Stuck with the enemy

Chapter 67: Out for a swim.

Deniz's Story

Two days later...

Since I was removed from Adeline's security detail, I've had time to breathe—to get back into training with my unit. And gods, I'd missed this.

Everyone had improved so much. Their footwork, their timing, their focus... it made me proud just watching them grow into the soldiers they were meant to be.

Days blurred together in a steady rhythm—training after training, patrol after patrol. Nothing unusual. Nothing dangerous. And for the first time in weeks, the air felt calm.

But I knew better.

Just because things were quiet didn't mean we were safe.

The danger hadn't disappeared.

And deep down, I knew—it was all because of me.

I killed Leo.

And now, his family wants my blood.

Some days, it's easier to ignore that truth. Others... it eats me alive.

Right now, I'm in the training hall with Miriam . After a brutal session, we both collapsed on the edge of the mat, gulping water and watching the others continue sparring.

"I'm really glad you came back," Miriam said beside me, her voice light, easy.

I smiled faintly and nudged her shoulder with mine. "Me too. What would you all do without me?"

She laughed, and for a moment, it felt like the old days.

But then my gaze shifted toward the entrance—and I saw her.

Adeline.

She walked past the doors like she owned the place, graceful as ever. And trailing behind her, of course... Clara.

That girl didn't know how to mind her business.

"I'll be right back," I muttered to Miriam , already getting to my feet.

I moved fast, slipping through the crowd, following the two girls as they headed toward the indoor pool area.

Something told me this wasn't just a casual swim.

By the edge of the pool, I found them.

The air between them crackled with tension. Adeline's bodyguard was nowhere in sight, which was odd. I approached quietly, instinct already telling me this wasn't just a casual chat.

"You really think you're ready to be Luna?" Clara spat, her arms crossed, voice full of venom. "I've known Derek for years. I was trained for this. You show up out of nowhere—what, two days ago?—and think you can take my place?"

Her words were sharp and fast, but her eyes... they were burning.

"I know you're not his true mate," she continued, stepping closer. "This is just some arrangement between you two. I see through it."

Adeline didn't flinch. She stood tall, spine straight, eyes cold.

"Derek loves me. And I love him," she said through clenched teeth, her voice calm but loaded with warning. "It's not my fault you couldn't earn his favor. You had your chance. You lost. He's my future husband, Clara. So watch your tone when you speak to me."

Her hand reached forward, gripping Clara's arm—not roughly, but enough to make a point.

"Who the hell do you think you are?" Clara hissed. "Let go of me—"