A brother's sentiments

Aries remained silent, observing Dexter's demure. Ever since the royal messenger announced Aries's candidacy, Dexter had been acting oddly. It wasn't like he changed, but the air he exuded felt different. 

Dexter didn't oppose the royal decree and even threw a large banquet. Still, Aries had always felt unsettled, as if he was distancing himself from her.

"Don't you want me to go?" she blurted out under her breath, watching him raise his head. 

"No." He shook his head the moment he locked eyes with her. "Of course not."

"Then, what's the problem?" she inquired without beating around the bush. "Ever since that day, you start distancing yourself from me. It… hurts watching you go farther and farther."

Silence descended in the private sitting room as they looked at each other. A shallow breath slipped past his lips, lowering his eyes until he was staring at the glass in his hand.