Newly hired bodyguards Teddy and Harris chaperoned her. Their body built as well as height were similar to bouncers in nightclubs. This made her look like a mafia boss rather than a regal queen. What a wrong impression to give people!
She was about to grab the doorknob until her words that night echoed in her ears.
"He is as poor as a rat. As poor as rat... poor as rat! R.A.T."
Battling against shame and guilt of her mean statement, her hand hung in midair. She inhaled and exhaled then looked at her other hand holding a bouquet of baby's breaths. Afterwards, she attempted to reach the doorknob then stopped midway. Failing to do so, she repeats the ludicrous effort.
Teddy and Harris surrounding her blocked the curious eyes of passersby. The two are more than enough spectators. They had separate opinions in mind of why the ever poised Caress Aragon hesitates opening the door. It wasn't the case of physical strength, they are sure of it.
"Milady, it'll be my pleasure to deliver the bouquet along with your gratitude. Would you mind waiting here?" Teddy suggested.
She glared at the impudent.
"Nonsen..." She realized the condescending pitch on her voice so she faked a cough before continuing calmly, "It's fine! I'd love to personally express my gratitude."
Their unnecessary movements and exchange of knowing looks hindered her to compose herself. Aware that the two nuisances grew impatient as time passed, she was pressured into making a choice.
"What!?" She snapped.
"Yes, Milady, what?" they threw back the question, acting dumb.
"Nothing, just turn your back at me for a minute, please. I'm too shy to face my hero right now so I need to prep!" She rambled.
Her face flushed bloody red as her cringe-y wording slipped her tongue. Hero, my ass!
"Did I really say that?" she thought, horrified.
They remained standing like idiots at the doorway for minutes. It might be her lucky day as the time worked in Care's favor with no one going in and coming out from the room.
"Lady Caress must be in love. Cupid's arrow struck her heart in the midst of imminent danger. Men in town would weep. Eliseo must be born under a lucky star. Despite not belonging to Alta Sociedad, he had admirers including our lady." Teddy murmured.
"Nah, he earned it! By saving our lady boss, it is justifiable for the Aragon family to give him the hand of their princess in marriage." Harris whispered back.
Being at an obviously close proximity, they were chatting for her to eavesdrop intentionally! She fisted her hands while feeling her pride stomped on until nothing of her confidence was left. For a girl of her caliber to submissively offer herself out of being indebted means an insult. She finally cannot resist facing her bodyguards.
"Who do you take me for? A silly princess in a children's book!? I ain't falling for a one-time heroic act! I may be grateful but that's it! In the first place, I didn't ask that pauper to save me so why am I expected to give my heart in return!" She whined running out of breath at the end.
They were pale as paper. At first, she assumed it was due to the fact that she is known as soft-spoken, forbearing and kind in nature. In short, her display of such a snappy attitude might be shocking for them. However, as soon as she heard a baritone voice clearing his throat, she was paralysed on the spot. Destiny screwed her!
Why does the door open from the inside coincidentally at the same time she blabbered carelessly?
Everything was in slow motion as she turned to confront her doom. The one who cleared his throat demanding her utmost attention is no other than Eli! Beside him were family members in perfect attendance. They represent a picturesque photo of a close knit family. Mr. and Mrs. Manaloto smiled but the rest of their children scowled and raised an eyebrow at her.
"What the... no one... No one ever looked at me that way before! UGH!" she revolted inwardly.
"So what brings Miss Perfect to a mere pauper's room?" Eliseo, smiling, asked.
Her heart forgets how to beat for itself, shamelessly going frenzy for the guy in front of her. Unlike the previous times when he was either sarcastic or indifferent, his voice now is just pure tender. Never mind the statement, what mattered was how he said it.
Why?