Temptation

Chapter Ten: Morning Revelations

Claire woke up alone, the early morning light streaming through the window. She stretched and yawned, the events of the previous night flooding back to her. Her body still tingled from their passionate encounter, and her heart felt heavy with the weight of their secrets. She glanced around the room, searching for any sign of Lucian. Her eyes fell on a note placed neatly on the table. Curiosity piqued, she unfolded it and began to read.

Claire,
We must act tonight. We will erase everyone's memories and flee together. Be ready.
- Lucian*

Claire's heart raced as she read the note. The gravity of their plan, and the potential consequences, made her stomach churn. She couldn't believe how quickly her life had changed. She was torn between her love for Lucian and the fear of what their actions might lead to.

Pushing the thoughts aside, she dressed quickly and left her room, making her way to the library. She needed answers, some understanding of what she had gotten herself into. The old wooden door creaked as she entered, the scent of aged books and parchment filling the air. She navigated the aisles, her fingers trailing along the spines of books until she found the section on demonology and theology.

She settled at a table with a few thick volumes and began to read. The more she learned about Lucifer, the more she realized the complexities of his existence and the dark allure that surrounded him. Her mind swirled with questions and doubts.

"Good morning, Sister Claire," Mother Superior's voice cut through her thoughts.

Claire looked up, startled. "Good morning, Mother Superior," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

Mother Superior's keen eyes studied her. "What are you reading, child?"

Claire hesitated, then decided to be honest. "I was reading about Lucifer," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Mother Superior's expression hardened. "And why, may I ask, are you interested in such dark subjects?"

Claire took a deep breath, gathering her courage. "I wanted to understand... if it's possible for a human to fall in love with Lucifer."

The slap came without warning, the sharp sound echoing through the library. Claire's cheek stung, and she tasted blood from her bitten lip. She stared at Mother Superior, shock and hurt in her eyes.

"How dare you speak such blasphemy!" Mother Superior's voice was a harsh whisper, full of anger. "You will never speak of this again, do you understand?"

Claire nodded, her voice small. "I'm sorry, Mother Superior."

Mother Superior glared at her for a moment longer and said, "Your Mother would be turning in her grave," before turning on her heel and leaving the library. Claire stood there, trembling, holding back her tears.

Lucian appeared in the doorway, his presence filling the room. He moved swiftly to her side, his eyes filled with concern. "What happened?"

Claire couldn't hold back her tears any longer. She sobbed quietly, and Lucian enveloped her in his arms, his touch comforting and protective. "She... she slapped me. She was so angry when I asked about falling in love with you," Claire managed to say between sobs.

Lucian's expression darkened with anger. "I am so sorry you had to go through that," he murmured, stroking her hair gently. "But don't worry, my love. We will do it tonight. We will be free from all of this."

Claire looked up at him, her eyes filled with a mixture of fear and determination. "Are you sure? Is this really the only way?"

Lucian nodded, his gaze steady. "It's the only way for us to be together without the world tearing us apart."

Claire took a deep breath, trying to steady her emotions. "Then we'll do it. Tonight."

Lucian kissed her forehead softly, holding her close. "Tonight," he repeated, his voice a promise. "We will be free."