Lexa had never known that allowing herself to feel once more would be like a sweet breath of fresh air. With Clarke on her mind, her world felt more peaceful than ever. She remembered the way Clarke had softly cradled her hand yesterday, slowly bandaging her wound. There had been a moment when Lexa was sure that Clarke had been willing to kiss her but the flash of warmth in Clarke's eyes soon vanished as Clarke had breathed, "Resh Op Heda." Lexa had returned the farewell, aware and proud that Clarke had nearly mastered the Grounder's language already. "Good night Ambassador," she had tenderly spoken to Clarke. Lexa smiled at the memory of Clarke looking at her as she left, as if needing her to stay. Lexa had wanted to but she knew that it had not been the right time to do so.
"Heda," spoke Titus in a booming voice, waking Lexa from her memories.
"Yes Titus?" she responded, immediately transforming into her powerful position of Commander.
"Wanheda has come to see you," said Titus, eyeing Lexa expectantly, "should I send her away?"
Lexa's pulse had immediately picked up at the mention of the beautiful woman she had previously been thinking of. "No, no, send her in immediately."
Titus gave one more wary glance toward Lexa as he left the room. He came back seconds later, the mighty Wanheda at his side.
"Titus, you may leave," Lexa said with her eyes trained upon Clarke. Titus quickly left without another word. She waited patiently as Clarke gathered her thoughts.
"Lexa," began Clarke without looking at the Commander, "can you come down here for a second? I'd like to speak with you closer."
Lexa immediately stood up and descended from her throne, coming to a stop directly in front of Clarke. "Is this better?"
Clarke lifted her eyes to look into the intense green eyes that haunted her at night. "Yes," she replied trying to keep her voice steady. "I wanted to speak to you about the living arrangements here."
"What do you mean?" Lexa asked with a hint of surprise in her voice.
"I mean I don't know if I can keep staying here with Titus always watching me at night," replied Clarke, a bit forcibly. Lexa faltered a bit as Clarke's sweet breath caressed her face.
"Uh, I'm sorry Clarke but it is for your own protection." She managed to squeak out. She quickly cleared her voice and in a more demanding tone said, "You must accept that someone watch you while you sleep."
Clarke reached for Lexa's arm, still staring into her eyes. "Please tell Titus to leave me alone. I would like my privacy."
Lexa felt the pressure of Clarke's hand warm her arm. The warmth spread throughout her body and Lexa quickly took a step back. "Very well then. I will tell Titus to leave his post. Tonight, no guards will bother you."
Clarke looked slightly surprised at Lexa's quick retreat and words but was thankful nonetheless. "I appreciate that Lexa, I knew I could count on you." Clarke bowed her head and made a quick escape before Lexa had the heart to call her back.
Lexa watched as the young woman bounded away from her, her emotions hidden behind her stoic mask. If only she knew, she thought with a smirk slowly emerging upon her face.
