I was deep in a dream, the kind where everything feels so real that waking up seems like an intrusion. The bench in the garden was surprisingly comfortable, and the warm afternoon sun created a perfect cocoon of warmth and tranquility. I hadn't planned to fall asleep, but the combination of the long journey and the emotional turmoil of the day had taken its toll.
In my dream, I was back in the human castle, walking through the grand halls with Jade by my side. Her laugh echoed around us, filling the space with joy. But then, the scene shifted, and Seraphine's piercing red and purple eyes bore into mine, shattering the illusion.
I felt a gentle touch on my shoulder, stirring me from my slumber. "Riley, wake up," a familiar voice whispered.
My eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the brightness of the garden. Seraphine's face was inches from mine, her expression a mix of amusement and concern. I shot up from the bench, startled, and my sudden movement knocked her off balance. She stumbled, trying to regain her footing, but ended up falling awkwardly onto the bench beside me.
"What the hell!" I exclaimed, my heart racing. "Can't you wake someone up normally?"
Seraphine rubbed her elbow, a sheepish smile playing on her lips. "Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you. You looked so peaceful, I hesitated."
I glared at her, still shaken. "Well, next time, maybe just call my name or something."
She nodded, her eyes scanning my face. "Noted. Are you alright?"
I sighed, brushing off the remnants of sleep. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... surprised."
We sat in awkward silence for a moment, the tension between us palpable. The sun was beginning to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the garden. I couldn't help but notice how the light highlighted Seraphine's striking features, her red and purple eyes glinting like jewels.
I cleared my throat, breaking the silence. "So, what now?"
Seraphine stood up, offering me a hand. "I thought we could head to the dining room. Dinner should be ready soon."
I hesitated before taking her hand, feeling a jolt of electricity at the contact. I quickly pulled away, brushing off my clothes as I stood. "Fine, let's go."
As we walked through the garden, I couldn't shake the feeling of her eyes on me, studying my every move. It was unsettling, yet strangely thrilling. I forced myself to focus on my surroundings, taking in the meticulously manicured hedges and vibrant flower beds. The scent of blooming roses filled the air, mingling with the faint, earthy aroma of the garden.
"You've done a good job with this place," I said, trying to make small talk.
Seraphine glanced around, a hint of pride in her eyes. "Thank you. I've always found the garden to be a place of peace and reflection. I hoped you might feel the same."
I shrugged, not wanting to give her too much credit. "It's nice, I guess."
We continued walking in silence until we reached the grand entrance of the castle. The large wooden doors creaked open, revealing the opulent interior. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the marble floors and intricate tapestries that adorned the walls.
As we entered the dining room, the aroma of freshly cooked food hit me, making my stomach rumble. The table was set with an array of dishes that looked both elaborate and delicious. Roasted meats, steamed vegetables, and various salads were arranged artistically, accompanied by freshly baked bread and a selection of fine cheeses.
I took a seat, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the spread. Seraphine sat across from me, watching my reaction with a slight smile.
"Impressed?" she asked, a hint of teasing in her voice.
I rolled my eyes. "It's a lot, that's for sure."
Servants began to pour wine into our glasses, and I took a sip, savoring the rich, fruity flavor. Despite myself, I had to admit it was exceptional.
Seraphine seemed to sense my reluctance. "I hope you find everything to your liking. If there's anything you need, just let the staff know."
I nodded, still feeling a bit out of place. The grandeur of the setting only heightened my awareness of the complicated dynamics between us. My initial resolve to keep my distance and remain cold towards Seraphine was wavering. Her genuine attempts to make me comfortable were confusing my emotions.
We began eating, and I couldn't help but notice how elegantly Seraphine moved, even when performing the simple act of cutting her meat. Her grace was almost hypnotic, and I found myself stealing glances at her more often than I wanted to admit.
"So," Seraphine began, breaking the silence, "I was thinking we could take a tour of the castle after dinner. It might help you get more acquainted with your new home."
I paused, my fork halfway to my mouth. "'My new home', But we already did a tour of the castle?" I repeated first, the words feeling foreign on my tongue.
She nodded, her expression earnest. "Yes. I want you to feel comfortable here, Riley. I know this situation isn't ideal, but I'm hoping we can make the best of it. And I wish to be the one to be with you and only me"
I took a deep breath, setting my fork down. "Seraphine, let's not pretend that this is just about me getting comfortable. We both know there's more to it."
Her eyes flickered with something I couldn't quite identify. "You're right. There are many layers to our situation, but that doesn't mean we can't try to find some common ground."
I studied her, trying to gauge her sincerity. Despite my initial distrust, there was something about her that made me want to believe she was genuine.
"Common ground," I echoed, more to myself than to her.
Seraphine leaned forward slightly, her gaze intense. "Yes, common ground. We don't have to be enemies, Riley."
The conviction in her voice stirred something inside me, but I pushed it down, reminding myself of my purpose. "We'll see," I said noncommittally, taking another sip of wine.
The rest of the meal passed in relative silence, punctuated only by the occasional clinking of cutlery against plates. I couldn't shake the feeling of being on edge, constantly aware of Seraphine's presence and the unspoken tension between us.
As the final course was cleared away, Seraphine stood up, extending a hand towards me. "Shall we?"
I hesitated for a moment before accepting her hand, letting her pull me to my feet. "Alright," I said, trying to keep my tone neutral.
As we made our way through the castle, Seraphine pointed out various rooms and their functions, her voice steady and informative. I tried to focus on her words, but my mind kept wandering back to the dinner conversation and the conflicting emotions it had stirred within me.
Finally, we reached a set of double doors at the end of a long hallway. Seraphine pushed them open, revealing a grand chamber that took my breath away. The room was adorned with luxurious furnishings, from the plush carpets to the ornate bed that dominated the space.
"This is our chamber," Seraphine said with a chuckle. "I hope you find it to your liking."
I stepped inside, feeling the weight of the situation settle on my shoulders. "It's... beautiful," I said even if I had already said it before.
Seraphine smiled, a genuine warmth in her eyes. "I'm glad you think so."
I turned to face her, trying to keep my emotions in check. "Thank you for showing me around."
"Of course," she replied, her gaze unwavering. "Shall we continue?"
I nodded, feeling a mix of apprehension and curiosity. "Lead the way."