Divided

Mate

AN: In the flashbacks of Celeste, she is speaking her native language. Also, it goes towards any of the supernaturals. I just wrote it in English since it's easier to understand.

I also want to give someone a quick shoutout, @devarsh_yagnik enjoys creating covers for free and has books as well. So, if you're interested in getting a cover you can text them in the inbox or in the comment section of their books. This person is very talented and nice, so go take a look.

Caterina's POV

Even though my body is still slightly aching from nearly touching her husband, Queen Celeste shows unexpected generosity by allowing me to stay in one of the bedrooms in her castle. She has made it clear that I am to remain here for my own safety, warning me that venturing outside alone could lead to dire consequences. The weight of her words is still fresh in my mind, reminding me that I am far from secure in this unfamiliar place.

Amidst all the chaos and confusion, one question lingers in my thoughts: Who is Cadenza? I recall vividly how Princess Imperia covers her mouth with her hand, her eyes wide with shock, while Athan struggles to grasp the gravity of what he has heard. The scene is a whirlwind of confusion for me; I cannot comprehend the words spoken, and the lack of understanding leaves me with an unsettling sense of disorientation. Now, confined to this room, I am surrounded by unanswered questions.

I slowly make my way to the window, trying to gain some semblance of normalcy amidst the storminess of my thoughts. Looking outside, I see a vibrant and chaotic scene: creatures of all kinds flutter through the air, engaged in animated conversations, and dash about with seemingly boundless energy. The scene is both mesmerizing and overwhelming.

Suddenly, a sharp knock on the door pulls me from my reverie. "Come in," I call out, my voice betraying a mix of curiosity and apprehension. As the door creaks open, my eyes widen in surprise. Standing in the doorway is a figure whose presence seems both unexpected and significant.

Queen Celeste enters the room with a graceful stride, her presence commanding immediate attention. As soon as I see her, I quickly bow, the instinctive gesture a sign of my respect and unease. "Hello, Queen Celeste," I manage to say, trying to keep my voice steady.

Celeste gives me a reassuring, if somewhat reserved, smile. "You can call me Celeste, Caterina," she says warmly. Her tone is gentle, yet there is an undeniable strength in her voice that makes me feel both comforted and intimidated. I nod in acknowledgment, my gaze darting around the room nervously.

"Come here," Celeste instructs softly, her tone leaving little room for hesitation. She settles on the corner of the bed, her posture relaxed but authoritative, and pats the space beside her, indicating that I should sit. Hesitant but obedient, I move to sit next to her, feeling the weight of the situation pressing heavily upon me.

"I know that this is all new to you, and it's scary," Celeste says empathetically. Her eyes, so intense and perceptive, meet mine, but I find myself unable to hold her gaze for long. I nod slowly, the gravity of her words sinking in. "I am sorry for throwing you like that," she continues, her voice carrying a note of regret. "But I couldn't help it. In this world, touching someone else's mate can get you killed immediately."

I wince at the reminder of the incident, feeling a deep sense of shame. "I am sorry for that too," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. "I didn't know that Alistair was referring to you when he mentioned his wife." I keep my eyes fixed on the floor, unable to meet the intensity of her gaze.

Celeste's aura is both powerful and unsettling. Everything about her—from the sharpness of her eyes to the deliberate grace of her movements—speaks of a strength that is almost palpable. It makes me wary, questioning my safety in her presence. Despite her apparent kindness, I can't shake the feeling that she has the capability to kill me if she wishes.