68 Hones (2/2)

”Are you tired?” He asked, reaching to pet her. She closed her eyes and leaned into his hand that held her cheek, she could never let go of this warmth.

”I can't get tired, won't ever be tired of you.” The words were said so willfully that Lucian's heart was set on fire. He pulled her into his chest and stroke her soft hair. He couldn't stop the joy in his heart and the pounding that drowned out all his thoughts. He has fallen for her so terribly. There was no way for him to win, he only wished for his days to fill with time to spoil and pamper her. No matter what may happen.

”Lucian, I don't believe that I could have fallen this fast. But I love you, I'm so sick with love.” Aileene choked out the words that she had been too afraid to say. ”There are many things I fear, many things I worry about. I don't want one of them to be dishonesty with you.”

”Aileene—”

”I know you understand me, and I know you want to share my burdens. I want to tell you the truth. I want you to know all that I know.”

”You don't have to tell me if you're not ready,” Lucian said gently, he could feel Aileene shaking in his arms. She was so fragile, her voice was cracking and she was so close to tears. How could he force her? ”I love you so terribly that I couldn't let you bear any pain.”

Aileene pulled away from him and their eyes met. She could see the concern and care in his gaze and it only fuels her determination.

”I've—”

”Lady Aileene! Lady Aileene! There's an urgent letter for you! It's from your uncle, the rider said that you must read it immediately.”

Aileene's words were caught in her throat with the surprised that was caused by the shout of her name. She turned to the door, Lucian also shifted his eyes. And when she got up, he hid so that the person at the door would not be able to see him.