Page 94 of A Simple Truth

“Did you find out if she likes rose gold or platinum, or maybe she likes silver all together? Did you learn what she likes before gifting her a piece of jewelry? Or is it going to sit in her drawer, covered in dust alongside your failed advances?” Orest’s voice sounded behind me.

“I—” I swallowed. “She has multiple ear piercings and is always wearing a ton of earrings…so I thought...”

“‘Thinking’doesn’t quite apply to Destroyer men in love.” Broderick patted me on my shoulder, laughing.

“How can you be so old, yet so naïve?” Orest enjoyed this way too much as my heart thrashed in panic.

“I’m glad you are having fun at my expense.” I narrowed my eyes on both of them.

“It’s like watching something burn, you just can’t turn away from the disaster.” Broderick cackled along with my Second.

“For future reference, most women have a color preference for their jewelry.” Orest folded his arms, now looking somehow even more mature than before.

“True,” Broderick remarked. “Gia likes gold a lot more than others, she also likes “fun” colored stones, as she calls them.”

“Zora is metal only. Platinum or tungsten, with no shiny rocks,” Orest added.

“Great,” I hissed. “Now, what precious metals would I have to give you two to get you to shut up?” I scowled, unlocking the door to my room and quickly locking it behind me.

I could still hear them snickering behind the tall door before walking away, but I didn’t care. I had written a letter earlier today and had been waiting for her reply all day.

Nothing would keep me away from the poorly-scribbled lines as I pulled off my jacket, rolled up the sleeves of my shirt, and found a comfy seat on the small couch.

My eyes reread her short reply to my morning letter.

I think Zora is trying to kill me. Today, she had all of the Ten fight me. At the same time. Did I mention I fought all Ten at the same time? I don’t think I’ve ever been this exhausted before.

I scribbled the reply.

So, is it too soon to ask if you’d like to train with me again?

Ask me again in two days. I think by then I’ll either be dead or would rather train in your intoxicating presence instead. P.S. Flowers were a nice touch. Thank you.

“Flowers?” My brows bunched up in confusion. I darted my eyes to the large raven perched on the balcony. “You little rat, where are the earrings, Liriya?” I narrowed my eyes at her as she turned her head away, too unbothered to reply. Though, perhaps it worked out to my advantage.A small smile crept up my lips as I scratched the tiny bit of stubble, not caring to shave this morning.

So, hot question of the day. Precious stones or metals, which is better?I wrote.

“Subtle, Gideon…” I sarcastically mumbled to myself as I passed the half-folded paper to the bird.

I am confused. Does your stone-cold heart count?she replied, and the room filled with my wholehearted laughter. I wrote back, my lips stretched with a boyish smile.

Your jab has no power here, Finnleah. All I take from it is that you find my heart precious. And that’s the sweetest thing you’ve ever told me. So, thank you. I shall cherish your compliment forever. But only wait until you find out about my chiseled, stone-like abs. Which I think you might also find quiteprecious.

I reread my sentence. I was a fool. I shook my head, giving the paper to the bird.

A fool in love, nonetheless, as I smiled, awaiting her response.

You are delirious, General. I hope you didn’t stay up all night on my account. P.S if anything, it would be your precious, stone-like ass.

I grinned widely.

And what if I did stay up all night thinking of you?

Then I’d say you are a fool.

I’d gladly be a fool for you.

And here I thought generals were supposed to be smart.

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