RED EYES

Chapter 40

Narrator's POV :

Days had passed since the incident, but Lucian’s mind remained trapped in thoughts of the kingdom and the mysterious girl. Ever since that day, he had experienced no hallucinations of Bella—no scent, no voice, nothing. Alexander had not returned either, having informed Lucian he would be staying away for a few more days.

Lucian was in the library, studying maps, when a guard knocked at the door.

“Come,” Lucian ordered, looking up to see the guard enter with a letter in hand.

“My lord, this letter is from Lord Alexander,” the guard said as he handed it over. Lucian nodded, taking the letter, and the guard excused himself.

When Lucian opened the letter, roses spilled out, their scent filling the room. He was confused at first, but as he inhaled deeply, his heart raced—the unmistakable fragrance of Bella was all over the flowers. After so many days, it felt like she was close again. He unfolded the letter and read the words:

"I am yours, and will always be yours, Lucian."

His heart pounded. These were the very words Bella had once spoken to him. Confused and startled, Lucian quickly called the guard back.

“Who gave this to you? Who came here from Arcanis?” Lucian demanded.

“A girl, my lord. I thought she was just a messenger, but I was about to inform you that she was Lord Alexander’s guest—his mate’s sister. The letter must have gotten mixed up with hers,” the guard explained.

Lucian’s smile faded as he listened. “Why is she here?” he asked, his tone serious.

“I don’t know, my lord. Lord Alexander sent her,” the guard replied.

Lucian left the library and descended the stairs, heading towards the garden. There, sitting on a swing, was the girl he had seen before while gathering flowers. He approached her slowly.

“What brings you here on your own?” Lucian asked, startling her.

“Why do you always sneak up on people like that?” the girl responded, standing up and placing a hand over her chest. Her reaction reminded Lucian of Isabella.

“I apologize if I’ve disturbed you, my lord,” the girl said. “But Alexander asked me to deliver the letter. He’ll be staying longer, and as for why I came… well, I wanted to explore your kingdom. Here’s the letter.” She handed him the letter, their fingers brushing briefly, sending a jolt through Lucian.

Ignoring the sensation, he opened the letter. It mentioned Luna's sister—Bella. He spoke her name aloud. “Bella…”

“Yes, my lord,” the girl replied.

Lucian was stunned. She resembled Bella, though her face remained hidden beneath a wide-brimmed hat.

“Welcome to my castle,” Lucian said, masking his surprise. “The guard will show you to your room. Feel free to explore the castle and its surroundings.” With that, he excused himself and returned to his library.

“Her name is Bella… her touch, her presence—it’s all too familiar,” Lucian's wolf murmured.

“Perhaps it’s just because she’s of the same age, and our mind is playing tricks on us,” Lucian muttered, dismissing any further thoughts of the girl.

Time slipped away as Lucian worked in the library. By the time he looked up, night had fallen. Skipping dinner, he decided to return to his chamber. On his way, he noticed the door to his old chamber slightly ajar, with a dim light spilling out. His heart quickened with hope—could Isabella be back? Could he finally hear her voice again?