[Automatic] (An Aarmau AU)

[Chapter 14] Is This A Date (Pt. 2)

"Where are we going?"

I walked next to Aaron as we twisted and turned down different streets.

Aaron smiled. "We're almost there, don't worry"

We continued walking, and turned onto a busy street. The sidewalks were filled with people, and the street was filled with cars. It was quite the change from the quiet part of town I came from, where most people were too poor to afford a car

Before I could react, Aaron reached down and grabbed my non-bandaged hand. I felt my face light up, and we both walked into the crowd. I knew he probably only took my hand so I wouldn't get lost, but that didn't stop the butterflies in my stomach.

We quickly maneuvered through the crowd, while also trying not to run into anyone. I soon recognized the large library building that rose into the sky, and realized we were in the heart of Falcon Claw.

I suddenly smelt something delicious, and remember I had forgotten to eat dinner. Right on cue, my stomach rumbled and I could only hope it was too loud for Aaron to hear.

"We're almost there", Aaron yelled. "Right up here"

We stopped in front of a large archway that looked similar to the one in my neighborhood. The only difference between the two was this one was clean and maintained. Aaron continued to hold onto my hand, despite us being out of the crowded street.

I looked around as we walked into the park. It was beautiful, with large trees and a fountain that actually worked. I also saw vendors selling various different foods, that all smelled amazing at the moment.

I saw children running around and playing, and people hanging out around the park square. It was so normal and mundane, it was something I had never really experienced before.

Aaron said something, but I had zoned out. "Huh?", I asked him.

He laughed, and I felt my face go more red. "I asked if you were hungry, this place sells the best food"

My stomach rumbled again, only this time louder. "Well", Aaron laughed. "I'll take that as a yes, come on"

He pulled me over to the vendors, and I started looking over all the food. There was everything from pizza to traditional Falcon Claw food. It was like I was back at lunch in the castle, with a million different choices to make.

Aaron choose a rice plate, while I decided on some noodles.

"That'll be five dollars", The vendor told me. I reached into my pocket to get some money, but Aaron grabbed my hand before I could.

"Aaron?", I asked.

"I'll pay", Aaron said. "I did ask you out here after all, so it would only be right for me to pay"

I stood in silence as Aaron paid the man, and then I grabbed my food. Aaron and I then walked over to an empty spot in the park, and sat together under a tree. I watched as red leaves fell off the trees, since autumn was right around the corner.

"You didn't have to do that", I told Aaron quietly. "You've already done so much, and I just-"

"Aphmau", Aaron interrupted. "I may not know a whole load about social situations, but I do know that I asked you on this date, therefore I should pay"

I blushed and looked away. So this was a date.

"That sounded so old fashioned", I joked. "Are you going to offer to take my coat next?"

He laughed, and I slowly looked back over at him. "For one, you're not even wearing a coat", he stated. "And two, if you think it's old fashioned, how about next time we go out you pay"