Crushing flags and claiming the Villainess

It was...awkward.

Rhea's ankle was twisted as she tripped at some point and fell on her face.

Rudolph was currently applying a gel that was hot on her skin and was providing some relief to her ankle.

However, it wasn't the first time he was treating her like this...yet why she was feeling this...awkward?

...Rhea already knows the answer.

That kiss.

...she couldn't forget what happened a few days ago in the gymnasium when Rudolph suddenly kissed her out of the blue.

She won't lie, she was aware that he was attracted to her. And she also liked him, not just as a friend. But she was unsure if she wanted to date him right now. She was unsure about the whole dating thing as of now.

That's why she decided to take her time and let fate decide where they end up.

However, she was taken by surprise when suddenly, she felt the warmth of his lips on hers. Mind numb, complete blackout.

They haven't talked about it after that. Rudolph was behaving normally around her...as if nothing happened.

However, she knew something happened! She couldn't forget about it!

Now, the dilemma was ....did Rudolph regret kissing her? Or is he waiting for her to say something about it? Or maybe he just wanted to comfort her in that moment?

Countless possibilities and she couldn't keep her mind straight because of that.

"Rhea?"

"Ah!" Feeling his warm hand on her cheek, she flinched.

Rudolph pulled his hand away, regret in his eyes.

Rhea reprimanded herself inwardly for reacting so rashly.

"Are you okay? You seem pale." Rudolph asked in a gentle tone.

Rhea nodded, "I am fine!" Her tone was high-pitched, a clear sign of panic. Gosh ...why is she behaving like this?

Rudolph kept staring into her eyes, and the fake, exaggerated smile never faded from Rhea's face. She was just trying to act normal but failing miserably.

After a brief pause, Rudolph lowered his gaze and asked, "You hate it...when I kissed you?"

*Ba* *Dum*

Her heart skipped a beat.

He finally mentioned it.

Oh no...how should she respond? She has no experience in this!

However, if she doesn't reply here he would misunderstand, "I-I don't hate it...I was just surprised."

Rudolph exhaled a soft breath before looking into her big eyes and asking, "Do you not realize my feelings?"

Rhea's breath was caught in her throat as he stared at him with a blank look.

Rudolph suddenly got up and patted the dust off his pants, as he said, "Forget it. I don't want to force my feelings on you when you are clearly not interested in me. How about we continue the journey-"

"Rudolph." Rhea suddenly called out, holding his hand.

The raven-haired youth turned to look at her.

Her eyes were hidden by her bangs as she said, "Just because I don't say anything doesn't mean I never realized your feelings or I am not interested in you."

Rudolph's eyes widened slightly as he felt her grip around his wrist turning stiff a little, before she added, "I just need some time to sort out my feelings...can you wait until then?"

Rudolph was...stunned, actually. Not receiving instant rejection was completely unexpected for him.

That's why the very possibility of getting accepted by her urged his lips to curve in a smile.

Holding her hand, he said, "Mm. I will wait for you."

°°°°°°°°°°

Austin reached the Capital by mid-noon. And as promised, Rhea and Rudolph were waiting for him near the palace entrance.

Austin had to take a few breaks en route because Sebastian was not in the shape to run for hours without a break.

That brought the suggestion, "After this war, how about you retire, Sebas?"

The older man didn't seem shocked or anything.

Calming his breath, he nodded, "Although I wish to serve you until my last breath, I don't want to become a hurdle in your path who drags you down. So yes, maybe I might retire and spend some years with my family."

Sebastian prioritizes his young master's security over his servitude. Today, he finally accepted that he might no longer be fit to serve the Prince. He needs a replacement; someone who can take care of the young master.

"You are leaving, Sebastian? It sounds...saddening." Rudolph's tone grew dim near the end. He has been friends with Austin since childhood and surely has spent a lot of time with Sebastian as well.

Sebastian was like an uncle to him, so surely, he would be sad to see him leave.

"Well, not like he would go far away. I know where he lives so we can regularly visit him." Austin assured the taller one.

Austin, himself, didn't want to part ways from Sebastian. However, considering his age, it was the right time to let the man enjoy some peaceful time with his wife and family members.

Sebastian has given his life serving the royal family. And now, this loyal servant needs to relish a few years of his life.

Soon, they stepped inside the reception area, where a familiar maid greeted them, "Good afternoon, Your Highness. His Majesty would be here in a few minutes."

Austin nodded before asking, "I saw a convoy outside...is he attending some guests?"

The maid informed, "The royalty from Drenovar has come to meet His Majesty."

A chill ran down everyone's spine except for Austin.

Rudolph drew a sharp breath and Rhea hastily asked, "W-Why was he allowed in the palace?" Someone who has lived since the day she was born in Eryndor, she was naturally aware of the history Eryndor had with Drenovar.

People talked about friendship, but Rhea's first reaction made it clear—this was dangerous.

The maid soothingly smiled, "They are having a peaceful conversation, young lady."

Rhea was baffled at that response and so was Rudolph.

Austin calmly sat down and told them, "You all are worried for nothing. Just sit down and relax."

Rudolph and Rhea shared a nervous glance before deciding to trust Austin's confidence.

However, Sebastian said, "I will go and have a look."

He walked towards the conference room leaving the trio alone.

A few moments of silence passed before Rudolph asked quietly, "Hey man...can you give me a few dating tips?"

Austin blinked in surprise ..when did this happen?

°°°°°°°°°

A/N:- Rudolph is planning for the future, eh...