Chapter 53: The art of courting I
Ceremus was taken aback by Hael's sudden question, unsure how to respond at first.
With the small amount of self-awareness he possessed, he realized Hael's assumptions weren't entirely wrong. He did, in fact, dislike the idea of Hael and Anthanasia being together, even if their relationship wasn't that kind of relationship. To outsiders, it appeared as though they shared something special, and to Ceremus, who harbored possessive feelings toward Hael, that unsettled him—though he would never admit it.
I'm a king and a demigod. How could I possibly be jealous of a common woman? he scoffed to himself.
It was important to note that Anthanasia of Trojas, Second Lieutenant of the Huntsmen Guild and ranked fifth in a group of over a hundred men, was by no means a "common" woman. She was strong, intelligent, and blessed with both beauty and grace. But to a man like Ceremus, she was little more than a speck of dust in the air. The idea that he could ever be envious of her was laughable.
"I wouldn't be upset if that were the case, Your Majesty. In fact," Hael said, stepping closer, "it would delight me to know you care for my safety."
There was a clear implication behind his words that made Ceremus frown. "You're a grown man, not someone's safety I need to worry about," he huffed.
Hael smiled, but said nothing. Silence settled between them once again. They stood there, staring at each other for what felt like a long time. Ceremus wanted nothing more than to tell Hael off, but looking at his sweet, innocent face, all his irritation seemed to evaporate into thin air.
His gaze drifted across Hael's body, and he realized the man was filthy—and, on top of that, shivering. If he'd been to the mountains, where the temperature was much colder, it made sense he would be freezing.
With a deep sigh, Ceremus walked toward the bathing area and began filling a tub with warm water. He added essential oils and moisturizing soaps, hoping it would soothe Hael's skin. Then, he returned to the main room, where Hael still stood, looking confused. Ceremus couldn't help but find some amusement in the sight.