Kingsley's Bride

Chapter 26: Acceptance of Vows

The morning light filtered softly through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on the room. I stirred from my sleep, feeling the stiffness in my body from my makeshift bed on the floor. As my eyes fluttered open, I was met with an unexpected sight, Lord Darius, lying on the bed, his head propped on his palm, watching me intently.

I inhaled deeply, a flutter of nerves stirring in my stomach under his scrutiny. Sitting up slowly, I looked around the room, noting the early morning light and the quietness that enveloped us. I began to fold my bedsheet, trying to ignore the persistent sensation of his eyes on me.

"Good morning, my dear. I trust you slept well?" His voice broke the silence, smooth and almost affectionate, catching me off guard.

I offered a small, uncertain smile, nodding in response. 

"Good morning, my lord. I slept quite well, thank you."

As I busied myself with folding the sheet, I felt his gaze on me, unyielding and intense. It made me feel both exposed and nervous, and I struggled to maintain my composure. Suddenly, he got up from the bed, and I stood frozen in my place, unsure of what to expect.

He walked toward me, his movements slow and deliberate. My heart pounded in my chest as I took a few steps back, the nervousness inside me growing with each step he took. There was a glint of amusement in his eyes, and it was clear he was enjoying my discomfort.

"Scarlett," he said softly, his voice almost a purr, "why are you so nervous?"

I swallowed hard, trying to find my voice. "I'm not nervous," I lied, my voice barely above a whisper.

He raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Really? Because you seem quite on edge."

I took another step back, my back almost touching the wall now. "I'm just... tired from yesterday's journey, that's all."

He took another step closer, leaving almost no space between us. I could feel the heat radiating from his body, his presence overwhelming. "You don't need to be afraid of me, Scarlett," he murmured, his voice low and teasing. 

"I won't hurt you."

I wanted to believe him, but the intensity of his gaze and the proximity of his body made it difficult. My mind was a whirlwind of confusion and emotions, and I struggled to make sense of it all.

"My lord," I began, my voice trembling slightly, "please, give me some space."

He studied my face for a moment, his expression softening. "Of course," he said, taking a step back. "I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

I exhaled slowly, relief washing over me as he moved away. "Thank you," I said quietly, my voice steadier now.

He nodded, his eyes still locked on mine. "You should get ready. We'll be leaving soon."

I nodded, grateful for the distraction. As I finished folding the bedsheet and set it aside, I tried to calm my racing heart. The events of the past days had left me on edge, and the encounter with Lord Darius only added to my anxiety.

I quickly dressed and prepared myself for the day ahead. As I brushed my hair, I couldn't help but glance at Darius from the corner of my eye. He was now standing by the window, looking out at the bustling streets of St. Ives below. The morning sun highlighted the sharp angles of his face, making him appear both regal and intimidating.

A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. Mrs. Bedford entered the room, her warm smile a welcome sight. "Good morning, my dear," she greeted, her voice cheerful. "I've prepared breakfast for you both."

"Thank you, Mrs. Bedford," I replied, returning her smile.

Lord Darius turned from the window, nodding in acknowledgment. "We appreciate your hospitality, Eleanor."