Zeldris x Reader: Yearning

Ch. 26 Love's Resilience

(Y/n)'s POV

When it was time to exchange our vows, I felt a tingling sensation of unease creeping into my heart. The words I had practiced so many times suddenly felt heavy on my tongue, as if they carried the weight of the world. I glanced at Zeldris, his expression unwavering, and I drew strength from his presence. But still, a shadow loomed in the back of my mind, whispering that something was amiss.

"Zeldris," I began, my voice steady despite the emotions swirling within me. "From the moment we met, you have brought light into my life. You've shown me the true meaning of love, and I promise to stand by your side through every challenge and triumph. I vow to support you, to cherish you, and to grow with you as we navigate this journey together. You are my partner, my confidant, and my greatest joy."

Tears glistened in Zeldris's eyes as he listened, and I could see the depth of his love reflected in his gaze. When it was his turn to speak, he took a deep breath, his voice filled with sincerity.

"(Y/n), you are my heart and my home. You have taught me the power of love and the strength of community. I promise to honor you, to respect you, and to be your unwavering support. Together, we will face whatever life throws our way, and I will always strive to be the partner you deserve. I love you more than words can express, and I am so grateful to share this life with you."

The officiant continued, his voice steady, but I could feel the tension in the air thickening. I took a deep breath, trying to shake off the ominous feeling that clung to me like a shadow. I was determined to focus on the love that surrounded us, to push aside the unease that threatened to mar this perfect moment.

But just as we were about to exchange rings, a loud crack echoed through the clearing, startling everyone. The figure I had seen earlier stepped forward, his face obscured by a hood. Gasps rippled through the crowd, and I felt Zeldris's grip tighten around my hands, his eyes narrowing in concern.

Zeldris POV

"Stop!" the figure shouted, their voice echoing through the clearing. "This union cannot proceed!"

I recognized the voice immediately. It was Estarossa, my brother, but something was terribly wrong. His eyes, usually filled with warmth and mischief, were now wild and frantic. I could see the desperation etched on his face, and it struck me that he wasn't in his right mind.

"Estarossa!" I called out, trying to reach him through the chaos. "What are you doing? This is a sacred moment!"

"Why can't she love me?" he shouted, his voice cracking with emotion. "Why can't (Y/n) see that I am the one who deserves her? I won't let you take her away!"

The crowd gasped, and I felt a wave of confusion wash over them. Meliodas, Elizabeth, and the other members of the Seven Deadly Sins stood at the edge of the gathering, their expressions a mix of concern and disbelief. I could see Meliodas's brow furrowed, his eyes darting between Estarossa and us, trying to assess the situation.

"Estarossa, listen to me!" I urged, stepping forward. "This isn't the way. You need to calm down. (Y/n) loves me, and we're here to celebrate that love. You can't disrupt this!"

But Estarossa's gaze was unfocused, as if he were trapped in a whirlwind of his own emotions. "No! You don't understand! I've been watching her, and I know she feels something for me! I can't let you take her away!"

I felt (Y/n) squeeze my hand, her voice barely a whisper. "Zeldris, I know something is wrong. Estarossa didn't join us in the last battle against the goddesses and archangels. He's not himself."

Her words sent a jolt of realization through me. Estarossa had been absent during the most critical moments, and I had assumed it was a choice he made. But now, I understood that something deeper was at play. The darkness that had consumed him was not just a result of his own choices; it was a manifestation of the turmoil within him, a struggle against forces he couldn't control.