The Duke and Duchess had been unusually eager that evening. Sho barely had a chance to protest before his parents had already arranged his room.
> Sho, dear, the Duchess said, smoothing out the blankets on his bed with an exaggerated flourish, you'll be far more comfortable sleeping on the floor tonight. Don't worry, we made plenty of room.
> Father… Mother… Sho started, his face flushed, I can manage just fine…
> Nonsense! the Duke interrupted, chuckling, This is a special guest. You will make sure she's comfortable, young man. You've no choice!
Sho groaned quietly as Liyana stood near the bed, a small, amused smile on her face.
> Looks like your parents don't take no for an answer, she whispered softly, crimson eyes sparkling.
Sho shook his head, sighing in resignation.
> I guess I don't, he muttered, lowering himself onto a cushion on the floor beside the bed.
The Duchess and Duke left the room after giving Sho a teasing grin, leaving the two alone. The soft lamplight cast a warm glow, and the quiet of the night settled in, broken only by their gentle breathing.
Liyana perched on the edge of the bed, curling slightly under the blankets. She glanced down at Sho, who was awkwardly trying to find a comfortable spot on the floor.
> You're… really sleeping on the floor? she asked, voice teasing but soft.
> Seems I don't have a choice tonight, Sho replied with a faint smile, but I guess I can survive.
Liyana laughed lightly, the sound gentle and melodic, filling the room.
> You're persistent… even in small things like this.
Sho looked up at her, meeting her crimson eyes.
> I guess… some things are worth it, he said softly. Even if it's just sharing a quiet night with you.
Her gaze softened, and she shifted slightly on the bed, the blankets curling around her like a silver-white glow.
> Sho… she began, a rare vulnerability in her voice, thank you for tonight. I've… never felt someone care like this for me.
Sho felt his chest tighten, and he smiled gently.
> You don't have to thank me. I just… want to be with you. Even if it's just for a night.
Liyana tilted her head, crimson eyes reflecting the lamplight.
> I like that… she whispered softly. You make things feel… warm.
Sho shifted slightly on the floor, leaning closer toward the bed, careful not to overstep, yet wanting to stay near her.
> I'm glad… he murmured.
A soft silence fell between them, comfortable and intimate. Liyana's usual playful smirk softened into a tender smile, her eyes reflecting a warmth she hadn't let anyone see in centuries.
> Sho… she whispered again, I think I could get used to this.
Sho's smile deepened, and for the first time in his life, he felt completely at peace, sharing a quiet moment with someone who had teased, challenged, and now quietly captivated him.
Outside, the estate was silent, but inside that room, under the warm glow of lamplight, two hearts quietly began to grow closer, unspoken yet undeniably connected.