Sleepless

Chapter Ten

Nora's Unrequited Love

Felix's POV

I gathered all my might and brought Sue to the palace. I wanted to show her the butterflies because I was certain that she would love it. She appreciates small things – one of the reasons why I like her. I wanted to tell her the truth but I was scared. I wanted to show her my real identity which I've been hiding for so long. But when I saw her reaction when I brought her here, she looked scared. She turned pale and cold and when I saw her at that state, I changed my mind. I won't tell her now.

"Sue." I'm sorry Sue but I can't tell you now.

"Ye-yes?" She looks nervous.

"I'll be leaving Cor Carola for 5 days. It is another business matter." I took a step closer to her.

"Sue?" I called her again since she was silent.

"Hmmm?" Her eyes landed on mine. Her emerald orbs were shining while she was looking at me.

"Can I ask you something?"Would you still accept me for who I am?  I wanted to ask her that question, but would it be bad if I admit that I became a coward for a second?

She nodded.

"Can I hug you?" She blinked twice. She was hesitating to answer and this time, I would not take no for an answer. I want her to think of me while I am away.

I pulled her and hugged her tightly. Her head landed softly on my chest. I was feeling the same thing again. My heart wasn't beating normally. I never felt this way before and this only occurs when I am around her. I am sure that I will be longing for her presence when I leave.

"Please take care of yourself while I'm gone." I whispered.

I felt her arms around me – she was hugging me back. I noticed her being too quiet. I must have caused her too much shock. What could be her reaction when she finds out that I am not the man she thinks I am?

I removed my arms around her and she did the same thing. I gave her a smile but she looked bothered by something or someone. When I followed where her gaze was focused, I saw him watching us. He looked at me and glared. What could be his problem now?

"Sue." I called her name.

"Yes?" She said.

"There's a carriage waiting for you. Just walk straight. My boat will be leaving soon. You take care okay?" I touched her hair and the accessory that I gave her. "You are a butterfly that needs to be protected, you must protect yourself while I am away." I went to her soft cheeks and caressed it.

My hands went down to hers and held it thoroughly. I saw my ring in her thumb. "Do you know that this ring has the same color of your eyes?"

She shook her head.

I chuckled because she looked adorable with that gesture. She could be a silly girl sometimes.

"You should go now Sue. Wait for my return." I kissed her hand.

"Thank you Felix." She turned her back at me and started walking away.

"Wait Sue!" She stopped from her tracks and was about to turn around but I stopped her.

"Don't – just don't look back while walk away from me. I might change my mind." I told her. She stood there for a while and started walking away from me until she was no longer seen.

I will still protect you even if I'm far from you.

I went back to the palace and looked for him. I can't leave Cor Carola doubting that he will do something to her. I know him to well. He wasn't in his room so I searched for him in the palace. He was in the balcony with a cup of coffee on his hands. He took a sip and spoke when he noticed my presence.