Training with Papa and Zed had become a daily routine, sharpening our skills and strengthening our bond. But every now and then, I would sneak away to visit Aerin. She had become a dear friend, and I couldn't bear the thought of her being alone in the forest. It had been a few months since I found her by the healing lake, and keeping her a secret was becoming more difficult.
One crisp morning, after an intense training session, I told Zed and Papa I needed to check on some traps. Papa gave a nod of approval, but Zed eyed me suspiciously.
"You've been acting strange lately, Keyn," Zed said, crossing his arms. "What's going on?"
"Nothing. Just checking the traps," I replied, trying to sound casual.
Zed shrugged, but I could tell he wasn't convinced. I grabbed my satchel and headed into the forest, my heart pounding. I hoped Zed wouldn't follow me, but I couldn't be sure. As I made my way through the familiar path, I felt a prickle on the back of my neck, a sign that someone was watching.
I reached Aerin's house, a small, cozy structure nestled among the trees. Aerin was outside, tending to her garden. She looked up and smiled when she saw me.
"Hi, Keyn! How was training?" she asked, wiping her hands."Good. I brought you some bread and cheese," I said, handing her the satchel.
"Thank you! I've been experimenting with some new recipes. Want to try them?" she offered.
Before I could answer, a rustling sound behind me made us both turn. Zed emerged from the trees, his eyes wide with shock.
"Keyn, what... what is this? Who is she?" Zed stammered, pointing at Aerin.
"Zed, I can explain," I began, but Zed cut me off.
"You have a girlfriend? And you kept it a secret from me?" he accused, his voice a mix of hurt and anger.
"It's not like that, Zed. Aerin's my friend. She needed a place to stay," I tried to explain, but Zed's eyes flashed with frustration.
"And you didn't tell me? I thought we were best friends, Keyn! Why keep this from me?" he demanded, his voice rising.
Aerin stepped forward, her eyes calm and reassuring. "Zed, I'm sorry. I asked Keyn to keep it a secret. I ran away from home, and I needed a safe place to stay. It wasn't Keyn's fault.
"Zed looked at Aerin, then back at me, his anger slowly giving way to confusion. "But why didn't you trust me, Keyn?"
"I wanted to, Zed. But I promised Aerin. She was scared and didn't know who to trust," I said, my voice pleading.
Aerin nodded, her eyes sincere. "I'm sorry, Zed. I didn't mean to come between you two. I just needed some time to figure things out.
"Zed sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I understand. I'm just... I'm hurt that you didn't tell me. We've always shared everything."
"I know, and I'm sorry. I should have told you. Can you forgive me?" I asked, my voice filled with regret.
Zed looked at me, then at Aerin, and finally, he nodded. "Okay. But no more secrets, alright? We're in this together."
"Promise," I said, relief flooding through me.
* * *
We spent the afternoon at Aerin's house, sharing stories and getting to know each other better. Zed was still a bit upset, but he gradually warmed up to Aerin, fascinated by her elven magic and her story.
"So, you've been living here all this time?" Zed asked, looking around the tidy little house.
"Yes. Keyn has been a great help. He brings me food and supplies," Aerin replied, smiling gratefully at me.
"Well, if you need anything else, just let us know. We're your friends now," Zed said, a hint of a smile tugging at his lips.
"Thank you, Zed. It means a lot," Aerin said, her eyes sparkling with gratitude.
As the sun began to set, we knew it was time to head back. Aerin walked us to the edge of the forest, her presence a comforting reminder of our growing friendship.
"Stay safe, Aerin. We'll visit again soon," I said, giving her a hug.
"Take care, Keyn. And thank you, Zed," Aerin replied, her smile warm and genuine.
* * *
On the way back to the village, Zed and I walked in silence for a while, the weight of the day's revelations settling between us.
"Thanks for understanding, Zed," I said finally, breaking the silence.
"Yeah, well, I guess it's kind of cool you have a secret elf friend," he replied, a teasing glint in his eye.
I laughed, feeling a sense of relief and happiness.