Page 67 of Heiress of Fire

“Where are we going?” Davina asked.

“We’re almost there,” he answered.

They neared the only part of Auris that was green. Firm and tall shrubs were planted around the entire park with lifeful trees casting a pleasant shade across the verdant hills.

A large body of water shined as they walked past the vibrant flowers. The charming lake had been so clear and blue with colorful ripples reflecting the rays of sunshine that cast over it. A large willow tree allowed the right amount of shade under its branches and leaves, beautiful swans majestically swam over the water, and red roses were planted around the entire lake.

With gaped lips, her eyes reached the basket that lay atop a blanket under the willow tree. Hopefully, she believed the preparation of the scene was perfect, just like she was.

“I thought I could do something nice for you, especially after everything. Also, I’m sure all you eat is sweets and bread,” Ron said. “Here’s a decent meal.”

He motioned his left hand over the picnic he set up for them.

“Ron, you didn’t have to,” Davina said.

“You’re right. I didn’t have to, but I wanted to,” he claimed.

Ron watched as Davina smiled with her eyes sparkling. What did he ever do to deserve to be smiled at by a beautiful girl like her?

Davina looked over the plaid blanket with maroon cushions for them both to sit on, he sat down. “Come, sit with me.” He patted the seat before him.

She smiled and sat down, carefully fixing her skirts. He looked toward the lake, cautious where he set his eyes. Once she was sat, he began to take the pots and plates out of the basket. If she was still upset about his own stupidity from yesterday, it was definitely going away. He noticed how she was struggling with herself to not allow herself to crack a smile.

The girl before him was nothing compared to what everyone else said. She had a vision for so much more. Although, he despised the way her parents tied her with their ropes of manipulation. Davina always tried to be the best daughter she could be for them, and he sincerely didn’t understand how she could withstand so much after many years. The people who were supposed to look after her and take care of her were the ones who hurt her the most. She deserved so much better.

He looked up at her and she immediately smiled, hiding her thoughts from him.

“You okay?” he asked with a chuckle.

“Yes, I’m just surprised.”

And he understood why.

“Alright, I brought garlic bread, melon, and lamb with white rice.” He held up the clay plates and jars.

As Ron uncovered the plates and forks, a wonderful smell began to encircle them both. Davina inhaled with what seemed to be delight.

“Thank you for this,” she said again. His eyes examined her as she chewed and stared off onto the water. He noticed the way she fidgeted with her fingers over the hem of her skirt, she was nervous.

Ron remained silent so as not to cause her more anxiety.

“The King created this island for us. This beautiful island. He gave us our powers and so much more. Now, one of his daughters is trying to take away everything beautiful about Bellatorm.” Davina stared at the swans.

“For me, it doesn’t matter much. The King favored everyone else except for me,” he blurted.

He cursed himself for saying that out loud, especially in front of Davina.

Davina turned to him. “Ron don’t say that. You know that’s not true.”

Ron sighed.

“Look at me, Davina.” Ron dropped his eyes to his hands after setting the fork over the plate.

He closed his eyes to be able to focus, like everyone told him to, and searched within himself for the supposed spark that lived inside of him. Yet, he found no spark. He found no light inside himself. Only darkness.

He opened his eyes and shrugged toward Davina.

“What if it’s Raven’s doing, just like you said? What if she’s doing something that blocks you from using your powers?” Davina exclaimed.

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