A Misplaced Love by Renee Palstring

Author:Renee Palstring [Palstring, Renee]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Acorn Forest Publishing
Published: 2023-02-11T00:00:00+00:00

Anna draped a thick dark blue robe over my nightgown, ensuring I looked modest to anyone that I might encounter on the long walk to Alexander’s quarters which lay on the opposite side of the castle. An area I was completely unfamiliar with. Afterward, Anna reluctantly bid me goodnight.

The guards followed closely as we made our way to Alexander’s room. I hardly noticed them as I listened to every sound, stared at every dark corner, wondering if it was safe.

Alexander stopped in front of a pair of iron doors. He opened them without a word revealing his dimly lit room.

The layout of his chamber matched mine entirely, apart from the vanity and chaise. In place of these items was a desk covered in thick parchment paper each adorning the crest of Modare, the other was a table hosting a map covered in little figurines. Even in his private quarters, Alexander worked. He was always prepared to protect Modare and her people.

Alexander led me further into his room, closing the doors behind us. The guards positioned outside.

“I’ll sleep here.” Alexander gestured toward a dark blue armchair, I had failed to see, next to the bed. “Should I leave a candle lit tonight?”

I nodded, still too shocked to speak.

Alexander slowly blew out each candle, watching my expression.

Darkness took the room as I remained standing next to the last light. My eyes surveyed every corner again and again, making sure nothing stood in the shadows.

“It’s safe, I promise,” Alexander assured me as he led me to the bed.

I slid off my cloak and hesitantly climbed into the sheets Alexander held open for me, still searching.

Nothing. There was nothing here. I will be fine.

I wrapped the velvet sheets tightly around me. My eyes slowly shut as they weighed heavy with sleep, then there was a creak.

I sat up. Frantically, I looked for the source of the sound. I couldn’t see anything in the dark corners of the room. My breathing hastened, and my body shook.

Comforting warmth spread across my cheek as a callused hand caressed it. “You’re ok,” Alexander whispered.

“I thought I heard the window open,” I whimpered.

“Estelle,” Alexander cooed, enveloping my shaking hands in his. “What can I do to calm you?”

I stared into his concerned eyes, the warmth of his hand reminding me of the distraction he provided an hour earlier.

“Lay with me.” I gulped, not caring if he’d tease me. “Just for tonight.”

Alexander’s eyes softened as he raised my hands to his lips. “I will. Tonight and any night you need.”

Alexander pulled back the covers, settling himself beside me. He glanced at me then the arm he laid on top of my pillow in invitation. I slowly laid back down, resting my head on his surprisingly comfortable bicep. I nuzzled into his chest, inhaling the scent of pine. His fingers ran through my hair then to my back. I pushed my body closer to his, drifting to sleep, feeling completely safe in his arms.

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