Page 79 of Kissing Potions and Elves
As we sit around the table, Rhystan entertains Hilda with the story of Lady Tayra’s famous warbling voice. Soon, we’re all laughing.
My heart clenches as my gaze sweeps over everyone. It’s strange that I’ve only been here for a few weeks, when it feels as if it’s been so much longer. It’s been a long time since I had any moments like these. I miss the days spent around the table with my family.
A dull ache builds in my chest as I look at Lyrion, Rhystan, and Hilda. I know this isn’t a permanent situation, but something about this moment feels right. A lump forms in my throat. I’ll be so sad to leave.
When dinner is over, Lyrion walks back upstairs with me. As he bids me goodnight, my heart does that strange fluttering it always seems to do as his gaze meets mine.
As I lie down in bed, I realize that I can no longer deny the truth. I’ve fallen for the dark, brooding Elf lord, but I don’t know if he feels the same.
Determination fills me. I’ll tell him everything tomorrow. I have to. If I don’t, I’ll regret it for the rest of my life.
Sighing heavily, I force myself to push these thoughts aside. Closing my eyes, I dream of violet eyes and tender kisses and dancing beneath a starlit sky.
CHAPTER 39
ISOBEL
It’s been two days since we returned from the ball, and I still haven’t gathered the courage to tell Lyrion about my feelings.
He’s in the study talking to Rhystan, so I decide to slip into the kitchen for some tea. I add a pinch of lavender into the pot, hoping it’ll settle my racing thoughts. But tonight, it feels as if nothing could possibly calm the storm swirling within.
This morning, Lyrion came with me to the café, as he always does. But when we walked home this evening, we tested the proximity spell again. And this time, we both felt nothing when we were parted. No discomfort at all.
So, it seems that the proximity part of the spell has finally worn off. Lyrion kissed me twice today, so I don’t think the kissing effect is gone, but it’s only a matter of time before it is.
And when this invisible tether of magic binding us together finally dissipates, what will happen to the closeness we’ve shared?
What if Lyrion’s gentle smiles, the warmth of his hands, and the quiet affection I’ve felt these past few weeks were only because of the potion? My stomach clenches painfully at the thought. What if the tenderness in his eyes was nothing more than magic compelling him?
As I stare down at the swirling tea leaves, my vision blurs with unshed tears.
“Isobel?” Hilda’s voice pulls me from my troubled thoughts. “My dear, what’s wrong? You look upset.”
“I’m fine,” I lie. “Just a bit tired.”
“Come now.” Hilda guides me to the table and takes a seat across from me. “I’ve a mind for these things, and I can tell something is bothering you.” She gives me a motherly look. “Tell me what weighs on your heart, and perhaps I can help.”
“We had a bit of good fortune today.” I force a smile, trying to remain positive. “The proximity spell seems to be gone.”
“That must be a relief,” Hilda replies. “No more terrible headaches or dizziness sounds like a good thing.”
I nod.
“Is there something else?” she gently probes.
“I just… I suppose it’s time Errol and I left.” I struggle to push down my sadness. “I was thinking I should probably pack our things so we can return to our apartment tomorrow.”
“There’s no need to rush,” she assures me. “It’s a joy having you here.”
“Thank you, but there’s not really a reason for us to stay.” My chest tightens. “Not with the spell dissipating. Besides, I’m sure Lyrion will be glad to be able to get back to his work… to have his life return to normal.”
“I wouldn’t be so sure about that,” Hilda replies enigmatically. “Does he know you’re planning to leave tomorrow?”
I shake my head. “I figured I’d tell him in the morning.”
“Well, I’m going to miss you when you’re gone.” Hilda rests her hand atop mine, squeezing it gently. She gestures to the doors that lead to the garden. “It’s a lovely night. Before you pack, I think we should take advantage of it. What do you say?” She smiles. “Why don’t you go on outside and I’ll finish up in here. I’ll meet you out there shortly and we can enjoy the evening.”
“Oh, I—” I’m not sure what to say. If Hilda has things to do, I don’t want to take up her time. “It’s alright. It’s late. Perhaps I should just go up to my room.”
