Mated To The Cruel Prince
Chapter 286: Eli Was Full Of Surpises

Chapter 286: Eli Was Full Of Surpises

"Awkward", was the only word Islinda could use to describe their quiet ride in the carriage. Since Eli’s admission that this was a date, her traitorous heart wouldn’t calm down and there was a flutter of butterflies in her stomach.

To make it worse, Eli still had her hand in his and kept caressing the top of her palm, stirring strange feelings inside of her. She had tried pulling her hand free all to no avail. So when the carriage finally stopped, she attempted to resolve the situation by being the first to step out so he would have no choice but to let go.

However, even when she moved, Eli was quick to tug her back, "I can’t help but notice you’re in a hurry for this date, princess." He said with a knowing look.

He knew what he was doing. Damn him.

Islinda gave him a smile that did not touch her eyes, rubbing her stomach, "I guess I can’t wait to taste the dishes outside the castle." She claimed.

Eli did not retort, letting her have the last word this time however he shook his head amused when she wasn’t looking. The both of them trekked on while their carriage departed, although Islinda knew the horses would return when summoned. The Fae realm has taught her that everything is possible.

Maximus did not ride along with them for the same reason Eli was hiding his identity. Although the horse shifter would be more glad to be in Issac’s arms than be a third wheel on their date. Hence aside from Islinda, no one else could tell the dark Fae prince was walking amongst them hence chaos would have ensued already and the marketplace would be emptied.

They walked through the marketplace where magic and commerce converged. The bustling hub draws buyers and sellers from all corners of the Faerie realm to buy and trade goods and services. It is situated in a clearing, surrounded by tall, ancient trees that form a natural canopy overhead.

The ground was supposed to be lush with greenery, but it was hardened by frost, and thanks to the lord, it did not snow today and hamper the activities of the Faeries, evident of Aldric being in a good mood. Well, Eli to be precise. Not that anyone knew that.

The scent of wildflowers, herbs, and spices wafted into her nose and Islinda relished the smell with her eyes closed. Freedom, albeit a temporary one, had never felt so good. Her eyes opened in surprise when she felt Eli intertwine their fingers, her brows raising at the action yet she said nothing. Inwardly, a warm feeling washed over Islinda especially as he began to swing their intertwined hands while they walked leisurely like they had no problems in this world and tonight was just about the both of them.

Perhaps, she should do just the same. Islinda could enjoy her date tonight knowing everything would change tomorrow. She could leave Eli with good memories even if she would betray his trust in the end. Perhaps, it was selfish of her, but there was no other choice.

Brightly painted stalls, draped in colorful fabric and glittering with gemstones, were set up in a haphazard manner in the marketplace, giving the impression of a chaotic yet beautiful collision of worlds. They finally arrived at their destination which was a small shack amid the stalls and Islinda’s face fell in disappointment at the primitive structure.

Because of his status as a prince, Islinda had expected Eli would take her somewhere fancy and high-end, not this run-down restaurant. Even her house in the human realm was better looking in appearance than this. Nonetheless, Eli must have his reasons, so she trusted him.

Its entrance was a small door surrounded by ominous thorns intertwined with blood-red flowers. It was creepy. She didn’t want to be here. However, Eli grabbed the metal round ring latch decoration handle fitted on the door and pulled only for a bright light to assault her eyes.

Islinda had no choice but to shield her eyes with the back of her hand but when it receded and she took in the scene, her jaw dropped to the ground. No way. This time she let go of Aldric’s hand and left through the door, moving back to admire the shack with a horrified expression.

She then pulled the latch and stepped into the magnificent dining hall that sparkled with magical fairy light. No wonder, it nearly blinded her at first.

How was this possible?

Islinda shut the door and repeated the same gesture, however, the result was still the same.

Eli was at the corner watching her with an expressionless face.

"No, this can’t be real." Islanda was about to shut the door in his face and confirm this was not a trick of the eye once more when his hand shot out and grabbed the door.

"That’s enough princess," He said, subtly tilting his head to the side and Islinda followed his line of sight only to realize that every Fae in the restaurant was staring at her. Oh yes, about a hundred eyes were trained on her.

Kill her.

Islinda went red with embarrassment, wishing there was a magical seat that could eject her out of there right now. Perhaps, leaving was the best thing to do at this point. She had merely taken a step back when Eli’s hand wrapped around her waist and he pulled her to his side.

She lifted her eyes to him and he held it, saying, "Yes, just like this, stare at my handsome face only."

Islinda was struck awed at his unexpected charisma, unable to form words to speak. He was so cool, how didn’t she realize until now? Just like that, Aldric walked her to their seat made out of tree trucks and decorated with leaves and flowers and they settled down.

The service was exceptional, because a Fae waitstaff, dressed in flowing gowns and adorned with sparkling jewelry and flower crowns, approached their table with effortless grace almost immediately. And while Eli spoke with the Fae, Islinda couldn’t help but stare at him with fascination in her eyes.

He was kind of full of surprises.