Henry excused himself as soon as Alessandra bursted into the stables. The two deserved to have a little bit of privacy. What was obvious to him was curiously imperceptible to the two.

Adrian turned towards Alessandra. The look on his face was obviously troubled. He seemed to have too many things in his mind that he forgot all about the awkwardness he felt because of the kisses he shared with Alessandra the night before. He looked at her and for a brief second, everything seemed so clear. She was important to him. And today, this moment, might be the last that he would see her. He stepped towards her and surprisingly pulled her into his arms. [color=00aeef]"Take care of yourself. I... will be back in a month. I'll try to come back in one piece,"[/color] his voice was strangely calm and gentle. He held her for a few more seconds longer. And then the moment passed. He released her and was the confident crown prince again. He gave her a grin. [color=00aeef]"Came to see me off, after all, huh? I thought Hye Jin had gotten to you too much. Do not mind her."[/color]