I leaned in and kissed Aurelia again, my hand wrapping around her waist as I pulled her closer. She didn't resist this time. If anything, she leaned into it, her fingers lightly clutching my shirt like she didn't want the moment to end.
When we finally pulled apart, she looked up at me with that same soft expression she had earlier.
"So… you're really leaving already?" she asked.
"Yeah," I replied with a shrug. "I've got a friend waiting for me. Can't exactly abandon the guy in a place like this."
Aurelia let out a small laugh.
"That's surprisingly responsible of you."
For a moment, neither of us said anything. Then she adjusted the cloak around her shoulders and gave me a small nod.
"Thank you… for today."
"Don't mention it."
I stepped back and glanced toward the palace in the distance. It wasn't that far from here, and honestly, she'd probably reach it faster than I would if I walked.
Well, that's her problem now.
"Take care of yourself, Princess," I said.
