Chapter 218: [Bonus - ] Under the stars (1)
Evanna’s eyes widened, startled that Arawn had seen everything. Unlike Fiza, who she knew to be there, the prince’s presence felt absent. Arawn caressed her cheek and kissed her lips tenderly, sweetly, before drawing away and interlacing her fingers with his. "Let us go before Ger does see us together. I might not seem like it, but I am not completely heartless."
The princess’ fingers tightened on Arawn’s. "*You are not heartless,*" she commented softly as she followed his lead. Arawn led them back to the small campsite. They gave each other’s hands another squeeze and then released them before those sitting by the fire would notice.
Ronan, Fiza and Garrett sat quietly. The trio even looked a little uncomfortable. Well, Fiza didn’t; if anything, her eyes betrayed her a few times when they twinkled in amusement like she enjoyed others’ misery. Maybe she did? They didn’t know her well, and the night fae was so mischievous.
"I’ll go on the first watch," Ronan announced as Arawn spoke to Garrett in Muranthian about the outpost and town they would come across the next day.
"Actually." Evanna stepped back. Although Arawn brought her back to the warm fire and furs to wrap around her, she wasn’t ready to settle into sleep just yet. Her mind was too wired from Ger’s confession and kiss. "I’m not tired, so I’ll keep watch. If.." She cleared her throat, not wanting to sound unsure or bring forth her fear to fruition. "WHEN Axe and Ger return, they do not need to go on watch. Roach, Garrett, Arawn.. Fiza."
Evanna’s eyes flicked to the fae, making her aware of how much trust she was giving her, and this was an opportunity for her to gain the trust of the group. "Please rotate accordingly."
Fiza’s brows rose slightly, but she did not comment. Garrett’s head whipped in her direction, a scowl on his features, his lips parting, ready to argue against Evanna’s orders. "That was not a request," Evanna reaffirmed. It was about time Garrett took her commands seriously.
It was fine that the elf was so loyal to prince Arawn, but he needed to be reminded of who Evanna was as well, and when she gave Arawn her answer, Garrett would have to follow her orders regardless of whether he agreed with them or not. Sure, he could counsel her, but she, like Arawn, had the final say.
Evanna held Garrett’s gaze for a moment before he shut his mouth and bowed his head. "As you wish, princess." She nodded once back and turned back around, leaving Arawn’s burning gaze to sear into her back. A small ball of fire grew to the side of her shoulder, hovering there and providing some light for Evanna. She looked at Fiza to thank her, but the night fae appeared uninterested and acted as though she didn’t care what the princess did.