Chapter 3
"So… Princess Kalasin, how are you?" Alexis asked while he and Kally were alone in a carriage that would take them to the Palace.
"I am fine, thank you," replied Kalasin with a smile. Oh, I'm not a bit fine, thought Kally; I'm acting silly now. I am usually talkative and now I don't know what to say next, great. Suppose that is how I really act in front of a handsome prince.
An uncomfortable silence stretched.
"Tortall is so beautiful," suddenly Alexis commented, while looking out of the window, "I especially love the mountains. There're not many mountains in Bardia. Mountains always give me the feel of mystery. I wish I can climb up them."
Kally was startled by his speech, and then Alexis said, "I'm sorry. I don't even know why I would say that kind of things to you, Princess."
"Don't call me by my formal title. Call me Kally. I dislike formality."
"Me too, so please call me Alexis. Formality makes me sick. Have you ever run away from a royal banquet or a grand ball?"
"No, I wouldn't dare to," came the replied.
"Well, I did, for many times. When I was younger, I felt those parties were so boring, so I went away to play with my friends, but as I grew older, I started to know the duty of a crown prince, and I began to settle down."
Kally had nothing to do except to smile one of her prettiest smile. Alexis' heart skipped a beat, and stare at her. How beautiful she is, he thought, if only I can kiss her. Kally noticed that Alexis was staring at her. She looked into his brown eyes and felt something that she had never felt before. She could also feel that her cheeks were burning.
"So, Alexis, what do you think of…" she stopped because Alexis had leaned forward and grabbed her hand.
There was silence.
Alexis moved closer to Kally. He kissed her on the cheek and then, her lips. Kally was surprised, but didn't even think of pushing away. This kiss was their first. It's soft, gentle, and passionate. It was also warm, very warm. Before she knew it, she responded to the kiss, hungrily.
Then there was a sudden stop and the couple nearly fell from their seat, and the kiss was broken. Both their faces turned crimson red. They didn't know what to say or do next. Just then the door of the carriage opened and a servant said, "Sorry for the sudden stop, but we have arrived at the Royal Palace."
Alexis nodded and stepped out of the carriage. He held out his hand and said, "Princess?" Kally got up and took his hand before stepping out. Alexis didn't stop holding her hand and Kally didn't struggle. They glanced at each other and smiled shyly. Jon, Thayet and few other people didn't miss that. They smiled inwardly and pretend nothing had happened.