Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SI: Chapter XXII: Stolen Kiss [18+]

Warning: 18+; Mature

In the aftermath of arguments with Lady Beatrix, Peter, burdened by the weight of miscommunication, set out in search of Alice. His steps echoed through the corridors of the Wode castle, and the moonlit night witnessed the solitary figure navigating the familiar paths with his horse.

Peter: "Alice!"

His voice resonated through the quiet night as he approached the familiar garden— their garden. However, the garden remained silent, devoid of Alice's presence.

Peter: "Alice, where are you?"

The wind whispered through the leaves, but Alice's response eluded him. Determined, Peter expanded his search, navigating the spaces that once bore witness to their shared laughter and whispered secrets.

Peter navigated the dense underbrush and towering trees of the deep forest, forging a path to a hidden sanctuary where he and Alice exchanged their vows. In the heart of the ominous, dense forest, Peter ventured through the twisted paths, his horse's hooves crunching on fallen leaves as a flicker of recognition caught his eye. There, near the entrance of the abandoned chapel, stood Alice. Her silhouette hinted at a mix of uncertainty and contemplation; her eyes red and swollen.

Breathless, Peter approached her.

Peter: "Alice, I've been searching for you everywhere. We need to talk."

Alice turned to face him, Alice: "Talk? After what happened at the banquet?"

Peter, earnestly: "Yes, I want to explain everything. Please, let me."

Alice, meeting his gaze, her eyes still holding a trace of the hurt from the banquet, responded cautiously.

Alice: "What's there to say, Peter? Your aunt made it clear." As Alice walk straight to the abandoned chapel.

Peter, earnestly: "I didn't agree to any of it. She overstepped, and I had no say in the matter." Peter follows Alice's steps.

Inside the secluded chapel, shadows danced on the dilapidated walls as Peter tried to bridge the gap.

Peter: "I promise, Alice. I'll do everything in my power to make this right. We can forge our path, away from the expectations and titles. I'll abandon it all for you." He noticed the dried grass ring on Alice's finger. "You still wear it."

Their eyes locked in a silent exchange, a shared promise echoing in the quiet chapel.

Alice: "You can't abandon your people and your castle; you're a hero now, remember?" Alice turned her back, holding back a wave of emotions.

Alice: "Let me go. Go wed your fated lady, Teresa. You complement each other."

Peter, grabbing Alice's arm gently: "Alice, I won't let you go. Teresa is not the complement to my soul; you are."

Peter, releasing her arm, sighs: "Alice, I won't go through with that marriage. I refuse to let my aunt dictate my life. I don't care about the title or the inheritance. I care about you."

Alice, turning to face him, a mixture of frustration and hope in her eyes: "Peter, we can't ignore reality. Your aunt won't let us be together. We live in a world where titles matter, where love is secondary."

Peter, determined: "I'll find a way, Alice. I promise. I won't let anyone tear us apart."

Alice, softening: "You're asking for the impossible, Peter. I can't be your secret, your hidden love. It's not fair to either of us."

Peter, taking her hands: "I know it won't be easy, but I'm willing to fight for us. Let's find a way to make it work. I can't imagine my life without you."