Aqualina Naiadia's POV
'Slap'
M-My body froze as Aether's palm connected with my cheek. Shock and anger coursed through me, leaving me momentarily speechless.
'Drip'
I couldn't comprehend what had just happened, and before I could react, a single tear rolled down Aether's cheek. His voice, normally warm and reassuring, now carried a tone of stern resolve as he said, "You stay here!! Got it!!" His words were sharp.
My head subconsciously nodded in response.
"G-Good," Aether managed a faint smile, though his eyes were filled with tears and regret. He reached out as if to touch my reddened cheek, but hesitated, his hand trembling.
"I... I... ahem..." His voice faltered, his smile strained and pained. "Punish me after... Princess, I am here for you, so don't worry!" He moved closer as if to embrace me, but I instinctively flinched and stepped back involuntarily, unable to comprehend the complexity of emotions swirling within me.
