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Chapter 42
Chapter 42
Zora’s POV
288 Vouchers
The sparks flew between Darius and me, and I found myself head over heels for him. My heart was a wild beast, refusing to be tamed.
Darius had the charm, the words, and the actions that made me feel like the center of his universe. I started thinking,
“This is the real deal.” But wait, I had thought that once before, not too long ago, and it left me shattered and scarred.
I wasn’t ready to take that leap again; it was a daunting prospect. I battled with my emotions, desperately trying to convince myself that it was just a casual affair.
I made a conscious effort to analyze the situation, protecting my fragile heart. The mere thought of Darius and I not being destined for each other terrified me beyond belief.
Thoughts about the future relentlessly haunted my mind. What if, out of the blue, she appears just like Lori did? Where would that leave me? Uncertainty casts a dark shadow over my emotions.
He had never uttered those three magical words to me. Perhaps, for him, this was merely a thrilling and exhilarating experience. I scolded myself for allowing these feelings to take hold of me, knowing the potential risks involved.
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Day after day, we would wake up together, share meals, and engage in training sessions side by side. I would then let him attend to his responsibilities while eagerly anticipating our evening rendezvous, where we would indulge in whatever activities pleased us.
This rollercoaster of emotions was both exhilarating and terrifying because, unbeknownst to him, I had fallen head over heels in love. The line between joy and fear blurred in this tumultuous affair.
The moment arrived when I decided to open up to Darius about my fears. We found ourselves lying on the grass in the secluded western garden of the estate, a haven seldom frequented by others. It was the perfect setting for our conversation, as if the tranquil surroundings were meant to shield and embrace our heartfelt exchange.
“Darius,” I whispered softly, as we lay side by side, gazing at the breathtaking stars adorning the night sky.
At that moment, the world seemed magical, and I feared that my words might shatter the enchantment we shared.
“Yes,” he responded, and a wave of relief washed over me like a gentle breeze.
“Tell me, Darius,” I ventured, “do you ever release your captives?” His laughter danced through the air, mingling with the twinkling stars above.
“Ah, my captives,” he mused, his eyes gleaming mischievously. “Are you referring to the prisoners in cells or the treasures I hold?”
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“Your treasures,” I clarified, and he exhaled, as if releasing a secret burden.
288 Vouchers
“They have no place to return to, you see,” he explained, a touch of sadness in his voice. “I am their Alpha, and they are bound to me. They are not imprisoned here, this sanctuary is their only refuge for now. They are free to depart, but they choose to remain, seeking love or new adventures in Wonderland or other realms of the north. They stay here willingly, under no compulsion. I am a noble guardian, not a monstrous jailer. I hope these women will find love and move on when the time is right. I understand their desires and needs,” he confided, his words carrying a compassionate understanding.
“Hey, have you ever thought about settling down?” I blurted out, eagerly awaiting his response. Silence hung in the air, filling the space between
- us.
“Sorry for prying, but I overheard some ladies gossiping about how you kicked out all those women from your harem. They mentioned a certain Arya whom you told that settling down was not on your agenda. I just want to know if it’s true,” I confessed, my curiosity getting the better of
- me.
I quickly added, “Not that I’m concerned or anything. I get it. After a failed marriage, it’s natural to be cautious. I’m fine with where we stand now. If you happen to find your true love, I won’t be a hindrance,” I tried to convince myself, attempting to downplay my feelings for him.
He turned towards me, his gaze piercing into my soul. “Look into my eyes,” he commanded, and I obediently complied, masking any trace of emotions on my face.
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With a solemn tone, he confessed, “Yes, I did say those words, Zora. And I meant them. As the ruler of the north facing an imminent war, I can’t envision myself tying down any woman. It was my way of setting them free, allowing them to move on from me,” His words stung, for they revealed that his perspective hadn’t shifted.
When it comes to my destiny, I couldn’t care less about that stuff, Zora. I shape my own future, regardless of what the stars may say. I won’t lose my cool or betray a woman who’s been by my side through thick and thin just because fate dictates it. I’d reject destiny in an instant, even if it means appearing weak.
He uttered those words, and I couldn’t help but smile at him. Having experienced it myself, I knew it was easier said than done.
With a gentle touch, he caressed my face and flashed a smile.
“I’m not like Casey, Zora,” he reassured me. I nodded, but tears were already welling up in my eyes because I was once again a fool in love. I had fallen head over heels for someone who didn’t plan on taking things seriously with me.
“I’m nothing like my father. My accomplishments aren’t captives, they’re liberated. But I won’t let you slip away, Zora. You’re not held captive here, and you’re not a trophy. You’re the woman who means everything to me,” he declared, and I smiled back at him, though tears threatened to spill at that very moment.
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Chapter 43
