Sacred Temptations

Jealous

As the evening progressed, the grand ballroom buzzed with excitement and revelry. The air was filled with the melodies of live musicians, and couples swirled across the dance floor in a graceful waltz. The Saintess, Anabell, stood at the center of attention, her radiant beauty captivating the guests around her.

Amidst the swirl of activity, the young man with the golden hair and piercing blue eyes, the crown prince Cesar, approached Anabell with a subtle yet confident stride. His presence commanded the attention of the room, and whispers of anticipation filled the air.

With a polite bow, Cesar extended his hand towards Anabell, his eyes sparkling with curiosity and intrigue. "May I have this dance, Saintess Anabell?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of excitement.

Anabell's heart skipped a beat as she met his gaze, feeling a mixture of nerves and exhilaration. Her hand trembled slightly as she placed it in his, her delicate fingers interlacing with his firm yet gentle grip. She nodded with a radiant smile, her eyes mirroring her anticipation. "I would be honored, Crown Prince Cesar."

As the orchestra filled the room with a melodic tune, the couple glided across the dance floor, their movements synchronizing effortlessly. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the enchantment of the moment. Their steps were graceful and harmonious, their chemistry evident to all who watched.

With each twirl and dip, Cesar and Anabell exchanged fleeting glances, their eyes conveying unspoken sentiments. It was a dance that transcended the bounds of social status and obligations, a dance that allowed their hearts to speak in the language of rhythm and motion.

As the dance came to an end, Cesar gently guided Anabell to a secluded corner of the ballroom, away from prying eyes. The dimly lit space provided a moment of respite from the festivities, allowing them to catch their breath and immerse themselves in the intimate conversation that awaited.

As Cesar and Anabell immersed themselves in their intimate conversation, their voices mingling in hushed whispers, a shadowy figure emerged from the periphery. Eugene, with his silver hair and piercing purple eyes, watched them from a distance, his expression a mix of concern and possessiveness.

Unable to contain his unease any longer, Eugene strode purposefully towards the secluded corner where Anabell and Cesar conversed. His footsteps echoed with determination, and his presence loomed over them like a protective guardian.

"Anabell," Eugene's voice resonated with a tinge of urgency, interrupting their conversation. His gaze fixed upon her, a subtle hint of possessiveness flickering in his eyes. "There you are. We need to discuss an important matter."

Anabell's brows furrowed with surprise and confusion as she turned her attention to Eugene. She sensed the tension emanating from him, his protectiveness overriding any formalities. "What is it, Eugene? Can it wait? I'm in the middle of a conversation with Cesar."

Eugene's jaw tensed, his emotions briefly visible before he regained his composure. "No, Anabell, it cannot wait. It concerns your safety and well-being," he asserted firmly, his voice laced with an unwavering determination.

Cesar, observing the interaction with a mixture of curiosity and concern, decided to step back, acknowledging the underlying intensity between Eugene and Anabell.

"I understand," Cesar said, offering a slight nod. "We can continue our conversation later, Anabell. I hope to have the opportunity to speak with you again soon." With a polite bow, he excused himself, giving them the privacy they needed.

Anabell's attention shifted back to Eugene, her expression a blend of curiosity and concern. "What is it, Eugene? Why are you so insistent?"

Eugene's grip tightened involuntarily, his fingers brushing against Anabell's as he attempted to rein in his emotions. "Anabell, you know I care deeply for your safety. With the tensions in the empire escalating, I believe it's crucial that we remain vigilant and cautious. There are those who may exploit your position as the saintess."

Anabell's gaze softened, her concern for Eugene evident in her eyes. She reached out, her hand resting gently on his arm. "Eugene, I appreciate your concern, but I can handle myself. I trust Cesar, and I believe in the strength of our bond."

Eugene's eyes flickered with a mix of emotions—protectiveness, affection, and perhaps a hint of jealousy. He sighed, his gaze locked with Anabell's. "I know you're strong, Anabell. But please understand, as your knight and confidant, it is my duty to keep you safe. I cannot bear the thought of anything happening to you."

Their shared history and unspoken connection hung in the air, reminding them of the bond they had developed over the years. Anabell's touch softened Eugene's resolve, and he found himself momentarily lost in the depth of her eyes.

Anabell's voice softened, her tone filled with understanding. "Eugene, I value your concern and dedication. But I also want you to trust me, trust in the choices I make. We are allies in this journey, and I know we can face whatever challenges come our way together."

Eugene's features softened, his possessiveness tempered by the unwavering trust and understanding in Anabell's words. He nodded, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his lips