Favored By The Villain

free to leave, you know.
In fact, I suggest you head back right away.”

“Why? What’s going on?” Levisia rose from the bed, the blanket dropping to the floor as she walked over to Pel.
“What is it?”

“Nothing really.
Only that, as I was having a bath, I looked out my window and I spotted some people walking down a path.” Pel turned to face her, a smirk across his face.
“They seemed pretty important, so I took a closer look at them.
And wouldn’t you know it, they were the third and nineteenth princes.

Levisia stared in horror at Pel as his words sank in.

“Wait a second.
That means… Oh no.”

“That’s right.
Judging from what has happened, they’ll go to your room as soon as they get here and look for you.”

“And you didn’t tell me? The whole time you knew they were coming, and you didn’t think to…” Levisia let out a groan of frustration and sprinted to the bedroom door.
As soon as she turned the doorknob, Pel stuck his arm out to close the door.

“Stop letting your guard down, Levisia.” He said, looking down at her with a serious expression.
“This palace is a dangerous place, full of people who may not have good intentions for you.
Do not trust anybody here.”

“I know, Pel, I’m not an idiot.” Levisia said, knocking Pel’s hand away.
“Do you really think I will let my guard down here?”

“You dropped it around me, remember?” Pel leant against the doorframe.
“You were so certain that I would not hurt you that you fell asleep on me.
Do you have idea how stupid of an idea that was?”

Levisia stopped and looked at Pel.
He was trying his best to hide his true feelings, but his eyes were betraying him.
She gently rested a hand over his arm.

“I trust you, Pel.
We’ve been through too much for me to not trust you.
And… I’m sorry I shouted at you, and blackmailed you.
I’m just so tired of feeling like I am alone in a viper’s nest, where I have to watch my every move and control my tongue.
But with you, I felt free.” She sighed and closed her eyes.
“I just want someone I could be myself with.”

“I know, Levisia, but you should still watch yourself out there.
Especially as it seems all the Kraidens are gathering together.
Now,” he stepped back to allow Levisia to open the door.
“Get going before they catch you here.”