“I wanna berrybun!” She shakes my hand a few times to get my attention.
I frown. “I don’t even know what that is.”
While staying in the North, I encountered many new types of food and sweets, which were quite delicious. However, what I miss most about the food from home is the sea salt. It is our main export in Cathros; it makes everything taste delectable.
“No, Violet. No sweets before supper.” Aurelia sighs. “I’ll bake some tomorrow.”
“Sissy!” Violet whines.
I watch them squabble with one another and can’t help but see myself and Valentin. I can’t even imagine how he felt when he received the news that Avelisar had fallen, likely thinking that I was gone. Once his grief subsides, he will be fuming, ready to take retribution on the Elvarrans. I wish I could somehow let him know I am still alive and well.
A soft breeze unexpectedly brushes across my skin, drawing my attention. That’s strange… it hasn’t been windy all day. I glance in the direction of the wind and meet a pair of emerald green eyes watching me.
“Aurelia, I?—”
She cuts me off. “Our hostel is a block away. Thank you for allowing Violet to see you. She has been begging me nonstop.”
“You leaving?” Violet whines as I bend down to her level.
I hold out my arms. “We’ll see each other again soon,” I reassure Violet, hugging her close.
“Goodbye, Raewees,” Violet replies.
“Listen to your sister for me, okay?” I tell her, standing upright.
“Okay,” she relents.
“I’ll see you at the castle.” Aurelia waves as they depart.
I cross the street towards Sebastian, his smile broadening as I approach. He has this carefree presence today, body relaxed as he leans against the wall. The top laces of his tunic are undone, showing off a part of his muscled chest. His brunette hair is artfully disheveled, the waves brushing his cheekbones.
“Hello, my lady.”
“I haven’t seen you in a while,” I say playfully.
“Are those the girls we had to scuffle in the alley for?” he asks curiously.
I nod. “The very same.”
“Then it was well worth it.”
“Indeed.” I glance back, watching them disappear down a nearby street. “I’m glad I could help them.” I turn my attention back toward Sebastian. “How were your travels?” I inquire.
The last time I saw him, Sebastian told me he would be leaving for two weeks, but it has been almost a month. I nearly forgot that he was returning to Khalessor. Dukes are quite busy, so maybe there was more to handle at home than expected.
He lets out a long sigh. “Nothing more riveting than paperwork.” Sebastian steps closer to me. “Promenade with me?”
“Sure,” I reply warmly, strolling down the street alongside him. “How long have you lived in Ashvarin?”
“All my life. When Gottfried ascended to the crown in Rykaris, he gave these lands to me,” Sebastian explains. “I am very grateful to him.”
I must tread carefully. “He sounds like an honorable man.”
“Very.” Sebastian beams. “You shall meet him one day.”
That is an interesting statement. It sounds more like a demand than a friendly suggestion. Sebastian acted cold toward me when I asked for favors and inquired about the rebellion, likely due to a lack of trust. I need to bond with him more to encourage him to open up.
I redirect the conversation. “Do you have any siblings?”
