took Aden's arm, leading him through the colorful rows of merchants.

As they walked through the lively market, Psyche pointed out the stalls lining the path, each filled with spices, fresh fruits, and handmade ornaments, while merchants called out to passersby, trying to lure them closer.

Psyche looked over at Aden, her eyes bright with excitement. "Is there anything you'd like?" she offered warmly. "Pick anything, and I'll get it for you."

Aden paused, eyeing the displays, then shook his head. "Thanks, but I really don't need anything," he said firmly, glancing away. "I don't want to trouble you."

Psyche laughed softly, nudging him gently. "Oh, come on! It's no trouble at all."

He met her gaze briefly before looking back at the stalls, his smile faint but polite. "I appreciate it," he said, "but I'm fine, really."

She sighed softly, realizing he wouldn't budge, and gave a small, understanding smile. "Alright, if you say so," she replied lightly, not wanting to push him further. "But if anything catches your eye, don't be shy to tell me."

They continued on, side by side, making their way through the crowd. Suddenly, a little girl approached them, her small hands gripping a basket of flowers, her eyes shining with hope. She looked up between Psyche and Aden, then offered, "Would you like to buy some flowers? They're fresh from this morning!"

Psyche's gaze softened as she knelt down to her level. "I want to buy all of them," she said, her tone warm. The girl's face lit up with surprise and joy.

"Oh, thank you, miss!" the girl exclaimed, handing the basket over once Psyche had paid.

Psyche rose to her feet and turned to Aden, holding out the basket toward him. "Since you didn't want anything, I got you something anyway," she teased lightly.

Aden blinked in surprise, then down at the flowers. He shook his head in disbelief and chuckled softly, accepting them with a small, grateful smile.

Just then, a shadow fell across them, causing Psyche to glance up.

Arlan stood a few feet away, his expression twisted with surprise and anger. "Didn't expect to see you here," he said, his jaw clenched.

Psyche's smile faltered, and a rush of awkwardness washed over her at the sight of Arlan. "Oh, um... hey there?"