Throughout the rest of the day, Izzy followed Alex and Annie as they went around the village, shopping and meeting the townspeople. Every second she saw Annie pressed tightly against Alex made her feel angry and the necklace underneath her clothing became heavier.
“Have I not taught you anything, Izzy?” Timothy asked disappointed. “Your fists are clenched and you reek of anger and jealousy.”
Timothy was worried for Izzy but he knew the only way to approach this situation was to be harsh on her. It would be the only way to snap her out of the anger that was consuming her. He needed her to focus or else it won’t be forever until someone notices her attraction towards Alex.
“I’m sorry,” Izzy whispered, looking down to the ground to hide the shame she felt. Her feelings were getting in the way of her duty and if it continued, it would be the end of her.
“I saw him give you the necklace around your neck,” Timothy said, annoyed. Why would Alex do that when he knew it would only cause more problems for Izzy? Wasn’t getting married to another woman enough torture for Izzy to endure? His anger for his friend raged inside of him and he was confused about his feelings.
Why was he so protective of Izzy? She was only a good friend and student, he reminded himself. There was just not enough space and time for anyone in his complicated life right now but the thought still lingered.
“It means nothing to me. I got it all figured out,” Izzy said bravely. She knew if she pushed herself, she would succeed in forgetting him.
“Do you honestly think you are going to fool me, Izzy?” Timothy scoffed, offended by how easily she was trying to lie.
“I said I got it figured out,” Izzy hissed, walking closer to Alex and Annie so Timothy wouldn’t have a chance to speak to her but he pulled her back.
“Don’t you dare lie to me Izzy,” Timothy hissed back. “Especially not you.” Hurt and betrayal crossed his eyes.
“Honestly, I don’t know what to think these days Timothy,” Izzy said irritated. “It doesn’t even matter anyways because I would die before anything happens.”
“You do fancy him!” Timothy exclaimed but soft enough that only they could hear. His heart dropped but maybe it was for the best. This way he didn’t have to think about it anymore. It was a lost cause anyways.
“Is that all you care about? Do you not care about the threat that’s hanging over my head?” Izzy cried angrily.
“Of course I care about you, Isabelle!” Timothy said frustrated.
“Well you aren’t showing it,” Izzy said before leaving his side to catch up to the royal couple.
Timothy cursed. He didn’t mean to make things bad between them and it hurt him that she fancied Alex. Timothy jogged up to the three of them, walking side-by-side with Annie, watching for any danger that might be lurking.
“I think I am ready to go. I did everything I needed today. Are you ready Annie?” Alex asked, smiling a little. Timothy grimaced as he heard the little meaning in his speech. Izzy seemed to notice too and he had to repress from scowling at Izzy’s transparency.
“Yes, I am quite spent for the day,” Annie sighed, wrapping her arms around Alex’s waist. Timothy caught Izzy looking straight at him and he saw how the scene was affecting her. Immediately she looked elsewhere, giving the couple a moment alone.
The carriage ride home was quiet but not peaceful. There was an unmarked tension in the carriage between Timothy and Izzy but it was ignored by Annie who was having much too fun to give any second thought.
Izzy heard the sound of them kissing but managed to keep a straight face. Anger coarsed through her. She wasn’t angry at Alex but at herself. It was ridiculous that she could fancy someone who is kissing another right in front of her eyes. It was a fool’s dream to even think about any possibilities. She knew she had to let go.
The carriage slowed down as they approached the palace. Someone opened the door and they all stepped out to greet the two smiling kings who welcomed them back home.
“You all must be tired from a day in town. I suggest everyone to retire for the day,” King John said, watching four young men and women looking at him gratefully, each with a different expression on their face. Annie had a smug face while linking arms with Alex while Alex had regret in his eyes. Timothy stood with no emotion as usual but when King John’s eyes met Izzy’s, he immediately knew something was wrong. Something was bothering her as it did before when they had talked.
However, Izzy only bowed to both kings before leaving to her own bedchamber. King John’s pity was sent out to her and he, himself, retired back just as he told everyone.