“Who is the man I saw you with by the river?” Realization struck me—my indecision had been uncovered.
“Why won’t you tell me what’s wrong? Why are you so distant?”
“Answer me, Aithne. What place does he hold in your heart?” His voice was firm. There was no cruelty or coldness there, but any form of familiar warmth was also absent.
“His name is William,” I whispered. I couldn’t meet his critical stare, so instead I studied my hands in my lap. “He is a childhood friend and . . .”
“Someone who wishes for more, does he not?”
I didn’t speak, letting my nod answer for me. Confusion warred within me. This was not how I anticipated our next meeting. We’d never spoken of serious matters—caught up in the newness of our friendship—and I struggled to find our previous joy. I wanted the carefree, flirtatious, and charming Hadrian.
“Must we speak of these things?” Desperation edged my tone.
“We must. From the very beginning, I told you this was nothing more than brief moments—that I would never be able to offer you the things you truly desire.”
“How do you know what I desire or what’s in my heart?” I cried. “I willingly accept anything you give.”
“Truly, Aithne? Is it enough to have a small fling with a childhood fantasy, especially when it seems a future is also being freely offered?” He lifted my chin so he could look into my eyes, and I found compassion there—mixed with extreme sorrow. “I know your heart.”
“Then you are wrong!”
“No, it is you. Look deeper, and allow yourself to be honest. What you’re feeling right now is not love.”
“But I do love you. I do.” I ignored the anguish emanating from me and closed off the small voice of doubt. I wanted to believe my words, but already small cracks were beginning to form in my reasoning. “Lift the enchantment then. Remove your Fae magic and see for yourself.”
“It no longer holds you. I suspect it hasn’t since the night by the river—when I saw this William kiss you. You’ve been free from its influences, so again I ask that you search your heart. It is not me you truly want.”
“How can you say that? Don’t you want me?” I didn’t know what I was saying as fear took full hold. The only thing I knew for certain was everything was starting to unravel and Hadrian was slowly slipping away.
“You have no idea how much I want you, Aithne, or how I long for some way to keep you. Despite how much I claim you are mine, you are not. It is pure folly for me to hold onto false dreams just because my body demands so—because my heart yearns for it. This cannot continue.” He stood, his form towering above me.
“Take me to Fae. Please, don’t leave me behind.” I reached for him, hoping to hold him to me, but he’d anticipated my move and stepped farther away.
“You have no idea what it is you ask for—the danger there is in your request. You think of magic as this thing of beauty and indeed it is, but there is also a darker side—a malicious aspect that destroys all in its path. You would never survive in my world, no matter how strongly you believe love conquers all things. In this, love isn’t enough. It will never be enough.”
I fell forward, sobs ripped from within me, and tears streamed down my cheeks. Who had I been fooling to think this could ever work? A part of me knew that hoping for more with Hadrian was pointless. The recent fantasies of him whisking me away were nothing more than dreams. But somewhere I had truly believed there was a future. The elders had been right to warn us about entanglements with the Fae—they only lead to heartache.
“But I love you,” I whispered.
“You love the idea of me, sweet Aithne.” I heard him crouch down beside me and stroke the back of my head. “And in truth, I also found myself enchanted. But what we want isn’t always what is real. As much as it pains me, go to your William and commit your heart to him. Give up the hopes of your childhood, and embrace the future before you.” There was no hiding the firmness in his voice as he spoke soft and low.
“But . . .” I tried to argue, hoping to change his mind. One look at his resolved features told me my efforts were in vain.
Gathering me into his arms, he helped me to my feet. Hadrian traced the curve of my cheek with his finger. He looked solemn—as though his heart was also breaking. “I cannot give you what you want.”
Silence built between us as I stood still in his embrace. I searched his face, and knew what he said was true. But I was unable to quiet the overwhelming disappoint. I didn’t want this to end—I wasn’t ready for it to end—and although I knew I would regret my next words, I uttered them anyway.
“Then I take your moments . . . a Midsummer Night’s fling.” Images of William entered my mind, but I ignored them. I was so close to having what I always dreamed of.
“You don’t know what you’re asking for.” He leaned forward and sighed, resting his forehead against mine. “Will it ever be enough?”
Without waiting for me to answer he broke away from me, and slowly began stepping backward. I didn’t bother wiping away the tears that continued to fall. I just kept my eyes locked on his, pleading for him to not utter the words I could feel coming.
“Goodbye, Aithne. Live well.” And he melted back into the trees. I was alone.
I don’t know how I survived the following seconds, minutes—space of time. I managed to keep breathing, even though the pain in my chest demanded I curl up in a tight ball and escape.
You’re in love with the idea of me. Hadrian’s words haunted me, and I shook my head, as if the physical action would make it untrue.
He was gone, never to return.
With a gasp I left behind my basket and fled.
Chapter Thirteen
William
Her kiss was all I could think about.
I tried to put her out of my mind, but the fourth time I missed the steel and struck myself with the hammer, my father stepped in and dismissed me. He ordered me to go clear my head. I didn’t tell him how impossible it would be. The only way my sanity would be restored was if Aithne finally declared she’d be mine.
I left the forge as the afternoon slowly eased into night. I ambled about the village with no true destination. I wasn’t prepared for my family’s questions, and I didn’t have the heart to sit with my tavern friends. In some ways I was more convinced than ever I’d made the right choice kissing her yesterday. The medallion burned a hole in my pocket and reminded me there was only one place I needed to be right now—with her.
I’d told her I was a patient man—that I’d wait for her to come to me—but who was I fooling? Since the time I’d declared my intentions by the river, nothing was more important or clear than my need for her. I was done ignoring it, casting it aside. I wasn’t going to let go of her without a fight. I just didn’t know who I was competing with.
Kicking stones along the path, I thought about who her other suitor might be. As far as other men within the village, I was certain I was the better catch. I came from a strong family and had already proven I would be a good provider with the completion of my apprenticeship. I was well respected amongst my peers. I maintained a wholesome lifestyle void of drinking and gambling, and I wasn’t a womanizer. There were no bastards running around baring my features, and when I gave my heart, I gave it completely.
I pulled out the small token I’d crafted from my pocket, my thumb rubbed the design I etched into the metal. Twice I wanted to give it to her, but my sense of honor demanded I first speak to her father. It was the way it was done, and now the afternoon was free, I decided to do just that.
It didn’t take me long to journey to her home on the outskirts of the village. It was a comfortable cottage surrounded by tall trees. The gardens, although small, were in full bloom and I could hear the chirping of birds as they made their nests. The still-shining sun, painted the perfect picture of happiness, and I made a mental note as I approached the homestead—I would build something similar for Aithne when she was my wife.
“William, my boy, what brings you out this way?” He looked over my shoulder from where I’d just come and then back at me. “If you’re here for Aithne, I’m sorry but she’s not receiving any visitors at the moment.”
“Is she ill?” Concern filled my voice. “Is she hurt?”
He shook his head, perplexed. “I’m not quite sure. She hasn’t left her room, and won’t open the door even when I try to tempt her to come out. Hmmm, maybe she’ll listen to you.” He stepped aside, and gestured for me to enter the house.
“Sir, maybe that’s not such a good idea. Perhaps she just needs some peace. In fact, it’s you I’ve come to talk with. That is, if you have a moment to spare.” I was suddenly nervous now the time had finally arrived. It didn’t help that Aithne was somewhere within the house. It took all my effort to not brush past her father and seek her out. The idea of her hurting or distraught didn’t sit well with me.
“Why of course—follow me then. A talk you say?” He cast me a knowing look, and chuckled as I strained my head to glance around. “We’ll discuss your business in my study.”
I nodded as I gathered my courage, and—closing the door to the room behind me—offered up a silent prayer.
She holds my heart. Please let me be worthy enough to hold hers.
Twilight had descended when I finally exited the cottage, and the stars were beginning to reveal themselves. The meeting with Aithne’s father had gone better than anticipated, and I grinned at the revelation that he always hoped I’d come seeking her hand. Even with his blessing, I wasn’t sure when I’d approach her. But it created a wave of excitement that should the perfect moment arise, I could seize it.
I took a deep breath and enjoyed the cool breeze as it tickled across my skin. I cast my gaze up to her window, and sure enough, the flickering glow of candles faintly lit the room. I wanted to call out and declare my wishes as she leaned from the window. My lips began to shape the words when a moving shadow caught my eye.
I had experience with forest creatures, but this was no mere animal. The form of a person lurked in the darkness—someone whose intentions weren’t clear. Unarmed, I didn’t care for my own safety, only for those in the house. My heart whispered the identity of the intruder was someone else vying for Aithne’s affection, and I approached ready for a confrontation. I wasn’t as quiet as I should be since stealth was not a skill blacksmiths needed to master. Despite the noise, the shadow remained still—waiting.
“Reveal yourself. Now,” I demanded, clenching my fists in readiness. One loud call would alert the household and bring her father running outside to my aide. As the stranger stepped out, the faint cottage lights caught his features. I’d been right. It was the other suitor, but what I hadn’t known was that he was Fae. There was no mistaking the difference in features that separated him from humans, as well as the way his skin glowed under the moonlight.
Anger shot through me, and I didn’t speak as I charged forward. I let my fists do the talking—my arm cocked, as I threw a punch so hard it caused the Fae to stumble back. I didn’t stop. I moved with purpose, swinging again and again, each hit connecting with power and precision. Hours of toiling in the forge had given me incredible upper body strength, and I didn’t hesitate to use it.
I cussed underneath my breath. All this time a Fae had been pursuing my Aithne, and heaven knew what nonsense he was filling her head with.
When it became apparent I wouldn’t let him speak, the male began fighting back. This didn’t cause me to cower, however, and before too long we were both grunting and breathing heavy. My hands throbbed, sweat dripped from my temple, and I noted the blood flowing from the corner of his eye where a punch had busted open the skin. I grinned at the sight, proud.
“Do you yield?” He asked, looking at me warily.
“To a treacherous Fae like you? Never. Why are you here? What designs do you have for those who live within this house?” The idea of his intimacy with Aithne—that he had cast his magic over her—infuriated me, and I lurched forward to throw another punch.
He staggered sideways just in time, and his shoulder connected with my abdomen as his momentum carried him forward, winding me. He silently kept his distance, and I growled in frustration when he refused to speak. I was naturally a peacekeeper, but there was nothing I wouldn’t do to protect her.
“Answer me!” I spat.
“Not until you yield. Your customs may dictate coming to blows, but I’d much rather we talk civilly if at all possible. Neither of us are heathens.”
“How do I know I can trust you?” I straightened up, and wiped the back of my hand across my mouth, not surprised to see he’d also drawn blood. “I know all about Fae trickery—how you say one thing but do another as you manipulate and scheme. What business do you have with Aithne? Answer me, and I’ll keep my distance. My word you can trust.”
The Fae paced back and forth, watching me closely, and I held up my hands to show my willingness to stand down. Part of me still wanted to pound away at him like I would a piece of heated steel, but reason finally dictated—and I needed answers.
“My name is Prince Hadrian, of Fae,” he said, bowing slightly. I snorted at the motion, positive the action had been more from habit than any sign of respect. I stared at him, waiting for him to continue. “My affairs with Aithne are my own. I don’t answer to anyone, let alone you.”
“Bollocks! You will answer to me. I don’t care what sense of entitlement you think you have, but you will stop any further interaction with her, do you understand? Is it not enough that you cause all kinds of mischief with our crops and livelihoods, but now you must whisk away our women? What . . . all for your own pleasure?”
“What do you know of me?” Hadrian’s eyes flashed in anger, the first display of real emotion I’d seen since the confrontation had commenced. “Don’t presume to know me, human. Or my heart.”
I chuckled in derision at his comment—my disbelief at his words evident. “Do you mean to stand there and tell me that you, a Fae, have a heart? That you’re capable of feeling anything other than your own selfish needs? Don’t think me a fool.” I shook my head at him, stunned at the look of sincerity on his face.
“I don’t know what stories you have been told of my people, but I can assure you that my intentions with Aithne have always been true. From the moment I first beheld her, she enchanted me and has occupied my every thought since.”
“Enchanted?” My eyes widened as my mind scrambled to comprehend the strange conversation I was having. Everyone knew that the Fae were egotistical, their very word and action designed to bring them—and them alone—pleasure. They didn’t care for others, and had no qualms in tossing aside those who no longer fulfilled their needs. Humans weren’t ever love interests. They were toys—slaves on a magical leash. “No, it is you who have enchanted Aithne. You mess with her heart and mind, and the second you tire of her, you’ll cast her aside.” A flicker of light from her window caught my eye, and it suddenly dawned on me. “You already did, didn’t you? She’s up in her room, hiding because you’ve hurt her!” My fists clenched again, and I ground my teeth together roughly. He hurt her—no doubt made her cry—and a savage part of me I never knew existed rose up, wanting to destroy him.
“I’ll admit at first she was under an enchantment. She is human, and it’s a natural response when meeting one of my kind, but I assure you she is no longer under such a spell. She hasn’t been since the first time you kissed her.”
His last comment sent me reeling. “You know about that?”
“I came across you both by the river. I heard the words you exchanged, the tender moment between the two of you. It was not my intention to watch, but it was then I realized there was another who sought after her heart.”
“Yet here you are even though you know you can never give her what she needs. Yes, you may be able to
show her things beyond my ability, but you come from a different world, one she can never be a part of. Knowing that, still you pursue her. Do you have no honor?”
Hadrian opened his mouth to speak, but I raised my hand, cutting him off.
“I may not be silver-tongued like you or be able to fill her life with magic. I may be a mere mortal—simple without extravagance and the title of prince—but within my body beats a heart completely dedicated to loving her. There is nothing I won’t do to keep her safe and happy. I would move heaven and earth to see her smile, and if it means I must fight against you and your sorcery, so be it. I will not give her up easily.” I didn’t move, and I refused to break eye contact. I was resolute, and willing to back up my convictions.
Hadrian didn’t say a word. Instead, he chose to study me. I couldn’t tell what thoughts passed through his mind, but when he finally spoke, his response surprised me. There was no fight in him—his tone serious.
“I have already said goodbye, but not for the reasons you believe. I am pained more than I can convey knowing she lies in her room—tears staining her pillow as her heart breaks. It was never my intention for matters to come this far. I wasn’t prepared for the feelings she stirs within me. The instant I heard her laugh and saw her smile, I was lost. It was never a mere dalliance for me. Had I a choice, I would keep her forever. I know this isn’t something you want to hear, but hear it you will. I let her go.”
“Then why are you here? Why did I catch you lurking in the shadows? This isn’t the actions of someone who has walked away and left her behind,” I asked, but I knew I didn’t need to. I was already beginning to guess his answer.
“Because I love her.”
“Fae don’t love. They’re incapable,” I replied in a matter fact tone.
Midsummer Night's Fling: Belinda Boring, Kamery Solomon, Lacey Weatherford Page 8