Page 48 of How to Dump a Vampire

After a pause, she dips her head in acknowledgement.

Her raw display of power left no doubt of her capabilities, yet she refrained from employing that devastating magic against us once Luna was safe. In my tent, her sole focus was tending the injured fox.

Such fierce compassion stirs something in me I have not felt for centuries. I think of her wary eyes regarding me as I treated Luna’s wounds. There is a story there, a pain buried deep that fuels her protectiveness.

I find myself wanting to understand this mysterious witch who materialized so suddenly in our world. No, not wanting. Needing. She calls to my very soul in a way I cannot resist, though the bond between us remains rejected.

We are fated mates. That much is clear to me now. My mother was correct. I only felt it grow with our time together. Our paths crossed for a reason. She is the missing piece that will make me whole again after centuries of loneliness. The connection between us is like an invisible tether binding us together. I only hope that her agreeing to stay with me in my tent instead of teleporting away is because she is warming up to me.

I resolve to win back her trust through honorable actions, not probing questions. We have time enough ahead for her unfolding truth. For now, ensuring her safety and recovery here will have to suffice.

I exit the tent, but the irresistible pull toward her remains. I do not yet understand the full extent of our bond, but I know this with sudden clarity—I will protect this witch with my life if need be. Our destinies are intertwined in ways I’m only beginning to grasp. We are meant to walk this path together from now on. Of that, I have no doubt.

Perhaps restoring her faith can also mend the long-broken parts of my own spirit. The bloodshed of my father and brother’s endless wars has long since lost meaning for me. This witch—Thorn—has reawakened my noble purpose. I will keep her from harm.

These determined thoughts carry me through the remaining hours of night. At first light, I rise and step outside to stretch by the tent. My brother and some cronies pass by, glaring at me, but they move on without incident. I do not relax my guard.

When Thorn finally emerges near midday, I incline my head in greeting. “I trust Luna is improved after her rest?”

Thorn’s expression remains closed-off, but she answers civilly enough. “Her leg will take time to fully mend, but the bleeding has stopped. My magic is working to fully heal her, but the damage was bad enough that I’m having to slow it down.” She pauses, as if carefully considering her next words. “You have my thanks for your… hospitality.”

I wave a dismissive hand. “It was the least I could do. It’s only fair after I intruded on your own hospitality since. Please, stay as long as you need to ensure her recovery.”

Thorn’s lips press into a thin line. I realize then she likely feels caged here, surrounded by unknown enemies. Does she not see she has at least one ally in me?

I soften my voice. “I know you have no cause to trust me. Give me the chance to prove my good faith.”

Something shifts subtly in her eyes. This time, when she inclines her head, it seems less guarded. “We shall see.”

I clasp my hands behind my back, hesitant to push any further. “Might I convince you to follow us back to celebrate the winter festival? You and Luna are welcome to stay in my rooms.”

Thorn looks uncertain, her emerald eyes searching my face. I keep my expression open and sincere, trying to project that she has nothing to fear from me.

After a long moment, she lets out a soft breath. “Perhaps… it would be best if Luna and I accompanied you back to your capital. She will need several more days of rest before she can travel safely.”

I blink in surprise, not having expected her to agree so readily. Cautious optimism swells within me.

“Of course. You are most welcome to join us and stay as long as you need.” I hesitate before continuing gently, “I give you my word no harm will come to either of you there.”

Thorn presses her lips together but inclines her head. “If we are to travel together, I will hold you to that promise.”

Though her words are formal, I sense a subtle shift. She is willing to take a chance on me, however small. Hope blossoms anew.

“You honor me with your trust,” I reply sincerely. “We leave at first light two days hence. I will prepare quarters for you near my own and ensure no one disturbs your rest.”

I sense my brother and his men watching from across the camp, anger simmering beneath their impassive faces, but they will not challenge me openly. Thorn will be safe.

She follows my glance, and her shoulders tighten slightly. Turning back to me, she asks, “And what of your family? Will they accept my presence?”

“They will accept my decision in this matter,” I state firmly. At her dubious look, I soften my tone. “Please do not worry. I know tensions are high, but cooler heads will prevail once we are home.”

After a moment, Thorn dips her head. “Let us hope so.”

She retreats into the tent, most likely to tend to Luna.

I allow myself a small smile as I turn away. By some miracle, she has placed her trust in me. I do not intend to squander this chance to show her that our fates are intertwined for the better. The journey ahead will notbe easy, but with her by my side, I feel hope for the first time in centuries.

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