Page 41 of Kingdom of Lies

But even within these walls, I cannot escape the weight of the strained bond between us.

There's nowhere I can escape.

The once bright and lively halls now feel suffocating, filled with tension and resentment. I am adrift in misery, torn between my love for Draknir and my grandmother's unrelenting hatred towards him.

Each day drags on with a weight that seems to grow heavier by the hour, burdened by the strain of our broken family ties. I feel hopeless.

Trapped.

If she doesn't accept me, what was this all for?

Am I just to be a slave now devoid of any free will?

But on the sixth night, Draknir's worried expression reflects in the dim candlelight of my bedroom as he comes to me.

"Kathleen," his voice is gentle but concerned. "Please speak to me. You have been distant for days – are you unwell?" His eyes search mine, searching for answers and understanding in the depths of my troubled gaze.

He approaches with a silver tray, carrying a feast of my favorite foods. My stomach growls in response, but I push down the urge to give in. It's been ages since I've left the confines of my room, and the thought alone makes me shudder.

The once comforting walls now seem to suffocate me, leaving me feeling trapped and powerless. My stomach growls with hunger, a reminder of my neglect to eat. Guilt weighs heavy on my chest as I see myself as nothing but a failure.

How can I face the man who has given me everything, only to crumble at the first sign of trouble?

I don't deserve his food.

I don't deserve his pity.

I'm his slave. Nothing more.

As I lay in bed, unsure of what to do. The smell of his cooking fills the air, but I can't bring myself to take a bite. How can I enjoy this meal when I know I don't deserve it? His eyes are full of pity and it makes my stomach churn with guilt.

Am I really just a slave to him?

Is that all I'm worth? Despite my shame, I can't help but feel drawn to his outstretched hand.

How can he when I am the one who has let him down?

Why does he even care?

My inner turmoil tears at me as I struggle to find the words to explain.

Unable to meet his gaze, I find my eyes glued to the floor, avoiding any contact with him. Shame fills every inch of my being as I realize how much I've let him down.

His hand reaches out towards mine and he clasps them earnestly, a look of genuine concern etched across his features. "You cannot hide from me, dear one. Tell me how to ease your burden," he says softly.

What’s the point… I’ll just tell him what he wants to hear.

I’ll be his little slut, because that’s probably what he really wants.

I start to pull down my top.

24

DRAKNIR

In an effort to give Kathleen the time she needs to process her grandmother's cruel rejection, I have given her space over the past few days. My longing for her must wait, as repairing and tending to our family bonds is of utmost importance.

Yet with each passing day, my frustration and concern only grow as Kathleen continues to withdraw into herself. She speaks little and rarely leaves the comfort of her own chambers, finding no solace even in my presence. It is as if a dark cloud has descended upon her, shrouding her in sadness and isolation. But as the days pass with Kathleen retreating further into herself, frustration and concern mount within me. She barely speaks or leaves her chambers, taking no comfort even from my company.