A storm in the north | cregan stark

17

Aelora's anxiety grew with each passing day as the wedding approached. Despite her growing fondness for Cregan, she couldn't shake the feeling of uncertainty about their future together. She found herself questioning whether her feelings were genuine or merely a product of the circumstances they found themselves in. It troubled her to think that she was committing herself to someone she had known for only a short while.

As she contemplated her impending marriage, Aelora couldn't help but recall past experiences that had left her wary of trusting others too easily. The memory of her cousin Aemond, whose outward kindness masked a darker side, lingered in her mind. She remembered how he had betrayed her trust, revealing a side of himself that she hadn't seen before. It served as a stark reminder that people were often not as they seemed, and she couldn't help but wonder if Cregan might be hiding his true nature as well.

Her thoughts were consumed by the uncertainties of the future, and despite her attempts to push them aside, they continued to gnaw at her. She longed for the reassurance that her decision was the right one, but deep down, she couldn't shake the fear that she was embarking on a path filled with uncertainty and potential disappointment.

Aelora's reverie was interrupted by the sound of footsteps echoing through the quiet corridors of Winterfell. She turned to see Cregan approaching, his concern evident in his expression. As he drew near, he gently inquired, "Are you alright, Aelora?"

Startled by his sudden appearance, Aelora offered a faint smile and nodded. "Yes, I'm fine," she replied, though her troubled thoughts lingered just beneath the surface. "Just lost in my thoughts, that's all."

Cregan regarded her with a mixture of understanding and concern, his gaze searching hers for any sign of distress. "If there's anything on your mind, you know you can always talk to me," he offered, his tone reassuring.

Aelora appreciated his concern, grateful for his offer of support. "Thank you, Cregan," she said softly, touched by his kindness. "I appreciate that."

As they walked through the corridors of Winterfell, Cregan turned to Aelora with a gentle expression. "Would you like to take a walk to the godswoods together?" he asked softly, his voice carrying a hint of earnestness. "I'd like to talk to you in private."

Aelora hesitated for a moment, her mind racing with thoughts and uncertainties about the upcoming marriage. But then, she nodded slowly, realizing that perhaps this conversation with Cregan could offer some clarity or reassurance.

"Yes, I would like that," she replied, her voice soft yet determined. "A walk in the godswood sounds peaceful."

Together, they made their way through the corridors of Winterfell, their footsteps echoing softly against the stone floor. Aelora's heart fluttered with a mixture of anticipation and trepidation as they approached the sacred grove.

Once amidst the ancient trees, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the godswood, Cregan turned to Aelora "There's something I'd like to do," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, his eyes searching hers for consent.

In the serene atmosphere of the godswood, Cregan's request took Aelora by surprise. She gazed at him, a mixture of curiosity and uncertainty flickering in her eyes. "It depends on what you want to do," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of caution. Yet, there was an underlying trust in her tone, a willingness to let him take the lead. As Cregan cupped her face tenderly, his touch gentle yet firm, Aelora felt a flutter of anticipation in her chest. With a slight tremor, he lifted the lower part of the veil revealing her lips. The air between them crackled with tension as he leaned in, his lips meeting hers in a soft, tentative kiss.