My Princess~Malachi Barton

☆Confessions & Lunch☆

After their kiss, Malachi gently pulled back, his hands still resting on Laura's shoulders as they stood in the quiet of the hotel room. He searched her eyes, seeing a mix of emotions—vulnerability, determination, and a hint of fear.

"Laura," he began softly, his voice tinged with concern, "tell me what's going on. Why did you leave the palace? And why did you come here?"

Laura took a deep breath, her fingers nervously twisting together. She knew she needed to explain, to share the turmoil that had driven her to this impulsive escape. "Malachi," she started, meeting his gaze with sincerity, "I couldn't stay there any longer knowing how I feel about you. Seeing you tonight, it made me realize I can't go through with the marriage to Prince Jona."

Malachi listened intently, his heart aching for her. He had sensed her inner struggle during their time together, but now, hearing her confession, he understood the gravity of her decision. "Laura," he said gently, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face, "what do you want now?"

"I want to be with you," Laura replied earnestly, her voice trembling slightly. "I know it's complicated, and I know there are risks, but I can't deny how I feel anymore. I had to come here, to be honest with myself and with you."

Malachi nodded slowly, his mind racing with the implications of her words. He cared deeply for Laura, but he also knew the challenges they would face—both personally and politically. "Laura," he said softly, drawing her close again, "I want to be with you too. But we need to be careful. Your father, the king... he won't take this lightly."

"I know," Laura murmured against his chest, her arms tightening around him as if seeking reassurance. "But I can't live my life according to his plans anymore. I need to make my own choices, even if it means leaving everything behind."

Malachi held her tightly, feeling the weight of her words and the strength of her resolve. He knew they were embarking on a journey fraught with uncertainty, but he also knew he couldn't let her face it alone. "Laura," he said, lifting her chin gently to meet her eyes, "you can stay here as long as you need. We'll figure this out together."

Tears welled up in Laura's eyes again, overwhelmed by his unwavering support. She kissed him softly, gratitude and love mingling in the gentle press of her lips against his. In that moment, she felt a sense of relief and clarity she hadn't known was possible.

"Thank you, Malachi," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "Thank you for being here for me."

Malachi kissed her forehead tenderly, his heart swelling with affection towards the girl"Always, Laura," he murmured against her skin. "I'll always be here for you."

They stayed wrapped in each other's arms, finding solace in the quiet of the hotel room and in the certainty of their shared decision. For the first time in a long while, Laura felt a glimmer of hope for her future—a future she could now imagine with Malachi by her side.

After their tender moment, Malachi held Laura close, feeling a mixture of emotions swirling within him—love, concern, and a deep sense of protectiveness.

"Laura," he whispered softly, his voice a soothing murmur against her ear, "come, let me take care of you."

Laura nodded silently, her hand finding his as he led her further into the hotel room. The space was warm and inviting, with soft lighting casting a gentle glow across the room. Malachi guided her towards the large, comfortable bed, its plush covers inviting in the dimness.

"Here," Malachi said tenderly, pulling back the covers and gesturing for Laura to sit down. "You should rest."

Laura hesitated for a moment, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. "But, Malachi, where will you sleep?" she asked softly, concern evident in her voice.