Chapter 137
“my lady‘ Kellan called stopping Lucia in the halls the next morning
“Kellan, please, it’s Lucia” she said smiling at him with a smile that felt like everything to her. He knew she did not like getting called that but it was one of the ways he got to see her smile in the morning.
“have any classes today” he asked taking the books she was holding
“thank you, I.. not really, I have a test tomorrow though”
“great, I was wondering, if you would like to grab lunch with me? Out of here, that is I just…”
He wiped his sweaty palms on his shirt, trying to stand straighter and look more confident
“of course I would love to, I am getting tired of the food here anyways. She playfully winked at him, finding her way back to the library, with Kellan unable to control his smile.
The sun shone brightly over the bustling marketplace just beyond the academy’s gates. The air was filled with the enticing aromas of fresh–baked bread, roasting meats, and a myriad of spices. Vibrant stalls lined the streets, offering everything from exotic fruits to hand–crafted jewelry.
“you ready?” he asked her as soon as he saw her walk through the front gates.
She nodded, taking in his hands with excitement.
Lucia walked beside Kellan, her eyes wide with wonder. “I’ve never been out here before,” she admitted, her voice tinged with excitement. “It’s so lively compared to the academy.”
Kellan smiled, enjoying her enthusiasm. “I thought you could use a break. Sometimes, it’s good to step away from the intensity and just enjoy life.”
They wandered through the marketplace, pausing at various stalls to sample delicacies and admire the craftsmanship on display. Kellan found a small café tucked away in a quiet corner, its outdoor seating shaded by blooming cherry blossoms. They settled at a table, and Kellan ordered a selection of local dishes for them to share.
As they waited for their food, Lucia leaned back in her chair, a contented smile playing on her lips. “Thank you, Kellan. This is exactly what I needed. The upcoming test, I am so scared about it. what if I get a spell wrong, what if I don’t even summon the spell right”
Kellan felt a warmth spread through him at her words. he sat forward so he could be closer to her “you would do great, trust me he said touching the back of her palm, rubbing it affectionately “I’m glad I am able to help. You deserve some time to relax and just be
yourself.”
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on everything from their childhood memories to their hopes for the future. Kellan found himself more and more into Lucia each time she laughed, or giggled at some funny stories of his..
Their meal arrived, a feast of grilled meats, fresh salads, and warm, crusty bread. They ate with relish, savoring the flavors and the easy companionship. Kellan couldn’t remember the last time he had felt so at ease, so connected to someone.
“want to have mine?” he pushed his plate forward causing her to blush
“I can’t just eat off your plate!” she said pushing the plate back to him as she tried to keep her blush at bay
“I would share my liver with you if you asked” he said looking her in her eyes and a smile on his lips to hide the seriousness in his
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Chapter 137
voice
As the afternoon wore on, they strolled back through the marketplace, Lucia’s laughter ringing out like music. Kellan found himself stealing glances at her, as they strolled, he held her hand, subtly at first to see if she would pull away. She froze at first but did not pull away, causing him to gain more confidence and hold her hand more obviously than the first time.
When they finally returned to the academy, the sun was beginning set, casting long shadows across the grounds. As they approached the main entrance, “I had a nice day today” she said, thanking him with a smile.
“me too”
She nodded, making her way into the building
“lucia” he called stooping her from going. “today. It was nice and I hope we can-”
“Luzia,” Helios called out, his voice cold and hard. “Where have you been?”
Lucia snapped her head looking at Helios, her smile getting wider by the moment. “Helios, I-”
“Save it,” Helios snapped, his gaze shifting to Kellan. “And you. What were you thinking, taking her out without permission?”
Kellan squared his shoulders, refusing to be intimidated. “Lucia needed a break. I thought it would be good for her to get some fresh air and relax. sir” he bowed his head slightly, to show that he was not challenging him even though he was standing up for himself
Helios took a step forward, his fists clenched at his sides. “That’s not your decision to make, Kellan. She’s my mate, and her safety is my responsibility.“.
Kellan met Helios’s glare head–on. “I understand that, but I’m also one of her protectors. I’m looking out for her well–being.”
Lucia stepped between them, her expression pained. “Stop it, both of you. This isn’t helping.”
Helios’s eyes softened as he looked at Lucia, but his anger was still evident. “Lucia, you can’t just disappear like that. I was worried.”
Lucia sighed, her shoulders slumping. “I’m sorry, Helios. I didn’t mean to worry you. I just needed some time away from the academy, and Kellan was kind enough to take me.”
Helios’s jaw tightened, but he nodded reluctantly. “Fine. But next time, let me know where you’re going or the headmaster …since he would always be here and I am hardly here.”
Lucia nodded, reaching out to touch Helios’s arm. “I will. I promise.”
Kellan watched the exchange, feeling a pang of something he couldn’t quite identify. As much as he respected Helios’s role in- Lucia’s life, he couldn’t ignore the connection he felt with her. He knew that his feelings complicated things, but he also knew that he couldn’t turn them off.
Helios turned to Kellan, his expression softening slightly but still somehow managed to keep in their coldness. “Thank you for looking out for her?”
Kellan nodded, understanding the unspoken warning.
As Helios and Lucia walked away, Kellan remained on the steps, watching them until they disappeared inside.
He did not miss the look Helios turned back to give him when Lucia was not noticing. It was one that was filled with promise, and not the good kind
