Description
Of Light and Shadows : Chapter 6 - Part 10 [Cover ]
Previous: The white queen
Next: The Blossom Gate
⚜️ Chapter 1
⚜️ Chapter 2
⚜️ Chapter 3
⚜️ Chapter 4
⚜️ Chapter 5
[ Story chapter guide ]
📌 Just to remember that English is not my first language, if you find any really grotesque mistakes, let me know. But I hope the text is clear enough for everyone to understand and that everything makes sense.
The faraway background was made using AI.
After tending to Elurin's wound, Aerin sat by his side and watched as he drifted into a peaceful slumber. She couldn't help but feel relieved, knowing that his condition had improved.
Aerin got up and stretched her legs, feeling restless after spending so much time tending to Elurin. She made her way over to where Galadel was keeping watch and sat down next to him.
"Are you feeling any better?" Galadel asked her, looking at her with concern.
"A bit," Aerin replied with a smile. "I'm just glad Elurin is finally getting some rest."
They fell into an easy conversation, talking about everything from their favorite books to the creatures they had encountered on their travels. After a while, they fell into a comfortable silence, watching the night sky. Galadel then cleared his throat and spoke up again.
"You know, in many ways, you remind me of my wife, Eiluned," he said softly, his gaze fixed on the horizon.
Aerin looked at him in surprise, the mention of his late wife caught her off guard. She had heard of Eiluned before, but Galadel had always been private about his personal life, and she respected that.
"I'm sorry," Galadel said, noticing the look on her face. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."
"No, it's alright," Aerin said, shaking her head. "I'm just surprised, that's all."
Galadel smiled at her, a gentle and sad smile that made her heart ache.
"It's been a long time since she passed," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "But sometimes, when I look at you, I feel like she's still with me."
Aerin’s cheeks warmed, but it wasn’t a romantic warmth. It was a mix of confusion and uncertainty. She looked away, feeling a slight unease settle within her. She had always seen him as a dear friend, someone she could rely on… The sudden shift in their interaction left her both surprised and cautious, unsure of how to navigate this new dynamic.
Galadel’s words had touched something deep within her, but it wasn’t a spark of romantic interest. It was a reminder of the bond they shared as friends, and now that bond felt slightly altered, leaving Aerin feeling uncertain.
The girl felt her heart race as she realized Galadel was getting even closer, his fingers gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. She turned her face to look at him again, her eyes searching his as the tension between them grew.
For a moment, Aerin allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, something could happen between them. However, she was still dealing with the rejection from Gareth, and it weighed heavily on her core.
Just as they were about to kiss, Aerin's internal struggle reached its peak, causing her to turn her head at the last moment, and Galadel's lips landed on her cheek instead. His apology came quickly, and Aerin couldn't help but notice the touch of embarrassment on his flushed face.
"It's ok," Aerin said, smiling despite the awkwardness of the situation. "I care for you deeply, Galadel, but my heart is still too confused right now. I don't want to risk losing our friendship."
Galadel nodded, his eyes sad but understanding. "I understand," he said softly. "Your heart needs time to heal. And I will be here for you, no matter what."
Aerin leaned against him, grateful for his understanding. She didn't know what the future held, but for now, she was content to just be with her dear friend, enjoying each other's company.
Sorry Galadel fans! (Galaerin Shippers?)
The chapter is nearing its end. There are still 2 parts.
*sneaking out*
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