Chapter Twenty-three

   I wake up early the next morning heading quickly out the castle to meet Flavius and Neron at the gates. Reaching the gates, I stand fidgeting impatiently until I finally see them, covered with the vibrant glow of the early morning sun. My eyes are immediately drawn to Flavius, today his dark curls are hanging loosely on his shoulders. He is wearing brown leather pants with a white open-collared shirt tucked into them. I cannot help but admire the way his shirt strains against his body with every step.   

    As he gets closer, I notice a sword, wrapped in a thick brown cloth attached to his back. In a moment of excitement, I rush to meet them halfway practically skipping as I walk. I stand mere inches from Flavius, his body heat warming me to my very core. Letting out a shaky breath, I look up into his