Running away to you

Chapitre 3

The first beams of sunrise pierced the sky, casting a gentle golden glow over the camp. Saowanee stirred awake, her body stiff from the unfamiliar bedding. Rising slowly, she stretched and began to tidy herself. Using the water provided in her tent, she washed her face, rinsed her mouth, and attempted to clean the bottom of her dress. Despite her efforts, the dirt clung stubbornly to the fabric, leaving her no choice but to accept defeat. With a resigned sigh, she donned the dress and slipped on her heeled boots.

Stepping outside, she found the camp still cloaked in a tranquil hush. Most of the soldiers were still asleep, save for the few on duty, their eyes scanning the camp and its surroundings. The crisp morning air carried a faint chill, mixed with the earthy smell of dew-soaked ground.

Saowanee wandered aimlessly, her curiosity drawing her towards the faint sounds of activity. Near a crackling fire, she spotted a few men preparing breakfast. The aroma wafting through the air was mouthwatering. She approached them, her steps light against the morning stillness.

Saowanee: Hi, goodmen!

Men: Morning, Miss Suzanna.

She smiled warmly, her curiosity evident.

Saowanee: So, what do we have here? What's that lovely smell?

An older, small man turned to her with a grin.

Chef Xavieer: It's green potatoes!

Saowanee: Green potatoes? (Her brow arched, intrigued.)

Chef Xaviyeer: Aye, little miss. This is a common breakfast for us Northern folk.

Saowanee: What's it made of?

Before Xavyeer could respond, another man appeared from behind, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

Erlod: Mashed potatoes, broccoli, boiled eggs, and sausage. Fancy folk sometimes add bacon. (He winked playfully.)

Saowanee: I see... Do you need a hand?

Chef Xavyeer: I would be delighted to have a helping hand.

Erlod stepped forward with an easy grin, guiding her. "This way, little miss. Let me show you how it's done."

Saowanee followed his instructions carefully, her initial hesitation giving way to determination.

Together, they worked seamlessly, stirring pots and plating food. Gradually, the camp began to stir. Soldiers emerged from their tents, yawning and stretching, drawn by the enticing aroma. The quiet atmosphere shifted into bustling energy as the men lined up for their rations.

Saowanee, along with two other men, took charge of filling plates and serving the hungry soldiers. She found herself smiling at their hearty "thank yous" and occasional jokes. Despite the early hour, the camaraderie in the camp was infectious.

Amid the lively hum of the breakfast rush, Aaron emerged from his tent. His sharp eyes swept over the scene, lingering briefly on Saowanee before he approached the line.

Aaron: Miss.

Saowanee: Duke.

Aaron: I see you're trying to earn your keep.

Saowanee: Not at all. I'm simply pulling my weight.

Aaron: I see.

He accepted his plate with a nod and walked away. Saowanee watched him go, her thoughts swirling. Would he help her? Would he agree to take her to the train station?

As the men ate, their laughter and stories filled the air. Saowanee sat slightly apart from the group, savoring her meal quietly. She didn't notice Aaron approaching until he settled beside her, his presence as commanding as ever.

Aaron: Why did you sneak out?

His tone was measured, the question deliberate. She hesitated, her gaze dropping to her plate. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft but steady.

Saowanee: They wanted to marry me off...

Aaron's expression shifted slightly, understanding flickering in his eyes.

Aaron: Ah. I see.

For a while, they sat in silence, the crackling of the fire filling the void. Then he spoke again, his voice resolute.

Aaron: I will help you.

Saowanee turned to him, her eyes widening with hope.

Saowanee: Really?

Aaron: Yes.

Saowanee: You must promise me.

A hint of amusement softened his expression.

Aaron: So you don't take my word for it, eh? Very well. I promise you, Miss Suzanna, that I will take you to the nearest train station.

Her lips curved into a smile, relief washing over her.

Saowanee: Thank you.

Aaron rose, brushing the dust from his coat.

Aaron: Thank you—for the breakfast, that is. With that, he strode off, leaving Saowanee alone with her thoughts and a newfound sense of hope.