Clair persuaded Per to let her accompany Zach back to his town, assuring her she would be extra careful and cautious. Even though Clair knew it wasn't safe outside-especially with the recent threats against her-she didn't want to spoil Zach's holiday plans because of their situation.
A day before Christmas, Zach took Clair back to Lynchburg where he introduced her to his grandparents, who warmly welcomed her to join them for Christmas Eve. They had a wonderful time together, exploring many places around town.
On New Year's Eve, Clair helped Mrs. Rowland in the kitchen, learning some of her recipes. Zach watched happily from the doorway.
"Don't just stand there, Zach. Set the table and arrange the flowers in the vase," Mrs. Rowland instructed.
"Roger that, chef," he responded with a grin.
Clair chuckled softly.
That night, they shared a delightful meal together. Clair felt a sense of family with them, and she was genuinely happy.
****《•》****
Before heading back to Detroit, Clair and Zach returned to the amusement park where they had their first date. Clair requested to ride the Ferris wheel, and Zach gladly agreed to fulfill her wish.
"When we were here last time, I told you I was scared of thunder. You held me close and reassured me that I had nothing to fear as long as I was with you." she said, smiling as she looked out the window at the passing scenery. Then she turned to Zach, who sat beside her. "I have a confession," she giggled. "I wasn't scared of thunder at all."
"You tricked me!" he chuckled.
She laughed softly. She then leaned against him, looking out at the passing night sky. "I did... But being in your arms made me feel safe."
He wrapped his arms around her from behind and kissed her cheek. "I hope this thing never stops," he whispered.
She gazed into the distance, silently sharing his wish.
They returned to Detroit a week after New Year's. Zach remained in their dormitory as Clair had instructed, focusing on preparing for upcoming classes. Meanwhile, she and her friends took refuge in Filbur's house for safety, where they continued to strategize their next move. Frustration mounted as they struggled to identify their enemies, yet they maintained a positive outlook. Clair grew increasingly eager to uncover the mastermind behind it all.
****《•》****
In the room where Filbur kept all his books, Cerro found Clair alone, intensely studying a map spread across the table and marking areas.
He approached her quietly. "Do you have a moment?" he asked.
She straightened up, exhaling deeply. After a brief pause, she replied, "Can it wait?"
"The situation is getting worse. We need to talk now," he said firmly. "Let's have an honest conversation. Talk to me like your brother," he requested calmly yet with seriousness.
She turned to meet his gaze. Her eyes, usual fierce, now held a hint of sadness beneath their intensity.
"Being with him is only making things worse for you. You have to let him go, Claireth. You and Zach can't be together. You can't break the laws that have bound us since before we were born. You know the consequences of defying them," he implored, stepping closer. "I wish you could be with him. I know he's the only one who brings you happiness. I truly wish you could have him, Claireth... Don't choose love, but don't choose death either... We need you. Even if the council turns a blind eye, I know how crucial you are to protecting both worlds."
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Divine & Wicked: The Trapped Memories (Book2)
Fantasy(Fantasy•Romance) COMPLETED Zach woke up with an addled mind and empty heart a few days after his surgery. He seemed to feel that his life had begun again. As he continued with what he thought was his normal life, fragments of his lost past slowly b...
