Destiny Rewritten

Chapter 7

Following his directions, we had reached a small town about an hour away. It made me realize that the estate was further than I expected, I assume for security purposes. England was completely different from the States. It had its own version of beauty, breathtaking landscapes and lively inhabitants. Yet, I felt so out of place. The air smelled rich, the cracked window let a breeze that had swept across my face and hair. It was serene.

We pull onto the street to park. This town resembled an old English village, no paved streets just cobblestone roads with light colored restaurants and residences. Upon arriving I realize the rain had stopped. The grey storm clouds started to fade, and the sky transformed into a rust orange color. Before I can exit the car, Tristan opens the car door for me.

"Welcome to rural England" he says.

Awestruck by the change of scenery, I was pleased with what the small town offered.

"Let's grab some dinner. Don't worry, I'll pay for your meal. I know you don't have all your belongings consider the events that had occurred." He said.

He offered me his arm. I eyed it, deciding whether I should take it. I was a bit taken aback by how forward he was being. Noticing my hesitation, he retreats it. His cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

"No, it's fine." I said abruptly offering a small smile. Linking my arm to his head. My cheeks turning scarlet, I hope he didn't notice.

We enter through the entrance of a small restaurant together. "Reservation for two. Surname Beckett."

Oh?! He made reservations. He planned this?

The host ushers us to a table near a small fireplace. The table lined with a heavy white tablecloth with a thin lace trim. The table stood decorated with a small rose arrangement in the center.

"Please Princess feel free to choose whatever you want. I insist." He gestures to the menu.

God, he's too perfect. This a set up. Dinner with a gorgeous man.

"Miss? A glass of Bordeaux for the lady and I'm fine with water, thank you" he says to waiter. "A favorite of mine that I hope you'll like as well." He says to me.

Wine and Dine? Okay breathe keep your cool.

We order our entrées for the night and the waiter brings our drinks.

"If it's your favorite, why not get a glass for yourself?" I ask him.

Sincerity and seriousness set on his face. "I can't have my judgment paralyzed while protecting you. My priority is to make sure you're safe at all time when I am the only person with you. Alcohol would only inhibit me in that sense."

Again. Too perfect.

My heartbeat began to feel louder. "I understand. Thank you" I tell him.

After an awkward silence, I took the liberty to start the conversation.

"Tell me about yourself Tristan. I feel it's only right that I get to know you." I tell him.

Taking a sip of my wine. I start to seek a bit of confidence from the glass. I felt nervous, the same anxiety I get from a real date. I begin to question my own judgment; how could I begin to start to develop this affection? Would that be the appropriate term for it? I'm beginning to lose my senses and I've only known this man for less than 24 hours.

"Well Princess.-"

"Please I know that I should get used to use to hearing that title, but please call me Arcadia." I tell him.

His corner of his mouth lifts revealing a small subtle grin.

"Of course, well just like you I was born in Camelot as well. My father was one of the knights of the round table. He's actually saved your dad on a few occasions. One night, the castle was attacked. We held Mordred's army off for hours until I retreated. I was young then, six. I waited in the castle with our families while our fathers ran off to fight. A few days later, King Arthur requests my father and I to see him. That's when he explained the plan to send you where Mordred couldn't reach you. My father was very conflicted, but I agreed with accompanying you. Our fathers and Merlin founded The Order. They are a group of people who have lived and passed down the knowledge of their existence to their descendants. They have lived and died over time in hopes to prepare to protect you when the time came. They've trained me in combat, all in the purpose to protect you. My sworn duty and purpose is to preserve your safety and wellbeing. I've been given permission to perform whatever means to make sure you are safe."

That's a lot. This poor guy never got a chance to have a normal childhood because of me.

Looking down momentarily, I felt a bit guilty. All Tristan must have been focused on was me. Growing up I wonder if he had any freedom outside of my protection.

"That must have been tough, not being able to have a regular childhood with your family.

All because of me. I'm sorry." I said

He looked at me again meeting my eyes with a soft gaze. "Hey. I chose this. I would die if it meant you got to live another day. I want you to understand that I wouldn't have this any other way. Growing up, I went to the same schools you did. I stayed at a distance, not being notice or drawing any attention. I had friends, but none that had really stuck. You couldn't understand how many times I would have wanted to approach you. To introduce myself and befriend you. I will admit, it killed me a bit watching you day after day. I wanted to break protocol and finally say Hi. I knew that I would risk your safety doing that. Unfortunately, I had to protect you from that ill-fated incident yesterday, even though it may have well killed us both I'm happy I can finally see and talk to you."

I smiled. I wasn't sure if he was trying to make me feel better or if he really meant what he said. He was truly genuine. A gentleman all around and very caring. I assume he knows me very well, crazy someone you barely know can know you more than yourself.

"I'm glad I can too." I said happily. I really like being around him. His personality was sweet, attentive and caring. A lucky catch for any girl. The way the light from the fireplace highlighted his jaw and gorgeous eyes made me melt. Honestly, who wouldn't?

Dinner was amazing. We had a great time and I got to learn much more about him. We both had similar music taste. He liked old classic rock bands just like me. He knew how to play guitar and can speak several languages. He's too perfect.

We walked out into the car; the wine had started to affect me. I had a few too many glasses. Tonight, was perfect. I haven't felt this way ever. Being myself without having to hide anything felt satisfactory. Feeling a bit lightheaded he agreed to drive.

I became a bit giggly and unfortunately, I'm a drunk flirt. I sat down in the passenger seat as he drove. He laughed as I became bubblier.

"I think you had a bit too much wine Arcadia. I'm glad to see you had a good time. It's been a while since I've seen you laugh." He said while staring out to the road.

Feeling a bit too intoxicated, I realized I underestimated the strength of the wine. It was tasty and rich.

I had realized my speech was beginning to slightly slur.

"You know Mr.Beckett... I had a great time on this date.I..I-I think I'm lucky to have you as my guardian angel. Who wouldn't want a beautiful angel who c-can...I have to be careful..careful around you..."

"What do you mean Arcadia?" he said

"I think..you're too perfect.. I can't afford to fall-..." I tried to muttered as my eyelids became heavier and I dozed off into a druken slumber.