The guard's words echoed like thunder in the pavilion.
"The masked figure has been seen entering the royal chambers… alone!"
Kael's eyes flared—fire, fury, and something far more primal. His hand, still resting lightly on Liora's wrist, trembled.
For a breathless moment, the world seemed to hold its balance on a blade's edge.
Liora's heart slammed against her ribs.
Now. Say something. Run. Stay.
But before she could move, Kael's eyes locked on hers—dark, storm-filled, and more vulnerable than ever before.
...
"I must go," he growled, but his voice wavered.
His fingers tightened—just slightly—around her wrist, as though reluctant to let go. The warmth of his skin shot through her veins, igniting every nerve.
"I will protect you," he whispered, his lips barely brushing her ear.
The words struck deeper than any sword wound.
...
Liora's eyes widened. "No," she breathed, shaking her head.
"I can help—let me—"
But Kael's eyes cut through her like steel.
"You must not," he growled softly, torn between desire and restraint.
For a fleeting moment, their faces hovered inches apart, breaths mingling, eyes aflame. The entire world shrank to that fragile space between touch and withdrawal.
...
Outside, another alarm bell rang through the castle corridors.
Kael's jaw clenched. The prince of Eldareth, protector of kingdoms, stood frozen between two wars—one raging in the halls, the other in his chest.
..
"I…" Liora began, but he silenced her with a glance.
"I cannot risk it," he murmured, his eyes pleading. "Not for us."
...
The words cut like ice.
But before either could react, a shadow burst into the pavilion entrance.
A second guard stumbled in, pale and wild-eyed. "Highness!" he gasped. "The royal chambers—doors shattered—no sign of the intruder… only blood!"
The pavilion's torchlight flickered violently, throwing monstrous shadows across Kael's face. He sprang to his feet, sword half-drawn, but his eyes remained fixed on Liora.
...
For the briefest second, desire and duty waged war in his gaze.
Kael's hand hovered over his sword—but instead of striking out, he gripped Liora's wrist once more, his eyes fierce and desperate. "Stay with me," he growled, his breath trembling. "Whatever happens next… you are not to leave my side."