Betrayed by fate

Chapter 18- Miles

I walked through the elegant garden, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers surrounding me. My heart raced as I approached High King Letum, who stood stoically near a bed of roses. It was hard to ignore his commanding presence, but I couldn't help the feeling of resentment bubbling within me.

I cleared my throat, trying to steady my voice. "High King Letum," I began, "we need to discuss our impending marriage."

Letum turned towards me, his expression unreadable. "Indeed," he replied in his deep, authoritative voice. "It is expected that we fulfill our duties to our kingdoms."

I took a deep breath, hoping to find the courage to speak my mind. "But, Your Highness, I can't deny that I hold reservations about this union. It feels forced and unnatural. Is there no room for choice or love?"

Letum's face remained impassive, his eyes fixed on the roses. "Love is not a luxury afforded to rulers, Amity. Our alliance is built upon political strategy and necessity."

My heart sank at his words, the weight of my duty crushing down on me. I looked around at the garden, its beauty contrasting with my inner turmoil. "I just need some time to think," I murmured, barely audible.

As if sensing my distress, Letum finally showed a hint of emotion on his face. Concern flickered across his eyes for a brief moment before he composed himself once again. "Of course, Amity. Take all the time you need. My heart may not be involved, but your happiness is still important to me."

The sincerity in his words surprised me, as did the glimmer of compassion that briefly broke through his stoic façade. Perhaps, beneath the surface, there was more to the High King than met the eye.

Just as I started to contemplate his words, a sudden darkness consumed the garden. Panic gripped my heart as I heard a sinister laughter emerge from the shadows. Before I could react, a figure stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with malicious intent.

It was Miles, a demon known for his treacherous tricks and insatiable hunger for power. "Amity," he sneered, "did you really think you could escape your fate so easily? Your power, your essence, belongs to me."

Fear surged through me, but anger quickly replaced it. "You tricked me!" I shouted, my voice echoing amidst the chaos. "You will never have me or my power!"

Letum's expression hardened, his regal aura emanating strength. "Leave, demon," he commanded, his voice cutting through the darkness. "You have no place here."

As Miles recoiled at the king's powerful presence, I felt a surge of gratitude for the man I thought I despised. In that moment, I realized that perhaps Letum's stoicism was a shield, protecting him from the harsh realities of his position.

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After the whole encounter with Miles, I hadn't spoke with Letum at all. During this time, my child was nearly ready for delivery, and it was talking a toll on me, physically and mentally.

It was hard to sustain life as a vampire, and need blood immediately. But the only person I could ask, is Letum. I walked around the palace hopping to find him soon.

As I walked down the corridor of the palace, my mind preoccupied with the day's events, I rounded the corner and entered the hallway leading to Letum's chambers. The sound of running water caught my attention, but it was only when I heard a sharp gasp that I realized what was happening.

In that split second, time seemed to slow down as my eyes widened in disbelief. There stood Letum, his chiseled physique glistening with water droplets, a towel loosely wrapped around his waist. He froze, his eyes widening in equal surprise as our gazes locked.

Embarrassment flooded through me, turning my cheeks crimson. I quickly averted my gaze, flustered beyond words. "I'm so sorry, Letum!" I stammered, my voice barely audible. "I didn't realize you were... I mean, I should have knocked."

Letum's composed demeanor faltered for a moment, his surprise evident. But then a soft smile tugged at the corners of his lips, mixed with a touch of amusement. He reached for another towel, hastily wrapping it around his shoulders. "It's alright, Amity," he reassured me, his voice gentle and forgiving. "No harm done."

I could still feel my heart racing as I forced myself to look back at him. There was no trace of embarrassment in his expression, only a genuine warmth that put me at ease. "I really didn't mean to intrude," I apologized again, feeling slightly mortified.

Chuckling softly, Letum took a step closer, closing the distance between us. "Amity, there's no need to apologize. This is just one of those unexpected situations life throws at us."

His understanding and kind words eased the tension inside me. I could sense that our bond had deepened even further in that vulnerable moment. "Thank you for being so understanding," I murmured, my voice filled with gratitude. "You've always been there for me, and I'm grateful to have you in my life."

Letum's eyes softened, his gaze filled with affection. "Amity, you don't need to thank me. Being there for you is the greatest honor I could ever have. Our connection goes beyond mere titles or positions. It's rooted in trust, friendship, and an unconditional love that surpasses any boundaries."

I turned to leave, but he grabbed my hand. "Huh-"

He grabbed the back of my head without response, and pushed it to his neck. "Drink." He commanded me, pulling me closer against his naked body.

I did as he said, and sank my fangs into his skin, rising on the tips of my toes to reach. As if he could tell I was struggling because of the height difference, he lifted me up, and held me in his arms.

The thick sweet blood filled my mouth, coated my throat with its rich flavor. "Ngh-" I moaned against his skin, noticing his blush.

I pulled away, and looked down before I could think twice.

The towel had fallen?

"Oh god!" I'm sorry"

He laughed and pushed me onto his bed, with a rare smirk.

To be continued ?