Leah stared out through her bedroom window as she observed the illuminated courtyard of Barduff Castle. She paid no attention to the cold night wind finding its way through small openings which caused her body to shiver. The constant worry about heartache together with frustration and doubt kept her mind occupied. She maintained her focus on the pregnancy and her doubts about Jacob's continued uncertainty by placing protective hands on her abdomen.
She turned abruptly when she heard a gentle knock on the door. She paused before opening it, thinking maybe Samuel or Henrietta would come check on her. Instead, Marcus Irving's intense stare met her eyes.
"May I come in?" he said in a low voice that was tinged with an unintelligible word.
Leah paused and looked down the corridor. It was late, and if anyone saw Marcus entering her chambers, it would only add fuel to the growing tensions in Barduff Castle. But she moved aside to let him in because of something in his face—his quiet intensity.
Marcus entered, methodically and slowly. He looked around the room, then looked back at her with his sharp, critical eyes. He remarked, "You look tired,"
Leah exhaled deeply and threw her arms around herself. "It's been... a lot."
Marcus gave a nod. "I am aware that Jacob has yet to completely embrace you as an equal. You must be wondering what kind of life you'll lead here now that you're expecting a child.
Leah swallowed forcefully, but she didn't dispute it.
Marcus approached while calming his voice. The sentence revealed "Leah you don't need to stay here." Join me. Visit White Dawn. In my space I offer an environment which both values and respects you as a person. The environment I can create will permanently protect you from further harm.
Leah gasped for air.
"Marcus…"
Even though Jacob loves you, pride and tradition prevent him from showing you how much he cares. Marcus's deep voice persuaded him, "You deserve better." "And if he truly loved you, he would have accepted you as his Luna long ago."
Along with Leah's escalating chest pains. She expended all her strength to show others that she was more than just an omega. The statements hit a sensitive spot within Leah since she recognized their accuracy.
While approaching Leah he continued by expressing "You could be my Luna." "I would treasure you. I love you. You would maintain your full sense of self throughout our connection because of my love.
Leah looked away while she attempted to control her spinning emotions. She had endured many months of waiting for Jacob to recognize her but his hesitation became a constant pattern.
Marcus was right here, giving her everything she had ever desired. Certainty. devotion. A new beginning.
"I need time to think," she murmured, unable to look at him.
Marcus's eyes flickered with disappointment as he let out a sharp exhale. You have no obligation to decide right now. But I need an answer soon. I won't wait forever, Leah."
He left without further explanation as he walked out of Leah's presence making her face the internal struggles and questions alone.