All The Time in the World

Together, we began to stroll through the forest, the silence broken only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. Despite the tension that lingered between us, there was also a sense of companionship, a shared understanding of the challenges we faced.

"What are you thinking?" asked Ludwig, a hint of amusement in his eyes and lips.

Lost in my thoughts, I hadn't realized he was so close beside me. "Nothing," I answered, attempting to walk a bit faster to put some distance between us, but I abruptly stopped when I realized I didn't even know where I was going.

We stood at the edge of the forest, surrounded by trees, and I wasn't sure where Ludwig intended to take me. Trying to compose myself, I attempted to walk again, but I found myself unable to move, my gaze fixed on Ludwig.

My eyes widened, and my heart skipped a beat as Ludwig reached out, gently taking my hand. "Let's go there," he said, his words barely above a whisper in the silence. He led the way, and I followed meekly, feeling his grip tighten around my fingers.

As we reached a clearing in the forest, Ludwig turned to face me, his gaze soft yet intense. In that moment, I felt a surge of emotions wash over me, a mixture of gratitude, trust, and something more that I couldn't quite name.

"What are you thinking?" asked Ludwig once more.

As I stood there, bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, I would face them with Ludwig by my side. For in that moment, I realized that I had found not only a companion, but a kindred spirit, someone who understood me in a way no one else ever could.

"Tell me," ordered Ludwig, his lips curling into a smile.

"Do you think you're bewitching me? Is that why my heart races at your simple touch?" I blurted out, immediately regretting my words as they left my mouth. My eyes widened in shock. What had I just said? "I mean... your touch is just... different. It's like an electric current running through me. You exude power, and I can feel it, warming my skin. Sometimes, it's overwhelming, like I can barely stand. And then when you're angry, it's like being engulfed in flames, and now, my chest... it hurts. It's like that. That's what I'm trying to say," I rambled, overwhelmed with embarrassment.

Ludwig hummed, his expression softened as he listened to my rambling explanation, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "You underestimate yourself, Louise," he said, his voice low and soothing. "It's not magic that binds us, but something far deeper."

I gazed into his eyes, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort wash over me.

As we walked in silence, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease creeping over me. Ludwig's demeanor was unlike anything I had seen before, his usual stoic facade replaced by a strange mix of happiness and secrecy. It was as if he was hiding something from me, something he didn't want me to know.

I stole a glance at him, studying his profile as he hummed softly to himself. His features were relaxed, yet there was a tension in the air that I couldn't quite place. Was he keeping something from me? And if so, why?

When we reached the town, I discreetly withdrew my hand from his, afraid of provoking his anger. He was preoccupied, scanning the surroundings and engaging with people, so I took advantage of the moment to subtly slip my hand away. I pointed at a store I had noticed earlier, using the hand he had been holding, prompting him to release it.

"What's that?" I asked, quickly walking toward the store.

I didn't want anyone to see us holding hands. It didn't feel normal to me, although I wasn't sure if it was customary in this world. The truth was, Ludwig was soon to be married to someone better—someone more beautiful, intelligent, and wealthy than I could ever be.

As I entered the store, I realized it was actually a restaurant—a cozy one filled with a variety of enticing food aromas tantalizing my senses. Initially considering moving on to the next store, I hesitated when Ludwig followed me inside. The owner immediately paid his respects to Ludwig, his demeanor a mix of fear and delight at the presence of the Prince in his establishment.

Those already dining stood and bowed as well before returning to their meals, though it was evident they stole glances at us from time to time, despite our attempts to remain discreet.

Suppressing my conflicting emotions, I focused on playing the role of his loyal servant, keeping my gaze lowered and refraining from drawing any unnecessary attention to myself. It was the least I could do to maintain the illusion of propriety.

Despite the delicious spread of food before us, I found it difficult to fully enjoy the meal. The constant glances from the other patrons made me feel increasingly self-conscious, as if every move I made was being scrutinized.

I ate quickly, trying to finish my meal as fast as possible in the hopes of escaping the uncomfortable atmosphere. My actions may have seemed hasty and unrefined, but I couldn't bring myself to care. All I wanted was to leave and find solace away from the prying eyes of the restaurant's customers.

"Slow down, Louise," said Ludwig, his laughter ringing softly. "We have all the time in the world. Don't rush."

I nodded absentmindedly, feeling a blush threaten to spread across my cheeks under his intense gaze. It took all my strength to maintain composure.