A Mermaid's Legacy- Sebastian Sallow x MC x Ominis Gaunt

Chapter 56- Dueling Practice

Yvaine POV

A few weeks into the school year, the nightmares had thankfully dissipated, and Sebastian was mostly himself again. My powers had helped eliminate the remaining side effects of dark magic, but there was one thing I couldn't easily erase: Sebastian's guilt.

We continued to support each other tremendously through the night terrors, and Ominis remained resolute in his decision to cut off ties with his family for good.

It warmed my heart to see them still as close as ever, their bond seemingly unbreakable. I had worried that my presence might create a rift between them, but things had been good for a while. However, as time passed, the issue of romance began to subtly resurface here and there.

It all began with subtle gestures, deceptively innocent at a glance, but beneath the surface, they harbored an undeniable tension. For example, during our dinners in the grand hall with the students, Ominis would frequently pretend to clumsily reach for the condiments, deliberately knocking them over. Each time, I couldn't help but guide his hand with a gentle touch.

As these incidents started occurring more frequently, my suspicions couldn't help but grow.

Every time he initiated such a small act, it sent a flurry of butterflies fluterring. I tried to convince myself that it was all about helping with his limitations, but the mischievous glint in his eyes and the way he'd occasionally hold my wrist or hand told a different story.

On the other hand, Sebastian began to linger around longer during my office hours. Initially, it was typically related to our work, but there are only so many questions you can ask about potion ingredients before things start to get suspicious.

He also started waiting for me after my midnight swims, claiming it was to ensure I wouldn't be caught by curious students.

His expression turned to one of utter astonishment when he accidentally walked in on me emerging from the water, transforming into my naked human form, causing his cheeks to flush with a deep shade of crimson.

I found myself torn. I didn't want to risk driving a wedge between them again, and I all but decided not to pursue a relationship with either of them in order to preserve our friendship.

All of us also continued to practice dueling with each other, now incorporating elements of water to keep our skills sharp.

It was increasingly difficult to ignore the growing tension between us, especially when we practiced dueling.

In the heat of battle, their bodies pressed close to mine, our breaths mingling, and the faintest brush of their fingertips against my skin sent a surge of electricity through my veins.

One mid-evening, I was sparring with Sebastian.

"One of these days, I'll best you instead of just tiring you out," Sebastian quipped, his breath coming in short bursts between each magical clash. We began our duel on land next to the lake, but as our intensity grew, we slowly made our way into the shallow part of the lake.

"Keep dreaming, Sallow," I countered with a smirk. Using the water, I lifted myself into the air, gaining an advantage in the battle. With a well-placed wave directed at Sebastian, I created a distraction that gave me the upper hand, knocking him onto his backside.

I capitalized on my advantage, jumping on top of him and pinning him down. My wand was pressed against his neck, my heart racing as our faces were mere inches apart. The tension in the air was palpable.

"You're getting better, Seb," I said with a chuckle.

"Apologies for not having complete mastery of water," he replied sarcastically, a mischievous glint in his eyes.