AllFreeNovel
Share Us
"I know," she says softly. "It's just... a lot of changes lately."
I want to pull her close, to tell her everything - about Kevin, about the threats, about the inexplicable bond I feel with her. But I can't. Not yet.
Instead, I place a hand on her shoulder, ignoring the spark that shoots through me at the contact. "Change isn't always bad," I say. "Sometimes it's necessary."
She nods, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I suppose you're right."
"Of course I am," I say.
I watch Ariana return to her work, her movements graceful yet tinged with an undercurrent of unease. Damn it. She's too perceptive for her own good. Or maybe for my good.
I retreat to my study, my mind a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts. The truth is a double-edged sword, sharp enough to cut through the lies I've woven around us, but equally capable of slicing apart the fragile connection we've built.
Pouring myself a drink, I stare out the window, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The amber liquid burns my throat, a physical echo of the turmoil inside me.
"Fuck," I mutter, running a hand through my hair. "How long can I keep this up?"
The answer, of course, is not long at all. Ariana's not stupid. She's already picking up on the increased security, the tension in the air. It's only a matter of time before she starts asking questions I can't deflect.
And then what? Do I tell her about Kevin? About the threats? About the blood on my hands and the darkness in my past?
Do I tell her we're fated mates?
The glass in my hand creaks dangerously, and I force myself to relax my grip. I want her in my life. No, I need her in my life. But at what cost?
"Sir?" Tragan's voice crackles through the intercom, interrupting my brooding. "The security briefing is ready."
I down the rest of my drink in one gulp. "On my way."
As I leave the study, my resolve hardens. I can't keep reality from Ariana forever. If I want her truly in my life - and God help me, I do - I'll have to share the darkest parts of myself with her.
The question is, will she still want me when she sees the monster beneath the man?
CHAPTER 13
ARIANA
Ifind myself outside Valen's study, a quiet hum of energy behind the heavy door. He seems to genuinely care about my safety, and that thought brings a lightness I haven't felt in a long time. I take a moment to breathe and knock.
"Come in," his deep voice calls out.
Pushing the door open, I step into the room. It’s warm and inviting, with shelves lined with books and artifacts from worlds I can only imagine.
He looks up from his desk, eyes locking onto mine. "Ariana. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"I just... wanted to talk," I say, feeling suddenly shy.
He stands, motioning to a chair near the fireplace. "Sit. Can I get you something to drink? Wine? Water?"
"Wine sounds nice," I reply, settling into the plush chair.
He pours two glasses and hands me one before taking the seat opposite me. The fire crackles between us, casting a soft glow over his features.
"So," he starts, leaning back slightly, "what's on your mind?"
I take a sip of wine, feeling its warmth spread through me. "I wanted to thank you for everything you've done. For... protecting me."
His eyes soften. "It was necessary."
