Running away to you

Chapitre 2

The camp buzzed with quiet efficiency as the Duke led Saowanee through rows of well-maintained tents and roaring campfires. Soldiers bustled about, their boots crunching on the dirt as they carried supplies or gathered in small groups, laughing and sharing stories. Despite the rugged environment, there was a sense of order—every man and task seemed to have its place.

As the Duke strode confidently ahead, his men stopped to salute or bow their heads respectfully, their gazes flickering curiously to Saowanee. Aaron turned occasionally to ensure she was keeping pace.

When they neared a larger group of soldiers, Aaron paused. "Gentlemen," he said, his commanding voice drawing their attention. "This young lady will be staying with us tonight as my guest. Please afford her the same respect you give me."

The soldiers greeted her warmly, their smiles genuine despite their weathered appearances. "A pleasure to meet you, miss," one said, his voice gruff but kind.

Caught off guard, Saowanee offered a polite nod and an awkward smile. Inside, she felt out of place among these rugged, disciplined men. Their respect for Aaron was palpable, almost tangible in the way they straightened their postures and addressed him with unwavering loyalty.

As they moved on, Aaron slowed his pace, falling into step beside her. The camp began to quiet as night settled in, the crackling of fires and occasional bursts of laughter filling the cool air.

Aaron: You seem a bit tense. (His tone was lighter now) Is it me or the camp?

Saowanee: (Her lips twitched). I'm not tense, I am completely normal.

Aaron: Sure you are. (He smirked, clearly unconvinced.) So, I told you they call me the Duke of the North. What about you? What's your name?

Saowanee: My name? It's... uh... Suzanna. (She avoids his gaze, her voice faltering slightly.)

Aaron: (He glances back at her, unimpressed by the obvious fabrication but chooses not to comment.) Suzanna, huh.

Saowanee: Yes, Suzanna. (She tries to sound firm, masking her unease.)

Aaron: Alright then, 'Suzanna.' (His tone carries a trace of skepticism, but he moves on.) Can I ask you something else?

Saowane: (She narrows her eyes slightly, cautious.) What is it?

Aaron: That family gathering you mentioned... did you sneak out of it?

Saowanee: (Her eyes widen, caught off guard, but she quickly recovers and plays it cool.) Boredom is my greatest flaw.

Aaron: So, you snuck out into a dangerous forest because you were bored? That's the most reckless thing I've ever heard.

Saowanee: (Muttering under her breath, irritated.) I don't recall asking for your opinion.

Aaron: Pardon?

Saowanee: (Feigns innocence.) Nothing, Your Grace.

Aaron: (He clearly heard her but lets it slide, keeping his tone neutral.) Here's your tent. I hope it meets your standards.

Saowanee: (Glances at the modest setup and forces a smile.) Well, this is a... charming habitat.

Aaron: (Deadpan.) It's far more spacious than what my men have. Gratitude would be more appropriate, Miss.

Saowanee: (Her irritation bubbles at being called 'Miss.' She replies sarcastically.) Thank you, sir. (She hands him a tissue with mock formality.) A token of my appreciation.

Aaron: (He accepts the tissue, his expression unreadable, though he's beginning to grasp the extent of her personality.) You're welcome, Miss Suzanna.

Saowanee: (She feels a pang of guilt, and an uncomfortable silence follows.)

Aaron: (Clearing his throat.) If you need anything else, my men will assist you. Goodnight.

Saowanee: Wait! (She blurts out, flustered.)

Aaron: (Pauses, raising a brow.) Yes?

Saowanee: (Hesitant and embarrassed.) I have a favor to ask.

Aaron: (Leans slightly, intrigued.) Go on.

Saowanee: (Takes a breath.) Would you... take me to the nearest train station?

Aaron: (His brow furrows slightly.) Why? Are you trying to escape something?

Saowanee: (Her voice lowers.) Perhaps.

Aaron: (The realization, of her escaping from her family, dawns on him, but he refrains from pressing further.) I'll consider it. You'll have my answer in the morning.

Saowanee: Thank you, Duke.

Aaron: (Nods curtly and takes his leave, leaving her alone to settle in.)