SOUL SNATCHERS

CHAPTER 10

"I'll talk to your parents. We need to inform them about our relationship," Karl said, his brown eyes fixed on Rose pretty face. They were sitting under the shade of the Tamanu tree, on the shoreline.

"I don't think it's a good idea, babe," she said, with a hint of sadness in her voice, as she held his hand tightly.

"Why not?" he asked. "Communicating with them would be the best way to address the situation between us. It's only fair that they know," he continued.

"But, Karl-"

"No more 'buts,' okay? I want to let them know that my intentions are pure, that my love for you is real, and that I'm committed to waiting until you finish your studies," he said, tenderly kissing her forehead.

"I know how much you love me, and I understand why you want to involve my parents, but-" She paused, trying to find the right words.

"Do you love me, Rose?" he asked softly.

"Of course, I love you. You know it. You're my first and my last. But before we continue, can you please listen to what I have to say?" she requested.

"Okay. Alright, I'll listen and let you speak."

"I appreciate your desire to prove your love to my parents," she paused, taking a breath. "However, I don't believe it's the right time to share our relationship with them. There are circumstances that make this inappropriate at the moment." She looked down, pondering on the best way to articulate her thoughts.

"I'm listening, babe," he assured her, gently holding her face as tears glistened in her eyes.

"My mother recently discovered that my father has another family in the U.S. Their marriage was fake, and my mother unknowingly became his mistress," she revealed, struggling to contain her emotions. She wanted to appear strong in his presence, and Karl held her tightly, offering comfort and support.

"I always thought we had a happy and perfect family. I never imagined..." Rose's voice trailed off as tears streamed down her face.

"Shh... It's not your fault, okay? I'm here for you. Cry on my shoulder as long as you need to. Release the pain in your heart. I'll always be by your side," he reassured her, reminding her of his unwavering love.

"I've seen my mother's pain, even though she doesn't talk about it. She feels like a homewrecker and a mistress, burdened with guilt," Rose added, her voice laced with sorrow.

"Look at me," Karl said, gently lifting her face to meet his gaze. Rose looked into her boyfriend's eyes.

"I may not have material wealth or a promising future to offer you. I can't give what I don't have. I'm an ordinary man, doing ordinary things to support my family, to ensure there's food on our table. But there's one thing I can promise you: to love you in an extraordinary way. I'll be loyal and faithful, without needing to make empty promises that are often meant to be broken. I'll never hurt you or even consider it. I'll love you, even if it costs me my life," he declared, drawing closer to her. He placed a gentle kiss on her lips. Rose responded, giving in to the passion they shared. She savored his taste and scent, feeling the warmth spreading through her body. Her hands explored his well-defined muscles, caressing his face, while emitting soft moans. Karl kissed her neck, making his way down to her breasts. Overwhelmed with pleasure, Rose gasped and moaned as he attempted to remove her clothing. However, she stopped him, firmly gripping his hand.

"Don't!" Her voice was loud and piercing. Karl was taken aback and swiftly withdrew his hand.

"I... I'm sorry," Karl stammered, rising and kneeling in front of her. He clasped his hands together, feeling the weight of his guilt. "I didn't mean for things to escalate like that. I got carried away. I'm truly sorry, Rose," he apologized.