Thank you for the reviews. I have been banging my head on the table in the last couple of days, because, I lost some precious notes on some of my works (yes, including Cophetua). I normally have a folder, where I threw stuff which I wrote down: bits of anecdotes, some new words I have learned, tidbits of characterization that I sorted out and may/may not ever use. With all the updates for the Iphone, the writing apps I previously used were no longer working (it seems like the app builder decided not to continue with the app, thus, updates are no longer applicable). I always write some small stuff wherever possible; on my way to work, traveling, before I sleep. It helps me remember stuff. I even made an entire, complete plot outline for an Uta-Pri pairing that is missing as well! (cries).

When things are lost to me, it takes me a bit of time to accept it.

Title: Tie Me with a Heartstring

Inspired by: Chapter 41 of the manga Akagami no Shirayukihime

Characters: Izana Wistalia, Shirayuki

Word Count: 844

Rating: General

Status: Beta-ed chapter by Kartara. Please check out her profile and support her works

We continued traipsing around the markets while I mentally cursed myself for pulling a stunt like that.

Idiot! What are you doing?

Shirayuki is not a person I can play around with- of that I am sure. Zen would kill me if I touched her. But I can't seem to keep my hands off her, try as I might.

The hour chimed the lateness of the afternoon. Glancing to my left, I can see glimpses of the clock tower near the left gate of Wistal Castle. I need to get back soon. If I spend any more time with Shirayuki, I might do something regrettable.

Maruko must be tearing his hair from his scalp, scouring the palace premises for any traces I left behind. But I didn't care. He probably would just remember to ask the shadow guards once he has calmed down and collected his wits.

All throughout the time I spent with Shirayuki, I was aware of someone dogging our footsteps. I already knew it was my guard, who never lets me out of their sight. While I appreciate their discretion in keeping their distance, it is somewhat a constant reminder that I am a future king, even as I pretended that I am someone else just for a few hours.

The afternoon went by quickly, and all too soon, the time for us to come back hovers near. Still, I wanted the minutes to stretch for a bit as we came down to the last item on her list.

She wouldn't tell me. I wanted to know what was it so that we can double the efforts to find it. But she gave me this mysterious smile that had me momentarily rendered speechless; I could not help following her as she led the way.

Past ribbons hanging anyhow, tinkling wind chimes, brightly-colored semi-precious stones and intoxicating incense used for ceremonial purposes, I felt giddy, mirth bubbling up from my throat. I felt her hand on my own, gripping it tight, as she led me through labyrinthine side roads and hidden corners; and I would remember how our hand touched, fitted together like a piece of puzzle I've been longing to complete.

Quickened breaths and footsteps, we stop at one stall selling different jewel-toned ornaments.

She pointed at one item I did not see, and the old lady manning the counter smiled indulgently at us- her eyes reflecting the impossible dream I wanted to have: just two lovers out on a date, enjoying each other's presence.

"What is it?" I asked, puzzled.

She gave me another smile and pointed at a rickety old chair next to the stall. I sat without needing anymore preamble.

"Now, sit still."

Shirayuki went passed my shoulder, her fingers suddenly on my hair, I felt goosebumps erupting on my upper arms and neck. Finger-combing my blond tresses, she gathered them into a ponytail and tied it neatly.

"Your hair has grown so long." Her comment made me imagine all possibilities. I wondered what color will our hair produce when we sleep next to each other, hair deliciously tangled, noses bumping. I bit my lower lip to keep myself from moaning out loud with longing.

The old woman produced a tarnished mirror, and I peered into it.

Small beads of lapis lazuli and pale blue coral grazed the side of my neck, my hair tied with a length of caramel-colored soft leather.

My chest beat so loud and fast that I was sure that she could hear it. I reached behind and touched it. She made it neat, and the leather bindings made me look a tad dashing with my borrowed captain's uniform.

"It always bothered me that people don't see your face with your hair hanging anyhow, so I thought if your hair were tied back..." her face turned pink.

"It looks..."

"You don't need to wear it often. You can just use it as bracelet, or a book mark or something. I just thought that people would appreciate it more if you show your expressive eyes a little," She said hurriedly, biting her lower lip.

My eyes gave a gleam at this tidbit of information.

"Is that how you would describe me?"

I became intrigued with her interesting expression: eyes becoming a little dreamy, a hint of mischievous smile at the corners of her mouth.

"You are like a brave, gallant knight; stern, but soft-hearted inside. You seemed to do a lot of impossible things and yet come out unruffled. And somehow, even if you sport a mask to hide your true feelings, your eyes seem to speak volumes. And I wish other people could see it as well," She replied with honesty.

I reached down and ran a finger down her jaw. This time, I have no intention of holding back. Damned if Zen finds out; damned if she slaps me in the face afterwards. I wanted to kiss her right now.

Lowering my face towards her own, my heart hammered in anticipation. Her eyes fluttered close.

Notes:

I was reading some chapters and I came across this page where Lady Haki commented about Izana wearing his long hair in a ponytail. I thought I wanted to incorporate this new habit of his by introducing a scene where Shirayuki ties up his hair. Maybe Shirayuki is obsessed with Izana's hair as much as he is intrigued by her red hair color. :P