For Country and Peace (Watase Yu x Eternalsinger13

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Evelynne would nod her head gently as Ari rambled about his family and their lack of care about spending time in the gardens back at his home. "And I still don't mind your rambling ..." Eve would say gently in response as he cut himself off. As Ari kissed her nose, Eve would blink gently in surprise, giggling quietly as she shook her head lightly. "Indeed." She would say as they made their way over. Evelynne would watch quietly as her mother conversed back and forth with Ari. "We are glad you think so. We try our best to let as much natural light and fresh air in as possible so it doesn't feel to stuffy." The queen would say with a smile.

Thanking Arikizo, Eve would take her seat with a gentle smile. "Indeed. Most of the decorating was my wife or daughter. The tapestries. Art. All that. Brightens up the place though, I must say." Roderick would say before chuckling "Stories, certainly. There is more than plenty, so feel free to eat to your fill. Whatever doesn't get touched will go to the orphanage." Roderick would say as he began to fill his plate. "We don't like to see whatever goes uneaten to go to waste. So, the servants pack up whatever wasn't touched or eaten and takes it to the orphanage in town. Make sure they have plenty to eat." Evelynne would explain quietly. Isaiah would grin, chuckling lightly. "Not much. They weren't long enough to truly affect my mood. Besides, father had the brunt of it, so I can't complain." Isaiah would say lightly.

"Be glad your father doesn't have his way. It is all very boring, I must admit." Isaiah would continue, chuckling as their father gave him a curious look. "But necessary, of course. I am getting more and more interested with each meeting." Isaiah would say with a surprisingly straight face. "That is true. We are glad you have taken to each other so. I will admit, with it being an arranged marriage, I figured you two would be civil at best. You have proven me wrong though. And this is one circumstance I am glad I was proven wrong. My Eve means the world to me. And her happiness is extremely important." King Roderick would muse with a soft smile. Eve would sigh, her eyes rolling gently. "Father, please ..." Eve would muse, a soft blush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks as she focused on filling her plate.
 
((So sorry, have been kept really busy by school work and friends))

Arikizo smiled, enjoying the pleasant chit chat. "It's very lovely. I prefer the fresh air and natural light." He chucked at King Roderick's comments, glad that Evelynne wasn't the only one that disregarded the stories about his kind. Hearing about what was done with the leftovers definitely lifted his spirits. His parents kept the royal family so far removed from the people of the kingdom that they wouldn't even know if there was orphanages to give extra food too. "That's wonderful. I would love to help bring supplies to town if there is ever a need of help." He listened as Isaiah and the king spoke, not reaching for any of the food before anyone else did so. He didn't blame the prince for finding politics boring; it was one reason he was very glad that he wasn't the next in line for the throne. A smile spread across his lips as Eve's father spoke about the bond that had blossomed between the couple. "I promise I will keep her happy, sir." He responded wholeheartedly. "She is my happiness in that dark, dreary castle I must call home." A muffled chuckle snuck from his lips as he noticed Evelynne's blush, grinning playfully.

Arikizo began to gather his dinner as well, taking only what he knew he would eat so he wouldn't waste anything. The dinner went by much easier than meals usually did at home, with a lot less questioning and more comfortable chit chat. "The food was wonderful." He said, giving the servants a pleasant smile as they milled around, gathering the excess food. It felt nice to not have to pretend like he was exactly like the rest of his family; looking down upon the human servants, ungrateful, dismissive. It had been drilled into his mind from a young age, but being with Evelynne had destroyed the suffocating bindings that had held his true self down for so long. A bit of still seemed to be attacked to those chains sometimes, but he felt a lot more free. Especially here, away from the eyes of his family. Ari gently took Eve's hand under the table, smiling over at her and sneaking a quick kiss to her cheek.

((OOC: I hope you don't mind the time skip, and sorry it's kind of short))
 
[[ You're alright! I completely understand. I've been playing catch-up with homework myself. Thankfully it's fall break for me, so I can sleep and get ahead on homework. ]]

The king and queen would both smile, the queen speaking up. "Thank you, Arikizo." She would say before focusing on filling her plate as well. This was always how dinners were for them. Fresh air and light chit chat. No politics. No extreme formality. No tension. Just pure family time. The one time guaranteed every day they can act like any other regular family. It had always been important to her parents. "Thank you, Arikizo. We'll keep that in mind. Generally we send a servant or two, but perhaps you and Eve could go with a servant and guard escort to deliver this evenings? Get your first real experience within St. Augustine?" The king purposed, glancing to Eve curiously. "Sure, father. I haven't seen the children since well before I left originally. It would be nice to see them again. If Arikizo is up to it, that is." Eve would muse, glancing to Ari for a moment.

Looking to Arikizo, the king would hold his gaze as the prince spoke. He would soon nod in approval, appreciating the reassurance. "I will hold you to it, Arikizo." He would muse, Eve blushing slightly again, but held her tongue. Instead, she focused on her plate, ignoring her brother's glances as she cleared her plate. She hadn't realized how much she had missed this, but now that she was home, it felt as if a weight of homesickness had been lifted from her, truly content and at ease. How she wished they could live here instead, but she knew it couldn't be. As Ari complimented the food, the servants began packing the leftover fruits, breads, and meats, wrapping them carefully before placing them in baskets. "Glad you liked it, everything is locally grown or made. We try our best to support our local farms, bakers, etc." Isaiah would say, glancing to thank a servant who was clearing his plate away as Ari sneaked a kiss to her cheek.

To say Eve was confused by his bold show of affection would be a bit of an understatement. Just this morning he had been completely closed off to her, yet now with her family he was totally open. She didn't understand in the slightest. She gave him a smile anyway, squeezing his hand as she stood. "Shall we?" Eve would ask, glancing to the servant that was finishing off the second basket. "Yes, milady. Let me grab one more servant to carry this ..." the young woman would begin before Eve shook her head. "No need, I can carry the other basket. I don't mind in the slightest." Eve would say, motioning for Ari to follow her as she grabbed the second basket. "Thank you, your grace. The guard detail will meet us at the gate into town, milady." The young blonde would say with a curtsy before hurrying along.

Once they had retrieved four guards that were to escort them while outside the castle walls, Eve, Arikizo, and the young servant girl would make the short trip to the nearby orphanage. It was close to the castle. A two story, well-kept building with a sign hanging over the door. All the windows were lit, muffled voices of the children playing inside could be heard as the servant girl stepped inside. The small group would follow, immediately greeted by one of the older caregivers. "Katherine! Good to see you." The servant girl would beam, giving the older woman a smile and curtsy. "And you, Mrs. Carroll. I have company and food for the children." The servant girl would say as she stepped aside, revealing the princess and prince.

"Dear me! I apologize, your majesties!" Mrs. Carroll would say, giving the royals a curtsy, before grabbing the basket from Evelynne. "You're fine, Lady Carroll. This is my husband, Prince Arikizo. It's good to see you. Shall we give these to the children?" Eve would ask with a smile, nodding to the baskets. "Of course, of course! Pleasure to make your acquaintance, your majesty. They will be so happy to see you, your grace! They have been asking about you and your mystery prince." Mrs. Carroll would say, leading them into a large, homey dining area where the woman would ring a bell hanging from the wall. As the children filed in, many would squeal in excitement as they spotted the princess, bowing and curtsying before rushing in to hug the princess' legs. "We missed you, your majesty!" Many of them cried out in excitement, Evelynne would laugh brightly as she hurried them towards the table. "Can you all say hello to my husband? This is Prince Arikizo. We'll be here for a little over a week on a visit." Eve would explain. "Hello Prince Arikizo ..." The children would greet in unison as Katherine, Mrs. Carroll, and an older gentleman began to fill the children's plates.
 
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((And just when I thought midterms were over, I got slammed with two essays -_- sorry if I'm slow. I can't wait for winter break))

The calmness of dinners here were a comfort compared to the political banter and otherwise awkward silence that accompanied meals at home for him. He knew it would only get worse from here on out, given Evelynne's company. But for the moment, he was content. The mention of him going into town to bring the food made him grin, and as Eve commented he chuckled a bit. "Why would I not be up for it?" He teased playfully. "I would love to come along." The king's response to his promise to protect Evelynne was met by a respectful nod. "But of course." The remainder of the meal went by pleasantly, and Ari glanced to Isaiah as he spoke. "I believe we do the same in my country as well, but I can never be sure. Where our food came from or who made it isn't discussed much." He could see the apprehension in Evelynne's eyes beyond her smile, as much as she tried to hide it. There was still a mask, faded now but still there; a wall that he had built and begun to tear down, but had not fully succeeded in doing so yet. He didn't blame her, but knew what would come once they were alone again. Or would she just go to sleep silently, and not bring it up? 'Don't worry about that now. We can figure that out later.'

Dinner was packed, and Arikizo was about to offer to take the last basket before Evelynne beat him to it. He followed behind his wife as they left the castle grounds, taking in the change of scenery. The town near the castle seemed well kept and quaint. The destruction from war didn't seem to have reached this point; however, he had already seen the damage done to the villages and fields of the outskirts. It made him feel terrible, knowing that his father had instructed he army that injured this country so. What they been fighting over anyways? His thoughts were interrupted as they arrived at the orphanage. It was much closer than he had expected. The voices of the children hung in the air, and Ari could sense the happiness that dwelled within the building; despite the tragic reasons for it's necessity. He wondered if Draevalia had any orphanages like this, or if the parentless children were forced to live on their own. If the majority of the country thought the way his parents did, the poor children would be on the street or taken in by other families as servants.

The prince was distracted again by these thoughts, and was brought back by Mrs. Carroll's apology and curtsying. He gave the older woman a kind smiled and bowed his head. "A pleasure to meet you as well." As they were led further into the orphanage, Ari followed along quietly. The rooms were warm and welcoming, cheerful. And the children, as they came running at the sound of the bell that likely signaled a meal, looked well provided for and very happy; which did not surprise him, given how generous the royalty was here. He smiled and chuckled as they rushed over to Evelynne, and for one of the only times today he saw true joy on her face. Her laughter was music to his ears. The light in her eyes seemed as bright as an everlasting flame. He glanced around the crowd of younglings as he was introduced, beaming as they all chimed a greeting in unison. "A pleasure to make your acquaintances." He answered, bowing a little bit playfully. He knew he didn't need to worry about formality here, and it felt nice to be able to relax and just be himself. Besides that, the happiness that shined in the eyes of all the children as they received their dinner was contagious.
 
[[ OOC: You're fine! I'm totally in the same boat right now. I have three group projects on top of readings and regular class assignments. I was just making sure you were okay. That's all. ^.^ ]]

Evelynne noted the surprise in Ari's gaze as they reached the orphanage. He hadn't expected for it to be so close. "The orphanage was originally in a small building further in town. However, with the war, Mr. and Mrs. Carroll were running out of space and struggling with keeping up with the place." Eve began to explain as they neared the door. "So, we had this home built. Big enough to fit everyone and then some comfortably and close enough to the castle for us to bring food and help have our men help with maintenance and the like." She would finish before Mrs. Carroll opened the door and they all went inside. The happiness overflowing from the children was infectious, Eve often giggling and smiling at the children's comments as they ate their meal.

As the children were cleaning up their dishes, Mrs. Carroll began to usher them towards the stairs. "Now go clean up and get ready for bed. I'll be up shortly to read your bedtime story ..." The plump old woman would say, many of the children nodding and wishing the couple goodnight before hurrying towards the stairs. One of the younger ones, a little blonde girl that couldn't be more than three, stopped before the princess, tugging gently against her dress skirt. "Your gwace ... Would you wead us the stowy? Please?" She would ask. "Now Margaret ..." Mrs. Carroll would begin, Eve soon chuckling. "Of course I can, Margaret. Go tell the others to bring the book down to the living room. Hurry now ..." She would say, the little girl grinning as she ran off to tell the others.

"You don't mind staying a few more minutes, do you?" Evelynne would ask, Mrs. Carroll and Katherine leading them to the living room as Mr. Carroll hung back in the kitchen to clean the dirty dishes. The children were already there, little Margaret hurrying over to her with a small worn book in her hand. "What did we pick tonight, hmm?" She would ask as she sat in one of the chairs. Lifting Margaret into her lap, Eve would accept the book as she cracked it open. "Ah. Rumpelstiltskin ..." She would muse before beginning the story. As she finished, most of the children were groggy eyed, little Margaret fast asleep in her lap. "Alright children, time for bed as Mrs. Carroll said." Eve would say with a soft laugh as many of them frowned and grumbled. As she stood, Eve would gingerly cradle the little girl, carefully handing to Mrs. Carroll. "Thank you again, your majesties. Safe travels back to the castle." She would whisper with a bow of her head. "Goodnight Mrs. Carroll." Eve would whisper back, Katherine giving her a wave as they, with the soldiers in tow, filed outside and headed back to the castle.

Once they were safely in the castle, the soldiers gave them a bow before heading off to their regular duties. Katherine would mutter another string of thank you's before hurrying off with the empty baskets in tow to finish her own duties for the night, leaving the couple alone for the first time since this morning. "My quarters are this way ..." Eve would murmur with a soft smile, heading off towards the library wing. "My quarters are only a few doors down from the library, well the upper floor entrance at least. Father moved them over there so he wouldn't have to carry me as far when I fell asleep reading there when I was younger ..." Eve would muse with a chuckle as she led him up a staircase, and passed another set of tall double doors leading into the library.

They soon reached another set of double doors, the designs more feminine and intricate on the wood. With a flood motion, Evelynne would open the door, leading Arikizo inside before shutting and locking the door. "Make yourself at home ..." Evelynne would say with a soft smile. Their trunks had already been unpacked for them. Clothes put away in the wardrobe, books and other items on the shelves and desk. To their right was a large canopy bed, to their left was the fireplace and the door that led to a large bathroom, and directly in front of them was a wall of sheer cream curtains that were covering the windows and glass doors that led to a personal balcony, giving them privacy from the outside.
 
((OOC: It's fine. I appreciate you checking in with me. If my responses are late, that's probably the reason))

Arikizo glanced to Evelynne as she spoke about the orphanage, smiling and nodding. It made perfect sense. Besides, having the orphanage be too far from the castle during the war would endanger all of the children. At least now they were sure to be protected, as well as sufficiently well provided for without a long travel necessary. The happiness of the orphanage brought him a lot of joy, especially about Eve. She was without her worries and burdens here. She wasn't putting on a mask, or having to keep secrets. Every smile and laugh made him feel relieved and grateful for this chance. As well as a bit of guilt, which he kept very hidden and very small in the back of his mind. This kind of happiness was what she deserved, constantly.

The reaction of the children at the announcement of bedtime made him chuckle. He was sure he acted the same way at a young age, and it was quite amusing to think of his younger self. He wished a goodnight to those that spoke to him, giving them a pleasant smile. The child that asked for Evelynne to read the group a story especially brought back memories. When he was a child, he would often secretly ask the human servants to read him stories that were not in draconian, ones that he could not understand. He still couldn't quite grasp the human language, even with what Eve had already taught him. Then she came along, and- He quickly shook that away. Now was not the time for those thought. These children were not him. How sweet they all were, every one of them. They could be cold, spiteful at the world; but instead, they were the happiest children he had ever seen. Not that he had ever seen very many children in his lifetime. As they all gathered in the living room, with a book that they'd picked out, he observed the crowd of little ones; some not so young, but most were less than teenagers at the least.

'A story like that is meant for young children, not a young man like you. Arikizo, you are so strange.'

Ari shook off the memories that began to resurface again, refusing to let them dull him mood. Or worse, reveal themselves to Evie. The last thing he wanted was for her to worry about him, and to ruin her happiness again. The story ended, and the children headed off to sleep, the couple returning home. He pushed down memory after memory on the way back, while keeping idle chit chat to try and distract himself. He thanked the guards, as well as Katherine when the time came for them to split off. He followed quietly beside Evelynne to her room, looking about the castle. "That does not surprise me in the least." He replied with a soft chuckle at the mention or room being near the library. "I was the same way. But I would never let my parents find me asleep in the library. It was usually the servants that would carry me to my quarters."

Once they arrived at the bedchamber, Arikizo took a moment to just take in the change of scenery. It was a gorgeous room, with ornate detail and simplistic charm. Perfect for an elegant young woman like Evelynne. She shut the door behind him, the thought of locking the door hadn't crossed his mind; but it was second nature to her, he supposed. He would never sleep with his own door unlocked at home, for fear of being snuck up on in his sleep by his mischievous brother. But here, he felt much safer; for obvious reasons. He sat down in a couch near the fireplace, marveling in the warmth of the flames; it was a bit colder in climate here that he was used to, and their walk had been a bit chilly. He unbuttoned his jacket and laid it over the back of the furniture, looking into the fireplace for a moment before glancing to Evelynne. "Come, sit with me." He said, patting the cushion next to him. The last thing he wanted was for her to close herself off from him again; or vice versa. Her close company was everything that he desired at the moment. But he began to wonder if he should choose to stay quiet unless she spoke first, or try to keep up a conversation... and risk messing things up again. However, he truly wanted to find some way to apologize to her for how he had acted that morning, but lacked an explanation for why he had responded so distractedly and shyly to her. So he decided against bringing it up, at least for a while.
 
Whenever she would glance to Ari during the story or on their way home, she could see a hint of distraction in his eyes. A distant look, one she had only ever seen in her father's eyes once when he was trying not to think about the early days of the war as a teen boy. Was Arikizo fighting back memories? Ones he didn't want her to know about? She bit back the urge to frown or scowl. It was something that she should worry about now. Perhaps later/ Or perhaps never. She was probably over thinking it again. Or perhaps she didn't want to do another thing wrong, close him off even more.

At his comment about the location of her room, Eve would smile. "Indeed. Papa used to joke how much of a pain it was to have to carry me to bed, but I know that he enjoyed such moments. Mother always says how precious he thought it was." She would muse with a soft smile. "That's to bad, though not surprising from what I have learned about your parents." She would say gently as they reached her quarters. She locked the door out of habit now, far to use to having to do so back at her new home. Besides, they could never be to careful after everything that had happened. As he took in the scenery, Evelynne slipped off her shoes before wandering over to the bed. She was wrapping a spare blanket over her shoulders when Ari's voice caught her attention.

Glancing towards the sounds, she would look at him as he pat the spot on the couch next to him. "Sure ..." She would say as she padded towards the couch. She sat near him, but not directly next to him, leaving a bit of space between them as she brought her legs up to her chest as she rested her chin on her knees. She was at a loss as to what to say. She should come up with idle chit chat? Or should she inquire about the distance that morning? She was staring at the fire when a question left her lips. "Was everything okay at the orphanage? You looked a bit ... distracted." She found herself asking, quickly biting her bottom lip. She shouldn't have asked about that, but it was to lat now. Hopefully he wouldn't get upset with her. Or worse, close himself off again.
 
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Arikizo didn't notice the apprehension in Evelynne's eyes while they were in town, or on their way home. He had been too focused on trying keep a happy front, and cloak his concerns. Obviously, he hadn't done a good enough job; he wasn't as skilled as she was at putting up a front. He hadn't ever needed a façade around anyone, because he was the spare, rarely let off the castle grounds and never without his family's presence- okay, maybe that was the only time. But that was maybe only once a year, or twice, if he was lucky. The prince thought he'd gotten away with hiding his surfacing memories, as Eve's playful comments and bright smile didn't seem to shift. However, the happiness surrounding her was beginning to dissipate as they reached her room. The way she retreated off to the bed, and didn't even move in his direction until he called out to her was concerning. Not surprising, given the earlier circumstances. He deserved this kind of reaction, he supposed.

As she sunk down on the couch beside him, except not really beside him due to the distance she put between them, Ari had to stifle an internal wince. She couldn't even stand to sit close to him without anyone else's company. It's like they had returned to being awkwardly arranged in a marriage, just putting up a façade for everyone else. It pained him to see her like this, but he knew he'd been the one that brought all of this on himself. The silence between them was suffocating. He was carefully considering what to talk about, and so was she. However, it seemed Eve . Only by her comment did he realize that she'd noticed his distraction, and he internally cursed his inability to keep his emotions hidden. He hesitated, knowing not to just brush it off and say it was nothin. He couldn't lie to her again. But it hurt to bring up those memories. It stung, and worse, it reminded him of everything that had been drilled into his mind by his parents about humans; how pitiful they are, how frail and short-lived, how easily they could be 'gotten rid of'. He had to think up something, a half-truth or something, anything to say. And quickly. He'd already wasted enough time thinking things over.

"I enjoyed going to the orphanage, Evie." Arikizo began, but knew it was a weak start. He swallowed, bracing himself. "I just... I was distracted, yes. The children, they... reminded me of myself when I was younger." She deserved to know the truth, but he didn't know how much he could say before he broke down and closed himself off again; or just collapsed in a sobbing mess. Each word he said cut, every mention of his past brought another memory back to the surface; like pictures that had been burnt, but recollected from the ashes and reanimated, even stronger than before. "Eve, I know I've been keeping things from you, and I'm so sorry. I'm so used to having to keep secrets about myself, because telling anyone would only make things worse. And it not fair to you, especially what happened earlier. I... To be honest, I barely even know what happened. It wasn't these memories this morning. I was just... I was a coward. A childish coward who was too shy and too self-conscious. And I hurt you because of my own insecurities. That's not fair of me. You deserve better than that." Tears pricked his eyes as he spoke, and he could hear his own voice shaking. He felt weak, pathetic. "I understand why you're upset at me. You're keeping your distance because of what I did. You told me yourself that you were afraid of upsetting me, of making me close myself off, and I promised... I promise I wouldn't do that. Then I did. But Evie, it's not you. It has never been you that is making me so on edge. You are the one thing in my life that is keeping me sane in all of this chaos and darkness. I understand if you want space, I get it. I messed up, not you. I'm the reason for all of this. So please, don't blame yourself." Ari bit his lip, glancing away with his cheeks darkening from shame. "There I go with my rambling again." He muttered under his breath. 'Stupid. Stupid. I'm just going to make things worse!'
 
Had it hurt him when she sat with distance between them? She could have sworn she saw a hint of a wince in his eyes, but it was probably just a trick of the light. The moment they were alone, it was as if they were reverted back to the early days of their relationship. Nothing more than an arranged marriage. It made her want to know what she did wrong that much more. It bothered her seeing them so closed off from one another, but she wasn't exactly helping the matter was she? The harder she tried to be open and normal with him now that they were alone, the more afraid she was that she was going to do something wrong again. She didn't want to make him close of even more.

Hearing him use his pet name for her made a hint of a smile tug at her lips. As she listened to his answer, she couldn't help but wonder if that was truly all it was. He had contemplated his response for to long for that to truly be all. Was it her business to press the matter? "Not that it is my business I suppose, but are you sure that was all it was?" She found herself asking, barely above a whisper before he continued on. As he rambled on, she would listen, surprised that he was bringing up this morning. Sparing a glance at him as she listened, she noticed the tears brimming, fighting to stay back. "But I do. Clearly I was a cause. If I hadn't been so bold, you would have never felt the need to do so ..." She would murmur quietly as she hugged herself tighter. "I'll be more reserved from now on. Keep my distance as to not make you uncomfortable."

Her gaze would drift to Ari, a frown tugging at her lips as she watched him glance away. His cheeks were a dark red and she barely heard what he said. Her gaze and features softened as she bit her bottom lip. A touch wouldn't be to much to push him back into that shield place, would it? She hoped not as she slid closer to him, only an inch between them now as she rested a hand gently on his shoulder. "How many times must I tell you ..." She began, her other hand moving to his cheek, turning his face ever so lightly so that he was now looking at her. "I like your rambling. And you're not stupid. You're one of the smartest people I am honored to know, Ari. Never call yourself that." She would say before pressing a kiss to his shoulder. Not wanting to make him uncomfortable like this morning, she would let her hands drop back to her lap, though she stayed where she was now beside him.
 
Arikizo noticed the smile that came to Evelynne's lips as he called her Evie gave him a spark of happiness. He could still do something that made her happy. Things weren't all bad. As she pressed for more information, it barely registered in his mind before he had continued to speak. She knew nothing of his childhood, mentioning that the orphanage reminded him of his younger years gave her very little information. But he knew he'd choke up if he tried to explain what those memories meant for him. Besides, his primary focus was on convincing Eve that she had not made him close himself off this morning. "Evie, you weren't too bold." He answered honestly. "I'm too shy. It's on my end. You have done nothing wrong, so please, don't blame yourself." She seemed to be closing off again, and he had to take in a sigh to keep from flinching at her words. Why had he been so damn nervous earlier? "You being close to me doesn't make me uncomfortable. You close company is the only thing that can comfort me."

She shifted closer to him, and the touch on his shoulder almost caught him off guard. He hadn't seen her move, too frustrated with himself to pay much attention. But instead of flinching, he relaxed into her touch, nuzzling his face into her hand as it lightly rested on his cheek. He turned his head again to look her in the eyes as she spoke. The prince hadn't realized he'd said half of that out loud, and internally chastised himself for making her seem to feel worse. But she was so sweet to him, so patient, so forgiving. He had broken her trust, and now he had to win it back again to prove that she wasn't the reason he was acting like this. The light kiss to his shoulder made a small smile appear on his lips. Eve pulled her hands away, and after a moment of hesitation Ari gently took her hands in his own, leaning toward her slowly so that she would have the chance to move away is she wished to do so. His lips hovered an inch above hers, his heartbeat thundering in his ears as he wondered if kissing her was the wrong choice. But he was the bold one in this case; so she wouldn't feel badly, would she? So long as she didn't pull away from him, he would close the small space between them and kiss her, slowly, gently, but lovingly.
 
His response made her blink. Her first instinct was to question it, however she stopped herself. As she looked at him, his features were completely genuine. It didn't slip passed her that he had avoided her question, but she knew that would have to be a discussion for another time. Clearly he wasn't ready to tell her the full extent of that time, and she was going to have to be okay with that for now. "I just ... I don't understand why then, I guess. You clearly don't have to be that shy with me ..." She whispered, trying to hold back her frustration. A sigh would escape her lips as her fingers danced through her loose locks.

He was soon proving his last statement right as she felt him leaning into his touch. It was relaxing him, calming him. That she hadn't completely expected. Hoped for perhaps, but not expected. She wanted this to all be better. To do whatever she could or had to to make him feel better about this. To make him realize he didn't have to be shy with her. Or hide things from her. There was still that part of her that was holding back though. He had made a promise and had broken that promise. That wasn't something that could easily be forgotten. Her thoughts were soon stopped in their tracks as he took her hands again. Instinctively, she would meet him half way as he leaned in to return the kiss.

After several long moments, she would break the kiss reluctantly. Letting her forehead rest against his, Eve would sigh gently. "What can I do to help you realize you don't need to be shy with me? That you can tell me anything without worry of judgement or scrutiny?" She whispered, squeezing his hands gently as she held herself there, not wanting to let him go just yet. "At the end of the day, regardless of what happens or what is said ... I still love you, Ari. Nothing will ever change that ..." She finished as she closed her eyes, pressing a second kiss to his lips, just as slow, gentle, and loving as the first.
 
"I've been saying shy," Arikizo murmured softly, trying to figure out why exactly he has been feeling so nervous. Even he had a difficult time explaining it. "I don't think that's what's wrong, exactly. Shy isn't the right word, but it's the best word I can come up with at the moment. I don't understand this either, Evie. You don't make me uncomfortable, and I know I don't have to be shy... but it's not something I can just shut off. It's difficult, but I promise, I'm trying to figure this out. I would love to just let go of this, but it's a stubborn emotion that even I don't understand." He was glad that Evelynne didn't pull back, as it would have made him feel even more guilty over all of this. He was just being a child, so he thought. He'd never been so close with anyone, not romantically. But he loved Eve with all his heart; so why was he still so nervous? He had no clue.

His mind began to clear a bit while they kissed, his emotions forced to concentrate on the happiness that was taking over all of the stress and frustration he was feeling. Ari opened his eyes when she pulled back from the kiss, looking into her eyes as she spoke. "That's not it. I'm not afraid of you judging me, Evie. I know you won't." He reassured her. "You'll love me no matter what, and I swear I will always love you." He would have tried to ramble on again if she hadn't began to kiss him a second time, which he appreciated. Talking didn't seem to be helping much at this point. It was just confusing both of them. He let go of one of her hands and wrapped his arm around behind her waist, holding her close. He reveled in the silence of the kiss, the lack of words yet so much passion and mutual understanding.

Slowly, the kiss grew more passionate, gradually deeper. His arm at her waist pulled her even closer against him, his fingers tracing patterns over the fabric of her gown. This feeling of ecstasy, the high of desire; he knew that if he got far enough under this spell that his fears would be able to catch up with him. So he tried to throw himself wholeheartedly into the kiss, wanting desperately to escape his troubled mind and replace it with the peaceful bliss of love and desire. Whether or not it would end up that way was up to Evelynne.
 
Evelynne would listen quietly as he tried to explain. He was rambling a bit again, but she didn't mind. If it wasn't shyness, then what was it? Fear perhaps? Nerves? She wanted to put her finger on it more for him than for herself. It was clearly bothering him that he couldn't explain what was fully going on with himself. Could it be something from his past that was causing these reservations? As much as she wanted to know what was going on, her thoughts were halted when they kissed. She had never been so close to someone. So open about herself, her desires. That was why she was so scared about things breaking.

She would hold his gaze, her features softening as she bit her lip. She wanted to ask why he kept secrets from her then, but right now wasn't the time. It would ruin the moment. She had to believe in him. He would tell her when he was ready for her to know. Right? "Good ..." She managed gently before kissing him the second time. She wanted to make this all better. Back to how it was before. Without the doubts, the fears, the worries. Instinctively, she would lean into him as he slid his arm around her to hold her close. Doubts tried to pull her away, but she wouldn't let it.

Instead, she focused on the passion that seemed to increase the longer they kissed. The patterns he began to trace made her shiver pleasantly. Her free hand proceeded to wrap around Ari's shoulders, her blanket slipping free of her shoulders to pool around her on the couch. Though her fears about what would happen if she let this go much further, he had initiated it this time around. Perhaps it would be different? Besides, she would be lying to herself if she said she didn't want it. Silencing the voice in her head, Eve proceeded to move in closer, letting her slip fluidly into Ari's lap as she continued the kiss.
 
Arikizo was glad that she didn't question him further... not that he expected her to just push him back and demand that they continue trying to figure this mess out. It proved that he wasn't the only one desiring at least a little bit more. He hadn't told her the whole truth, but eventually he knew he'd have to face the pain and get it over with. Probably sooner rather than later, especially if it had anything to do with any of this... did it? He hadn't been in love with- 'Stop it. Not now.' He thought, quickly shaking off that mindset. Which was much easier to do once the kiss had begun again. Eve leaned into his touch, which was a comforting sign. She didn't show signs of hesitation. As she slid into his lap, he grinned beneath her lips and dared to part his own a bit. His other hand let go of hers and buried itself in her hair, gently twisting strands around his fingers.

After a little while longer, he pulled back, his face a bit flushed. He wasn't being shy; more or less, he needed a breath. His heart was beat hard in his chest, and his breathing was quickened some. "I was afraid you'd pull back and play coy." He teased playfully. "I thought I might have been too forward." His fingertips continued to trace along the side of her gown. His arm still held her close against him, and he swore he could feel her heart beating; hers, then his, back and forth, like a game of tag. "You're going to make me do all the work, though, aren't you?" He continued teasingly. "To keep from upsetting me, I have to be in charge?" He didn't wait for a response, instead lowering his lips to kiss along her jaw and down her neck.
 
She could feel Ari relaxing beneath her, letting instinct take over. They both wanted the same thing ultimately, to be together. She could feel it. The question was, would they let whatever was going on prevent that? And if so, how much? Forcing those worries aside again, Eve focused on the feel of his fingers now in her hair. The feel of him playing with her hair and the smirk against her lips making her smirk as well. It was an exhilarating moment. One she wouldn't change in the slightest. As he broke the kiss, Eve would open her eyes, gazing at him quietly. His face looked as flushed as hers felt.

As she rested against him, she could feel their hearts hammering quickly together. He wanted this, but she still didn't want to push him. She had thought he had wanted things this morning and look where that had gotten them. A day fill with awkward tension and unanswered questions. "I considered it ..." She teased back before shaking her head gently. "You could never be to forward with me, Ari ..." She whispered, her free hand tracing designs on his chest. At his partially teasing question, Eve held his gaze for a moment, her head slowly nodding. "You are correct ... in your assumption ..." She managed quietly.

She let her eyes close, her head tilting slightly to the side to give him easier access to her neck. Evelynne focused on the heated trail his lips were leaving, her one hand continuing their designs as they worked their way down towards the hem of his shirt. The other tightened ever so slightly against his shoulder, a soft murr of surprise and pleasure escaping her lips. "The last thing I want is to upset you again. Though you keep saying its not my fault, I can't help but feel partially to blame ..." She managed, barely above a whisper.
 
"That would have been cruel." Arikizo responded playfully. "And you say that, but you won't let me say that anymore?" He knew exactly why; last time he'd said she couldn't be too forward they woke up, and he put up walls. He sighed softly with contentment as Eve traced patterns over his shirt, wishing the fabric wasn't in the way. 'I'm starting to sound desperate.' He thought, half joking. He felt he might be pushing things too fast. But Evelynne didn't seem to mind, so he figured it wasn't bothering her. Would she let him know if it was, though? Or would she just silently go along with whatever he desired, even if she felt rushed or pressured? His mind could barely process that at the moment, as he was so concentrated on the pleasure coursing through him. As she tilted her head to the side, he kissed back up to her jaw before repeating the pattern, this time tracing the peppered trail of kisses across her collarbone. He barely noticed her hand shifting ever lower to the bottom of his shirt, and didn't make a fuss about it anyhow. He would happily let her help him be rid of the annoying fabric.

"Shhh." He murmured, nuzzling his nose in the crook of her shoulder and along the side of her neck. "Hush, my sweet Evie. Don't worry about that." His hand that was in her hair shifted to the tie on the back of her dress, unaware that it was unnecessary to loosen it in order for her to change out of it. Once it was undone, his fingers traced up along her spine before gently twisting back into her hair. He felt her fingers brush a bit of skin near his stomach where his shirt had shifted up, and his breath hitched a bit. But would she do anything without his express instruction? "You know, it is a bit warm. I wouldn't mind some help with my shirt." Ari murmured softly, pulling his lips away from her throat. "And I have a feeling this fire isn't helping the situation. Perhaps we could move somewhere more comfortable?"
 
A hint of a grin tugged at Evelynne's lips at his first response. "Hence why I didn't ..." She murmured back with a giggle. His next comment made her blink gently. Fighting the urge to frown, she would close her eyes instead, focusing on the feel of his hands at her waist and in her hair, and his lips at her throat. "Because it has been proven that I can be to forward ..." She murmured under her breath. Doubt was soon dancing back into her thoughts, making her wonder if they were going to fast again. She knew she wanted this though, and clearly so did he. So, she quickly silenced that voice again as his lips trailed along her collarbone.

She would soon bite her bottom lip, biting back a 'but' as he assured her to not worry. He was untying the back of her dress before she could let him know it wasn't necessary. She didn't mind though, the feel of his fingertips against her bare back made her shiver pleasantly again. Loosening the ties were worth it in that sense. She hadn't even noticed that she had touched skin until she felt his breath hitch against her neck. She was about to pull her hand away when his comment hit her ears. Without saying a word, Eve would stand up smoothly, tugging him with her.

She would pause then, letting her hand drift underneath his shirt, her hands sliding gently up his bare chest as they pushed up shirt. Assuming he would help with the final removal, Eve would take the fabric, dropping it to the floor before moving him towards the canopy bed. "You are the first and only person to ever have been in this bed other than myself ..." Eve would murmur as let her gown slip off her shoulders. The fabric would pool at her feet, leaving Eve in her underdress. It was a white slip like dress made of thin, cool fabric with thin strips resting at the curve of her shoulders. Biting her bottom lip, Evelynne would slip into bed, a blush coloring her cheeks as she sank into it, her gaze holding his as she let herself relax into the comfort of her old bed.
 
Arikizo caught the twinge of a frown from the corner of his eye as he was shifting and mentally chastised himself for even bringing that up. 'Why? I jus had to ruin this again, didn't I?' He thought, knowing she wouldn't just drop it. He might have thought it would come across as a joke, but it was out of line given the earlier predicament regarding that comment. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that." He murmured softly, feeling badly now. If she decided to stop here because of that, he really would be the idiot; and yet again, all his own fault, he would have brought that entirely on himself. But his concerns were silent again as they continued along, and contentment took the place of the concerns. As he untied the back of her dress, his fingertip brushing lightly against her back as he set to the task, he enjoyed the momentary brushes of skin without the hindrance of the fabric. Her shiver as his hand trace along her spine made him chuckle and grin. Then, all of a sudden, they were standing.

Ari noted the slight hesitation, but let Eve take her time slowly shifting his shirt up. Her hands on his chest were nearly dizzying, her fingertips leaving trails of invisible flame on his skin. Once it was up enough to get over his shoulders and head, he quickly finished the task, letting it fall from their grasp without a second thought. He let her lead him toward the bed, catching his breath a bit as she let her dress fall from her shoulders, leaving her in a thin shift dress. His checks flushed a bit more at her comment, but a playful grin appeared on his lips. "Not even your brother or your cousin?" He teased as he climbed into the bed as well, his gaze keeping Evelynne's. "It's an honor to be the only one." He murmured as he shifted to her side, tracing one hand along the side of her face, along her neck, and over her shoulder and arm. He leaned toward her and held his lips against hers for a moment before pulling back again, teasing her. His gaze traveled along the gown the wore, a bit shy still but trying to get over his childish antics. "How did I deserve such a beauty as you? Such an intelligent beauty. And all mine."
 
Evelynne fought the urge to frown again. She should have took the comment as a joke, but it hadn't fully come across that way. His apology only made her feel worse about it. A knot began to form in stomach from guilt. Was she subconsciously trying to sabotage this? She was beginning to fear that she might be. She needed to stop it. Stop dwelling on what happened or what may happen and just focus on the now. Which is exactly what she did, focusing on the heat of his touch, the feel of his lips against her skin. This was right.

The look in his eyes as her hands danced along his chest made Eve grin. She was happy to see that she could still get such a reaction from him. That feeling was solidified when she saw the look in Ari's eyes as she slipped out of her gown. At his question, Eve would chuckle. "No. Generally it would be in pretend forts made from pillows and blankets on the floor." She mused thoughtfully with a distant smile. Her smile would shift to a genuine one as he adjusted to be near her. Her breath would catch as he hovered his lips just above hers. "You give me to much credit ... You deserve all that and more, Ari ..." She would murmur in response as she teased her lips along his jaw.
 
At this point, Arikizo stopped watching for every little negative reaction. He'd messed up, and he knew it; he didn't need to dwell on that fact and only push things further in the opposite direction. His mind needed to be focused on Eve, and enjoying the present situation; and he was glad that it was very difficult not to do so. Focus on their heartbeats. Focus on every sigh and trace of pleasure. There was plenty enough to drown out his guilt. But not if they kept reminding each other of it. The playful grin on Evelynne's lips as she removed his shirt, or the look in her eyes that told him she had noticed his reactions, her laughter, was enough to prove that she too was keeping her worries at bay. If neither of them worried about every little wrongly worded sentence, things would be fine. Much more than fine.

"I see. Typical of idle children." The prince answered, chuckling. Her breath hitched, and he grinned. He relished in the reactions he got from her, glad to see that he could still make her respond in such a way. "Ah, but I speak the truth. I state facts as I see them." He answered, chuckling at her humbleness. "You are everything I could ever desire, Evie. I couldn't dream of anything more." Ari murmured, sighing softly and letting his eyes fall shut as Evelynne's lips moved along his jaw. One hand traced up and down along her side, able to feel the warmth of her skin through the thin fabric of her nightdress.
 
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