Chapter 7

The next day, Adeline and Sebastian joined Dr. Lee's team on an expedition into the adjacent jungle, a realm of breathtaking beauty. As they ventured deeper, the team spent the entire day gathering valuable information on ancient herbs and essential plants.

Adeline was engrossed in capturing photographs of the diverse flora and meticulously documenting their properties and uses. Meanwhile, Sebastian found himself captivated by a different subject altogether.

He couldn't help but gaze at Adeline, mesmerized by her enthusiasm and dedication. In his eyes, she shone brighter than the lush surroundings, her beauty transcending the natural wonders around them.

As Adeline meticulously recorded every detail, Sebastian's attention remained fixed on her, his gaze following her every move. He watched as she effortlessly navigated the dense undergrowth, her camera clicking away.

To Sebastian, the world seemed to fade into the background, leaving only Adeline's radiant presence. Her laughter echoed through the jungle, a melodic symphony that filled his heart with joy.

Dr. Lee's team worked tirelessly, collecting samples and data, but Sebastian's focus remained on Adeline, admiring her passion and expertise.

She clicked away on her camera, and Adeline sensed Sebastian's gaze upon her. She felt a flutter in her chest, a warmth spreading through her veins. His eyes seemed to hold a depth she couldn't quite fathom.

"Is he watching me?" she wondered, her mind racing with possibilities.

Adeline's cheeks flushed, but she didn't dare meet his gaze. Instead, she focused on capturing the perfect shot.

Sebastian couldn't tear his eyes away from Adeline. Her passion for photography, her dedication to her craft, and her infectious laughter all captivated him.

He admired how her eyes sparkled when she framed a shot and how her hair danced in the gentle breeze.

In that moment, Sebastian realized his feelings for Adeline went beyond gratitude and friendship.

"Am I falling for her?" he asked himself.

Just then, Dr. Lee called out to Sebastian, his voice filled with excitement. "Sebastian, come take a look at this!"

Sebastian walked over to Dr. Lee, who was kneeling beside a peculiar-looking plant with broad, velvety leaves.

"Recognize this one?" Dr. Lee asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Sebastian's gaze narrowed as he examined the plant. "Ah, yes! This is 'Nirbhedra' – a rare herb prized for its medicinal properties."

Adeline's eyes widened. "What kind of properties?"

Sebastian's eyes lit up. "In ancient times, Nirbhedra was used to treat various ailments—fever, rheumatism, and even snake bites."

Dr. Lee nodded. "That's right! The tribal communities around here still use it in their traditional remedies."

Sebastian's hands gently touched the leaves. "The leaves contain compounds that reduce inflammation and combat infection."

Adeline's camera clicked away, capturing every detail. "How did people use it?"

Sebastian's eyes took on a faraway look. "They'd crush the leaves, mix them with water, and apply the paste to the affected area."

Dr. Lee added, "Or they'd boil the roots to create a tea, which would help bring down fever."

As Sebastian spoke, Adeline felt captivated by his knowledge and passion.

"Sebastian, you're a treasure trove of information," Dr. Lee chuckled.

Sebastian smiled humbly. "Just sharing what I've learned from my studies and the tribal elders."

The group stood in awe, surrounded by the lush jungle, as Sebastian's words brought the past alive.

Adeline listened to Sebastian's insightful explanations; she couldn't help but feel a deep admiration for his expertise.

"His knowledge is astounding," she thought. "The way he weaves together ancient traditions and modern understanding is truly remarkable."

Adeline's gaze lingered on Sebastian's profile, noticing the way his eyes sparkled when discussing the plant's properties.

"There's more to him than meets the eye," she mused. "A depth, a richness that goes beyond his charming smile."

As Sebastian continued to share his insights, Adeline found herself drawn to his passion and his dedication to uncovering the secrets of the natural world.

"I feel like I'm discovering him all over again," she thought, her heart skipping a beat.

Adeline's mind whirled with questions:

"What drives his fascination with natural herbs?"

"How did he develop such extensive knowledge?"

As the team prepared to leave, Adeline felt an overwhelming urge to learn more about Sebastian—beyond his expertise, beyond his charming facade.

She wanted to understand the person behind the knowledge, the heart that beat within his chest.

***********************************

After dinner, everyone retreated to their rooms, exhausted. But Adeline lingered in the garden, lost in thought.

Sebastian noticed she hadn't returned to her room. He glanced out the window, spotting her solitary figure among the evening shadows.

The night air was crisp, carrying a gentle chill. Adeline wore a sleeveless dress, her shoulders slightly hunched against the cold.

Sebastian's gaze narrowed. She must be freezing.

Without hesitation, he grabbed his jacket and stepped outside.

As he approached Adeline, she shivered, her gaze fixed on the stars.

Sebastian gently draped his jacket over her shoulders.

Adeline spun around, startled. "Sebastian!"

Their eyes met, the world around them fading.

"Thought you might be cold," Sebastian said softly.

Adeline's cheeks flushed. "I didn't notice."

Sebastian smiled. "You were lost in thought."

Adeline's hands instinctively wrapped around the jacket, warmth spreading through her.

"Thanks," she whispered.

Sebastian's gaze lingered on hers. "Anytime."

Adeline gazed at Sebastian's hand and asked, her voice laced with concern, "How's your hand now?"

Sebastian smiled reassuringly. "It's fine; it still hurts a bit, but it'll heal."

Adeline gently took his hand in hers, examining the bandage. "You need to take care of it, or it might get injured again."

Sebastian's eyes locked onto hers, touched by her concern. "I will, thank you."

The touch of their hands sparked an undeniable connection, bridging the gap between them.

Adeline's heart racing, she sought distraction to conceal her emotions. She looked away, her gaze drifting across the garden.

"You know so much about plants," she said, attempting nonchalance. "Do you have any idea what paste that village healer put on your hand that night?"

Sebastian's eyes narrowed slightly, thoughtful. "Honestly, I'm not sure. The healer didn't reveal the ingredients, but I've been wondering..."

He paused, collecting his thoughts.

"Maybe it was a mixture of Nirbhedra and Kalmegh? Those herbs are known for their antiseptic properties."

Adeline's curiosity piqued. "That's a good guess. Do you think it helped?"

Sebastian nodded. "Definitely. The pain subsided quickly, and the wound began healing faster than expected."

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, but Adeline's awareness of Sebastian's proximity lingered.

She struggled to maintain her composure, unsure how to process the emotions stirring within her.

Sebastian observed Adeline's fascination with the village's past. "You're so interested in history, aren't you?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Adeline's gaze met his, a hint of surprise. "How did you know?"

Sebastian chuckled. "Who learns ancient languages just for fun?"

Adeline's lips curled into a bittersweet smile, swiftly replaced by a shadow of disappointment.

"Yes, I love digging into history," she admitted, her voice tinged with wonder. "As a child, I always dreamed of being an archaeologist."

Her expression turned melancholic.

"But when I grew up, I realized some dreams remain just that—dreams. Unattainable."

Her face clouded, and Sebastian sensed the depth of her unfulfilled longing.

Sebastian's fingers gently brushed against Adeline's cheeks, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

"Don't give up without trying, Adeline," he whispered, his eyes locked onto hers.

Adeline's gaze faltered, her defenses crumbling under his tender gesture.

"You don't understand," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

Sebastian's fingers traced the contours of her face, his touch igniting a spark within her.

"Try telling me," he urged, his voice soft and encouraging.

Adeline's eyes searched his, seeking reassurance.

Adeline's gaze dropped, her voice barely above a whisper.

"I'm not afraid of failing, Sebastian. It's just...my family..."

She paused, collecting her thoughts.

"We're a respected family in the country. Certain expectations come with our name."

Sebastian's expression turned understanding.

"You feel trapped by your family's legacy," he said gently.

Adeline nodded, her eyes welling up.

"I want to pursue my dreams, but I'm bound by duty and tradition."

Sebastian's fingers caressed her cheeks, offering comfort.

"Your family's name doesn't define you, Adeline. You have the right to forge your own path."

Adeline's sigh was laced with longing.

"If only it were that simple," she whispered.

Sebastian's eyes burned with determination.

"Maybe it's time to show your family that respecting tradition doesn't mean sacrificing your own desires."

Sebastian's words wrapped around Adeline like a warm embrace. "You were alone, but not anymore. I'm always with you."

Their faces drew closer, inches apart. Adeline's heart raced as Sebastian's breath mingled with hers.

"From now on, we face everything together," he whispered, his eyes burning with promise.

Adeline's soul stirred, her senses heightened. She felt the warmth of his hand on her cheek.

Time stood still as they hovered on the precipice of something deeper.

Sebastian's gaze traced the contours of her face, his fingers gently brushing away a stray strand of hair.

Adeline's pulse quickened, her skin tingling under his touch.

The world around them melted away, leaving only the two of them, suspended in a sea of possibility.

Their faces lingered, a hairsbreadth apart, the air thick with anticipation.

Sebastian's voice was barely audible. "You're not alone, Adeline. Never again."

Adeline's heart swelled, her emotions overflowing. She felt seen, heard, and understood.

Their gazes entwined, time suspended. Adeline's heart pounded, her soul anchored to Sebastian's piercing stare.

Lips inches apart, the air vibrated with anticipation. Adeline's breath caught in her throat.

Sebastian's eyes burned with intensity; his face inches from hers. The world narrowed to the space between them.

Adeline's eyelids fluttered closed, her senses heightened. She felt Sebastian's warm breath dance across her skin.

Their lips hovered, poised on the brink of a tender collision.

Just as their lips were about to touch, Adeline's phone buzzed, shattering the moment.

She gasped, her eyes snapping open to meet Sebastian's disappointed gaze.

The sudden intrusion felt like a cold splash of water, dousing the flames of their passion.

Adeline hesitated, reluctant to break the spell, but the insistent buzzing demanded attention.

With a sigh, she pulled back, reaching for her phone.

Sebastian's eyes never left hers, his expression a mix of understanding and frustration.

Adeline's phone buzzed, breaking the spell. She hesitated before answering.

"Hey, Ben," Adeline said, her voice measured.

"Addie, how's the trip?" Benjamin's deep voice filled the line.

"It's going well. Just exploring the village," Adeline replied.

"When are you returning?" Benjamin asked, his tone firm but laced with concern.

"Soon, Ben. I promise," Adeline said.

Benjamin's pause was palpable. "Remember, you're not just representing yourself, but our family's name."

Adeline's gaze drifted to Sebastian, his eyes watching her with understanding.

"I know, Ben. I'll be careful," she assured.

Benjamin's tone softened. "I just want what's best for you, Addie. You know that."

"I know, Ben. I love you too," Adeline said.

The call ended, Adeline's thoughts lingering on Benjamin's words.

Sebastian's gentle touch brought her back.

"Everything okay?" he asked.

Adeline nodded. "Benjamin's just worried."

Sebastian's expression turned thoughtful.

Sebastian glanced at his watch, his expression thoughtful. "It's getting late, Adeline. You should rest."

Adeline nodded, feeling a yawn creep up. "You're right. I didn't realize how tired I was."

Sebastian stood, offering his hand to help her up.

As they walked to her room, the silence between them was comfortable, filled with unspoken understanding.

At her door, Sebastian turned to her.

"Sleep well, Adeline. We can explore more tomorrow."

Adeline smiled, her heart fluttering.

"Thank you, Sebastian. For everything."

Sebastian's eyes crinkled at the corners.

"My pleasure, Adeline. Always."

With a gentle smile, he bid her goodnight.

As Adeline drifted off to sleep, she felt a sense of peace wash over her.

Sebastian stood outside Adeline's door, his hand lingering on the handle. He couldn't shake off the feeling that he'd crossed a threshold tonight.

He walked back to his room; his thoughts swirled.

"Adeline's strength is remarkable," he mused. "But beneath that resilience lies a vulnerable soul."

He recalled the way her eyes sparkled in the moonlight and the soft curve of her smile.

"I want to protect her; help her find her way," Sebastian thought. "But can I?"

Doubts crept in, tempered by the memory of their shared moments.