Bound By Fate

chapter 7: Veils of the Forbidden Heart

Under the vast, starlit sky, the almighty’s presence was like a storm in the quiet night. His voice rolled out, deep and commanding, “What brings you all here at this hour?”

Freen remained steady, meeting his gaze without a trace of fear. But Heng, caught off guard, shrank under his father’s intense stare. Beside them, Becky’s heart hammered in her chest. She had never felt more like an outsider, and the weight of her secret—the truth of her origins—gnawed at her. The goddess she had come to care for so deeply was everything she wasn’t supposed to have.

Taking a steady breath, Freen inclined her head respectfully. “Your Majesty, we were taking a walk under the stars. My brother and I, along with those dear to us.”

Heng’s eyes widened at his sister’s words, marveling at her boldness, her calm defiance.

The almighty’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I have always known my children’s paths,” he said, his voice even. His gaze shifted to Freen. “But tell me, Goddess Sarocha, is it right to give your heart to a woman, when you, yourself, are a woman?”

Freen stood tall, her voice unwavering. “Great Father, I honor your wisdom and the path you have set for our realm. I know my love may seem… unorthodox, yet it is beyond my control. Can anyone command their heart?” She cast a glance at Becky, who seemed both terrified and transfixed. “Heng, too, follows the calling of his heart.”

The almighty’s expression softened slightly, though his tone remained resolute. “So, the son as well. And yet, I am not surprised,” he murmured, his gaze shifting to Heng.

Heng managed a quiet nod, his hand reaching for Tim’s, a newfound strength in his grip.

“Father,” Heng spoke up, his voice almost a whisper, “thank you… for understanding.”

The almighty raised a hand, silencing him. “My understanding, however, is not without caution.” His gaze returned to Freen, hardening. “While I accept your choices, know this—Sora must remain safe. Any harm to this realm will be swiftly dealt with. I will not hesitate to remove any threat to our peace.”

Freen’s expression grew somber, and she dipped her head. “I understand, Great Father. No harm will come from us.”

For the first time, a faint, almost hidden smile softened the almighty’s face. “As long as your hearts find peace and joy, I will be content.”

Freen smiled, finally feeling a weight lifted. She reached out and took Becky’s hand, her touch gentle, reassuring. Heng, too, looked to Tim, their hands clasped in silent joy.

The almighty turned, his silhouette fading into the night, leaving them alone beneath the stars.

Heng let out a sigh of relief, looking to Tim. “Can you believe it? We have his blessing.”

Freen’s smile brightened, but her gaze soon drifted to Becky, who looked away, her face tense, her eyes distant. Beneath her surface calm, a tempest churned. She had her mission to complete, and every passing moment with Freen made it harder to deny her purpose—or the pain of her conflicting feelings.

Freen’s voice was soft, yet filled with gentle concern. “Becky, are you well?”

Becky forced herself to smile, though her mind raced. Her mission was all she’d come here for, and now her heart was pulling her toward something she never anticipated. “It is… overwhelming, Goddess,” she said, her voice wavering.

Freen stepped closer, her warmth soothing. “You’re not alone, Becky. You’ve become part of my heart, and we will face all things together.”

Becky could only nod, her heart torn between her mission and the painful truth that she had found herself falling for the goddess she should never have.

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