Page 45 of Kingdom of Lies

As we roam, my eyes are drawn to a curved stone bench nestled under the graceful willow tree. The branches gently sway in the breeze, casting an ever-changing pattern of light and shadow on the ground. I eagerly sit on the cool, smooth surface and Draknir joins me, his shoulder serving as my comfortable pillow.

We sit in comfortable quietude, the sweet melodies of birds trilling around us. The warm rays of the sun envelop us, casting away any trace of tension or worry on the soft breeze. My mind is at ease as fingers run idly through my long hair.

I close my eyes, features smoothed into an expression of utter peace.

I've never felt so safe and content as I do in this moment, nestled in his lap. The closeness of his body radiates through me, melting away any worries or fears that lingered before.

An impulsive gesture from him surprises me as he bends down to press a soft, tender kiss to my forehead. My eyes flutter open, meeting his gaze filled with such overwhelming love that it steals my breath and leaves me speechless. No further words are needed between us as we simply bask in the warmth.

"How did you know I needed this?" I ask, feeling tears prick at the corners of my eyes once again.

Draknir brushes them away with his thumb before responding, "Because it's my job to know you better than yourself, my mate." His words send a surge of warmth through me. I can't resist leaning in for another kiss.

Our lips meet sweetly, each movement filled with love and adoration. The soft press of his mouth against mine sets off fireworks in my chest. I feel myself melting into the kiss, letting go of any worries or doubts and just basking in the moment with him. As we break apart, his eyes meet mine and

As we break apart, we are both smiling widely.

The troubles lurking beyond will keep. But right now, we have found a small slice of heaven together.

The first respite I’ve had in days.

The soft fabric of his shirt, the warmth of his skin against mine, the tender way his fingers trace shapes on my back - every touch is like a soothing balm on my stressed body.

The warm sun sinks into the horizon as we lose ourselves in each other's embrace, time slipping away unnoticed. Only the growling of our stomachs breaks the spell, and Draknir rises from the bench with a fluid grace, beckoning for me to join him.

With our fingers intertwined, we make our way back to the castle, the soft crunch of gravel under our feet accompanying our leisurely pace.

26

DRAKNIR

As I resume my duties after a brief absence, I cannot help but confess to Captain Hayes that I have fallen deeply in love with Kathleen. His eyes twinkle with amusement and he lets out a knowing laugh. "Ah, it was only a matter of time before you became smitten with her. But be careful now – she is a virtuous woman, far too good for the likes of you."

A rueful grin spreads across my face as I shake my head. "Too true, my dear friend. An angel like her has no business consorting with the likes of me."

Hayes lets out a hearty laugh and claps a hand on my back. "She's a fine match, though I'll never understand what she sees in a rogue like you." His voice is filled with genuine admiration.

I can't help but chuckle at the captain's playful teasing. "Truly, I am blessed beyond measure to have won her love," I reply with a wide grin.

Hayes' own smile widens. "Indeed. So what comes next for you two?"

As I ponder his question, my thoughts drift to Kathleen. "I wish to make things proper between us after everything.

Hayes strokes his beard. "Have you considered a wedding in the human custom? It may help heal wounds."

I look at him in surprise. "A human ceremony? I know little of their esoteric little traditions."

"It is quite moving to behold," Hayes explains. "Makes the union feel truly sacred and cherished in a way that’s special and unique to the race."

I nod slowly, intrigued by the notion. "A fine idea. It would bring our house honor to embrace her human roots. And you would help me to learn their rituals?"

Hayes claps my shoulder. "Gladly. Let's celebrate your love in a way she will understand."

"So for a human wedding, you'll be needing a ring to exchange vows with," Captain Hayes explains as we head into town.

My eyes go wide. "A ring?”

"Come, let us venture into the village to start preparing for this wedding," Captain Hayes declares, clapping me on the shoulder.

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