Disclaimer: See first chapter
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VIDANRIC's POV
Mel seemed to be deep in thought as I carried her to my sitting room. The sensible voice in my head kept urging me to return to her rooms but the lovesick voice kept telling me otherwise. Yes, I was lovesick. Hadn't I admitted to it ages ago?
Well, she was already here. Sitting on the blue reclining couch, a faint frown knitting her brow. She looked beautiful even when soaked to the skin. It brought out an inner glow and her trademark resilience.
I ordered up some listerblossom tea and a suitable gown for her before leaving the sitting room and entering my bedroom through a door that joined the two rooms. I closed the door with an audible click and touched my forehead to the cool wood briefly.
It was partly my fault that she had gotten hurt. If I had not allowed her to swim, she would not have stepped on the piece of glass. Then again, I did not want to deprive her of what she had so sincerely wished for. Is it not true that a man would do anything for the woman he loved?
"My lord?" asked Kervan hesitantly when he saw me dripping water all over the carpet.
I looked up at him through tired eyes. "A suit of dry clothes please."
Silently, he did as he was told, preparing a suit of black while I dried my hair with a towel. Dressing quickly, I tied my hair in its usual fashion and picked up the extra towel I had nearby. Walking back into the sitting room, I found Mel trying to take in her surroundings. Was she impressed or intimidated by this show of wealth?
In truth, this room would be shabby as compared to what it had been adorned with during Galdran's rule. It's opulence then, was enough to make even me get dizzy. I would like Mel to be impressed yet comfortable and at ease at the same time. I disliked invoking power or wealth to force my will over others. At times, it was necessary but not now.
"Here," I said, handing her the towel which she accepted with a grateful smile and a word of thanks.
Two maids entered with the listerblossom tea and gown. I excused myself, leaving her to dress and hurried to find a healer. Mistress Kylar was exiting the Healers' quarters just as I arrived.
She gave a slight bow in my direction as I neared her. I smiled in return and was just about to ask for her help when she asked, "Are you all right, my lord? You seem unwell."
I assured her that I was well but that I required her assistance. She must have noticed the impatience in my voice and nodded, following behind me as I led the way and explained what was required of her. Mel looked at us from above the rim of her teacup when we entered. She had changed into a simple blue silk gown that brought out her eyes. Her hair was a cascade of red curls, framing her delicate face and falling all around her. I paused in the doorway for a moment to admire the pretty picture she made. Remembering that Mistress Kylar still stood behind me, I stepped into the room and held the door open for her.
Mel replaced her cup on her saucer and settled it back onto the table as Mistress Kylar began examining her wound. I stood a distance away as Mistress Kylar did her work, bustling around Mel like a mother hen tending to her chicks. For once, I felt uncomfortable that my hands were free. I needed to keep myself busy.
"May I be of help, Mistress Kylar?" I asked.
She accepted my help and indicated that I should help clean Mel's wound while she prepared the bandage. Mel's reaction to this would have made me laugh had I not been so worried for her well-being. She panicked, looking at me like a deer sighted by a hunter, and opened her mouth to protest.
I silenced her with a swift glare. This was the one time where I could not accept 'no' as an answer. Cleaning her bloody wound was not a joy as I felt her pain each time she winced. I just hoped that I was gentle. Her feet were so small! They were so perfectly smooth except for the scar that ran along the injured one. Now there would be two.
Mistress Kylar made a joke that made her laugh while I was lost in my own thoughts. Although I did not catch it, her tinkling laughter was infectious, and the corners of my mouth deepened. I raised my head, hoping to see her in a natural moment of joy, only to have our gazes lock.
All that remained of her earlier mirth was a smile that lit up her face. She did not look away as I stared into her eyes, and although I was surprised at the turn of events, I found that neither could I. What did she see?
She was the one who broke eye contact, returning her attention to Mistress Kylar hastily. I left the room soon after to empty the basin of bloody water and returned to find Mistress Kylar packing the tools of her trade. We bid her goodbye and I thanked her for her trouble.
After an inquiry, Mel expressed her wishes to return. But I suggested that she rest before leaving. I wonder if it was my head or heart that made that suggestion. Her refusal was no surprise, but I demurred and she fell asleep in the middle of an objection and at the end of a 'thank you'.
A few hours had passed, yet she continued her slumber. At times, she would sigh softly and a small smile would grace her lips. She was dreaming. Of what, I wonder. I occupied myself by going through some paper work before settling down for a cup of hot chocolate.
Still she slept. An angel had replaced the strong-willed woman I knew. She looked so peaceful as she slept. Just then, I felt the urge to kiss her. Silly, I know, for haven't I wanted to do just that ever since I watched her stare Galdran down? I walked silently towards the reclining couch where she lay, praying that she would not awake.
I towered above her sleeping form and my shadow fell upon her. A moment of indecision and confusion gripped me. What was I doing? It was scandalous enough that she was here. But who would know? It was risky, but it was risk I had to take.
I slowly lowered myself and knelt on one knee beside her. Another second passed as I watched her breathe in a regular rhythm. She was lost in her dreams, sweet Elysium. It was now or never. I brushed a stray lock of hair away from her face, trailing my hand down her jaw line and bent down to give her chaste kiss on the cheek. I closed my eyes, hoping to savour this pleasure.
My lips were a scant inch from her cheek and I could feel her warm breath gently caress my face. Suddenly she stirred with a soft murmur and her lips brushed mine as she turned her head to the side. That brief contact jolted me to my senses. My eyes flew open and I got to my feet hurriedly, stumbling back to my seat.
What had I done? Nervously, I glanced at her and was relieved to discover that she had not yet awakened. She would have my liver for dinner if she found out about what I had done! My lips tingled and my heart beat a rapid tattoo in my chest. I had kissed Mel! Her taste still lingered on my lips.
I knew deep down inside that I would still be rejoicing at my little triumph even if she had awakened and yelled at me. Thank goodness this wasn't the case, for then, she would hate me for life. And it would be an undiluted and raw hatred.
I had just managed to calm my frazzled nerves by taking a gulp of hot chocolate when she awoke. She pulled herself into a sitting position and arched her back, stretching her arms and neck. It was such a sensual movement. Stop it, Vidanric! I mentally slapped myself.
I tried rather unsuccessfully to maintain my calm façade when she asked me for the time. I answered her rather brusquely, hoping to keep my panicky feelings hidden. Mel, though not as accomplished at dissembling, had probably learned the basics of interpreting little movements. And my nervous movements were far from little.
Would she notice anything amiss?
Asking her to stay for dinner, I steeled myself for her rejection. I already considered myself lucky since I had managed to share a picnic with her and anything more was a miracle. Still, I had to try!
Resigning myself to the fact that I would no longer have her company, I sighed inwardly. Just then, Russav came bounding in without a warning.
"Danric!" he yelled, before continuing in the same vein about "something" he needed to discuss with me. My cousin was plain rude. Indeed he was gentlemanly when it was required of him but he is an imp at heart. Not that anyone could blame him. He spoils himself silly.
Then he spotted Mel. Burn it, he would torture me about this till no end! True enough, his eye glinted mischievously - or should I say, maliciously - and he said in an innocent voice, "Meliara! I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"
I knew he knew that something was going on from the way he surveyed the both of us, like a father making sure his daughter was not on a rendezvous with a cad of some sort. I almost cringed and had to stop my self from groaning at his inopportune timing. Sending him an irritated glare and a sharp reprimand - the only thing I could do to retain whatever dignity I had left - I hope he got the message.
Mel sighed at his little display and tried to rise from her seat only to stumble. I practically leaped from my seat to support her. I could just feel Russav grinning insanely behind me. Ignoring him, I said, "I'll escort you to your rooms once I've summoned for the carriage."
Before she could agree to my plan Russav obnoxiously interrupted her and suggested that she should stay for dinner, claiming that I was as dull as a hibernating bear - or something along those lines. I wonder who is the one who fills his head with parties and clothes? Much as I'd like to say that it isn't me, I have to admit that my cousin has done a pretty good job of running his estates.
Dinner was fairly pleasant at the beginning, considering that Russav was unusually quiet, only adding in a few comments here and there. He nearly spelled my doom, however, when he stumbled in his little farewell speech after Mel had enquired about his purpose of coming here in the first place. My heart seized in panic and I swear I nearly suffered a heart attack right then and there.
Woman of my dreams indeed! More like the love of my life. Then again, I haven't won her over, have I? Perhaps I should do as Russav suggests and focus my attention on the work of the kingdom instead. There was still so much to do and such a burden would be easier to bear if it were shared with someone else.
Russav departed soon after his performance of tipping his imaginary hat and lying - I honestly believe he was - to Mel that he had something on. There you have it, my cousin The Ladies' Man. I didn't know whether to hate or love him for leaving us alone.
For once, Mel and I had a perfectly ordinary conversation. There were no upsets throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion cum debate. It was during this conversation that I learned of her idea of an ideal courtship. She didn't agree entirely with my interpretation of an ideal courtship but at least she felt that it was acceptable. That was good enough, for now at least.
Our tête-à-tête ended on a high note, with both of us finally agreeing on something. I proceeded to assist her down to the carriage I had ordered; swallowing my laughter when I saw the silent and desperate plea she sent Kervan's way when I offered to carry her down myself. Was I that loathsome?
Thank goodness Kervan paid her no heed. Somehow, I had a feeling that he did this on purpose, as if giving me an opportunity to make more conversation, thus enabling me to get to know Mel better and vice versa. Life, even the servants knew about my infatuation?
The blue silk rustled as I settled Mel onto the carriage seat. When she was comfortable I climbed in after her. She looked slightly surprised that I would extend my hospitality to such a degree but made no comment. Was she beginning to enjoy my company as much as I enjoyed hers?
I banished the silence during the short trip to the Primary Guest Wing by commenting on the moon and stars. Not intelligent conversation to be sure, but she took pleasure in admiring the scenery with me and remarked on it as well. We arrived at the main door of the Primary Guest Wing just as a group of courtiers on a stroll came into view, their incessant chatter breaking the silence of the night. I was not surprised to hear Russav's booming voice amongst them.
"This way ladies and gentlemen," he said, probably in an attempt to divert their attention away from Mel and I.
Mel looked over at me helplessly before whispering, "I'll walk."
"You're still too hurt to walk unassisted!" I whispered in reply.
"You could get your carriage driver to do the job!" she replied indignantly.
There we were embroiled in yet another dispute. It was almost comical as she glared daggers at me, her arms crossed over her chest while I stared her down with a fierce intensity.
Then, "Isn't that Vidanric's coach?" was said in a voice so like Tamara's that I cringed. Mel's eyes now held more desperation than indignation.
"Is it?" asked Russav faintly, "You must be mistaken Tamara. What business would Danric have here at this hour?"
"I think she's right, Savona," said Deric, "That is, without a doubt a Shevraeth device on the carriage."
We were goners. The footsteps and voices neared as Russav said, "What about our walk?" in a last ditch attempt to save us. He was practically pleading; and if I knew my cousin, he would have this incident on his list of 'Favours Danric Owes Me' or 'Things To Tease Danric About' by the morrow. He was that juvenile.
All of a sudden, Mel reached for the door latch and swung it open. Jerking her head towards the exit, she motioned for me to disembark, at the same time whispering, "You're here to see my brother!"
I nodded, suddenly serious. With practiced grace I stepped out of the carriage and bowed to the approaching courtiers as if nothing was amiss and that I hadn't spent the last minute dreading their approach. They returned my bow with pleasant greetings and expressions of delight.
Trishe thinking that I was alone, asked me to join them on their stroll. Tamara was more direct, gliding towards me and looping her arm through mine. Deric looked amused at her display of affection but Russav was not so pleased.
"I'm afraid that Lord Branaric is anxiously awaiting my arrival at the moment," I said smoothly, "Another time, perhaps?"
I prayed that Mel knew for a fact that Bran was in the Residence and that he had not decided to take a stroll. Russav's discreet nod confirmed that they had not come across Bran and I heaved an inward sigh of relief. Murmuring her deepest regrets at my failure to join them on such a beautiful moonlit night the party bid their goodbyes and continued on their way.
"Lady Meliara?" I asked, peering into the dark interior of the carriage.
"They're gone?" she asked, shuffling out of the gloom and into the ray of light that fell into the carriage through the open.
"I can hobble along if you'd just lend me a hand," she said and I extended my right arm towards her. She grasped it firmly and heaved herself out of her seat. Looking down, she eyed the distance from the carriage floor to the ground. Exhaling, she cursed softly under her breath before placing one hand then the other on my shoulders. Instinctively, I put my hands around her waist and lowered her to the ground.
The top of her head just came up to my chin and I smelled the soft fragrance of her hair. My breath caught in my throat when she looked up into my face, the moonlight casting a pale glow on her skin, her blue eyes open and honest, giving her an ethereal beauty.
We were at the base of the flight of stairs that led to the main entrance. Looking up, I saw that it was steep and would prove difficult for Mel to climb. We looked over at each other at the same time. I gave her a knowing smile and she sighed in mock exasperation.
"You aren't considering carrying me again are you?" she asked, arching an eyebrow in query.
"What a wonderful suggestion, Lady Meliara!" I enthused with a smile, stooping to carry her.
"Wait, wait!" she yelled, holding her hand up. I straightened up to look her in the eye as she said, "Instead of carrying me, which I'm sure you're sick and tired of doing, how about doing this?"
Thus saying, she took a hop toward me while motioning for me to give her my right hand. When I did so, she pulled my right arm around her waist and held my hand in place with her right hand. I extended my right hand towards her, palm upwards and she put her left hand atop it. I saw the sapphire ring glitter on her finger and was reminded of the fact that she had accepted the Unknown's friendship.
When she had positioned herself comfortably, she looked up at me and gave one of her brilliant smiles. "There! Isn't this much better? Now you'll seem like the perfect gentleman helping a poor damsel in distress."
"Without being too intimate?" I added in amusement.
"Now you get it!" she exclaimed in mock surprise.
I smiled in the gloom, grateful that at least one of us hadn't taken leave of his senses. Mel had learned the ways of court during her short stay here she knew that it would cause a scandal should we be seen in a position more compromising than this. In truth, I did not care if we were spotted in a compromising position. I could live with the whispers behind fluttering fans and rumours of a scandal. I just feared that people might guess of my true intentions towards Mel and use her to antagonise or hurt me.
I brushed such depressing thoughts away as I helped Mel towards her rooms. Her maid rose quickly from her seat by the fireplace and dropped us a quick curtsy before moving to assist Mel when we entered.
"Some listerblossom tea, please," I ordered briskly supporting Mel as she limped to her bed. The maid curtsied again and left the room through a passageway hidden by a tapestry.
"Would you like to stay for some tea?" asked Mel, biting her lip as if deliberating whether or not her invitation was appropriate.
"No, thank you. I'd better be on my way."
She lay back against her pillows, crossing her feet at the ankles and her folding her hands in her lap as she inclined her head at my answer. I bowed and turned to leave the way we had come when she said, "Shevraeth?"
That one word was said in a quiet almost timid voice. I looked at her questioningly. With a shy smile and a rosy pink blush accenting her cheeks she said, "Thank you for everything. I thoroughly enjoyed myself today, asides from the foot injury, that is."
I smiled faintly, "As did I, Lady Meliara." She extended her hand towards me and I bowed over it, grazing her knuckles with my lips as was customary. Naturally, I was reminded of my stolen kiss and it was my turn to feel my cheeks grow warm.
I raised my head to look at her, her fingers still resting lightly in my hand. Suddenly feeling bold, I said, "Perhaps, we could do this again sometime?" she arched an eyebrow while a quirk appeared at the corner of her mouth . " I promise you'll be kept as safe as possible," I added with a boyish grin.
She looked amused and terrified at my proposal. "Perhaps," she replied faintly, before gaining more confidence and reiterated a little more exuberantly, "Perhaps, Shevraeth."
My fingers loosened their hold around her fingers, but instead of withdrawing them, she slipped her hand further into mine and squeezed it briefly. My eyes must have registered surprise for she gave a small hesitant smile and said, "Once again, thank you."
I took a step back when she pulled her hand back and let if fall back into her lap, the sensation of her small hand in mine and that grateful gesture still sending shivers up and down my spine.
"Good night, Lady Meliara," I said with yet another bow.
"Goodnight, Shevraeth," she replied, smiling, a faint blush tingeing her cheeks.
With that, I left her lovely presence but the memories of that day I will keep forever with me, holding them close to my heart. "Perhaps," she had said. Perhaps, one day I will tell her how I really feel. Perhaps, when the time comes she would feel exactly the same way.
Hopefully by then, we would both know what it means to have Fallen In Love.
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THE END
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A/N: This is the first story I've ever completed. Kudos to me! Anyway, hope you guys like the ending. If inspiration strikes again and this competition is still open, perhaps (yikes, I'm becoming Danric) I'll write another entry or a continuation in the form of another entry. Highly unlikely though. Do tell me what you liked and disliked about this chapter in your review so that I can improve in my future fics, yeah? Any other constructive criticism is also welcome.
And although I'm not updating this anymore, except to allow you guys to vote, do review! (This is for new readers only)
Talking about VOTING, I'll 'post' a new "chapter" whereby you will VOTE for it by giving a review of any sort. So you can review this chapter without making it a vote or anything. Thus saying, I'd like to appeal to all other contestants in the contest to do the same thing.
Blackrose25: You're the brains of this contest so I'll leave it up to you, but this contest has to end sooner or later and I suggest that we wait for at least 2 more entries before closing the competition. This would make it a total of 5 entries! Also, how about letting anyone who has read all the entries to vote? They have to be MEMBERS of fanfiction.net of course, and are preferably people who have constantly reviewed in the Sherwood Smith section. How you choose to go about this is fine by me as this is just a suggestion. Post your answer under your Dating Game Romance thing to let us know about your decision!
Thanks to the Reviewers:
Elanial: It was supposed to be "tether". Typo error! I'll take that as a compliment since Heart Duel is my first fic and involved more of my own planning. This goes to show that I've improved!
Fairydust123: It's ok; we all make mistakes, don't we? (Look above) I had a typo error.
Sam: *sigh* I've got nothing to say.
Eniamrahc: I guess, but I thought I gave a valid reason. *shrugs* we have different opinions, I guess. Thanks for beta reading this chapter! As you can see, I made some adjustments.
Eutan: Glad to be of service, you've proved to be a wonderful beta reader.
Idiotic Gal: Yeah, I'm so privileged. Thanks for reviewing anyhow; it's such a hard thing to do isn't it? The dream was cliché I guess, but at least you liked it! No prize, sorry!
Danric-lover: Now you know what really happened about the kiss? What do you think? Vidanric's such a sweetie, and no, Mel isn't dense, she just took it as a rhetorical question. Post your STORY!
Blackrose25: Your review was the review of the millennium. Now THAT was long. I really enjoyed reading it! Thanks a ton for having this contest, as this fic wouldn't exist otherwise. Gimme an equally long or longer review! To the rest of you, do the same!
Squirrel of Maiden Green: I can agree with you there. I'll rein it in a bit if I ever write something like this again. Thanks for your comment!
Geniusgirl: I'm glad you liked the conversation, took me quite a while to write it. Thanks for the compliment. I try my best to please my readers!
Chutney: Heart Duel is on hold at the moment. I'm thinking of updating Truly Gifted first. But HD will be done ASAP!
Gimme UBER LONG reviews! LENGHTY, COMPREHENSIVE and hopefully COMPLIMENTARY ones.
Last of all, VOTE for ME!
FelSong, The-Person-You-Should-Vote-For (I'm so egotistical. Now that is an understatement.=)
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VIDANRIC's POV
Mel seemed to be deep in thought as I carried her to my sitting room. The sensible voice in my head kept urging me to return to her rooms but the lovesick voice kept telling me otherwise. Yes, I was lovesick. Hadn't I admitted to it ages ago?
Well, she was already here. Sitting on the blue reclining couch, a faint frown knitting her brow. She looked beautiful even when soaked to the skin. It brought out an inner glow and her trademark resilience.
I ordered up some listerblossom tea and a suitable gown for her before leaving the sitting room and entering my bedroom through a door that joined the two rooms. I closed the door with an audible click and touched my forehead to the cool wood briefly.
It was partly my fault that she had gotten hurt. If I had not allowed her to swim, she would not have stepped on the piece of glass. Then again, I did not want to deprive her of what she had so sincerely wished for. Is it not true that a man would do anything for the woman he loved?
"My lord?" asked Kervan hesitantly when he saw me dripping water all over the carpet.
I looked up at him through tired eyes. "A suit of dry clothes please."
Silently, he did as he was told, preparing a suit of black while I dried my hair with a towel. Dressing quickly, I tied my hair in its usual fashion and picked up the extra towel I had nearby. Walking back into the sitting room, I found Mel trying to take in her surroundings. Was she impressed or intimidated by this show of wealth?
In truth, this room would be shabby as compared to what it had been adorned with during Galdran's rule. It's opulence then, was enough to make even me get dizzy. I would like Mel to be impressed yet comfortable and at ease at the same time. I disliked invoking power or wealth to force my will over others. At times, it was necessary but not now.
"Here," I said, handing her the towel which she accepted with a grateful smile and a word of thanks.
Two maids entered with the listerblossom tea and gown. I excused myself, leaving her to dress and hurried to find a healer. Mistress Kylar was exiting the Healers' quarters just as I arrived.
She gave a slight bow in my direction as I neared her. I smiled in return and was just about to ask for her help when she asked, "Are you all right, my lord? You seem unwell."
I assured her that I was well but that I required her assistance. She must have noticed the impatience in my voice and nodded, following behind me as I led the way and explained what was required of her. Mel looked at us from above the rim of her teacup when we entered. She had changed into a simple blue silk gown that brought out her eyes. Her hair was a cascade of red curls, framing her delicate face and falling all around her. I paused in the doorway for a moment to admire the pretty picture she made. Remembering that Mistress Kylar still stood behind me, I stepped into the room and held the door open for her.
Mel replaced her cup on her saucer and settled it back onto the table as Mistress Kylar began examining her wound. I stood a distance away as Mistress Kylar did her work, bustling around Mel like a mother hen tending to her chicks. For once, I felt uncomfortable that my hands were free. I needed to keep myself busy.
"May I be of help, Mistress Kylar?" I asked.
She accepted my help and indicated that I should help clean Mel's wound while she prepared the bandage. Mel's reaction to this would have made me laugh had I not been so worried for her well-being. She panicked, looking at me like a deer sighted by a hunter, and opened her mouth to protest.
I silenced her with a swift glare. This was the one time where I could not accept 'no' as an answer. Cleaning her bloody wound was not a joy as I felt her pain each time she winced. I just hoped that I was gentle. Her feet were so small! They were so perfectly smooth except for the scar that ran along the injured one. Now there would be two.
Mistress Kylar made a joke that made her laugh while I was lost in my own thoughts. Although I did not catch it, her tinkling laughter was infectious, and the corners of my mouth deepened. I raised my head, hoping to see her in a natural moment of joy, only to have our gazes lock.
All that remained of her earlier mirth was a smile that lit up her face. She did not look away as I stared into her eyes, and although I was surprised at the turn of events, I found that neither could I. What did she see?
She was the one who broke eye contact, returning her attention to Mistress Kylar hastily. I left the room soon after to empty the basin of bloody water and returned to find Mistress Kylar packing the tools of her trade. We bid her goodbye and I thanked her for her trouble.
After an inquiry, Mel expressed her wishes to return. But I suggested that she rest before leaving. I wonder if it was my head or heart that made that suggestion. Her refusal was no surprise, but I demurred and she fell asleep in the middle of an objection and at the end of a 'thank you'.
A few hours had passed, yet she continued her slumber. At times, she would sigh softly and a small smile would grace her lips. She was dreaming. Of what, I wonder. I occupied myself by going through some paper work before settling down for a cup of hot chocolate.
Still she slept. An angel had replaced the strong-willed woman I knew. She looked so peaceful as she slept. Just then, I felt the urge to kiss her. Silly, I know, for haven't I wanted to do just that ever since I watched her stare Galdran down? I walked silently towards the reclining couch where she lay, praying that she would not awake.
I towered above her sleeping form and my shadow fell upon her. A moment of indecision and confusion gripped me. What was I doing? It was scandalous enough that she was here. But who would know? It was risky, but it was risk I had to take.
I slowly lowered myself and knelt on one knee beside her. Another second passed as I watched her breathe in a regular rhythm. She was lost in her dreams, sweet Elysium. It was now or never. I brushed a stray lock of hair away from her face, trailing my hand down her jaw line and bent down to give her chaste kiss on the cheek. I closed my eyes, hoping to savour this pleasure.
My lips were a scant inch from her cheek and I could feel her warm breath gently caress my face. Suddenly she stirred with a soft murmur and her lips brushed mine as she turned her head to the side. That brief contact jolted me to my senses. My eyes flew open and I got to my feet hurriedly, stumbling back to my seat.
What had I done? Nervously, I glanced at her and was relieved to discover that she had not yet awakened. She would have my liver for dinner if she found out about what I had done! My lips tingled and my heart beat a rapid tattoo in my chest. I had kissed Mel! Her taste still lingered on my lips.
I knew deep down inside that I would still be rejoicing at my little triumph even if she had awakened and yelled at me. Thank goodness this wasn't the case, for then, she would hate me for life. And it would be an undiluted and raw hatred.
I had just managed to calm my frazzled nerves by taking a gulp of hot chocolate when she awoke. She pulled herself into a sitting position and arched her back, stretching her arms and neck. It was such a sensual movement. Stop it, Vidanric! I mentally slapped myself.
I tried rather unsuccessfully to maintain my calm façade when she asked me for the time. I answered her rather brusquely, hoping to keep my panicky feelings hidden. Mel, though not as accomplished at dissembling, had probably learned the basics of interpreting little movements. And my nervous movements were far from little.
Would she notice anything amiss?
Asking her to stay for dinner, I steeled myself for her rejection. I already considered myself lucky since I had managed to share a picnic with her and anything more was a miracle. Still, I had to try!
Resigning myself to the fact that I would no longer have her company, I sighed inwardly. Just then, Russav came bounding in without a warning.
"Danric!" he yelled, before continuing in the same vein about "something" he needed to discuss with me. My cousin was plain rude. Indeed he was gentlemanly when it was required of him but he is an imp at heart. Not that anyone could blame him. He spoils himself silly.
Then he spotted Mel. Burn it, he would torture me about this till no end! True enough, his eye glinted mischievously - or should I say, maliciously - and he said in an innocent voice, "Meliara! I'm not interrupting anything, am I?"
I knew he knew that something was going on from the way he surveyed the both of us, like a father making sure his daughter was not on a rendezvous with a cad of some sort. I almost cringed and had to stop my self from groaning at his inopportune timing. Sending him an irritated glare and a sharp reprimand - the only thing I could do to retain whatever dignity I had left - I hope he got the message.
Mel sighed at his little display and tried to rise from her seat only to stumble. I practically leaped from my seat to support her. I could just feel Russav grinning insanely behind me. Ignoring him, I said, "I'll escort you to your rooms once I've summoned for the carriage."
Before she could agree to my plan Russav obnoxiously interrupted her and suggested that she should stay for dinner, claiming that I was as dull as a hibernating bear - or something along those lines. I wonder who is the one who fills his head with parties and clothes? Much as I'd like to say that it isn't me, I have to admit that my cousin has done a pretty good job of running his estates.
Dinner was fairly pleasant at the beginning, considering that Russav was unusually quiet, only adding in a few comments here and there. He nearly spelled my doom, however, when he stumbled in his little farewell speech after Mel had enquired about his purpose of coming here in the first place. My heart seized in panic and I swear I nearly suffered a heart attack right then and there.
Woman of my dreams indeed! More like the love of my life. Then again, I haven't won her over, have I? Perhaps I should do as Russav suggests and focus my attention on the work of the kingdom instead. There was still so much to do and such a burden would be easier to bear if it were shared with someone else.
Russav departed soon after his performance of tipping his imaginary hat and lying - I honestly believe he was - to Mel that he had something on. There you have it, my cousin The Ladies' Man. I didn't know whether to hate or love him for leaving us alone.
For once, Mel and I had a perfectly ordinary conversation. There were no upsets throughout, and I thoroughly enjoyed our discussion cum debate. It was during this conversation that I learned of her idea of an ideal courtship. She didn't agree entirely with my interpretation of an ideal courtship but at least she felt that it was acceptable. That was good enough, for now at least.
Our tête-à-tête ended on a high note, with both of us finally agreeing on something. I proceeded to assist her down to the carriage I had ordered; swallowing my laughter when I saw the silent and desperate plea she sent Kervan's way when I offered to carry her down myself. Was I that loathsome?
Thank goodness Kervan paid her no heed. Somehow, I had a feeling that he did this on purpose, as if giving me an opportunity to make more conversation, thus enabling me to get to know Mel better and vice versa. Life, even the servants knew about my infatuation?
The blue silk rustled as I settled Mel onto the carriage seat. When she was comfortable I climbed in after her. She looked slightly surprised that I would extend my hospitality to such a degree but made no comment. Was she beginning to enjoy my company as much as I enjoyed hers?
I banished the silence during the short trip to the Primary Guest Wing by commenting on the moon and stars. Not intelligent conversation to be sure, but she took pleasure in admiring the scenery with me and remarked on it as well. We arrived at the main door of the Primary Guest Wing just as a group of courtiers on a stroll came into view, their incessant chatter breaking the silence of the night. I was not surprised to hear Russav's booming voice amongst them.
"This way ladies and gentlemen," he said, probably in an attempt to divert their attention away from Mel and I.
Mel looked over at me helplessly before whispering, "I'll walk."
"You're still too hurt to walk unassisted!" I whispered in reply.
"You could get your carriage driver to do the job!" she replied indignantly.
There we were embroiled in yet another dispute. It was almost comical as she glared daggers at me, her arms crossed over her chest while I stared her down with a fierce intensity.
Then, "Isn't that Vidanric's coach?" was said in a voice so like Tamara's that I cringed. Mel's eyes now held more desperation than indignation.
"Is it?" asked Russav faintly, "You must be mistaken Tamara. What business would Danric have here at this hour?"
"I think she's right, Savona," said Deric, "That is, without a doubt a Shevraeth device on the carriage."
We were goners. The footsteps and voices neared as Russav said, "What about our walk?" in a last ditch attempt to save us. He was practically pleading; and if I knew my cousin, he would have this incident on his list of 'Favours Danric Owes Me' or 'Things To Tease Danric About' by the morrow. He was that juvenile.
All of a sudden, Mel reached for the door latch and swung it open. Jerking her head towards the exit, she motioned for me to disembark, at the same time whispering, "You're here to see my brother!"
I nodded, suddenly serious. With practiced grace I stepped out of the carriage and bowed to the approaching courtiers as if nothing was amiss and that I hadn't spent the last minute dreading their approach. They returned my bow with pleasant greetings and expressions of delight.
Trishe thinking that I was alone, asked me to join them on their stroll. Tamara was more direct, gliding towards me and looping her arm through mine. Deric looked amused at her display of affection but Russav was not so pleased.
"I'm afraid that Lord Branaric is anxiously awaiting my arrival at the moment," I said smoothly, "Another time, perhaps?"
I prayed that Mel knew for a fact that Bran was in the Residence and that he had not decided to take a stroll. Russav's discreet nod confirmed that they had not come across Bran and I heaved an inward sigh of relief. Murmuring her deepest regrets at my failure to join them on such a beautiful moonlit night the party bid their goodbyes and continued on their way.
"Lady Meliara?" I asked, peering into the dark interior of the carriage.
"They're gone?" she asked, shuffling out of the gloom and into the ray of light that fell into the carriage through the open.
"I can hobble along if you'd just lend me a hand," she said and I extended my right arm towards her. She grasped it firmly and heaved herself out of her seat. Looking down, she eyed the distance from the carriage floor to the ground. Exhaling, she cursed softly under her breath before placing one hand then the other on my shoulders. Instinctively, I put my hands around her waist and lowered her to the ground.
The top of her head just came up to my chin and I smelled the soft fragrance of her hair. My breath caught in my throat when she looked up into my face, the moonlight casting a pale glow on her skin, her blue eyes open and honest, giving her an ethereal beauty.
We were at the base of the flight of stairs that led to the main entrance. Looking up, I saw that it was steep and would prove difficult for Mel to climb. We looked over at each other at the same time. I gave her a knowing smile and she sighed in mock exasperation.
"You aren't considering carrying me again are you?" she asked, arching an eyebrow in query.
"What a wonderful suggestion, Lady Meliara!" I enthused with a smile, stooping to carry her.
"Wait, wait!" she yelled, holding her hand up. I straightened up to look her in the eye as she said, "Instead of carrying me, which I'm sure you're sick and tired of doing, how about doing this?"
Thus saying, she took a hop toward me while motioning for me to give her my right hand. When I did so, she pulled my right arm around her waist and held my hand in place with her right hand. I extended my right hand towards her, palm upwards and she put her left hand atop it. I saw the sapphire ring glitter on her finger and was reminded of the fact that she had accepted the Unknown's friendship.
When she had positioned herself comfortably, she looked up at me and gave one of her brilliant smiles. "There! Isn't this much better? Now you'll seem like the perfect gentleman helping a poor damsel in distress."
"Without being too intimate?" I added in amusement.
"Now you get it!" she exclaimed in mock surprise.
I smiled in the gloom, grateful that at least one of us hadn't taken leave of his senses. Mel had learned the ways of court during her short stay here she knew that it would cause a scandal should we be seen in a position more compromising than this. In truth, I did not care if we were spotted in a compromising position. I could live with the whispers behind fluttering fans and rumours of a scandal. I just feared that people might guess of my true intentions towards Mel and use her to antagonise or hurt me.
I brushed such depressing thoughts away as I helped Mel towards her rooms. Her maid rose quickly from her seat by the fireplace and dropped us a quick curtsy before moving to assist Mel when we entered.
"Some listerblossom tea, please," I ordered briskly supporting Mel as she limped to her bed. The maid curtsied again and left the room through a passageway hidden by a tapestry.
"Would you like to stay for some tea?" asked Mel, biting her lip as if deliberating whether or not her invitation was appropriate.
"No, thank you. I'd better be on my way."
She lay back against her pillows, crossing her feet at the ankles and her folding her hands in her lap as she inclined her head at my answer. I bowed and turned to leave the way we had come when she said, "Shevraeth?"
That one word was said in a quiet almost timid voice. I looked at her questioningly. With a shy smile and a rosy pink blush accenting her cheeks she said, "Thank you for everything. I thoroughly enjoyed myself today, asides from the foot injury, that is."
I smiled faintly, "As did I, Lady Meliara." She extended her hand towards me and I bowed over it, grazing her knuckles with my lips as was customary. Naturally, I was reminded of my stolen kiss and it was my turn to feel my cheeks grow warm.
I raised my head to look at her, her fingers still resting lightly in my hand. Suddenly feeling bold, I said, "Perhaps, we could do this again sometime?" she arched an eyebrow while a quirk appeared at the corner of her mouth . " I promise you'll be kept as safe as possible," I added with a boyish grin.
She looked amused and terrified at my proposal. "Perhaps," she replied faintly, before gaining more confidence and reiterated a little more exuberantly, "Perhaps, Shevraeth."
My fingers loosened their hold around her fingers, but instead of withdrawing them, she slipped her hand further into mine and squeezed it briefly. My eyes must have registered surprise for she gave a small hesitant smile and said, "Once again, thank you."
I took a step back when she pulled her hand back and let if fall back into her lap, the sensation of her small hand in mine and that grateful gesture still sending shivers up and down my spine.
"Good night, Lady Meliara," I said with yet another bow.
"Goodnight, Shevraeth," she replied, smiling, a faint blush tingeing her cheeks.
With that, I left her lovely presence but the memories of that day I will keep forever with me, holding them close to my heart. "Perhaps," she had said. Perhaps, one day I will tell her how I really feel. Perhaps, when the time comes she would feel exactly the same way.
Hopefully by then, we would both know what it means to have Fallen In Love.
~*~
THE END
~*~
A/N: This is the first story I've ever completed. Kudos to me! Anyway, hope you guys like the ending. If inspiration strikes again and this competition is still open, perhaps (yikes, I'm becoming Danric) I'll write another entry or a continuation in the form of another entry. Highly unlikely though. Do tell me what you liked and disliked about this chapter in your review so that I can improve in my future fics, yeah? Any other constructive criticism is also welcome.
And although I'm not updating this anymore, except to allow you guys to vote, do review! (This is for new readers only)
Talking about VOTING, I'll 'post' a new "chapter" whereby you will VOTE for it by giving a review of any sort. So you can review this chapter without making it a vote or anything. Thus saying, I'd like to appeal to all other contestants in the contest to do the same thing.
Blackrose25: You're the brains of this contest so I'll leave it up to you, but this contest has to end sooner or later and I suggest that we wait for at least 2 more entries before closing the competition. This would make it a total of 5 entries! Also, how about letting anyone who has read all the entries to vote? They have to be MEMBERS of fanfiction.net of course, and are preferably people who have constantly reviewed in the Sherwood Smith section. How you choose to go about this is fine by me as this is just a suggestion. Post your answer under your Dating Game Romance thing to let us know about your decision!
Thanks to the Reviewers:
Elanial: It was supposed to be "tether". Typo error! I'll take that as a compliment since Heart Duel is my first fic and involved more of my own planning. This goes to show that I've improved!
Fairydust123: It's ok; we all make mistakes, don't we? (Look above) I had a typo error.
Sam: *sigh* I've got nothing to say.
Eniamrahc: I guess, but I thought I gave a valid reason. *shrugs* we have different opinions, I guess. Thanks for beta reading this chapter! As you can see, I made some adjustments.
Eutan: Glad to be of service, you've proved to be a wonderful beta reader.
Idiotic Gal: Yeah, I'm so privileged. Thanks for reviewing anyhow; it's such a hard thing to do isn't it? The dream was cliché I guess, but at least you liked it! No prize, sorry!
Danric-lover: Now you know what really happened about the kiss? What do you think? Vidanric's such a sweetie, and no, Mel isn't dense, she just took it as a rhetorical question. Post your STORY!
Blackrose25: Your review was the review of the millennium. Now THAT was long. I really enjoyed reading it! Thanks a ton for having this contest, as this fic wouldn't exist otherwise. Gimme an equally long or longer review! To the rest of you, do the same!
Squirrel of Maiden Green: I can agree with you there. I'll rein it in a bit if I ever write something like this again. Thanks for your comment!
Geniusgirl: I'm glad you liked the conversation, took me quite a while to write it. Thanks for the compliment. I try my best to please my readers!
Chutney: Heart Duel is on hold at the moment. I'm thinking of updating Truly Gifted first. But HD will be done ASAP!
Gimme UBER LONG reviews! LENGHTY, COMPREHENSIVE and hopefully COMPLIMENTARY ones.
Last of all, VOTE for ME!
FelSong, The-Person-You-Should-Vote-For (I'm so egotistical. Now that is an understatement.=)