Felix Fractured

8 : tremors

ALEXIA

"Felix?" I peak into the office to see the prince discussing matters with two people I've never met. They both appear to be close to our age and know him to an extent. I can't place where I've seen them before, but they both seem familiar—especially the girl with blonde hair.

She swirls towards my presence at the same time as Felix, taking in my scent. I step into the room bashfully, feeling bad for lurking. I'm surprised when the girl greets me with a smile, her green eyes glittering with excitement. I realize who they are just before she introduces herself.

"Hi, I'm Scout, and this is my brother," She nudges the tall brunette beside her. He blinks, coming out of his thoughts, and smiles towards me as if just realizing I was there. "Carpenter."

I smile politely towards them, wishing I could hide behind my mate. I realize how dumb that sounds because I know I can handle this on my own, but maybe it's just because I'm bashful. His cousins don't seem that intimidating, but there is still some pressure because I know he's close to them.

Scout's golden-blonde hair is French-braided, disappearing behind her back. She wears a modest navy blouse with a dark cloak and ripped skinny jeans. The top seems fresh, but the rest of her clothing is tattered and worn. Clearly, the latest fashion trend doesn't matter much to her. I find it refreshing to engage with someone who does not have concern for appearances in general. Her flawless tan skin and emerald green eyes seem to be the only things she has in common with her brother.

Carpenter stands about a foot taller than his sister, which turns out to be only a couple of inches shorter than Felix. I feel a little out of place upon realizing that I'm the shortest person here, but, even though he has power, the brunette doesn't appear to be the least bit intimidating. This is especially true as he stands next to his watchful sister.

He sports a red flannel shirt and dark jeans. Dark brown hair ruffled, falling into his eyes no doubt from the car ride. There's a weariness in his kind eyes–a tiredness that transcends a long car ride. Despite the limited lighting, I also notice an eraser tip poking out of his shirt pocket. A lead pencil?

"Did you need something?" Felix directs his question at me.

Flustered, I shake my head. I'm caught off guard as I always seem to be with him. I feel the matching pairs of green eyes watching me, and I blush more. The prince's dark eyes glisten with mild humor. Of course, he enjoys teasing me.

"I think we'll retire for the night now. So we'll see you tomorrow?" Scout inquires to me, and I nod, smiling back at her.

I watch them go, Scout's cloak trailing behind her. A small pouch on her belt catches my eye as the fabric ripples. Does she carry a pocket knife?

Felix tilts my head up towards him, and the curiosity fades just as quickly as it came. His captivating eyes are seemingly endless. I blink haphazardly when I register his voice. "-to ask?" I furrow my eyebrows, and his lips curve upwards the smallest bit. I swear, it's my daily goal to make him smile, even if it's just a little.

"What was your real reason for coming in here?" His question is direct, but the amusement is still present.

"You wanted to talk to me?" I hold my focus steadfastly, matching his directness.

"Right," He clears some space on the front of his desk.

I find my voice while he shuffles papers. "The ball is tomorrow?"

"Yes," He props himself against the edge of the desk but clings to a few documents. "I assume my mother got you everything you require?"

I nod and glance down at my socks, suddenly reminded of the fact that I'm in my pajamas. I hadn't expected guests. Either way, I guess it shows that I'm getting more comfortable here.