Embrace!

We returned the Duke's house from Jay Jay's academy. Thank goodness the academy was not far. Otherwise, it would have taken days just to travel to and back.

" Umm, Wendy, have Lily bring up my supper. I'll dine in my room tonight."

It was late evening, and I assumed that master Evans must have already dined, so it would be pointless for everyone to set the table again.

" Yes, milady." Wendy answered as we walked up the stairs.

" Alright, thank you. Remember to bring the books for the month. I need to review them since I have nothing to do." I continued

" Yes, milady. I will bring-" Wendy said then suddenly paused.

Looking up, I saw why she stopped talking. At the top of the stairs, in causal wear leaning against the wall was Ryan. He had his hands in his pockets, and his eyes closed. And for the first time, he appeared more quite young and radiant.

" Wendy. you can go do what I asked." I said to her while staring at Ryan. Whatever it was that brought him here and outside for that matter must have been important.

I walked up the remaining flight of stairs alone and stopped at the top.

" Good evening." I said to him with a curtsy and then quickly went past him.

" Where were you?" He asked, and I froze. Did he know? We all worked so hard to keep Jay Jay's news about running away from school. secret. What if he even came back because of that? Holding onto the helm of my gown tightly, I didn't say a word.

" Ms Charlotte, have you made a habit of being disobedient? I asked you a question. Will you care to answer it?" He said.

I don't know if it was the wind or his cold tone suddenly shivered and brought my arms closer to the body.

" I just went out for a bit, needed some fresh air after being told that I should forfeit my chances of going to the military." I retorted.

He remained silent for a while.

" You can come with me tomorrow."

" Pardon?" I asked him

" Make sure you wake up early. If you are not outside by 6, I will leave you. I have things to do back at the office." He said as he pushed against the wall and walked towards the door.

" Wait? Does it mean that I can get to go to the military? D-did I make it? D-did I pass the exam?" I muttered.

" Barely." He answered.

But I did not care because all.i heard was I made through the exam. I was going to the military as a medical officer, and that's all that mattered.

In the thrill of the moment, I rushed to him and embraced him. I think I got my bravery from the fact that he was facing the other way, and so without thinking, I actually hugged him. I hugged Ryan Almock for the first time in my two lives!