(Daniel's POV)
Desperate times call for desperate measures.
As I hold Lina flush against me and we sway to yet another song, my mind is all over the place. Her comforting scent helps ground me, but every time my eyes catch sight of the councilmen sitting on their high chairs, whispering amongst themselves, dread washes over me.
I'm not scared of my decision—far from it. I'm resolute as hell. It's the impact of that decision on Lina that haunts me. There's a high chance she'll grow to hate me.But I suppose that can't be helped now.
She's uncharacteristically quiet as we continue to dance, holding herself closer to me despite her initial glaring. I search her face for signs of dejection, but instead, she just looks… sad.
"What's wrong, Lee?"
Her lashes flutter as she lifts her gaze to mine. I'm momentarily struck stupid by those hazel eyes.
"Everything is wrong."
Sorrow clings to every word.
"I'm surrounded by people who hate me and want me dead."
"I don't hate you," my words come out sharper than I intended.
She sighs. "I know. But everyone else does."
"Dave doesn't."
She gives me a wry glance. I let the subject drop and try to think of something else to ease her mind.
"Were you upset earlier because of something you overheard... or because you thought you saw me with another woman?"
Her face turns adorably red. If looks could kill, that glare would've had me six feet under.
"I don't care if you're with other women."
"Hmm, really?"
She nods quickly.
"Yes. We're not together. Why would I care?" she replies, stubborn as ever.
But she's not done.
"Right now, I just want to go home safely."
"You will," I say, voice steady. "I swear on my life."
Her face falls in concern.
"Will there be trouble?"
"You don't have to worry about that. I'll keep you safe."
She shakes her head, eyes searching mine.
"I don't mean me. I mean… will you get in trouble because of me?"
I stare at her, stunned for a full minute. Even after everything, what she's worried about… is me.
I clear my throat and hope my voice doesn't come out shaky.
"Yeah… I'll be okay, Lee. Don't worry about it."
She doesn't look convinced, but nods anyway. Then she lays her head gently against my chest as we shift into a slower, more peaceful rhythm.
Is it possible to fall even more in love with this woman? Because I just did.
David's eyes meet mine from across the room. He motions to the councilmen—they're standing now, no longer whispering.
They've made their decision.
Regretfully, I place my hands on Lina's shoulders and ease her back a little. I lower my head toward her ear and whisper,"Lee, I need you to go back to your room. Now."
The urgency in my tone makes her eyes widen. For once, she doesn't argue. She just nods and slips away through the crowd.
I watch her retreating form. David reaches her, wraps his arm protectively around her shoulders, and escorts her out.
I grit my teeth and shut my eyes. I wanted to be the one comforting her right now.
A gentle hand touches my shoulder in silent support. I open my eyes to see Irina, David's fiancée. She gives me a soft, knowing smile. I nod back at her, take a deep breath, and straighten.
It's time.
My decision was made long ago—set in stone the moment I found Lina in those woods.Now, I would act on every promise, no matter what retaliation waits for me.
Let the games begin.