As Leila continued her integration into Lucian’s world, she discovered that not everyone saw her as harmless. Lord Daelan, one of Lucian’s rivals, had taken a particular interest in her. She often caught him watching her with a calculating gaze, and his subtle jabs during social gatherings left her on edge.
One evening, she overheard a conversation between Daelan and another noble.
“She could be useful,” Daelan was saying, his tone sly. “If we could convince her to see things our way, she might become an asset rather than a liability.”
“Duke Lucian would never allow that,” the other replied cautiously.
Daelan chuckled. “Lucian’s loyalty is admirable, but even he has limits. If he senses she’s a threat, he’ll have no choice but to distance himself.”
A chill ran down Leila’s spine as she hurried away, her heart pounding. She didn’t know what Daelan’s true intentions were, but she knew that her presence had upset the balance in the kingdom, sparking ambitions and schemes she barely understood.
That night, she confided in Lucian, her voice filled with worry. “I don’t know if I belong here, Lucian. My presence seems to cause more harm than good.”
Lucian took her hands in his, his gaze steady. “You’re not a pawn, Leila. Don’t let anyone make you believe that. You have the right to be here, just as much as they do.”
His words gave her strength, and she resolved to stand her ground, refusing to let others dictate her place in this world.
YOU ARE READING
Between Realms of Love
RomanceOne drunken mistake-and I found myself in another world, tangled in a whirlwind romance with a noble who seemed too good to be true. For a while, it was everything I'd ever dreamed of. But misunderstandings don't wait, and betrayal shattered it all...
