Page 35 of Demon's Prey

What have I done? In my rage to protect her, I've revealed the darkest, most brutal side of my nature. The side I've always tried to keep hidden from her. I search her face, hoping to find some sign of understanding, of acceptance. But all I see is fear and revulsion.

My heart twists painfully in my chest. Of course she's disgusted. How could she not be? I've just slaughtered these demons without a second thought, reveling in their destruction. To her human sensibilities, I must seem like a monster.

A chill runs through me as I realize I'm still in my true form. My wings are spread wide, my horns fully extended, my skin covered in scales. I'm every inch the demon I truly am, no longer hiding behind my more human-like appearance.

I look down at my blood-stained hands, then back at Narina. The horror in her eyes is unmistakable now. She sees me for what I really am - a creature of darkness and violence, so far removed from her world of light and humanity.

Shame and self-loathing wash over me. I turn away, unable to bear the weight of her gaze any longer. My voice comes out rough, filled with bitterness and regret.

"Don't look at me,” I say. “I'm a monster."

I stand frozen, shame and self-loathing coursing through me. But then, Narina's gentle touch on my face startles me. She turns me to face her, and before I can process what's happening, her lips press against mine.

For a moment, I'm paralyzed. My mind reels, unable to comprehend this unexpected tenderness. But then, as if possessed by a will of its own, my body responds. My arms encircle her, pulling her close. I melt into the kiss, losing myself in the softness of her lips, the warmth of her body against mine.

In this moment, all my doubts and confusion evaporate. The truth hits me with the force of a thunderbolt - I love her. It's not the contract, not the necklace. It's real, raw, and overwhelming.

We break apart, both breathless. Without a word, we make our way back to the estate. Blood still stains my clothes and skin, a stark reminder of the violence we've just escaped. We walk in silence, but there's a new tension between us - an unspoken understanding that everything has changed.

Inside the mansion, we head straight for the bathroom. I turn on the shower, watching as the water runs red, washing away the blood from my body. Narina steps in with me, her arms wrapping around my waist. Our bodies press together under thewarm cascade, and I feel a surge of emotion so powerful it nearly brings me to my knees.

I can't hold back anymore. Looking into her eyes, my heart pounding so hard I'm sure she can hear it, I finally speak.

"I thought I lost you today," I admit, my voice rough with emotion. "I can't... I can't bear the thought of losing you."

Narina remains silent, her gaze steady as I pour out my heart.

"The contract... none of that matters,” I say. “I love you, Narina. I don't care if I'm a demon and you were once human. I want you by my side. Forever."

She looks up at me, her eyes glistening with tears.

"I'm already bound to you," she whispers. "Forever."

Our lips meet again, and this time, the kiss is filled with promise, with a future I never dared to imagine.

17

NARINA

His arms cradle me, strong and sure, as he carries me to the bed. My heart pounds, a thunderous rhythm against my ribs. I can't believe this is happening. A demon - loving me? It seems impossible, and yet...

I search Darizus's eyes, seeking any hint of deception. But all I see is raw, honest emotion. My breath catches. It's real. He loves me.

"I love you too," I whisper, the words tumbling out before I can stop them. And I mean it. Somehow, against all odds, I've fallen for this demon.

He lays me gently on the bed, his crimson gaze never leaving mine. I reach up, tracing the sharp line of his jaw. My fingers tremble slightly.

"I never thought..." I start, then shake my head. "I was so afraid at first. Of you, of this place. But now..."

Darizus smiles, a soft expression I never imagined I'd see on a demon's face.

"Now?" he prompts.

I swallow hard.

"Now I can't imagine being anywhere else,” I say. “With anyone else."

He leans down, his lips brushing mine.

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