Red & White

thirteen.

Their silence continued for another three minutes.

It was uncomfortable. The gaps were filled with changes of posture, captured eye glances, and ghostly inaudibility.

Neither were sure where to go from there. And neither wanted to speak up.

Harry was mad, confused, and worried. Mad because he wasn't sure what claims given to him were true. Confused because the feelings he was experiencing were incredibly unusual for him and he didn't know what was really happening. And worried because what could be going through this girl's pretty little head? Was she frightened by his cold hearted demeanor?

However, Leah was fed up by the time minute four passed by with no improvement.

"Harry.." She attempted, but he interrupted her.

"No. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have...snapped at Niall that way in front of you. I was just confused and a little distraught when I saw you two emerge from the wine cellar," the Prince explained.

"We honestly didn't-"

"I know," Harry hushed, "I believe you when you say you didn't do anything."

Unfortunately, he wasn't being truthful. The man was unsure what to believe. Do I even mind if something did happen between Leah and Niall?

"Okay. Well, thank you."

He nodded and they were quiet again, though this time it was not as hostile and stiff.

Harry thought for a moment, his mind elsewhere.

"Can I show you something?" He questioned, quirking his head to the side. She had his lip chewed between her teeth and the Prince found himself staring.

"Sure." A smile tugged at the peasant's mouth. She was thankful that they were communicating and that he was in a lighter state of mind.

Harry motioned his arm out for her to come forward, which Leah obeyed. He delicately grasped her arm and linked both theirs by the elbow. He led her down the corridor just like he had led her while dancing the prior night. Leah could still feel his fingertips on the small of her back, easing her though the ballad. He made her feel like they were the only ones in that ballroom.

Leah hummed to herself before saying, "My brothers send their hello's and that they don't mind sharing me with you."

Prince Harry looked down to her, with a glint in his eyes, and laughed. He liked how comfortable she seemed to be with him. Harry was aware that it could be intimidating spending time with a royal figure, even more so when the other person is a peasant. He even genuinely smiled when Leah leaned into his side, a giggle parting from her lips.

"Well, that's a relief," he chuckled, "Because I like spending time with you. And tell them that they are welcome in my home any day."

"Be prepared," she teasingly warned, "They will take that very seriously. Don't be surprised if they randomly show up at the gates of the castle."

"Then I shall be prepared at all hours of the day," Harry spoke, trying to keep up a straight face.

They maintained small talk all throughout the journey to an unknown destination. Prince Harry knew where he was going, guiding the way. The lengthy hallways had glass-less windows, allowing breeze to enter the palace. It swept Leah's hair past her lean shoulders and she cautiously glanced up at the older man's tousled curls to watch it sway in the light wind with grace. Everything he did was with elegance and grace.

"Where are you taking me?" She wondered aloud as they turned down two corners.

"Surprise," Prince Harry hummed.