Page 238 of A King's Oath

She snorted, her eyes running down his invite.

To the Spirited Mademoiselle Brahmi,

You are cordially (and most enthusiastically) invited to a private Bal des Débutantes for a secret night of magic, mischief, and maybe a little dancing. There will be music, lights, and a few surprises tucked away for a certain brave little horse-rider I know.

Date: Tonight

Venue: A surprise

Dress Code:

-Packaged herewith.

-Accompanied by your biggest smile.

Important Notes:

-Ponies sadly not allowed on the dance floor (but requests may be considered).

-Eclair bribes are acceptable currency.

-Spontaneous twirling is encouraged.

-No bedtime curfews tonight (Mama’s permission pending).

P.S.

If you see a certain very tall man looking nervous with the flowers — that's just me. I’m hoping you’ll save one dance for me.

Yours in great admiration (and a little awe),

Sam

“Samarth…” her eyes touched his and they were, for the first time since he had met her again, softened. Softened and scared and hopeful and ready to run. He stepped up and cupped her cheek before she could. Her smooth, warm, pretty cheek that felt new in the curve of his palm now. And yet the same as he stroked his thumb over the line of her jaw.

He eyed the open doorway of her house and gently pulled the door shut, locking them away from a pair of prying eyes if she woke up again.

“What have I been doing? Letting you come so close to her…” she ranted to herself. “What have I been thinking?”

“Ava…”

She held the cards up as if they were made of fire — “This cute stuff… it all ends badly. Please go and don’t come back, just go while you are forgettable, Samarth…”

“I will not.”

“Leave, please, leave…”

“No.”

Her eyeballs began to waver, the brown rings wide around her dark irises.

“Samarth, what if you have to leave again?”

“I will not.”

She looked away — “I can’t bring myself to trust you with her. I haven’t even talked to Mummy, Papa or Kresha…”

“Look at me,” he brought her face back. She refused to meet his eyes. He cupped her other cheek and nudged her face up as his bent to reach within kissing distance. Their noses touched, so did their eyes. Her breaths heaved and touched his face, her wariness tightening her facial muscles. He circled his thumbs on her jaw, lowering his voice.

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