Dark Path to Heaven [Demon Romance]

Chapter 36

Chapter Music: "Halloween Waltz" by Brandon & Derek Fiechter

Even though that relaxed me a lot, I couldn't just go to sleep and pretend that was enough. The thought of him being pained by qualms broke my heart. The least I could do was to let him know about my sincere feelings.

"I... think I love you, Astaroth," I stressed every word.

"I'd tell you the same thing if I was sure about my sanity," he spoke bitterly.

I had a feeling that demons relied on their dark instincts and desires heavily. While I could see why Astaroth was considered one of them, his logic undoubtedly kept him in check.

He had saved Merihem because he understood that he was not worthy of the hell he had been going through. He had killed Luna because people like her would never really change but would keep making the lives of others unbearable (without good reason). He was interested in me because, like him, I trusted the evidence and was wary of emotions. And if he had forced me to stay with him and tried to intimidate me in any way, I believed it was to protect me. Every story and detail I had heard about him only confirmed this theory.

Rationality was one of my biggest principles and that was why I admired Astaroth so much. However, just like my positive approach to life, a capable mind is merely a defense mechanism. Deep inside, I was selfish just like everyone. And because I cared about the sly demon beside me, I needed him to show me his 'ugliest' parts as well.

I need to communicate this. I need him to be free.

It was my turn to take him in my arms and try to comfort him: "Astaroth, what do you think it is that fed my curiosity to discover the real you?"

He didn't speak. He only narrowed his eyes and stared at me with piqued interest.

I grinned smugly and went on to explain: "You've already proved to me how incredibly smart you are. Do you know what really fascinates me...?"

I didn't even have to finish my argument. His dark and stern gaze assured me that I had managed to get through. For the first time, I saw no threat in the malicious expression on his face.

Oh, how much I love this face.

I extended my arm to cup his cheek; but, before I even touched him, he grabbed my wrist and paralyzed me. There was no need for him to use his magic – a glance at his emotionless eyes was enough to captivate me.

"Do you mean it, Sophia?" His cold voice was almost... seductive.

I pushed myself to tell him something –anything– but he spoke again: "What do you love about me?" He clenched my wrist.

It's almost as though I'm under a spell.

"Your cruel smile," I mumbled dizzily, "your selfish desires," I paused to collect my thoughts, "your narcissistic confidence–"

By the time I opened my mouth for the fourth time, he forced his tongue inside, silencing me for good. He kissed me long and hard while I strived to keep my heartbeats under control. His hand was still wrapped around my wrist, as a reminder that I was to keep my promise; that I would submit to his dark wishes.

I liked this a little too much.

Not too long later, he pulled away with a smirk. "Sleep," he breathed. "You're not fully rested and I can feel I'm messing up your dark energy."

Is this why I feel so groggy? Could such a thing happen to a human without energy consumption?

"I didn't cause this if that's what you're thinking about," he spoke as if he had read my mind again. "We can discuss it further as soon as you wake up."