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Alzerion looked at her, brows raised, but thought merely to amuse her question.
“Yes, it is,” he answered. “The birds chirping and the warmth of the sun’s golden rays, ah. It’s quite heavenly.” He placed his arm behind her and angled his body.
She moved toward the stone wall. Browns mixed with red colored the wall with the golden sun in the background. His mother plopped herself onto the ledge. He joined her.
“The weather is nice,” she agreed.
Then an awkward silence unfolded between the two of them. Finally, after it became apparent to Alzerion that whatever his mother wanted to talk about, she was considering holding off. So, he broke the silence.
“I doubt you wanted to talk to me about the weather. What’s really on your mind?” He pulled his one leg in while his other leg tapped on the ground.
“Well, I don’t know. I mean, I don’t want to become the annoying mother who nags you, Alzerion.”
“You don’t nag. Alright, maybe you do a bit, but it doesn’t bother me much.” He flashed a smile with his teeth showing. “You worry about me, that’s all, and I know that’s normal.”
“Well, did you think about our last conversation at all?”
“Do you mean the one where you told me my life isn’t fulfilling because I’m single and need a woman?” he asked, trying not to roll his eyes.
“Well, yes.” She hesitated. “Should I assume that you have been thinking about it? Since you recited it word for word?” Her arms folded in front of her chest. She tilted her chin down, a bit. He felt like he was about to be scolded.
“Truth is, I have been giving it a lot of thought.” He swallowed.
“Good,” she said sternly. “I just want you to be happy. You’re my only child, and seeing you with someone would ease some of my worries.”
“Mother, I am happy. I couldn’t be more delighted.” His lips curled up. “Seriously, I help the king and queen. I’m in full command of the Royal Army. I even stroll through town, keeping an eye on things.” He sat with his chest puffed out. “I know I’m busy but I like it like that.”
“That’s all well and good, but that doesn’t give true happiness.” He stared back at her. Melinda grew quiet like the silence that creeps at dawn. Lingering until the right moment. “I wish you would see it differently.” She stared off into the crowds of people walking by.
Alzerion’s mouth tensed. He pressed his lips together as he gazed down at the cobblestones in front of him. Each wound and curved, running into the next. Melinda was silent, except for her sigh. Then there was a soft touch on chin as she coaxed his face up.
Her smile was faded-weak. “Alzerion,” her voice sounded distant. “All I want for you is to find your match. Someone who will just fit with you, in every way.”
“Love,” he sighed. “Mother, that may take some time. I may never find that person.” Alzerion’s back curved as he bent forward. He pinched the skin of his throat as he waited.
“I don’t believe that is your future. But, you have to be looking. Don’t let time or opportunity pass you.”
“I promise you that I am. I do look.” He crossed his arms. “I’m just not tempted by anyone. I’m not that impressed by what I see.” Alzerion raised his chin as he looked at his mother.
“Alzerion, I understand that it takes time and many people are just there, but you need to make more of an effort. There are plenty of young ladies who want you,” she pleaded. “Those ladies over there are interested.” She pointed toward a group of three chatting by the produce market. “I overheard them talking when I found you.”
“I don’t want some random stranger. I’m looking for something different. I want someone who wants more from me than to use me. Either that or some just want something else entirely.”
“What do you mean?”
“Um … it’s not something I feel comfortable saying or discussing with my mother.” He felt a warmth wash over his face. He gulped.
“Try me. Just tell me.” He could tell that she wasn’t going to let it go.
“Alright,” he replied in a defeated manner. “Some women might want me for my looks or appearance. They look at me like I’m a three-course meal, and they are ready to devour me.” That heat crept across his face up to his ears. He was sure his ears were a shade of pink.
“Well,” she swallowed. “I didn’t want to hear that.”
“Not all women are true. Some like my position. You know… what I can offer them.” He paused as he tapped his feet against the brick wall. “That’s why I’m a little reluctant to waste my time. However, I do promise to keep my eyes open. If I meet someone I feel is worthy, you’ll know, I promise.”
“Well, I guess if you are willing to try, then I will try. I will respect your wishes, my darling boy.” She placed an arm around and pulled him in for a side hug.
He laughed. “I haven’t been a boy for some time.”
