Spring Knight: Young Adult Romance Novella (A Seasons of Change Standalone)

by Mia Hoddell

  Kayleigh laughed at the truth. Ellie was one of the most loyal people she knew.

  “So are you in?” They were both lying on their side, neither paying attention to the movie as Aiden waited for her answer. She bit down on her lip, considering whether it was smart; it wasn’t.

  “Kayleigh, you can trust me. I’d never do anything to hurt you.” His fingertips brushed her arm lightly, leaving a tingling trail behind.

  “Are you sure this is what you want? I can’t let you in only for you to decide it wasn’t right after a few weeks.”

  “I’m positive. You’re all I think about … have been since that night in the bar when Ellie met Justin for the first time. I know it’s taken me a while to act on it, but I had to be sure. I knew you were special and I didn’t want to mess it up.”

  That statement shocked her, she thought he hadn’t noticed her then.

  “Yes or no, Kay? It’s your choice. But, just so you know, if you don’t agree, I won’t stop trying to win you over … and I always win.”

  Somehow he had managed to shift them closer together without her noticing. When she looked up, his face was the only thing in her eye line. Being consumed in his presence was making it hard to think straight. Confidence radiated from him as well as a powerfulness that kept her from lowering her gaze. His cologne was the only thing she could breathe in as she drew her lip between her teeth.

  “Okay, yes.” She nodded her head slightly, as if her words weren’t clear.

  “You sure?” His head moved closer to hers. Lying on the bed, she gazed up at him, swallowing heavily when he moved to hold himself over her. A hand brushed up her neck and across her cheek, pulling a strand of hair from her eyes. He parted her legs with his knee, settling between them and allowing his body to cover hers.

  “Yes.” She wasn’t sure how he heard the words that were barely a whisper, but within seconds he closed the distance between them. Her arms moved of their own accord, her fingers scraping along his back and holding him against her as their mouths moved as one. She parted her lips, allowing his tongue to slip into her mouth, and he let out a groan. The deep rumble that came from the back of his throat would have made her knees weak had she been standing, and it ignited a spark within her.

  Aiden drew her bottom lip between his, sucking and gently nipping. It brought a small whimper of pleasure from her, and he moved his face to kiss the hypersensitive spot behind her ear.

  “I promise this will work, Kayleigh. I swear I won’t mess it up,” he murmured against her neck in between kisses.

  “I trust you.”

  With another groan, Aiden pulled himself from her reluctantly. Widening the gap between them, he placed his arms on either side of her head, and she gazed up at him in confusion. His lips were a deeper red than usual and slightly swollen when he grinned at her.

  “We should stop.”

  “Why?” Kayleigh already knew they should, but she wanted to tease him a little. She let her hands slip under the back of his shirt, running her fingers across his taut, strong muscles. He tensed at the feeling, shutting his eyes and mouthing something that looked as if it were ‘give me strength’.

  “Kay, I really want to take this slow with you … but if you keep doing that I’m not going to be able to control myself.”

  Kayleigh thought for a second about continuing and playing dumb to what he was talking about, but it was fleeting. She didn’t want anything to happen between them just yet; it wasn’t a step she was ready for. Removing her hands, she placed them on the bed beside her. “Sorry.” She glanced down, an overwhelming feeling of embarrassment at her actions surging through her. Tucking her chin into her neck, she tried to avoid his eyes.

  A finger traced her jaw, finding her chin as Aiden pulled her face back up. “You don’t ever have to apologise for being like that with me. I want you, Kayleigh, but I want you to fully trust me first.”

  “I do,” she replied automatically, but he could read her face well.

  “You don’t, but that’s okay. I’ll prove to you I’m serious.” Rolling off her, he pulled her against his side so her head was lying on his chest. The rise and fall as he breathed, the sound of his heartbeat, and his fingers twisting in a few strands of her hair were relaxing. Wordlessly, they both started to watch the movie, neither of them wanting to ruin the moment by speaking.

  * * * *

  Aiden awoke the next morning to find Kayleigh still asleep beside him. Curled up and facing him, she looked incredibly peaceful as she breathed in slowly, a small smile on her face. Lifting himself up so he was leaning on his elbow, he studied her. He didn’t know how he’d done it, but he could finally say Kayleigh was his. The thought used to scare him, but allowing himself to think it now only brought a smile to his face. There was a minute grain of fear implanted in his mind at the thought of losing her or messing up, but there was no doubt she was the one for him. He’d known it for a while, he just hadn’t been ready to admit it. “Why are you staring at me?” Kayleigh mumbled, turning her face into the pillow and dragging her legs up to her chest like curling up would block everything out. Aiden laughed as she tried to bury herself in the bed, still half asleep.

  “Because I want to. I like watching you, you look peaceful.”

  “Stop it.”

  “Nope, I like it.”

  “But why? It’s annoying.”

  “Because you’re pretty.”

  “Shu—up,” her words, muffled by the pillow came out slurred, but he got the message and laughed again. Suddenly, she flew up, ripping the duvet off both of them as she eyed him suspiciously. “Wait, you think I’m pretty?”

  Aiden didn’t miss a beat. “You’re gorgeous.” He placed a kiss on her nose, her face relaxing as he did so.

  “Why don’t you go have a shower and I’ll get breakfast? Then we can hit the road.”

  She nodded, rolling out of the other side and grabbing the towel she’d left to dry the night before. Aiden couldn’t keep his eyes off her as she walked around him.

  “Stop staring at my ass, Aiden,” she called over her shoulder and his gaze snapped to her face with a lazy smile.

  “You’re my girlfriend, I’m allowed to stare. And it’s not my fault those shorts are practically an invite.” He tried the name out, surprised at how natural it felt and sounded.

  “Hmm ... I like the sound of that. But if you think these shorts are an invite, I don’t know what you’ll think of my others.”

  Kayleigh disappeared into the shower, leaving him to swallow a few times since his mouth was suddenly dry. He didn’t know where her sudden burst of confidence had come from, but his mind was now only filled with Kayleigh in different outfits, some more daring than others. Shaking his head, he tried to force the images of Kayleigh from his mind, but nothing worked. Deciding he needed a cold shower, he headed back to his room and dived straight under the icy stream of water in his own en-suite.

  Heading down the stairs after her shower, Kayleigh paused when she heard voices in the kitchen. She recognised Aiden’s instantly and despite telling herself she shouldn’t spy, she was too curious to stop herself when her name came up. “We’re taking it slow, Mum. I want her to know she’s different ... that she means something.”

  “Well, I can’t say that’s not nice to finally hear. It’s about time you started thinking about the future.”

  “Mum, I’m only twenty-one and Kayleigh’s twenty, we’re not thinking that far ahead!” she heard Aiden groan and her cheeks flushed. A few weeks ago that statement would have made her feel rejected and insecure, but now she had to agree with Aiden. She knew he wanted her, but they were taking everything one step at a time.

  “You will be, I can see it in your eyes when you look at her.”

  There was a sound of pans being moved and Ellie heard her stomach rumble. Tensing, she waited to see if either of them noticed.

  “Oh, don’t mix the food on Kayleigh’s plate, she likes it separate.”

  Stunned at t
he comment, Kayleigh decided to announce her presence. “How did you know that?” Walking into the kitchen, she noticed Aiden jump at her words. He was leaning on the counter top, his back to her as his mum loaded plates with pancakes and fruit. She moved into his arms when he held them out. Burying her head in his shirt, she hugged him tightly, but thankfully he didn’t kiss her in front of his mum … no matter how much she wanted it.

  “How much did you hear?”

  They were interrupted by Cole speeding into the room, leaving muddy tracks over the floor as Aiden’s dad followed closely behind. He headed straight for the food, but Sue got to it first, pulling it out of reach.

  “That’s Kayleigh’s and you don’t get yours until you wash your hands.”

  Cole groaned but ran out of the room as Aiden led her over to the table, keeping her hand in his. Sue placed the food in front of them, but Kayleigh couldn’t eat. “Um ... Aiden?” He looked up, fork paused near his mouth. “I kind of need my hand back.”

  He released his grip instantly with a cheeky expression. Both of his parents laughed and Kayleigh lowered her gaze in embarrassment. “You didn’t answer my question.”

  “Neither did you.”

  “I didn’t hear much, just a few sentences,” she evaded. “Now, how do you about my food?”

  “Because I’ve watched you eat. You’ve never mixed things on your plate. Why?”

  Kayleigh shrugged, picking up a piece of pancake. “I don’t know, I’ve always done it. I like to taste things individually.” Thankfully, she was saved from any more awkward questions by Cole’s reappearance.

  “Can we go check on the frog later, Aiden?” Cole asked around a mouthful of food.

  “I’m sorry, buddy, we’re heading back as soon as Kayleigh’s finished. We have things waiting for us. I promise I’ll be back soon.” Cole’s face fell, but he nodded, obviously used to the routine.

  “Why so soon?” Sue asked, turning to start the dishes.

  “We have to get back for rehearsals, and the performance is on Tuesday so I don’t want to be tired from travelling.” Aiden took Kayleigh’s hand again after she’d put down her fork.

  “You do realise we’re expecting tickets, right?” His mum placed her hands on her hips and gave Aiden a stern look. His face drained of all colour.

  “I think they’re all sold out … right, Kay? I mean, it is really close to opening night.”

  She wanted to stick to Aiden’s story, not missing the emphasis, but at the sight of Sue’s face falling, she couldn’t lie. She also thought it’d be fun to get Aiden back for all of the teasing. “Actually, I can get a few, which is a perk of being vice. If you just let me know the date and numbers, I’ll sort it out.”

  She tried to hold back her laughter when she caught Aiden’s glare. He pulled her up out of her seat, leading her to the door and swinging an arm around her shoulder as Sue shouted the information. With his lips near her ear, his breath sent a shiver down her spine as he spoke, his voice low but jovial. “You are going to pay for that later.”

  CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

  Aiden followed Kayleigh back to her room when they arrived. The drive hadn’t taken long, and Kayleigh had only just thrown her bag on to her bed when Aiden picked her up. Squealing, she wrapped her legs around his waist as her back came into contact with the wall. His lips found hers, urgent and filled with longing while he pressed her hard into the plaster. “Are you regretting telling my parents yet?” he asked against her lips.

  “Not one bit.” She snuck in a brief smile before Aiden brought his mouth back down on to hers with even more force. “What about if I stop doing this?”

  “I’d survive.” She tried to appear nonchalant as he held his face centimetres from hers, but failed. Her voice cracked, raspy with desire.

  Aiden pulled back to study her. “Is that a challenge?” He smirked and raised an eyebrow. The constant gaze caused Kayleigh to gulp. She knew you never challenged Aiden to do anything, just like Ellie.

  “No, I wouldn’t dream of challenging you to anything.” She moved to kiss him, but he leaned back.

  “Sure?” He looked like he was enjoying himself too much as he moved further away.

  Kayleigh nodded, sliding down him so her feet were back on the floor. “Should we tell the cast about us?”

  “I think they already know, but I don’t mind.” He lay back on her bed, his arms behind his head. “Come here.”

  Kayleigh laughed and rolled her eyes. “Get up. We need to leave or Adam is going to throw a fit. In fact, he probably will when he hears about this anyway.”

  That got his attention. Sitting up straight, Aiden watched her. “What’s it to do with him?”

  “He thinks you’re going to leave me and the show will be ruined.”

  “Well, he’s wrong.”

  “Yeah, he doesn’t like being wrong. I can’t wait until this term’s over and we get to vote for a new president.”

  Aiden’s arms were suddenly around her waist, his chest pressed against her back as his chin rested on her shoulder. “Let’s go irritate the ass then.”

  * * * *

  Walking into the P.A.C., Kayleigh couldn’t help but think the transformation was unbelievable. She always loved the first glimpse of the final set, especially when it was in full swing with lighting and music as people rehearsed. Her tower was to her right, the detail on the painted bricks with ivy crawling up it striking. There were also rostra piled on top of each other, creating various levels, and gauze separated them. This way, with clever lighting they could hide parts of the set without having to move anything. As well as that, more ivy trailed everywhere, combined with purple and orange flowers. It had been hung from the ceiling like a curtain, on the railings of the seating, and blended so that it fit with the material background that had been printed to look like the countryside. Joined with the warm lighting, it all looked rather professional and threw her into the fairy tale. “Wow, you lot don’t hold back, do you?” Aiden’s mouth hung open as he took in the sight.

  “I forgot you’ve never been to a show before. It’s magical, isn’t it?”

  He was stunned, his eyes flicking from one aspect to another. “I’ll say. I thought it’d be some slap-dash production ... not this.”

  “Nice to know you had so much faith in us,” a sneering voice came from behind them. “I see you’re not bored of her yet.” They both turned to see Adam glaring at Aiden’s arm that tightened on Kayleigh’s waist.

  “Thin ice, Adam. I won’t give you another warning.” Aiden’s voice was tense with restrained anger. It sent a shiver down her spine, feeling deadly.

  “Why? Are you going to go all white knight on me and save Kayleigh? Didn’t think that was your style.”

  Sensing Adam was about to be on the receiving end of Aiden’s fist, she pulled him away. It wasn’t for Adam’s sake, rather she didn’t want Aiden to get in trouble. “Ignore him, he’s trying to wind you up.”

  “It’s working.” His teeth were grinding together.

  “Leave it,” she hissed, before turning to Adam. “Full run through, right?”

  Adam nodded and stalked off, leaving them to head to the dressing rooms to change into their costumes. They were all, thankfully, modern due to the contemporary and dark take on the play. Kayleigh’s satin dress was floor length, and made from emerald green material. It had a slight V at the front, a low back, and hugged her figure. The accessories were kept to a minimum due to the fact they could get in the way, and she quickly braided her hair into an over the shoulder plait. It would be done professionally on the night, but it’d be fine for rehearsal.

  She was exiting the changing room when she noticed Adam striding towards her. His face was full of anger and he looked dangerous. Wanting to avoid him, Kayleigh moved to slip back into the dressing room, but Adam was too quick. Grabbing her wrist, he spun her back towards him, pushing her into the wall and trapping her with his arms and body.

  “What the hell do you think you�
�re doing?” She was proud her voice came out strong and steady. Her mouth was dry and her heart pounding from anger.

  “I warned you not to take things further with Hanson. I told you to step out of the race, but you didn’t listen.” He had her arms pinned at her side, his grip painfully tight.

  “You can’t threaten me, Adam. I’m entitled to do what I want. It’s not my fault people don’t like you.” She probably shouldn’t have added the last line. Before she saw it coming, he slapped her across the cheek, the crack deafening in the small alcove. She tried to move her hand to hold her face, but Adam had her wrist back in his.

  “You stupid bitch. You’re not entitled to anything. You’re just a—” Adam was suddenly wrenched from her by the back of his neck. In the next second the roles were reversed, Aiden pinning him against the opposite wall by his throat.

  “Sure you want to finish that sentence?”

  Adam remained silent, smartly. Despite wanting Aiden to hit him, she couldn’t allow it. “Aiden, don’t hurt him, it’s not worth the trouble it’ll cause for you.”

  “He’s not going getting away with that, Kay. He hit you.” Anger flowed from Aiden. Not once did he take his eyes off Adam.

  “Yes he did, but I have a better idea. One that won’t drag you into the mess.”

  “I don’t care about being involved, he laid a hand on you! I should get the whole rugby squad here to teach him how to treat a woman.”

  “Like you know how to treat a woman,” Adam snorted incredulously, but quickly shut up when Aiden applied more pressure to his throat.

  “Aiden, please, for me. He’s not going to get away with it, all right? Just bring him with me.” She watched Aiden’s jaw tense, not happy with the situation. Regardless, he released his hold and spun Adam so that his wrists were locked together in one hand. “Try anything and even she won’t stop me.”

  Adam’s face was pale as Aiden led him out of the dark alcove and through the room. Kayleigh tried to ignore all of the stares and whispers but it was hard. A few people started to shout at Adam, but none of them rose to the comments. She planned to get her own back the right way.