’Hmm, Luke is only eighteen this year and that means he has a huge potential to be a great swordsman. With his strength, I think even though he’s starting later than his peers, he is talented enough to train as a knight. I wonder if the Third Young Master will be interested in getting an additional squire, or maybe Luke should apply to be a knight of the House of Ahren. It will be a huge waste for Luke to remain a commoner doing odd jobs. I bet if he wears the same clothes as the Third Young Master, he can pass off as a knight, even a noble himself.
’His looks and his body, they make me wonder if maybe one of his ancestors were nobles...’
"Orian," Luke called out to the dazed woman.
"Ah, Luke. Right, the reason I’m here—"
Before she could say more, he held her hand and dragged her away. "Do not come to the servant quarters at night. Whatever you want to tell me, tell me in the morning."
As she let him drag her, realization hit her. ’So this was the reason Luke insisted on sending me back to Ken’s home instead of sharing rooms with me. Being a man, he knows men better.’
"I can’t wait for the morning, Luke, since I will be leaving tomorrow."
Luke stopped walking as if his legs froze. Wordlessy, he looked at Oriana.
She continued to explain, "Tomorrow morning, I will be leaving the Ahrens for the palace. I have been selected as a royal servant."
Luke let go of her hand, his expression unreadable.
"In a few days, Master Cenric will arrive in Karlin. I will do my best to meet him as fast as possible, but I’m expecting that I will have to stay at least a week or two in the royal palace. After he teaches me what I need to learn, we can go back home."
Once again, her words about returning home pleased him. Luke already earned enough from his daily wages to feed his family until the end of winter. There was no need for him to stay until the construction was finished. Even if he were to leave today, the Ahrens could easily find another to replace him.
After his experiences for the past weeks, Luke wanted nothing more than to return to Wimark, where he and Oriana would continue living their simple peaceful lives surrounded by their loved ones.
"Alright. I wish you luck."
"Thank you, Luke."
He silently observed that smiling face, especially the way her beautiful eyes lit up as she spoke in excitement. His heart fluttered once more.
"Go back to your quarters and sleep early," Luke said and she nodded.
"Good night, Luke."
"Hmm," was all he said in response, and he watched her retreating back till she disappeared from his sight.
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