Annie was uncomfortable. After their conversation, she had been dragged back to the house she found Kieran in the first time. She stood still, watching him take off his clothes. His pale white chest gleamed under the sun light. She swallowed and bit her lower lip, glancing away.
"What? Do you not like it?" he asked.
His question pricked her. The low laughter he gave out also made her mad. "I prefer men who are muscular."
There was silence before sounds of clothes being removed echoed.
"I prefer women with big breasts. You're only a girl."
She faced him angrily. "And you're only a boy!" Annie then noticed his amused eyes. "You're making fun of me!"
"Why would I make fun of you? I just think it's funny you are still watching me change... For someone who doesn't like how I look."
She turned around quickly, covering her eyes. A pink hue colored her cheeks. "I thought we were going to go train?" she asked, trying to change the topic. "Why are you changing clothes?"
"Because I need to change my bandages."
"Bandages? Are you hurt?" Surprise tinged her low voice. Annie didn't think Kieran could get hurt. He seemed really strong, considering their last battle. She heard a low chuckle behind her.
"It's just a few scratches. My cat was upset with me," he replied. "You can turn around now."
She turned to face him. His clothes didn't look like they were any different from before, only cleaner. He sat on the window sill, looking out the glass. His hands were fixing his black gloves. They fit his slender fingers tightly.
For someone stronger than others, his body wasn't big or muscular. Compared to Aster, Kieran was shorter and slender. Like a girl, she thought. Like me. She hated that she lacked the muscles men would have. With muscles, she would be stronger. At least... She'll have to learn how Kieran is stronger without muscles.
Kieran turned to look at her, his vivid blue eyes questioning. "Have you ever attended the harvest festival?"
Annie shook her head. "We always stayed home. Lucas said they were dangerous." She was quiet for a minute, remembering. "Lucas is the father and my rescuer."
"I see " he answered, resting his chin on his palm. "How were you found?"
"Poppy found me at the edge of the forest. I've already searched that area for clues but I didn't find anything. Is it related to the kidnappers?"
She stared at him expectantly, awaiting his response. Instead, he only just stared over her shoulder. Annie even looked to see where he was looking but there was nothing in particular.
"What is it?" she asked.
He crossed his arms, resting a cheek on one hand. His look changed to worry. "You are really weak."
She bristled at his words. "How strong should I be to fit your standards?"
He sighed and moved to place his hands on her shoulders. "You have a small frame at least," he continued, ignoring her question. "Very agile. You'll at least be able to run properly when the time comes."
"Agile?" she asked, not knowing the word. His hands pinched both of her cheeks and pulled. She protested at his actions, her hands trying to stop him.
He smiled brightly at her. "Be prepared to train hard, my pupil."