Aemond hadn't returned to the supper after pouncing on Elaena.

She had waited in deep suspense for him to strut back on to the balcony and pretend like her that nothing had happened... But before she'd known it the party had ended.

Sam and Saera had escorted her back to her chambers, having seen how beside herself she'd become.

She'd tossed and turned that night, unable to find sleep with her feverish heart. Not to mention her feverish groin.

As stunned as she'd been during Aemond's kiss, she could remember it all in vivid detail. When she awoke the next morning—surprised to have even slept—she thought it had been a dream. The greatest dream she'd ever had of him.

But then Sylvia entered her bedchamber with a dithering voice, "The prince requests your presence in the library."

Elaena's heart pounded like a roll of thunder, and she stiffened in bed. It had truly happened, and he wanted to see her.

But her body shriveled in abashment beneath her sheets, "Tell him I'm occupied." She said, not moving an inch.

Sylvia remained quiet for a moment, and Elaena could feel her concern. But eventually her handmaiden left the room, carefully shutting the door behind her.

If you go to that library, who knows what will unfold.

She laid in bed for hours on end, unwilling to even get up and write to her mother in her disconcertion from Aemond's actions—from his blatant disregard of her over the past few days to his radical impulses in the night.

She wondered why he had chosen to hide from her if he'd craved her so... And then she was confounded by his feelings for her altogether.

She'd never expected him to feel the same way she did. Breathtakingly so. He had been generous, kind, even affectionate to her at times, but he had never voiced the passion he'd illustrated in the library, nor had he ever asked to court her.

The signs of his fancy for Elaena had gone completely over her head, but as she laid there in wonder of him, they became clearer...

And they startled her. They'd come so frequently she couldn't recall all of their happenings. After Aemond's heated confession, she could have melted from the thought of him hinting to her now.

And she felt guilty for such fantasies, for the lewd thoughts that had followed her out of the library.

Elaena wanted him to touch her, grab her, kiss her. She wanted it to happen again and again and again. She'd never felt so alive in all of her life, not even whilst shooting.

But she had conducted herself in a manner unbefitting a lady, and she felt as though their venture echoed through the walls of the Keep.

Her virtue was still in tact, but she felt filthy, ruined. It was an act of the Gods that only Samantha knew, because the alternative made Elaena feel sick to her stomach—

"Rise and shine, my lady!"

Elaena's eyebrows furrowed tightly before she shot up in bed, pushing her canopy drapes back to see Samantha, Saera, and Helaena at her bedroom door.

Her heart stopped as they entered her room, unfazed by her tousled state. Helaena plopped on to her bed as though she intended to get in it with her, and the other two hovered at the lady's side expectantly.

"It's time to get up," Saera stated, "You are not hiding out in here forever."

Elaena blinked in utter bafflement, "What—What do you mean—What are you doing?"

She struggled to process the reality of their presence as she rubbed her eyes. Sam rolled hers, inching closer to the bed with intention.

"It's called an intervention, darling," The redhead said before pushing at Elaena's duvet, "Now get up. Your life is not ending after a moment of unchastity."

Helaena and Saera nodded along, and Elaena squinted at the Tarly girl in ridicule.

"You said you would keep quiet!" She groaned through clenched teeth, and Sam rolled her eyes again.

"I meant I wouldn't tell anyone other than these two." She said in an obvious way.

"A bit foolish for you to believe she wouldn't keep us informed," Saera said, her tone laced with offense, "And a bit hurtful you hoped for as much."

Elaena scoffed slightly, "Forgive me for not wanting to impose, you seemed a bit occupied last night with Stellan—"

"Never-mind my progressions, this is about you." The Stark girl said quickly, cutting off the Velaryon's excuse.

"You didn't come to our gathering this morning, I was worried." Helaena said softly, placing the back of her hand on Elaena's forehead, "Is it because of him, or are you unwell?"

Elaena sighed heavily before laying back down, "Nothing is wrong, I just wished to rest."

"Well, you've rested well past noon," Sam said bluntly, "Any longer and you'll never rise."

"You make it sound so terrible." Elaena grumbled, trying to settle further in bed despite her friends' looming presence.

"You can't miss tonight, El, it's Mother's nameday ball." Helaena said, her tone edging on a whine as she rested a hand on Elaena's arm.

"I was present for the whole of her supper, what difference would it make?" The Velaryon girl whined back.

"You would truly be hiding." Samantha said, "I told you you weren't in trouble."

I don't care. It feels like I am. Don't go.

"Aemond will be there~" Saera said in a persuasive tone.

Elaena shot up again, "Then I truly shouldn't go."

Sam sucked her teeth, "Elaena, please be serious."

"Oh, I am," The Velaryon girl said with wild eyes, "I cannot handle this, I cannot be certain of what will happen should I find myself in his space, and I cannot risk my reputation any further."

"Seven Hells," Sam snorted, "Was he that proficient?"

Elaena rolled her eyes and ignored the ache in her groin from the thought. He was indeed that proficient.

"You're more likely to dampen your reputation by missing one of the Queen's nameday celebrations." Saera countered, and Elaena sighed in frustration.

"Come to the ball." Helaena simply said.

"Hel—"

"I know you're scared," The princess said, cutting off Elaena's distress with a steady voice, "But you came here for a reason."

"Yes," Elaena exasperated, "Because you called for me to be with you."

The smile on Helaena's face caused Elaena's heart to skip. It was sweet but satirical.

"With me?" She asked with a touch of humor, "Iā gevie perzys mazverdagon isse se sōna. Māzigon zȳha vasrie, se kēlītsos se se zaldrīzes lilagon."
(A lovely flame blooms in the snow. Come its thawing, the kitten and the dragon dance.)

Elaena's eyes widened as she registered the princess's old riddle, and a chill went down her spine at her and Aemond's sobriquets. Her gaze flickered to Sam and Saera confused forms, unknowing of High Valyrian or Helaena's clairvoyance.

"Issa jēda." The princes said softly, gaining Elaena's attention again, "Aōha vestriarzir iksis arliñāre... Mirre hen emilā ziry lo ao dakogon, keligon dakogōre."
(It's time. Your story is changing... Neither of you will have it if you run, stop running)

Elaena squinted in bewilderment, feeling a heavy pressure settle over her shoulders as she slowly lost conviction for hiding.

"Skoros emagon ao ūndegīon?" She whispered in skepticism.
(What have you seen?)

Helaena tilted her head knowingly, "Kesā ūndegon."
(You will see)

"Do you know what's happening?" Saera whispered to Sam, who stood in clear annoyance of the coded exchange.

"No, and unless you two plan on giving lessons on Valyrian rubbish," The redhead sighed, "Could we get a simple yes or hells yes that you are coming to the ball tonight?"

Elaena nervously held Helaena's expectant gaze, and the princess smiled further in patience.

Curiosity and frustration ate away at the lady's anxiety, and she huffed before pushing away her sheets.

• • •

As terrified as she was to encounter Aemond again, Elaena accepted she had little choice in the matter.

He was after all a prince of the castle she walked through, and realistically, she couldn't remain in her chambers forever.

There were also the events of the third moon. Spring demanded celebration for the Queen, festivities for the Maiden and Mother, and betrothals for the young nobles of the realm.

As a willing player in the game of courtship—in her effort to remain from Driftmark—she had to participate.

So there she was, clad in Velaryon white-gold at the Queen's nameday ball, praying to the Gods for peace of mind.

At the sight of the flooded hall, her resolve wavered further, but Sam and Saera dragged her along to Helaena's table of ladies. The princess stood by their empty seats with a gleefully proud look, reaching out to Elaena in pure fondness.

The lady halfheartedly embraced Helaena, keeping her gaze low from the surrounding affair. She did this partially because of how the ballroom's swarming crowd and heavy chatter unnerved her. Even the music from the Keep's band couldn't tune them all out.

But the root of her reserved disposition was her fear of spotting the one-eyed prince in the mass. She knew he was there, she could almost feel it. And knowing him well enough, she was certain he was already aware of her.

So she concentrated on her friends, noshing lightly on platters presented to their table—though her nerves stunted her appetite.

Here and there she returned the pleasant nods of lords before lowering her gaze again. Any other night, she would have happily joined Sam and Helaena on the dance floor, but she doubted her anxiety would help in minding steps.

But then, over the cheery music, she heard Saera gush about Alicent's opulent gown and emeralds, and she instinctively followed the Stark girl's gaze to the Queen's table.

Her heart stopped in defeat as she met Aemond's gaze straight away. It was difficult to mistake his stony, dark figure amongst all the color in the room, but Elaena still damned herself for failing.

It didn't help that—unlike her—he paid no mind to being inconspicuous, opting to stare at her contently even after she'd caught him.

As quickly as her heart had stopped, it started again with a vengeance. Elaena swallowed stiffly, clenching her teeth as she flitted her gaze to the Queen. Saera went on about the woman's attire, and Elaena tried like hells to focus on her fascination.

Tis fine, tis completely fine—Fuck—Breathe. Tis fine, just one slip up, it was bound to happen—Fuck—Elaena, tis fine. You know where he is now, just mind yourself from here on.

She straightened her posture and fixed her gaze on their table's spread. Saera's voice dwindled casually, and Elaena allowed the music of the room to drown her ears.

But just as she'd grown used to finding nonexistent patterns in the table's lining, she felt a tap on her shoulder and stiffened.

Her mind deadened as she looked to see Aemond standing next to her, a blank expression on his face. She could physically feel the surprise etch across her own.

"Dance with me." He didn't ask. He ordered.

Elaena blinked at him widely, feeling her cheeks heat up in abashment. Her gaze flickered back to Alicent's table, and she let the reality of his empty seat sink in before she blinked again.

Cerelle, Ellyn, and Hyaline sat across from her with prying eyes on the prince, clearly interested by his initiative and Elaena's response.

She looked away from the snobs to gage Saera's reaction as well, and her heart stuttered at the wide nature of her friend's onyx eyes. The Stark girl remained quiet, keeping her gaze on the table in wait of Elaena's reply like the rest of them.

"Kēlītsos."

Her attention snapped back to him at the sound of his call, and he looked at her as though she were the only person in the room.

"Come on." He said in a softer tone than before.

. . . Well, shit.

Elaena swallowed subtly, feeling her eyes glisten up with apprehension. But she stood from her seat, and he took her hand before turning to the bustling space of the ballroom.

Gods, what is he doing—What has gotten into him—

He turned back to her once they were deep in the swarm, and then he grasped her waist with his freehand. Her breath hitched as he pulled her flush against him, gazing down at her with a shameless focus.

Elaena breathed shallowly through her nose, struggling to meet his eye and ignore the few curious looks of the guests they swept around.

"Someone's stiff tonight." She heard him lowly say, causing her heart to thump heavily, "Are you alright?"

No. Clearly not. I feel as though I might implode.

"Perfectly, why?" She answered as quickly as she could, though she was obviously living up to his observation.

He didn't respond immediately, and she could feel his eye ghosting over her face. Against her will, her gaze met his, and she felt herself weaken from the proximity of his face.

Aemond slowed their pace, looking down to her lips in thought. Elaena felt the air grow thicker around them, and she could practically taste the heat of his kiss.

When he met her eyes again, she let out a breath she hadn't known she'd been holding.

"Skoro syt gaomagon ao ruaragon hen nyke?" He asked.
(Why are you hiding from me?)

She blinked, dumbfounded by his transparency. When his sincerity settled on her, she felt her eyebrows knit together in offense.

"Iksan daor." She said, growing more nervous from their use of discretion.
(I am not)

Aemond pursed his lips with a knowing glint in his eye, and he stopped their movements altogether. The awareness of the crowd became a heavier weight to Elaena as they stood still within it.

But he barely noticed them, towering over her with a glare as she fiddled with the truth.

"Lo īlen ruaragon," She said lowly with a blush, struggling not to mind the people who passed by them, "Eminna daor sagon kesīr."
(If I was hiding, I would not be here)

"Daor, kesā umbagon kesīr naejot mīsagon laehurlion, yn kesā daor māzigon naejot nyke skori nyke brōzagon syt ao." He nearly sneered.
(No, you'll be here to save face, but you won't come to me when I call for you)

Elaena's eyes widened at him as vexation broke through her bashfulness.

"Īlen ōregion." She said, matching his directness.
(I was occupied)

"Kivigon īlē." He hummed snidely.
(Sure you were)

"Īlen," She hissed up to him, growing more irritated by his brazenness, "Issare iā riña isse umbagon iksis iā qopsa mirre."
(I was, being a lady in waiting is a most strenuous task)

"Hae iksis naejot umbagon hen ñuha laesi mirre bantis, pāsan," He nodded sarcastically, his lip quirking to annoy her even more, "Sepār naejot umbagon konīr, laesi va aōha qurdon se issaros hen lilagon hen ñuha muña."
(As is avoiding my gaze all evening, I'm sure. Just sitting there, minding your table and the guests of my mother's ball)

Her eyes widened further in ridicule, and she held his gaze in utter disbelief of his hypocrisy.

"Sepār hae ao mōrītubis rȳ zirȳla kisalbar?" She shot, "Emā issare lyka syt hāre tubissa, kostā daor umbagon syt mēre?"
(Just as you yesterday at her supper? You've been quiet for three days, you can't wait for one?)

Aemond's snide expression faltered as he took in her face, and she felt her boiling agitation simmer as she realized how close they were to each other. Too close to uphold their public pleasantries.

Aemond face softened further as her words floated in the little space between them, and Elaena's heart stuttered as he settled into a daze. She could see people spinning around them in her peripheral, and she shifted her gaze from his to catch some of their lingering eyes.

Shit. . . Shit, shit, shit—

When Elaena caught the wide eyes of Sam and Helaena in the crowd, she felt herself shrink back from her upset. And then she noticed the concerned gaze of Alicent through the swarm, and she flushed in self awareness.

But even as her attention took in the various spectators, Aemond remained in focus. A chill went down her spine at the feel of his thumbs rubbing against the small of her back.

"You missed me," He stated lowly, and her eyes met his again, "Didn't you?"

He looked down to her in wonder, and she struggled to keep everyone's looming presence in mind. The manner of his lips made it difficult to put it plainly.

"Aemond, people are watching." She stressed in a whisper.

He shook his head subtly, "I don't care."

"I do." Elaena choked out before gently pushing his hands off of her.

She wasted no time in turning from him to cut through the sea of guests. Her fluster overtook her as she made for the ballroom doors, and she kept from looking back to see if he followed after her.

Making it to the hall outside of ballroom felt like a breath of fresh air. Her heart stammered in her chest, begging to burst out as she marveled at his proximity.

Cool down. Relax. They saw—Just breathe. Calm down.

She walked to the deadend of the hall, standing before its window and using the stone wall for purchase. Her cheeks were redder than the rouge on Cerelle's lips that evening, and she felt febrile in her frustration.

He had the nerve to come at me in front of everyone—Fuck.

She gritted her teeth in unrest, trying to ignore the utter thrill of his advances. She hated to admit how much she liked it, the way he hovered over her so unabashedly...

But she knew it was inappropriate, and she couldn't ignore her fear of public scrutiny. She swore to her mother she would paint a purer image for them. Not to mention what would happen if word got out to her father that she was waltzing promiscuously through the Keep.

Vaemond would kill her—

Wait. . . wait—oh.

She blinked in a sudden realization, one which sent a chill down her spine.

Oh, my. . . I'm truly startled by the thought... I no longer care for the plan... no longer wish to see it through. . .

Elaena no longer wished to simply survive. She wished to live. And she knew it was because of the man she was hiding from.

Aemond made her happy, made her feel safe and seen in ways she'd never known. He made her wish for life.

But he also made her nervous, just as when they'd been children. Why did he like her? Why had he ever?

She looked into the window to examine her troubled reflection, but she stiffened when she registered him in the glass. His lithe form stood a few paces behind her, and she shuttered at the feel of his gaze.

"I took you to be agile as a cat, sweet girl," He said softly, though his voice seemed much louder in their isolation, "Perhaps you are just as skittish?"

Enough of this shit. Elaena scoffed as frustration shot through her veins again, and she turned to face him head on.

The hall was dimly lit compared to the ballroom, and the torches' light danced across Aemond's face. His smirk was subtle, as though toying with her was effortless sport.

Elaena took a deep breath to settle her nerves, deciding to clear the thick air between them before curiosity destroyed her restraint.

"Why did you call on me this morning?" She asked directly, and he remained in his watchful stance.

Aemond slowly blinked at her, and she felt a pulse brew in her groin against her will. Her heart picked up speed as his lips curled further.

He tilted his head, "Ao gīmigon skoro syt."
(You know why)

His voice dropped to a certain timbre, and her heart stuttered when he stepped toward her. His features brightened in the torchlight as he continued.

"Nyke jeldan ao... sepār hae jaelan ao sir, Elaena."
(I wanted you... just as I want you now, Elaena)

Her stiff resolved wavered at the sound of his words, and she swallowed dryly at the rasp of his voice and the swaying of his hair.

"Se nyke pendagon... jaelā nyke tolī." He settled, taking another painstaking step toward her.
(And I think... you want me too)

Elaena stepped back into the wall, "I cannot do this, Aemond."

But he continued his approach, "You do, don't you?"

"What does it matter?"

"Answer the question."

"Aemond, we can't." She huffed at last, and he tilted his head again in intrigue.

"... We can't?" His tone was almost mocking, and her heart nearly beat out of her chest.

Her gaze flickered to the door of the ballroom and back to him, and his expression darkened in humor as he watched.

"You're nervous, my lady." He noted, fueling more of the fire in her groin.

Elaena clenched her teeth as he stepped closer, "... Stop looking at me like that."

His lips curled further, "Like what?"

For fucks sake—

She swallowed again before licking at her drying lips, "Like you wish to devour me, I cannot stand it, now stop."

It was clear she was getting more agitated but her voice was unconvincing. His smirk only grew in response, and she gritted her teeth.

"Mm..." He hummed, pausing his advance to appraise her, "Now she understands how it feels..."

Elaena blinked in confusion, "What?"

"To crumble inwardly from a simple gaze..." He explained in his saccharine voice, "When the object of your desire simply looks at you, do you understand now?"

. . . Oh, my Gods.

Once she felt her heart restart from her stunned reaction to his confession, she huffed stubbornly through her nose.

"You are not simply looking at me," She countered, "And you speak as though I meant to do that to you."

Elaena gingerly inched further towards the corner of the wall, eager to keep distance from him while he watched her intently. He was beginning to tower over her.

"Are you implying I intend to make you feel this way?" His tone remained in its dragging lowness, and she huffed again to dispel the flutters in her groin.

"Yes, Aemond," She exasperated, "You are doing it right now! Stop."

Aemond raked his eye along her unraveling form, unfazed by her order, "What have I done to you, Elaena?"

Her eyebrows quirked as she heard the false concern in his tone.

"Nothing..." He answered before trailing his gaze back to hers, "Yet."

Elaena felt her eyes prick up as a strange desperation overtook her. She didn't know if she wished to escape his looming presence or. . .

She unintentionally eyed his lean build, feeling her heart stutter at the sight of the dark brocade straining against his folded arms. The high collar kissed his jaw, black silk peeking below it and accentuating his chest.

Her heart stuttered at the realization that she rarely saw him outside of his leathers... But the formal black and silver doublet hugged his torso just as perfectly.

. . . Why does he have to look so good all the time—Stay focused.

"We should not do this." She whispered, still ogling his nearing physique.

"Do what?" He asked in false curiosity, and she breathed in as her groin ached for him.

"It is not in a gentleman's nature to play coy, Aemond." She said in a flat tone that deepened Aemond's smirk even more. He had her, and he knew it.

"I've never claimed to be a gentleman, darling."

Elaena blinked just as her mind fully deadened from his approach, and she made one final attempt to caution him.

"What if..." She struggled to focus on account of his hooded gaze, "W-What if someone catches us—what if it is not Samantha this time?"

"Let them." His voice seemed as baseless as her own, dazed one again from the sight of her. But her eyes widened at his words.

"Let them?!" She whisper-shouted, "Aemond, I am a lady!"

"And I am a prince," He breathed easily, "You think I'd let them live to tell the tale?"

He spoke so casually about the demise of a spectator. As though it would have been as easy as breathing for him, if it meant she would be safe from shame.

. . . Oh, Gods. . .

He was a step away from her, and she felt like she would truly implode.

"... Aemond—"

"Stop. Running. From me..." His tone was so slow, so soft, so sultry Elaena thought she would faint.

Especially as he grabbed her by her waist to pull her to himself.

"Ivestragī eman ao." He whispered down to her breathless form.
(Let me have you)

Her lips parted to tell him she was scared, but he leant down to claim them.

His kiss was slow, but breathtakingly deep. She gasped against him, and then heard a gentle "hush" leave his lips before he pressed her back against the wall.

Her thoughts fell silent at his command.

He tilted his head to deepen their connection, and she barely breathed while swallowing his heavy breaths. She felt his teeth nip at her bottom lip, dragging it slightly and making her gasp before he kissed her again. Trying to coax a better reaction from her.

Tingles ran down her arms and wetness pooled between her legs. The sweet passion of his touch stoked the flames inside her, and before she knew it she was grasping his face to kiss him back with deeper fervor.

"There you go..." He whispered against her lips in praise. His arms fully wrapped around her waist, and she swore she had never felt so safe in all of her life.

His large hand cupped just under her shoulder blade, holding her gently as though she was made of glass. Her hold on him could not have been more different, but he gave no indication of disliking the way she gripped the back of his hair and the fabric over his shoulders.

She had so much pent up desire, and he seemed more than willing to relieve her.

The moment Aemond parted his lips to taste her, Elaena eagerly welcomed him. But in her excitement, she leaned into his kiss and caused their teeth to clink against each other.

Before she could feel embarrassed by the effect, she heard him chuckle down to her. The sound was so sweet, so innocent, she couldn't help but giggle back at him.

"Let me," He whispered, reaching his hands up to cup her grinning face, "Let me."

As his lips lingered against hers, as he savored her kiss like the sweetest fruit, she understood he wished to lead the connection. His hands gently tilted her face further up to his, and he breathed her in as his tongue dove into her mouth again.

She melted from his touch, clinging to him as though she would slip right through his fingers. But she knew he had her as his hands trailed back around her small frame.

"I have never... felt this way... for anyone." Aemond breathed slowly against her lips, reaching up to grip the back of her twists.

She gasped as his lips left hers to drift down to her jaw and lay lazy kisses to her skin. His breath tickled her skin, and she gave a soft whine as he held her in place, breathing her in while ravishing her neck. Her privates clenched in that special way, and she struggled not to writhe under his diligent lips.

"I've been waiting..." Aemond continued in a whisper, sending shivers down her skin as he kissed on her, "So long for you..."

His words were sweet nothings in her ear, promises that licked at the flaming core in her stomach. And for the life of her, she could not believe them. She could only listen and imagine a world where they were true.

You've waited for me. . .

You've waited for me. . .

. . . I love you, I... Gods...

Aemond, how I love you...

But before she could make sense of that revelation, she felt his hand drift down her backside. Her breath caught as he licked at her neck, humming as his pillowy lips caressed her tendons and his breath fanned against her skin.

But Elaena felt her mind spark back to life as it focused on his hold on her rear.

Her heart stuttered out of its fluttering pace, and she opened her eyes in flustered confusion. Aemond continued to kiss her, seeming to believe she was frozen in bliss.

And then he squeezed at her, and his breath grew heavy as the tent in his pants poked against her groin.

But her blood ran cold while a lump grew in her throat from his touch. Her heart stuttered again before it stopped, and her fire was snuffed out.

"Mm, mm—" She heard herself whimper as she stiffened harshly and grabbed at his wrist.

The squirming of her body caused Aemond to seize his movements and pull back. His hands remained on her though, and she couldn't find a difference between his heavy touch and a familiar harsh one.

"Stop—No." Elaena stammered more intensely, her eyes glistening as she pushed at his hand.

Aemond's eyebrows furrowed in confusion, but her expression woke him up. He released her, and she pressed against the wall further in discomfort.

Elaena wouldn't meet his eye as her mind caught up to the reality, and she felt a flush spread over the whole of her body. She kept her gaze low, fully aware of Aemond's confusion just before her. But she was just as thrown.

"What..." He started, leaning back slightly to try and catch her gaze, but she wouldn't look at him.

His voice was tight and coated in concern as he watched her stand there, almost paralyzed. He reached for her instinctively, and she winced subtly.

Aemond paused his movements then, and her confounded gaze finally met his. The sight of her teary lilacs made his expression melt entirely. Even in her disconcerted state, she could see an alarmed understanding spread across his face.

So when Aemond slowly rose his hands for her to see, she knew he was showing her she was in no harm.

She felt her gaze flit about his perturbed form, partially confused by his cautiousness and partially on guard for any chance of his impulse.

"Elaena," His voice was barely a whisper, but it echoed heavily in her mind, "I'm... I'm sorry... I'm sorry."

It was the first time she'd heard him say it since they'd been children. His voice was soft as he leaned toward her again. She wouldn't breathe, but she swallowed as she watched him.

"It's alright..." He said, his voice hardening in seriousness, "I won't touch you, I swear it."

Her wide eyes dulled as she realized he was quicker to understand what was happening to her than she was. And she felt a breath of relief leave her.

He had stopped. He had stopped for her. Aemond wouldn't hurt her. Aemond was good.

"Breathe, baby, it's alright." He swore gently, and she finally let out shallow breaths through her nose. It was as though her body thawed out from the action, because suddenly she was shaking out of her stiff composure.

. . . Well, this is new.

Her heart shook even harder than her body, and she felt tears pool into her eyes as confusion clung to her. The Monster wasn't there, but it felt like he was...

Aemond lowered his hands as she breathed in to  calm herself. Blush crept up on her cheeks, and embarrassment laid on her chest. It wasn't long before the tears in her eyes slipped out, and she clenched her teeth to stay silent.

Aemond stood just as quiet, almost in awe of her state. She could tell he wished to touch her as his fingers fidgeted by his sides.

"Elaena..." He whispered hesitantly, and she shut her eyes as she heard the trepidation in his voice, "Could you tell me what happened? W-What did I do?"

She let out a breath and felt herself truly settle into the broken state she was in. She opened her shaking eyes, and as her lip quivered slightly, Aemond could tell she was struggling to explain. So he nodded and waved it off.

"Alright, that's alright," He whispered, leaning closer to her. She seemed less apprehensive to him, and he held her gaze, "May I touch you?"

His tone was patient, but she could hear the edge of desperation in it. The guilt. She breathed in again and nodded softly to him, keeping her hands over her bottom as he rose his to gently cup her face.

His thumbs wiped at her cheeks, "It's alright... It's alright, baby, I'm sorry."

Her heart squished his tenderness, and she shuttered as he leaned in to kiss her nose. He kissed her forehead as well, and her eyes fluttered shut from the soft caress of his lips.

Her heart slowed while he hovered in front of her, his breath fanning over her hairline. As she registered the safety in his air, she started to feel foolish for her abrupt reaction.

But before Elaena could part her lips to apologize to him, the doors to the ballroom opened. Aemond didn't move from his position over her, but they both looked to see Criston Cole step into the hall.

When knight turned to see the pair at the deadend, his furrowed eyebrows eased and his jaw clenched in focus. Aemond released Elaena's face as Cole approached them, and she sniffled in an attempt to hide her tears.

But they shone clear as day for Dornishman, and stoically looked to Aemond.

"Return to the ballroom, Lady Elaena." His valiant voice said softly, his gaze still hard on the prince. Aemond pursed his lips at Cole, but he did not argue.

Elaena's heart skipped at the tension brewing between the two men, and she looked up at Aemond one last time. He looked back down to her, a look of assurance on his face that made her sigh in compliance.

Aemond watched her slip away past Cole, and only when she made it back to the entrance and closed the door behind herself did the Dornish knight speak again.

"Taking after your brother, my prince?"

"Do not. Ever. Compare me to him." Aemond stated slowly, hardening his gaze as he met his trainer's.

"Can you blame me?" Criston asked tightly, "You've been quite lax as of late, from your training and your studies, I hear..."

The prince rolled his eye slightly, looking away from Cole's sharp glare.

"Is it all stemming from this... situation with Lady Elaena?" The knight pressed, and Aemond furrowed his eyebrows in annoyance.

"What concern is it of yours?"

"Quite a lot..." Cole sighed thoughtfully, "The Queen has already had two sons fall from grace, shall you add to the count?"

"Who the fuck do you think I am?" Aemond asked, meeting the knight's gaze again in blank agitation, "Of course not."

"Good. Because take it from me, these hidden moments of dark passion with the girl will get you no where."

"My moments with Lady Elaena are none of your business, nor are they anyone else's." The prince said sardonically.

"Then keep it that way." Cole stated right after, "Any boy can sway the virtue of a lady, Aemond, but a man, a true man protects it..." He took a step toward the prince, "Did I mistake you for a man?"

Aemond's expression faltered as Cole's seriousness settled in. The prince clenched his jaw, but reluctantly sighed through his nose.

"... No."

"No, what?" Cole demanded, and Aemond rolled his eye again.

"No, ser." He finally breathed, looking down the hall while Cole continued to stare him down.

"Then I'm certain you will do the right thing," The knight nodded, "And ensure the lady's reputation isn't sullied any further than it might be."

• • •

Elaena sat thoughtfully in the library the next morning, looking out the window of their cove with Spoils of War in her lap. She couldn't focus on the text for long before thoughts of the ball overtook her mind... again.

She wasn't as flustered by her and Aemond's affair as she'd been from his first kiss. Her odd reaction to his touch concerned her more. She hadn't expected her body to respond so drastically.

It made her feel strange. Abnormal.

But what also fascinated her was how Aemond had handled it. She couldn't entirely discredit the evening on account of how he'd tended to her, making her body melt back down as quickly as it had tensed.

So she was half appalled with how the moment had unfolded, and half relieved with the knowledge of his care. He was such a mystery to her, the way he treated her and waited for her... Why? Why did dote on her so? Why her?

Clearly, he had immense physical attraction for her—she was no better towards him. But that facet mostly worked to unnerve her, just as the knowledge that Vaemond had found Ophelia beautiful did.

Kepa desired her. He liked her... Is Aemond just the same with me? Perhaps Samantha was right, perhaps he covets the beauty and spice of Dornish women...

Elaena swallowed stiffly at the thought, but before her mind could unravel further, his voice cut through the silence of the space.

"Elaena..." She looked away from the window to see him standing by the shelf, looking to her in hesitation.

Elaena blushed at his timely arrival. She had half a mind to believe her thoughts had summoned him to their cove.

Her heart stuttered as she watched his nervous gaze trail over her form, and she didn't miss the slight curl of his lip as he took in the rose colored dress she wore.

He hummed at the sight, and she lowered her gaze self consciously, idling on her decision to shed her cool tones for a day.

But in doing so, she noticed the bundle of soft blue lilies in Aemond's grasp, and her mind froze in intrigue. He stepped further into the space, and she watched him approach her.

"I found these near the Godswood..." He said softly, gazing down at the flowers with her, "I thought only of you."

Elaena's eyebrows quirked as warmth filled her chest. She stood from the windowsill, and her heart skipped as he brought one of the flowers to her.

She accepted it, watching his fingers linger to touch hers.

"... That was sweet of you, zaldrīzes." She breathed, and he sighed to himself.

"The very least I could do for my behavior last night." He mumbled, setting her other flowers on the table of the space.

"Aemond..."

"I'm so..." He trailed off, breathing in before clenching his jaw in hesitation, "I should have listened to you, I should have stopped, I should not have..."

Elaena watched as he struggled for words, intrigued by them enough to refrain from cutting him off. Regardless of how uncomfortable his discomfort made her.

"I was not... myself last night," He tried slowly, "Tis no excuse, but I... I am sorry."

She looked at him softly, a bit surprised by his flustered disposition. As tense as he was, he seemed desperate to convey his regret.

Trust him.

Her heart picked up speed from the thought, hearing it repeat despite the relentless presumptions pressing her to do the opposite.

In her nervousness, she couldn't help but ask him for clarity.

"Are you..." She swallowed stiffly as she tested transparency. He waited patiently as she formulated her question, "Is it because I'm Dornish?"

Aemond's expression went blank, and she blinked at him self consciously. He blinked back before tilting his head, "What... Whatever do you mean?"

Her gaze dropped as she bit into her cheek, ignoring how foolish she felt to ask such a thing. But she needed to know.

"Dornish women, they are known to be... promiscuous... seductive." She elaborated.

Aemond's blank stare shifted to utter confusion, and Elaena sighed as it was clear he didn't understand where her interest was stemming from.

"I am not like that, Aemond," She clarified, "I-I hold my virtue in the highest regard, I will not... I will not be a paramour."

His expression slowly brightened as he registered her position. But Elaena swore she could make out a bit of relief in his reaction.

"Oh, sweet girl, no... No." He let out a sigh as he shook his head, and a light chuckle left his lips, "That has nothing to do with this."

Her eyebrows quirked as he gestured between the two of them.

"Perhaps you are... exotic," He breathed, "But it is your very essence I desire not some vile conception... I want you. Whatever form you come in, it means the very same to me, so long as your mind and soul remain..."

. . . Oh.

Elaena's heart skipped at his confession. Such a devoted telling, one made just for her... She couldn't help but drop her gaze in bashfulness.

"You are so much more than that," Aemond whispered in further assurance, stepping closer to her, "More than an idea, more than a friend, you..."

She peaked up at him as he trailed off, and then she felt a prisoner to her liquifying gaze.

"You're my favorite, too." He said.

Aemond spoke so softly, so genuinely, Elaena felt her heart expand and simmer back down to size. She breathed in, looking at the flower in her grasp and dipping her nose back into it to conceal her rising blush.

She could feel him marvel at her shyness for a moment before he hesitantly reached for her. She lowered the flower, watching his hand rise to pinch her chin, and she could not conceal her smile.

"Issi ao sȳrī?" He asked deeply, and she nodded without meeting his eyes, "Gaomagon ao kivigon?"
(Are you alright? Do you swear?)

"Kessa." Elaena nodded, slowly looking up at him as her lips curled further. Aemond stepped up to her completely then, gently cupping her face and placing a lingering kiss to her forehead.

"Good." He whispered after pulling away, his hands trailed carefully down to her arms. A chill went down her spine from his touch, and she felt comforted enough to voice her own embarrassment.

"Iksan vaoreznuni." She whispered up to him, and he furrowed his eyebrows.
(I'm sorry)

"Syt skoros, ñuha riña?"
(For what, my girl?)

Elaena felt another delicious chill echo across her skin from the possessive nature of his tone.

"I did not mean to react so... dramatically." She sighed and lowered her head. But Aemond grasped her chin again and brought her attention back up to his.

His expression was instantly serious.

"You have every right to say no to what you do not want to do." He stated, and her eyes widened. It should not have mattered a great deal. She should not have reacted the way she had. He should not have assured her it was alright.

But he did.

"Do not be sorry when I am the fool." He said softly, and Elaena furrowed her eyebrows. She wasn't comfortable hearing him apologize to her. She was not used to apologies.

"You are no fool, Aemond."

"Clearly I did something foolish."

"But you did not know." She quickly assured, and he clenched his jaw, "How could you know? I didn't..."

Gods, I wish I did... It happened out of no where, so bizarre. . .

"What happened?" Aemond asked softly, "What was it that... u-upset you?"

Her heart stuttered as her cheeks set aflame. She looked down with a nervous smile and felt his nose graze her hairline in encouragement.

"Do not be embarrassed, kēlītsos," He whispered, and she sighed, "I want you to feel safe with me, tell me."

Elaena met his gaze again as she understood the hidden promise in his words. He wanted her to feel safe for their future endeavors...

She swallowed at the softness of his eye, trying to ignore the flutters of excitement she felt in her stomach. But they blended in with the nervous chills over her skin.

She wanted to be honest with him. The subject was just as silly as it was unnerving to her. Aemond seemed to be able to tell this from her hesitance, and she caught the flicker of an idea in his eye.

"Of course, moving forward I will refrain from touching you so... licentiously, until you bid me to..." His voice dropped to that slow, core-shaking lowness she adored, and she felt his calloused fingers trail down the side of her neck.

She froze in anticipation, watching his lips while his eye followed the motion of his touch.

"But for now..." He continued, "I'd like you to show me."

His fingertips slowly caressed her collarbone, sending delightful shivers through her to caste out the nervousness. She watched him wet his lips and purse them in focus as his hand ghosted over her shoulder and down her arm.

Her gaze dropped to watch him stroke along her side, and the flower slipped from her fingers as heat drifted between her legs.

"Here?" He asked, his voice just above a whisper in her ear.

Her eyes fluttered shut, and she shook her head to him. He trailed his fingers to her front, ghosting over her stomach and hesitating just below her breast.

"Here?" He breathed, and she gasped quietly but shook her head again. He hummed, grazing his nose along hers as his hand cupped her hip.

His thumb drew circles on her hipbone, and she rested her hands against his chest. Her hooded eyes opened, meeting his dilated gaze.

Aemond puckered his lips slightly to meet hers, planting a small kiss while his hand explored her back. He then kissed the corner of her mouth, lulling her as his lips traveled gently to her jaw, down to her neck, then along her shoulder, and back up again.

She felt his hand fist the fabric just above her backside, and she stood calm, enthralled by his sweet touch.

But when he released the fabric and reached to grab her by her rear, her eyes widened as a strange itch crawled up her back. She stiffened against him, and her hand flew to his wrist before he immediately released her.

Aemond hummed thoughtfully.

"There." He stated, blinking out of his lustful daze. Her heart lurched as he nodded to himself. Then he swallowed and sighed through his nose.

"I'm sorry," He whispered, "I will not touch you there unless you tell me to."

Elaena clenched her teeth and nodded to him in agreement, but she still held his wrist as he used its hand to hug her waist. He rose an eyebrow to her in wait, and she sighed before releasing his wrist.

Aemond held her gently to himself, and she nuzzled into his shoulder in blushing wonder.

Why was it so easy to melt into him now? Was it because he was warm, solid? Because his lean frame encased her without ever hurting her? Because she felt untouchable whenever he was so close to her?

Or was it because she knew she was in love with him? She'd never felt such a thing for anyone, but she knew it to be true. A certain weight came off of her every time he looked at her, spoke to her, breathed her name.

But nothing like the weight that fled when she acknowledged something unnerving to her. It always happened with him. He desired to make her feel safe, and it was becoming difficult to hide from him.

She wished to cling to him like this forever.

Aemond rested his untainted cheek against her head, toying with the curly ends of her twists absentmindedly. Elaena felt as though she could have fallen asleep in his embrace.

"You said he was gone..." She heard him whisper after a moment, "Right after you had left Driftmark?"

Her heart stuttered, but she nodded hesitantly.

"Yes." She whispered back, feeling his arm tighten around her. His sigh blew against her neck.

"What's his name?"

"Darling, don't." Elaena said quickly, breathing in the smokey scent by his neck, "Please?"

Her eyes widened as she felt his heart stutter beneath his leather. She bit back a victorious smile, hoping the term of endearment would satiate him.

The last thing she wished to think about while in Aemond's arms was her old tutor. The day was too bright and his embrace was too comfortable for such a repulsive thought.

So she stood there toying with the flowing strands of his hair, pushing away the past for once in her life. Soon she found herself curious of Aemond's thoughts, and she pulled back to meet his hard eye.

His hold on her stiffened, as though he worried she would step away from him. But she didn't, only looking up at him quietly.

Elaena watched as his stony expression cracked from the sight of her sparkling lilacs. And when she smiled softly up at him, his eye widened slightly in awe.

Before she knew it, he was dipping down to kiss her. She felt her body immediately melt at his need, and she sighed against him as he pulled her waist impossibly closer.

Aemond breathed in deeply, as though trying to inhale her, before capturing her lips again. Her thoughts scattered, and she found herself addicted to his effect on them.

He recaptured her lips one final time, humming against them in satisfaction before he tore his mouth away. Elaena heard him sigh in bliss as she swallowed in surprise, her hands awkwardly hovering over his chest before finally settling on his shoulders.

Neither of them opened their eyes as the wave of heat continued to burn between them, and Elaena shuttered as his hands caressed her back while his nose rest against hers.

"Now." Aemond stated, and Elaena opened her eyes to see him licking his lips and nodding before meeting her gaze, "Now, I will not touch you licentiously until you bid me to."

Her eyes widened as blush erupted on her face. He remained in a daze of her, and as she eyed his kiss-swollen lips, a question rang in her mind.

"Who taught you to kiss like this?" She breathed, her mind still lingering on the taste of his lips. Like fresh sage and a whisper of mint. She loved it.

Aemond's lips quirked, "No one."

Elaena squinted at him, still feeling her heart race as he gazed down at her, "You're lying," She accused softly, shaking her head, "Who taught you?"

He smirked fully then, and she felt his thumb rub at her back tenderly.

"Did it ever occur to you that you are simply easy to kiss, hm?" He asked softly, and her heart simmered down, "I need no advice on doing what I've wanted to do for years, darling... Now, how do you explain your expertise?"

Her eyes widened at his unabashed admission, and his previous whispers echoed in her mind.

I've waited so long for you... Elaena blushed harshly as he eyed her. She hated to admit it, but she understood him entirely. Even though she became acutely aware when his lips touched hers, she didn't have to think twice to kiss him back. She wanted to.

He continued to smirk at her flushed state, and she couldn't think of a response.

Luckily, the creaking of the library door took their attention. Typically, anyone who had inhabited the library with them would have already been there, but Elaena only felt pause at the sound of nearing feet.

She stiffened in Aemond's arms, and he turned to look over his shoulder. The couple peaked outside of their space to see Sylvia's docile form standing with her hands clasped in front of her.

"The Queen requests your presence, my lady."

———

Man that PTSD be fuckin up the tour fr. For anyone who can't relate, count yourself lucky. This is one of the reasons I've played on physical touch so heavily in this story, and that slow escalation up to it. It doesn't help that Elaena is a fresh victim (her abuse ended RIGHT BEFORE she got back around Aemond,) so I didn't wanna throw her into anything too quickly.

But I also wanna give a hand to the friends she's made along the way, cuz yea this is an Aemond fanfic, but bright friendships heal wounds just as much as healthy relationships can. Nothing like a good group of friends to pull you outta bed and keep you from wasting your life away 😭 God is good.

Also LMAOOO COLE BEING THE DAD THAT STEPPED UP! Listen I have my opinions on the man, but his one redeeming quality is his relationship to Aemond (and even that is skewed in a way.) But I'm interested in the idea that Cole is protective over Elaena because she's Dornish as well. Cute shit.

What are your thoughts on the chappie? What will mama bear Alicent say to our darling girl? I'm honestly nervous my damn self, but we shall see 😁

Catch y'all in 36 😘