The Dragon King's Heart

He was not expecting Laina to catch on so quickly. Dante quickly attempted to divert the topic of discussion to something else instead. Laina did not question any further either. 

"Is there a place you would like to visit?" Laina casually asked as she enjoyed the delicious slice of cake. 

"A place that I would like to visit?"

"Yeah, it could be a specific location. Or maybe a country. It can be anything."

Dante knew immediately where he would want to go. The Mortal Realm was vast and infinite. Gaeia was merely one of the places that exist within it. However, most inhabitants, would never have the chance to see and explore the other locations. 

But Dante had the ability to do so. 

"There's a place, known as Earth. Apparently, it has many different locations that are quite unique."

"How so?" Laina's interest was piqued. 

"It is said that there are multiple locations, suitable for couples to go and explore," Dante explained as he glanced over to Laina. 

She seemingly did not read between the lines of his statement. But what Laina said next surprised him. 

"Oh? Is it a place you've been to before with your past lover?" She asked casually as she took a sip of tea. 

The smile on Dante's face disappeared. His eyes softened as he averted Laina's gaze. He picked up his cup of coffee and took a sip. How was he going to explain it to her?

Thinking she had offended him with her question, Laina chided herself in her mind. She should have known better than to bring it up. Her curiosity had driven her into a corner. 

"I'm sorry, I don't know what got over me. You don't have to answer it if you don't want to," she quickly apologized. 

"It's alright," Dante gave her a warm smile, "Indeed, I've been there with her before."

Dante reached over and placed his hand on Laina's. She did not move away. She could feel the warmth of his hand on hers. 

"If you would be willing, Princess Laina, I would love for us to visit Earth together. I'm sure you'll love it."

"But is it not a special place for you and her?"

"It is."

"You want to share such a special place with me? Are you sure?" Laina looked into his eyes, hoping she could read his thoughts to know what he was thinking. 

She felt as if she could read his mind. Yet there were words she did not dare to speak. Questions she did not dare to ask. 

Dante chuckled as he reached over and caressed Laina on the cheek, causing her to blush, "Of course I do. You are special to me, Laina."

Laina blushed beet red, she did not know how to reply. 

"Dante, I-"

Just then, a bright flash of light caught Laina's attention. Moments later, a familiar face appeared before her. It was Kol! She had spent such a lovely time with Dante that she had completely forgotten about her personal bodyguard. 

Before she could speak, the strong scent of blood caught her attention immediately. Tracing the source, Laina gasped in shock when she realized Kol had a long gash along his arm. 

"Kol! Are you alright?" She asked, concerned for his well-being. 

Dante let out a sigh. He gave Kol a quick glance before picking up his cup of coffee to take a sip. A special moment with Laina came and went. Just like that. 

-I need to savor every last one of them.- he said to himself. 

"I'm alright, master. I mean Laina. I had trouble finding you so it took a while. Are you alright?" He asked. 

She could hear him breathing heavily. Realizing something was terribly wrong, Laina noticed the seal on Kol's chest was bleeding too. Laina realized what was happening. 

Their master and servant contract dictated that if Kol was not given any specific orders or tasks, he is to be within a short distance away from Laina at all times. When Dante took Laina out of the palace to come to the cafe, they were far apart. 

As a result, the seal on Kol's chest activated. 

"Kol, we need to get you back to Kinshearth. You need medical attention. We need to get you a healer," Laina declared. 

She turned back to Dante. She wanted to stay with him and continued their date. But she knew it would not be possible. Just as she was about to apologize to Dante, he stopped her from doing so. 

He got up from his seat and walked over to her. He gently wrapped his arms around her reassuringly. His embrace felt so familiar and calming. Has it always been this way?

"Don't worry, my princess. I understand. We can continue our date at another time. I'll bring you all back to Kinshearth," Dante said reassuringly. 

"When will I see you again?" 

As soon as the words left her lips, Laina realized what she had just said. They came out so naturally, it felt right. But she could not help but wonder; did it make her sound desperate?

Dante was a little surprised by Laina's question, but it was even more difficult for him to hide his joy in hearing it. He wrapped his arms around her waist just a little tighter, bringing their bodies even closer together. 

"Any time. Any place. You can always contact me using the necklace and so will I."

Dante leaned in and kissed Laina gently on the forehead. He did not care what other people were thinking or if they were looking. Kol simply stood there, watching them. It was easy to tell that neither of them wanted to let the other go. 

Upon returning to Kinshearth, Laina bid Dante farewell. It was easy to see that she was reluctant to see him leave. Dante wanted to stay in Kinshearth for a while longer too, but could not find the right excuse to do so. 

But he knew he did not need to worry. There would be plenty more opportunities for him to come looking for Laina. Remembering the places he had visited on Earth, Dante decided to plan something special for Laina and him. 

Everything would be just right.