Page 23 of Killian De Luca

“That’s a good reason.”

"Dyado said that 'The people with the best heart and greatest intentions are watching over us from the sky.' Maybe that's another reason I like talking to them so much. Because I know he’s up there and listening to me. I sometimes think he is giving me advice that I need."

“How’d he die?”

“Heart attack.”

It’s quiet for a few moments before Killian says, “I’m sorry.”

“You don’t need to be.” I shake my head at him softly. “Everyone dies eventually. He had a long and healthy life. He once told me that Stars are dead too. They burned out thousands of years ago, but their light still hits us. Kind of like ghosts. So Dyado is still here even though he died. He’s watching over me.”

Killian’s eye twitches, the only reason I notice is because I’m just paying attention to him and every breath he takes basically.

I wonder what he is thinking about so hard that makes him keep everything in and not talk or express his feelings.

I just want to know what someone like him, dark and mysterious, is constantly thinking about.

“If you come here to rant to the stars then why bring me here?” he asks.

“Because like I said at paintballing, I want to get to know you.”

“One question. You only get one question, but I get to ask you one first.”

I feel myself smile widely, excited that he’s indulging me. “Okay, that’s fair.”

Killian turns his body towards me and leans on his hands. He looks down at my lips, for a second, I think I’m hallucinating or something before he meets my eyes again.

“What’s your favorite animal?”

“A lion.”

“Why?”

“Because they are powerful and strong. They are beautiful but also dangerous.”

Killian nods his head. “Beautiful things hurt.”

“What’s yours?”

“Is that your question?” Killian raises an eyebrow at me.

I blush. “No.”

“Ask,” Killian whispers softly.

“What are you afraid of Killian?”

Killian’s jaw clenches and his eyes darken. “My heart.” I furrow my eyebrows. Why would he be afraid of his heart? Like loving someone? I want to ask more but Killian stands up. “Come on.”

My mood dampens because the small moment we had together just vanished like it didn’t even happen.

Like I dreamt of us talking under the stars.

Twelve

Reign

Killianand I get back to the house just in time for dinner.

---