The heart of an ice prince

Chapter 4

**Chapter 4: A Glimpse Behind Closed Doors**

The next day, you found yourself standing in front of Felix's house, your heart racing. He had invited you over to work on the project, a surprising turn of events considering his cold demeanor. As you waited on the porch, you couldn’t help but wonder what the afternoon would bring.

When he finally opened the door, his expression was neutral, but you could see a flicker of something in his eyes—curiosity, perhaps?

**Felix:** “Come in.”

The interior of his house was striking, filled with modern decor and large windows that let in the afternoon light. It felt both impressive and intimidating. You followed him inside, glancing around as he led you to a spacious living room.

**You:** “Nice place you have here.”

Felix shrugged, dismissing your compliment.

**Felix:** “It’s just a house.”

You noticed the subtle tension in his posture as he motioned for you to sit on the couch. You settled in, trying to ease the tension with a light tone.

**You:** “So, where do you want to start?”

Felix walked over to a sleek desk against the wall and picked up a stack of books, flipping through them without really looking.

**Felix:** “I guess we should figure out what we’re writing about.”

You watched him, noting how he seemed to retreat into his own world whenever he was stressed.

**You:** “How about we outline our main points first? That might help clarify our thoughts.”

He paused, glancing at you before looking away again.

**Felix:** “Sure. Whatever you say.”

You took a deep breath, determined to break through his icy demeanor once more.

**You:** “Okay, let’s talk about the character’s struggles. What do you think makes their journey compelling?”

Felix’s gaze remained distant, his voice flat as he replied.

**Felix:** “It’s just a story. They all have struggles. Doesn’t mean it’s interesting.”

You felt a pang of frustration but pushed it aside.

**You:** “But it can be interesting if we look at how those struggles relate to real life. People connect with stories because they reflect our own experiences.”

Felix finally turned to face you, annoyance creeping into his expression.

**Felix:** “You really think it matters? I don’t want to analyze some fictional character’s life like it’s my own.”

His words stung, but you refused to back down.

**You:** “Maybe it doesn’t matter to you, but it could help someone else who feels the same way. Stories can be a mirror for our struggles.”

Felix crossed his arms, an icy barrier still firmly in place.

**Felix:** “Not everyone wants to see themselves in a story. Sometimes it’s just a distraction.”

You noticed the hint of bitterness in his tone, and curiosity sparked within you.

**You:** “Is that how you feel? Like you can’t relate to any stories?”

Felix fell silent, his gaze dropping to the floor. The moment hung between you, heavy with unspoken thoughts.

**Felix:** “It’s not that simple.”

**You:** “Then make it simple. Tell me what you’re thinking.”

He finally looked up, his expression flickering between frustration and vulnerability.

**Felix:** “I just don’t see the point. I have my own issues, and analyzing characters isn’t going to change that.”

You felt a surge of compassion for him.

**You:** “Maybe it could help you understand those issues better. It’s okay to feel lost.”

His icy facade cracked slightly, but he quickly reinforced it.

**Felix:** “You don’t know what it’s like.”

You leaned forward, searching his eyes for some sign of the boy hidden beneath the ice.

**You:** “You’re right. I don’t know exactly what you’re going through. But I want to understand.”

Felix hesitated, the weight of your words hanging in the air.

**Felix:** “Why do you care so much?”

**You:** “Because I see you, Felix. I see the pain behind the mask. I see the real you.”

For a brief moment, he looked vulnerable, and you could feel the tension shift. But just as quickly, the walls around him slammed shut again.

**Felix:** “Let’s just get back to the project.”

Disappointment washed over you, but you tried to mask it with a nod.

**You:** “Alright. Let’s focus on the character’s development.”

As you both dived back into the project, the atmosphere remained charged, a mixture of unspoken feelings and frustrations hanging in the air. You couldn’t shake the feeling that Felix was wrestling with something deeper, something he was afraid to confront.

After a while, Felix stood up and walked toward the kitchen, breaking the tension.

**Felix:** “Do you want something to drink?”

You followed him, surprised by the sudden shift in dynamics.

**You:** “Water would be great, thanks.”

As he filled a glass, you took the opportunity to observe him more closely. There was a sharpness to his features, a sense of beauty that was almost ethereal. Yet, beneath it all, you could sense a profound sadness.

When he handed you the glass, your fingers brushed against his. The brief contact sent a jolt through you, and you quickly pulled away, feeling a blush creep onto your cheeks.

**Felix:** “You okay?”

His voice was laced with genuine curiosity, a small crack in his icy demeanor.

**You:** “Yeah, just… surprised.”

He gave you a slight nod, and for a moment, the air felt lighter.

**Felix:** “We should probably get back to work.”

As you returned to the living room, you felt a strange mix of hope and frustration. Felix was still guarded, but you sensed that perhaps you were beginning to chip away at his defenses.

With every conversation, you were learning more about him—his fears, his loneliness, and the icy walls he had built around his heart.

And despite the challenges ahead, you felt determined to help him break free.

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**End of Chapter 4**