Kaelith leaned against the terrace rail, gazing at the horizon as the golden sun melted into shades of amber. Hale stood beside him, silent for a moment before breaking the quiet.
"Take a trip with you?" Hale asked, his voice soft. "To where?"
Kaelith smiled faintly, not turning to look at him. "I don't have any place in mind. I just want to go somewhere that's only me and you. Somewhere I don't have to act like a prince… where I can just be myself, around you."
Hale chuckled, brushing his hand through his hair. "Is there even a place like that? Most people know who you are, Kaelith. The Zarethrone Kingdom is too famous, and so are you."
Kaelith finally turned to face him, laughter dancing in his eyes. "Maybe you're right. But… there is a village, quiet and tucked away. I'll be welcomed there, without titles or duties. So, Hale Eryndor, I'm asking, will you follow me?"
Hale laughed gently, raising a brow. "You're talking like you're proposing to me."
