One month later...
I’d been pushing myself, training to become stronger. Alastair had been my coach for the past two weeks.
I missed Lorcan, though. His quirky humor and the stern pep talks he’d give me when I was on the brink of quitting were things I’d always cherish.
A month had passed, and things were different now.
Azriel had stepped into Lorcan’s shoes as the new king. His official coronation was yet to happen, but he was the rightful heir. He was set to take over the empire, with Alastair by his side.
The palace had a different vibe now. It felt heavy.
There was a stifling tension that hung over the court. No one seemed at ease. Everyone was on edge.
Lorcan’s absence was deeply felt, and it showed in the way people behaved. Maybe it was because of Azriel, but they seemed afraid of him.
Ever since Azriel proposed, he’d been acting odd. He’d chat with me, join me for tea or training, but never for more than an hour.
I could sense a gap between us since that night, and I despised it. I longed for things to go back to the way they were.
But it seemed like not everything was going to go my way. I knew I was partly to blame. After all, I had turned down his proposal.
I looked up just in time to dodge a kick from Alastair. He’d become more serious since we started training. He didn’t joke around like he used to. Maybe Lorcan’s death was taking a toll on him.
I’d also begun training my powers with Michael. He’d helped me control my seduction powers and mind control so far. But my cursed blood was still a problem.
Sometimes, I’d go through these weird phases where my mind would get foggy, and I’d feel a dark presence in my mind at night.
There were nights when I couldn’t sleep, and not having Maximus by my side made it harder. I needed someone’s support, but neither Azriel nor Maximus was there for me.
I felt like I was losing my mind. Sometimes, I wished Lilith was here.
Lilith was still in a deep sleep. Azriel had made the final decision a week ago. She was to sleep for a century. That news hit Jonathan hard.
I thought it was unfair, and I tried talking to Azriel about it, but he was livid that day. It was strange to see him angry at me, but he even yelled at me, telling me to stay out of it.
He didn’t get that I was just trying to help. I suggested he let Jonathan spend time with Lilith, but he forbade Jonathan from going near the sleeping chambers.
Jonathan had since left the empire and gone back to Maximus’s palace.
Speaking of Maximus, I hadn’t seen him in a week. I knew he was busy, traveling from one place to another.
After he found out that I had killed Calandra, he started pulling away from me too. It hurt to see him like that, but I understood why.
Even though Calandra had cursed me, Maximus had a connection with her. Michael told me Calandra had helped Maximus’s parents in the past, and she was the one who brought him into this world.
So even if he didn’t show it, I knew he was hurting.
“Focus, Amari,” Alastair’s voice broke my train of thought. I nodded and continued sparring with him.
After three hours of training, Alastair excused himself and went inside. I watched him disappear into the palace corridors.
Then, with a sigh, I looked up at the sky. It was overcast. Dark clouds were gathering on the horizon, signaling an approaching storm.
I picked up my stuff and headed back to my room. I desperately needed a shower.
As I closed the door to my room, the smell of food hit me. My stomach growled, and I blushed.
“Shower first,” I told myself as I started undressing.
I quickly hopped into the shower. The cold water cascaded down my body. I washed up quickly, dried off, and looked at my reflection in the mirror.
Lately, I’d noticed changes in my body. My freckles were more prominent on my face and body, which was a bit annoying.
My chocolate-brown hair had lightened, with streaks of red, and my body had filled out.
I dropped the towel and cupped my breasts. I frowned. Was it just me, or had they grown?
I gave them a light squeeze, then turned sideways to look at them. They definitely seemed bigger.
I looked down at the rest of my body and noticed I’d put on some weight. My thighs and legs were thicker. Was it because of the training?
I shrugged, grabbed my brush, and started untangling my hair. It was time for a haircut.
My hair had grown out again. It now reached past my elbows.
“Should I leave it long or cut it?” I wondered aloud.
“Leave it long,” a familiar voice answered. I jumped, startled, and turned to see Maximus laughing.
“You scared me,” I said, my heart racing.
“Yes…,” he said, his eyes roaming over my body. I frowned for a moment before realizing I was naked.
“MAXIMUS!” I shrieked, dropping to the floor and covering myself with the towel.
“Why so bashful? I’ve seen you naked before. Need a reminder?” Maximus teased, a smirk playing on his lips. I could feel my cheeks heating up.
“Out!” I demanded, my voice shaky with embarrassment.
“Alright, alright.” He chuckled, raising his hands in surrender.
I quickly wrapped a towel around myself, then made my way back to the bedroom. Maximus was already there, undressing with his back to me.
I tried to ignore him, focusing on finding something to wear. I picked out a simple white dress and was about to put it on when I felt a presence behind me. I gasped as Maximus traced a finger down my neck.
“I’ve missed you,” he murmured, his breath warm against my ear.
I swallowed my nerves and met our gaze in the mirror.
“I’m sorry I’ve been so distant. It’s just…”
“You’ve been busy, I get it,” I interrupted, forcing a smile.
Maximus shook his head, his hands resting on my shoulders.
“No, it’s more than that. I’ve been busy, yes, but I shouldn’t have neglected you. And there’s something I’ve been wanting to ask you, but I’ve been holding back.”
“I can’t seem to find the words,” he admitted, his gaze dropping to the floor.
What was he talking about?
“Go on, ask me,” I encouraged him.
“Amari, I-I…” Maximus stuttered, his grip on my shoulders tightening. “Did…did Andrei…did he force himself on you?”
I froze, my heart pounding in my chest. How did he know about that?
“Answer me, Amari,” he pleaded, his voice barely above a whisper.
Panicked, I shrugged off his hands and started to get dressed.
“I-I don’t know w-what you’re talking about,” I stammered, lying through my teeth. I had pushed that memory to the back of my mind, too consumed with other worries to think about Andrei and what he had done to me.
I let out a nervous laugh, but it died in my throat as tears welled up in my eyes. I quickly wiped them away and continued to fix my dress.
“He did, didn’t he?” Maximus asked, his voice heavy with dread. “If you’re wondering how I know, he confessed that day.”
“Who else knows?” I asked, spinning around to face him.
“Michael,” he replied. “Now tell me, is it true?”
I couldn’t meet his gaze, my eyes focused on the tears falling onto my dress. I nodded, my movements frantic. Maximus pulled me into his arms.
I let the tears flow freely as the memories flooded back: his repulsive touch, his cruel laughter, his unwanted kisses. I felt sick to my stomach, a wave of nausea washing over me.
I pushed Maximus away and bolted for the bathroom, barely making it to the toilet before I threw up.
Maximus was right behind me, flushing the toilet and rubbing soothing circles on my back. I leaned my head against the cool wall, my body shaking with sobs.
“It’s okay, come here,” he whispered, pulling me into his arms.
His warmth was a comfort against the chill that had taken over my body.
He led me back to the bed and gently wiped my mouth. I sniffled, trying to hold back the tears as he lifted my chin to look at me.
“I’m sorry I wasn’t there,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m sorry I was too late.”
I shook my head. It wasn’t his fault.
“Hey, look at me,” he commanded, lifting my chin again. “I love you. I need you to know that. I love you with all my heart, Amari. And no matter what he did, I will always love you.”
I looked into his eyes, red and sincere. My heart fluttered in my chest.
I nodded, then dropped my gaze, feeling a mix of shame and disgust. I watched as Maximus reached for a glass of water.
“Drink,” he instructed. I managed a weak smile, then took a sip before handing the glass back to him.
He reached out to stroke my cheek, his touch gentle. I smiled back at him, my heart aching with love for this man.
I placed my hands on his chest, feeling the warmth radiating from him. I traced the scar on his chest, then, without thinking, leaned in to kiss it.
Maximus inhaled sharply as my lips moved across his chest.
I could feel his arousal pressing against me. I was straddling him, my body moving of its own accord as I kissed his chest.
I opened my eyes to find him watching me, his lips parted slightly, his eyes filled with desire.
I moved up to kiss him, but pulled back, remembering I had just thrown up.
“Wait, I need to rinse my mouth,” I said, my cheeks burning with embarrassment.
“Do you think I care?” Maximus asked, a frown creasing his forehead. “That doesn’t bother me, especially not from you.”
I couldn’t help but smile at his words. He returned my smile, then leaned in to kiss me. Our eyes locked as our lips met.
I closed my eyes, deepening the kiss. His hands roamed my body, sending shivers down my spine.
I had missed him so much.
He trailed kisses down my neck, then suddenly stopped. He buried his face in my chest, his arms wrapping around me in a tight hug.
“Do you want to?” Maximus’s voice was muffled against my chest. I couldn’t help but chuckle at his shyness.
“Do you?” I whispered back.
He lifted his head, a shy smile playing on his lips. I noticed a faint blush creeping up his cheeks.
“But are you sure? I know what happened might have upset you. I don’t want to push you,” he murmured, his words tugging at my heartstrings.
“I know, and thank you for understanding,” I whispered back, a smile tugging at my lips.
Maximus returned my smile. I had missed him.
“Kiss me,” I whispered, and he pulled back from my chest.
“Really?” he whispered back. I nodded, and his lips found mine once more.
He held me close, flipping us over on the bed. I giggled as he peppered my cheeks with kisses.
“I missed you. I’m sorry I haven’t been around,” he murmured, his lips brushing against mine.
“I know you’re busy. Everyone is,” I mumbled in response. It wasn’t the whole truth, but I didn’t want to spoil the moment.
“Are you planning to stay here longer?” he asked out of the blue. I frowned at him, puzzled.
“Why do you ask?” I questioned.
“Look, I have to go back. And if I go back, I won’t be able to return for at least two months, Amari. I want you to come with me. Besides, it’s… it’s your home, and you are my home.
“So there’s nothing I want more than to have you with me,” he murmured. His words made my heart flutter.
I tried to respond, but the words wouldn’t come.
“Think about it. I’m leaving tomorrow afternoon. If you decide to stay, it’s okay. I won’t mind,” he said, pressing a kiss to my temple. “I know you have someone else here.”
I was speechless as he pulled away from me. I could feel his hands trembling. Was he afraid I would choose to stay here?
Sitting up, I dropped my gaze. I had been wanting to go back for a while, so why not go with him?
“I want to go back,” I murmured, and he turned to look at me, relief washing over his face.
“Amari?” he murmured.
I nodded, a smile spreading across my face.
“Of course.” I giggled.
We sat in silence, just looking at each other. I crawled onto his lap, straddling him once again. I gently stroked his face. He needed a shave. Leaning in, I kissed him, sucking on his lower lip.
Hearing a low growl, he flipped us over and began to undress me. He tossed my dress to the floor and lowered his body.
His large hands traveled down my waist until they found my underwear. With a swift movement, he ripped them off and moved his hand to my throbbing pussy. He pushed a finger inside me, and I moaned.
He began to move his finger in and out, slowly at first, then picking up the pace. I felt the pressure building up. My legs shook as I moaned his name, my orgasm washing over me.
I was panting as I heard him chuckle. He moved between my legs, leaning over to kiss me. My hands found his long hair. I tugged lightly, moaning as his body pressed against mine.
He was hot, and I felt weak beneath him. I moved my hands down to his lower back, pressing him closer. I wanted to feel him.
“Amari…,” he murmured against my neck.
His lips moved down my chest, and I moaned loudly. My back arched as he sucked on my nipple. My legs shook with need. I wrapped my legs around him, pulling him closer. I wanted him to fuck me hard.
“Please, Maximus,” I breathed, my fingers digging into the sheets.
In one swift movement, he pulled down his pants. His pre-cum was a welcome sensation against my throbbing pussy. He held my thigh and thrust into me.
I moaned as his thick cock pounded in and out of me. He grunted in my ear, and I matched his rhythm.
His lips found mine as my hands found his neck. I screamed his name as he fucked me roughly. The sound of our bodies slapping together filled the room, accompanied by our grunts.
My mind was foggy as I flipped us over. Maximus looked surprised as I began to rock my hips.
“I remember saying I wanted to ride you,” I whispered seductively. I bit my lip and threw my head back, moving against him. His cock hit just the right spot, and I moaned his name.
“Fuck yes,” Maximus groaned, gripping my waist tightly.
My breasts bounced with each movement.
Maximus sat up, making me shiver with pleasure. His cock hit my spot perfectly, and I moaned as my orgasm washed over me.
“Oh my…” My voice broke as he pushed deeper.
Every hair on my body stood on end as he thrust deeper.
“W-wait…” My voice cracked.
“No, not yet,” Maximus growled. I wrapped my arms around him as he quickened his pace.
“Y-y-yeesss…,” I slurred, my eyes rolling back in my head. Then, feeling his cock twitch, he gave a few more thrusts before he tensed up and, with a grunt, came inside me.
I was panting, my eyes heavy. I licked my lips and tried to lift my head, but Maximus pulled us back down. I rested my head on his chest.
I drifted off to sleep, exhausted. He didn’t say a word. The only sound in the room was the steady rhythm of his heart pounding against his chest.
I winced as a dull ache pulsed in my head. It was enough to rouse me from sleep. I slowly opened my eyes. Something heavy was draped over my waist. I looked down to see Maximus’s arm wrapped around me.
I groaned softly, trying to sit up. The sheets barely covered my naked body.
I didn’t want to disturb Maximus. So, I gently lifted his arm and moved it aside. He mumbled something in his sleep, but I paid it no mind.
Taking a deep breath, I carefully got up and made my way to the bathroom.
I held my aching head. It was the same every night. Wasn’t Maximus’s presence supposed to help?
I hadn’t told anyone about it. But the pain was getting worse each night. It was always the same. I’d fall asleep, my mind would get foggy, and then the pain would start.
I hated it. Why was this happening?
Deciding to wash my face, I looked at my pale reflection in the mirror.
I spun around. There it was again, that voice.
I shook my head, taking a deep breath. I closed my eyes, trying to focus on something else.
What was I seeing?
In the mirror, there was another figure standing next to me. His face was hidden in shadow, but I could see his lips curl into a smile.
I backed away, clutching my head. Something dark was lurking in my mind. Afraid to wake Maximus, I glanced over to see him still in bed, his back to me.
I looked back at the mirror. The figure was gone. Who was that?
“Amari?”
I jumped as Maximus called my name.
“Hey, are you okay?” Maximus asked, looking between me and the mirror. “Amari?”
“Y-yes… I just had a bad dream,” I lied. Maximus stood in the doorway, watching me. I forced a smile and pretended to wash my face. “Let’s go back to bed,” I said, drying my face.
He kept his gaze on me.
“I’m fine.” I forced a smile and walked out of the bathroom, leading him back to bed.
I bit my lower lip as I crawled back into bed.
I lay down, and Maximus wrapped his arm around me. He kissed my forehead, and I closed my eyes, a single tear slipping down my cheek.
The next day, we left earlier than planned. I helped pack up my things while Maximus talked to Azriel. I glanced over at them; they were deep in serious conversation. Both of them looked tense.
“Everything is ready,” the coachman said, and I nodded in thanks.
I walked over to them, catching Azriel hissing something at Maximus.
“Is everything okay?” I asked as they both turned to look at me.
“Yes,” Maximus said, smiling. “Say your goodbyes, I’ll wait for you in the carriage.”
He kissed my cheek and walked toward the carriage. I could feel Azriel’s gaze on me.
“What happened?” I asked, not looking at him.
“Nothing,” Azriel said, his tone icy.
I turned to look into his dark eyes.
A week ago, Azriel had cut his hair. His long silver locks were gone, replaced by a short, sleek cut that framed his handsome face. His hair was combed straight back.
“I miss your long hair,” I blurted out. Azriel’s eyes widened, and I clamped my mouth shut.
“Do you now?” Azriel said, a smile finally breaking through.
I laughed.
“Yes, very much, but you still look handsome. Azriel, take care, okay?” I said softly, his smile softening.
“I think I should be the one saying that.” Azriel chuckled.
“Don’t worry. I’ll be fine. I’ll be back soon,” I said, standing on my toes to kiss Azriel’s cheek. “See you in two months.”
“W-wait!” Azriel said as I pulled away.
He grabbed my arm, his eyes locked onto mine. Then, he let go, his arms circling my waist to pull me close.
His lips met mine in a soft, warm kiss. I could feel his emotions pouring into it. He pulled away, leaving me breathless.
“I’ll visit,” he promised. I nodded, my face flushed. I cleared my throat and gave him one last smile. I waved a small goodbye as I walked to the carriage.
I hoped Maximus hadn’t seen that.
Once inside, the doors closed, and I waved another goodbye. Alastair waved back as he walked over to Azriel. I felt a pang of sadness as we parted ways.
“It must be the bond,” I mumbled.
I looked over at Maximus. He sat with his arms crossed over his chest, his gaze fixed on the window, his lips pressed into a thin line. Had he seen us kissing?
“Hey,” I said, reaching for his hand. Maximus turned to look at me.
Maximus wasn’t grinning. Instead, a tiny crease of a frown was etched on his forehead. I let out a soft giggle and slid onto his lap.
I playfully tapped his nose and planted a kiss on his forehead.
“I’m so ready to be home,” I confessed, my smile wide and genuine. Maximus let out a sigh, and after a moment, a smile tugged at his lips.
“Yeah, me too,” he agreed, his hands resting on my waist. I nestled my head against his chest, and together we sat in silence, our gazes lost in the sprawling green fields.
