In the Shadows~zayn au~Completed ✅EDITING

~Chapter 78: Let Go~

                  

Hey guys!! Here's another update! It's a bit shorter, but hopefully still good. 😖You get a bit from Zayn's POV and it was difficult to write. I hate Murdoch, even though I created the character 🙈. Regardless, I hope you enjoy!

Friendly reminder, this DOES end well. It will end well. So, no matter what happens in the future, I want you all to remember that and not hate me too much. Okay? Okay thanks 😁

"That finishes the negotiations then," Murdoch announced. "I will allow the wedding to be in Elysium after your customs, though, I... ask that it be within the month. I don't want any delay in such a good union." It wasn't a request.

She nodded, done with talking to the horrid man.

"It will be done," Crothers confirmed.

She didn't want this. There were too many details outside of her control now. If the resistance failed to step up after all this, she had half a mind to help Murdoch bring down the pompous fools. The thought, even in jest, was in poor taste, but it was a reflection of her frustration.

Murdoch's face was alight with glee. It was the first time she'd ever seen a resemblance to Zayn in him. The way his eyes reflected joy was eerily similar, but it was tragic that her impending demise brought him such joy.

With negotiations completed, everyone stood to leave. It was crowded as they all moved toward the door at once.

Kalysta stood as well, but the minute she rose someone bumped into her forcefully, causing her to fall back into her seat.

It was Zayn.

"My apologies, Princess," he snorted. His tone was anything but apologetic, though he did extend his hand to help her stand up again.

She took it... and felt a piece of paper between their palms. Barely, she held her composure, releasing his hand and accepting the paper discreetly. He was giving her a message since they couldn't talk in private.

"Thank you, Ambassador," she said. "I apologize for my clumsiness."

He didn't answer, and simply walked away.

She tucked the paper up the long sleeve of her dress and met Duke Crothers by the door. He offered his arm and she took it, letting him lead her into the corridor.

He waited until they'd moved away from most of the people before whispering, "I'm so sorry, Princess. I wish there had been a better way."

"We still have hope, Duke," she returned, whispering as well. "It may not be my favorite solution, but Murdoch doesn't own us yet." She was starting to sound like Zayn, quick to reassure even while consumed with doubt.

"The Prince is not a good man," Crothers continued, his voice barely audible now. "I hope you do not think it insolent of me, but I see you not only as my future Queen, but like a daughter as well. I would mourn my daughter's marriage to such a man, and yours even more so, for you've been coerced into this."

Kalysta was touched. "Your concern warms my heart, Duke, but the matter still stands that this is necessary. I value your opinion and favor, for it does me proud that you view me as such. Mary is growing into a wonderful woman and to be held up alongside your daughter means much to me."

Crothers nodded, accepting her words, but sighed.

"The future is not entirely bleak," she continued. "I will go over any opportunities available that may get us out of this situation, and I hope you will as well."

Zayn's POV

"Father, I'm leaving this evening," Zayn said, catching up to where Murdoch and Niall were walking surrounded by guards.