《The Wrong Bride!》 Chapter 1 - Weddly-Funeral The pair of brown eyes looked at her reflection on the mirror, her face was slightly made up giving her the most natural look, her nose was perfectly highlighted making it look more pointed, her hair was neatly combed and styled and the apparel she was donned in was a beauty to behold. She looked just like the girl she had envisioned herself to be years ago. Her looks were just as she had dreamt it would be even as a child. But seeing herself right now in her most fascinated look, she felt nothing but immense pain and fear. Today was supposed to be the happiest day of her life, as a matter of fact it was the happiest day in every girl''s life but why then does she feel she''s walking to the pyre to be slaughtered? "It''s time." She heard someone say from the door. She didn''t know who it was but she was sure her mother must have sent her. "Okay." She replied, but her voice barely made it out of her vocal cord. But whoever was there didn''t knock or say anything else. If wishes were horses she''d would wish she had never been born. Or she''d wish to be an ordinary girl from an ordinary family where she wouldn''t be handed a death certificate under the act of saving her family. A family she had loved for years was now the reason she wished death upon herself. A little poison, a dagger to the heart, an incurable sickness were some of the many causes of death. But the most painful and slowful cause of death was when one''s life, dreams and aspirations were forcefully snatched away under the pretence of filial piety. If there was a classification for death, she''d say this was the worst and gruesome kind there was, because there was absolutely no closure. She''ll have to face the consequences and endure the pain as long as her miserable life tarrys. The result of this kind of death was that life comes to a stand still and everything slips away, leaving one with nothing but the sad torture of watching others achieve their goals while they''re left with nothing but regrets and pain. This was the kind of death her mother''s request was going to give to her. She gave herself a good last look on the full length mirror, and once again her brown eyes skimmed through every corner of her body. Soon she''ll become someone''s property. Not just anyone''s but the man whose name she''d never want to take with her lips. As a matter of fact, no one would. A sad smile graced her lips and she softly called her name, her birth name, the name she has been addressed with all her life but that was about to change. This was probably the last time she''d be addressed by that name before she takes on the new role she has been burdened with. The role of being the wife of the man who shouldn''t be allowed to dwell in the land of the living ¨C who was greatly feared by all and loved by none, at least that''s what the tabloids said. Though she had never seen him, not even a picture of him because she had never thought there would be a need to. But she had heard the rumours. And they weren''t nice. She ran her hand through the fine material of her voluminous wedding gown. It was a beautiful piece no doubt and any bride would look good on it, but not her. It was a cathedral train lace wedding dress with beading appliques. The silver studded band beneath her diaphragm was made of pure diamonds. Her mother must have spent a fortune in acquiring this no doubt. The gown was heavy, but not as heavy as her heart. She was supposed to wear this with a happy smile, but no matter how hard she tried she couldn''t bring herself to. The more she tried the more her lips quivered. Her knees felt weak, and this would have been the perfect moment to fall to the ground but she dare not. She had promised and so she must carry on. She must wear this and walk down the aisle with a smile that would shame the sun, that would be only if she was capable. Tears pricked her eyes, her throat felt parched and it hurts. The tightness in her chest was enough to rupture the walls of her heart. She let the tears fall as this was probably the last time they''d ever have the opportunity to. Because the role she was about to take wasn''t one were tears were allowed. Never had she thought this would be the outcome of her life in just a few days. Two weeks ago she had returned back to the country to share in her sister''s joy, but here she was about to beautifully march to her funeral. She wiped her tears, dabbed a little powder on her heart shaped face to hide the ruin her tears had caused, lest she appears before her husband like a cursed bride. Drawing air into her lungs, she calmed herself down before making her way to the door where she met her father who had a smile on his face. Even he couldn''t recognize her. "You look beautiful." She heard him say, but she could only reply with a nod. She hooked her arm around his arm as he led her down the aisle of her weddly-funeral. The moment she stepped into the auditorium, her eyes fell by the altar where she saw him standing. When her eyes befell the man which she was to be married to, She felt her heart give way. He looked nothing like she had imagined. She had heard he looked very cold and scary but the man standing before her superceeds all she had heard. Deeply lost in thoughts, a plethora of questions going through her mind. Was this the fate the heavens had decided for her? How long will she keep up this charade? Was this the dream she has been having for a while now? Was this death itself? She felt her heart constrict tightly against her chest as she thought about her future, but no matter how she looked at it, the future seemed dark. There would be no light at the end of this tunnel. She feared she was going to have a heart attack and all her nerve fibers were focused on her frantic heart beat, blocking out all other senses including that of hearing, so much she didn''t hear the man standing in front of her. "Miss Elleanor Steele do you take Mr Dale Stuart as your lawfully wedded husband?" The officiating minister asked for what seemed like the third time, but the intending bride seemed to be lost in a reverie. The officiating minister looked at the groom confusedly, who in turn looked at his bride who was very much lost in thoughts. Soft murmurs echoed through the hall as the guests in attendance paid rapt attention to the bride. The groom leaned towards her ear and in a very soft tone he whispered, "This is when you say I do, Elle." "Huh?" She snapped her head up to see the man whose face was too close to her and her heart thud. He wriggled his brow to the officating minister gesturing for her to look at him. "I''m sorry." She apologized, the officating minister nodded in understanding, and repeated the question again. "Do you miss Elleanor Steele take Mr Dale Stuart as your lawfully wedded husband?" She looked at the man before glancing at her mother who surreptitiously urged her to go on. Letting out a defeated sigh she returned her gaze to the officiating minister and said, "I do." Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 2 - Temporary Best novel online free at novelhall.com RECEPTION The clinking sounds of glasses jolted her out of her reverie, and she noticed all eyes were fixed on her except for her groom. He had barely taken a look at her since the wedding started, apart from the time she had zoned off at the altar. If only that counted. "To the bride and groom," They all raised their glasses. Weddings were supposed to be enjoyed, but this bride wanted nothing to do with hers. She had her eyes fixed on the ticking hand of his gold wristwatch, impatiently waiting for time to fly by. Everything in her life has suddenly gone wrong. As a matter of fact, it practically ended in the twinkle of an eye. She had died even before she started living. Here she was getting married to a man she had never seen before, while her heart thought of another. This was a wedding she had never planned for, never imagined. Her heart gripped her tightly at the painful reality of her life, if only it could abruptly end. Her eyes anxiously darted towards him, and she couldn''t help but notice how strikingly beautiful he looked. His looks didn''t match the fearsome personality people had painted for him. His face was sharp like a blade and a flicker of light. It was captivating and fierce. A scowl would settle beautifully on it, she thought. She had never seen such a face before. He didn''t look like any of the men she had seen. She wouldn''t be wrong to say he was beautiful. His eyes were an attractive blue and were exceedingly sparkling like the reflection of the blue sky on the clear blue sea. But, it was oddly tainted with a streak of green giving it a bluish-green look, and there was something about them that tend to pull her in. His eyes were so attractive that they reflected nothing like the scary man people had painted him to be. He was nothing short of perfection. He looked delicate and angelic. She would have been convinced that he wasn''t as dangerous as they had described and that he was the most handsome man she had seen had it not been the alarming and dangerous aura emanating from him, despite the calm and unperturbed look sitting on his face. He wasn''t even looking at her, but she could feel goosebumps crawling under her skin. Fear seeped through every of her pore as she tried to stay calm. This was indeed her husband? How had she been married to the most formidable man in the country? How did she become the bride to the most mysterious person on the planet? Many called him a devil, a cold-hearted beast and many other scary things. They said he barely made an appearance, but when he does, everyone shudders with trepidation. To be more precise, they called him the brother slayer. Many said he killed his brother during the recent power struggle for the leadership of their father''s company, but that was a matter that was yet to be proven. People only talked about it in their closets, except her sister who had been foolish enough to go look for trouble. She had warned her on several occasions not to mess with this devil, but she had been too careless. Maybe this was the reason behind this punishment. She had always wondered why the marriage alliance was in the first place, but no one gave her an answer. And now here she was stuck, with no way of escape. She turned her gaze away from his face, and her eyes met with her mother, who was equally staring at her, and it brought back the memories of how it all started. ..... Several Hours Ago. "Mother, I can''t do this. Nothing about this feels right. I can''t do it." Her soft and teary voice reverberated across the room, which served as the bride''s room. "What do you mean you can''t? You speak like you have a choice here. You will do it, and you must." Her mother, Mrs Steele, declared in a commanding tone. Her countenance and manner revealed how firm she was about her decision. "But I don''t want to." The low voice replied faintly. From how faint she spoke, it was almost as if she was begging for dear life, but the truth was, she is. What her mother was asking for was not a simple task at all. She held onto her mother''s hand and earnestly begged, "Mother, please, don''t do this to me, I beg you." Heavy beads of tears fell from her eyes. "You have to do this for the family. You have to save the family name from shame. You don''t want the reputation we''ve built to be brought to nought, do you?" The angry mother asked fiercely. With the strength, she spoke it was clear that there was no room for negotiation on this matter. This has always been the way her so-called family worked. As a daughter from an aristocratic family, one would think she had a blissful and envious life when in reality, she was the one who envied the lives of others. Home had felt like home, one of the many reasons she had left in the first place several years ago. She had no intentions of coming back here because she had a feeling something would go wrong, and again they didn''t fail to disappoint her. She didn''t know if she was wrong, but there were times she wished to be an orphan. Not that she wanted her parents dead, but she would have preferred to be born of another who had left the world to seek eternal peace. "But I''m a part of the family too. If I do this, my life would be ruined. I won''t be happy. Mother, please think of me." She begged as her tears rolled down her cheeks. "I''m sorry, but you have to put on this gown and walk down that aisle with the brightest smile you can muster. Because this is the only way, you can save this family from ruin, even yourself." She drawled. She wasn''t going to back out of her decision. She knew she was too hard on her daughter, but she had no other way. This was the only way out of the mess they were in. "But mom.." Her throat was beginning to burn, and no words could come from it; her eyes had turned stark red, and her heart was aching so bad as it pounded fast behind her chest. She felt helpless and out of breath. The pain from the wounds inflicted by a thousand daggers didn''t compare to what she was feeling right now. Helplessness, anger, pain, frustration were some of the many feelings she was experiencing at the moment. Mrs Steele sighed deflatedly when she saw her daughter like that. She knew she was too hard, but she couldn''t help it. Crouching down to the floor where her daughter was kneeling, she wiped her tears and held her hand. "I know this is hard, but please, I beg you. Save this family, save me, save your sister." Mrs Steele couldn''t help but earnestly begged. She didn''t know how else to convince this girl. Yes, she was sacrificing her daughter, but what other choice does she have? She had to solve the situation on the ground, lest she and her family live in embarrassment for the rest of their lives. Not to mention the trouble that would come with it. "Do this for me. Walk down the aisle and save us all." She added pleadingly. "But...but I''m not Elle. She''s the bride, not me." She managed to say as another tear rolled down her cheek. "But you''re her twin, an identical one, and no one would know." Mrs Steele stated. "But mother, what about me? What about my dreams? What about my life? I don''t love him, and I don''t want to get married to him. I have someone...see," She hurriedly waved the single diamond cut ring beautifully sitting on her ring finger in front of her mother''s eyes, just in case she had forgotten about it. "Honey, I know all this, and that''s why I hate to do this but help mother. I promise to fix all this." Her mother persuaded. "How?" She asked, more tears streaming down her eyes. She didn''t want to believe those words. "I''ll find Elle and bring her back. Then you, honey, will be free to do whatever you want. Just do this for me." The girl kneeled on the floor, still holding onto her mother''s hand. "Mother, please, I''ll die. He''s dangerous." She desperately pleaded out of fear. The man her mother was asking her to get married to wasn''t an ordinary man. And how long exactly was she supposed to live with him till Elle was found? A week? A month or a year? Which would it be? Mother Steele felt a pang in her heart for her daughter, she also wanted her to be happy, but there was nothing she could do right now. She sighed as she bent down and brushed her hand down her daughter''s cheek. "Neveah, nobody dies in a marriage, not even when they''re married to the devil. And this would only be temporary." Mrs Steele stated, making another tear roll down Neveah''s cheek. How did things go so wrong? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 3 - Role Swap Best novel online free at novelhall.com Two weeks ago, she had returned to the country to attend her twin sister''s ¨CElle ¨C wedding. To her, Elle was more than a soul mate because they shared a more incredible bond. They were conceived on the same day, born on the same day, only that she was a few minutes younger than Elle. Although Elle was slightly different from her ¨Cpersonality-wise, she still loved her, and despite hating home, there was no way she''d miss her sister''s wedding. They had worn the same clothes, played tricks on one another, shared their first everything, and has been mischievous together. Swapping roles to prank their parents had been a norm in their life as they grew up; even their mother had been a victim of their mischief a couple of times till she finally left home years ago. It was one of the most difficult decisions she had made in her entire life, but at the time, she knew it was something she had to do to maintain her sanity. But who knew years later they were going to take their role swapping prank to another level? Here she was now married to her sister''s husband in her sister''s name. The world was indeed throwing a joke at her, but she didn''t find it funny. Instead, this joke was scary ¨C scary in the form of a devilish husband. Neveah looked at him again, and she couldn''t help but notice how perfectly he had maintained that still and calm look on his face throughout the wedding. Despite the cheer and smiles from guests, his countenance hasn''t faltered. It was as if that face of his was void of any expression. She didn''t think her mother was right when she said no one dies from being married to him because right now, she was already petrified. She was still very much caught up in her trail of thought, so much she didn''t know when he turned and looked at her. When those gleamingly blue-green eyes came into view, she caught her breath and jolted; his sparkling eyes and gorgeous face were bewitching. She had the urge to look away, but she couldn''t bring herself to, not because she was enthralled but because she was most scared of him. Helplessly, she stared back at him, and the more his intense gaze was fixed on her, the more her heart drummed. She could see his lips move, but she could barely hear what came out of them. The ramming sound of her heart has blocked out every other sound. "Hmm?" She muttered out, her eyes rapidly blinking in an attempt to compose herself. Dale sighed when he heard her. Repeating himself wasn''t something he did often, but he had done it twice in one day. Dale had noticed this wife of his had a problem paying rapt attention when she was being spoken to. That was a problem he''d have to fix as soon as possible. "Do you want us to leave?" She heard him say. Neveah was surprised to hear his question. Was he also tired of the whole thing? She had thought he was the one who had requested for this marriage ¨C at least that was what they told her, or was she wrong? ¨C so why was he tired of the wedding already? Neveah surreptitiously gave her ''husband'' a scrutinising look; she wasn''t sure how she was supposed to reply to him. Was she supposed to be honest, or should she tell a lie? After all, the whole wedding was a lie. And was that about his voice? It sounded so deep and mellifluous. ''Neveah!'' She scolded herself. She wasn''t supposed to be admiring or acknowledging anything about him, especially when she was in a dire situation. His brows furrowed when he noticed her hesitation and the random movement of her eyes. She was behaving oddly, and it was strange. "Elle," Dale softly called, almost as if he had chanted that name, and it made her shudder. "Yes," Her voice was shaky, and Dale noticed how her eyes darted away from his face. "Let''s go." He said as he stood up and stretched his hand towards her. ''Go? Go where?'' She asked herself. Were they going to leave the reception just like that? Without it ending properly? She gazed at his face that was as calm as a still lake, her eyes locking gaze with his to ascertain if he meant what he just said about them leaving, but again his face revealed nothing¡ªhis expression as clad as steel. But the intensity in his eyes told her he wasn''t joking. Her gaze fell on his outstretched hand, and her eyelids fluttered. Hesitantly, she slowly placed her hand on his, and she couldn''t help but notice how large and soft they were. She flinched when he gripped her hand and helped her up. Everyone''s attention in the room darted towards them the moment they stood on their feet. Questioning gaze shooting through the air, but the man was unfazed. He had no intention of answering any questions; it wasn''t as if anyone would be bold enough to ask anyway. "My bride and I will leave now. Enjoy the rest of the party." He blatantly announced, leaving the guest in shock. Was he joking? Who enjoys a wedding reception without the couple? He looked to his side where he saw his men waiting, and with a single glance, they knew it was time to leave, and as such, they hurried to get the car ready. Neveah gazed at her mother, who quickly made her way to her. She stared at her husband, who reluctantly let go of her hand so she could part with her mother; it wasn''t like they were leaving the country or something. "Mother," She mumbled under her breath as she hugged her. Her eyes felt hot. "You''ll be fine, honey. Mother will fix this. It''ll be for a short while," She assured her, but Neveah wasn''t consoled, not in the least. She feared for her life, and she had a good reason to. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 4 - Suspicious Each thump of her heart as he led her away was as heavy and resounding as an ancient Chinese gong. She glanced at the assembly of people waving her off one last time before stepping into the car to convey her to her doom. Doom, because she had a feeling nothing good was waiting for her at the other side of this tunnel or wherever he was taking her. The smiles flashed at her did nothing in putting her anxious heart at ease. "Thank you," Her voice came out almost in a whisper as he helped her into the car. She felt his gaze linger on her a little bit more than necessary; though it had been for a split second, she had felt her heart move up her throat. She couldn''t bear to swing a look at him till he closed the door. Looking through the window, she had her gaze fixed on her mother, who was standing among the group of people standing out there. She desperately wanted to run towards her and tell her to get Elle back as soon as possible before she dies, but she couldn''t do so. She could only stare at her with the hope that she understood her silent look of plea. Her last words still reverberated through her head. ''Neveah, make sure he never finds out the truth about who you truly are. Never make him suspicious of you or your identity." These words echoed through her mind like a dying wish. How does one pretend to be someone else whose personality is a 360-degree turn from who they were? How does she live in someone shoes whose life wasn''t as plain as hers? Though she and Elle were twins, they both led different lives, and their characters were poles apart. This was going to be complicated. Neveah jerked and instantly snapped her head to the side when she heard the sound of the door. She watched with hanging breath as he stepped into the car. He slowly turned towards her and locked his gaze with her, his eyes blankly staring at her with utmost curiosity. Neveah felt her heart race at his scorchingly intense gaze; it was almost as if he was searching for something from the depth of her eyes like he was trying to peruse her soul for some mythical secrets. She could feel the urge to look away, but there was something about those eyes that held her in place, almost as if she has been placed on a powerful spell. Those eyes of his were bewitching. For a second, she thought she saw them gleam, but that could only be her imagination. But why does it seem like he was genuinely searching for something? What could that be? "I...is something...wrong?" She stutteringly asked when it felt like his gaze was non-ending, and by the heavens, it was making her uncomfortable. Has he figured things out? Was he getting suspicious of her already? Neveah almost felt the walls of her heart rip as those questions went through her mind. She anxiously waited for him to give his answer. Her hands unconsciously clenched the side of her gown while she maintained her gaze on him with painstaking anxiety. But the more she waited, the more he kept silent, and her fears grew stronger. But despite the ear screaming silence, his eyes were still glued to her like he was yet to find whatever he was looking for. These waiting moments felt like an eternity to Neveah, and she had a feeling her brain would run out of energy soon ¨C as she had her breath held ¨C if this silence lingered for one more second. Dale could tell she was nervous from how stiff she sat and how tight her grip on her gown was. She was desperately waiting for his answer, but something in him held his lips sealed. His brows slightly furrowed as he thought about what was amidst. But after what seemed like another round of eternity, he finally replied, "You confuse me, Elle. I don''t know why." ..... While humans were having the time of their lives, they were oblivious of the divine beings standing in the clouds, watching the scene playing out below them. "It seems even father outdid himself this time around." One of the creatures said. His eyes were as blue as the sky. And the smile on his face showed he was excited about the event happening on earth. "We all expected this. It''s her purpose, so she must fulfil it, and he''s relentless." Another one of the creatures thoughtfully replied. "But you know what this means, right?" The first asked with an excited gleam in his eyes as he stared at the stoic creature by his left side, who had been silent and had been watching with a blank look, as always. "That he''ll be coming soon." "Exactly." The blue-eyed one chirped. "Don''t be excited Raziel, nothing good will come out of his return." Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 5 - Questions Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Neveah was perplexed by his words. She did not understand the meaning of what he said at all. In what way had she confused him? Perhaps, he could tell she wasn''t her sister? Was that even possible? No one had ever been able to tell them apart? She felt cast into another array of distorted thoughts; her mind was like an endless abyss with a myriad of questions twirling around like a tornado. Questions she was sure she wouldn''t find answers to, most especially from where she was right now. Questions that would rupture the tiny vessels of her brain if she pondered on them for too long. Questions such as, why had this man asked for her hand, or rather her sister''s hand in marriage? Why had her father so willingly agreed to this nonsense? This wasn''t the medieval days where alliances were forged, and children were coerced into marrying for mutual benefits, shoving and binding them to a loveless marriage. So what the hell was all these about? Not having answers was one way to turn a once peaceful mind into a tumultuous one, just like hers right now. The act of not knowing and being left in the dark was something she despised because it made her vulnerable and afraid. This was why she had always led a simple life, far from whatever might torture her mind and take away her peace. She wasn''t sure of anything, and this feeling of uncertainty stirred a lot of fear in her heart. She slowly gazed at him from the corner of her eyes, and once again, she felt her heart skid for an unknown reason, making her instantly tear her gaze from him even though she didn''t want to do that. How strange! There was something about him that pricked at the tip of her heart, stirring up waves of curiosity, anxiety, and fear. Fear of him and that of something else. Something she couldn''t quite explain. Maybe it was because of the circumstances surrounding this ''faux'' union. Or maybe it was the fear that her mother''s words had ignited in her heart, as well as the dread that followed the numerous rumours that surrounded him. Because when someone had heard the abundance of rumours that engulfed this man, one was bound to live in horror, completely shaken to the core. There was an urge in her to inquire what he meant by the words he had muttered, but her reasoning inclined her to refrain from doing such. She hasn''t forgotten her mother''s warnings, which she must yield. She must try to be invisible and not stir up any interest or curious thoughts in him till her sister was found. But how does a wife stay invisible to her husband, especially when they were newly wedded? Despite the desperate urge to know the meaning of his words and more, Neveah remained still with her lips tightly sealed. She looked outside the window of the luxurious Maybach which she was currently seated, her eyes following the structures of buildings that passed by in a flash. If only time could move as fast as the cars or houses that raced against them, then her days with this man would be fastly spent. But she knew that was her mere wish because deep down, she knew despite her mother''s promise to quickly locate Elle and return her to where she rightly belonged, she knew things weren''t going to be so easy. If Elle ran away from this marriage, that meant she must have made plans to stay hidden even from someone like their mother. Finding her wasn''t going to be an easy fit, which meant her days here might be innumerable. But she must be hopeful. She must hope and pray things to work out well for her sake because, with each passing second, her heart raced erratically. If she could have her way, she''d leave right this instant, run as far as her legs could carry her but now she was like a girl lost and trapped in a place of no return. How did her life make such a drastic turn? Oblivious to Neveah, she was now under the scrutinizing eyes of her ''husband'' as she had her utmost attention fixed on the scenery outside the fastly moving car. If only she could take a look now, she would notice the heavy crease line sitting on his face as he stared at her. He could swear she was different. There was something different about her, something he couldn''t place his mind on. But what was it? Neveah felt the hair on her neck stand, and her heart thumped when she felt a chilly gaze on her. Was he staring at her? She slowly turned towards him with a drumming heart, and indeed there he was staring at her with those soul searching eyes of his. The moment her eyes met those eyes of his, her breath stilled. She had suspected that he was gazing at her, but she had not expected actually to meet his gaze...his gaze, what was it about those blue eyes of his. Was it just his eyes, or was there something else about him? What was it that made her heart stop at the very sight of him? "Elle," She heard him whisper, but it sounded like he had called her in her head. His voice sounded sirenic like a merman. Her eyes zoomed in on his lips, anxiously waiting for what he''d say next, but nothing came forth. He only stared at her. "Can....I ask you a question?" She suddenly heard herself say. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 6 - Scared Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com "Can...I ask you a question?" She heard herself ask. Her voice was shaky and small, like she was scared even to ask him that. But of course, she was. Her eyes anxiously gazed at him as she waited for his reply. She wasn''t sure if she should be asking questions right now, but she couldn''t stop herself anymore. She had tried to keep calm, but it seems something was eating up a hole in her chest with each second she stopped herself from asking. She had always been the less inquisitive one in the family, but no one could blame her now if she wanted to pry for some information. Her mother had tossed her here with no prior information, no manual to guide her. So how was she supposed to survive the coming days with this stranger if she didn''t know anything? She had to know what was requested of her in this so-called marriage that she had unfortunately been thrown in. She was aware that many marriages between aristocratic families like hers were sometimes for shows and company benefits. Maybe this was the reason why Elle had made a break for it when she could. That girl had always had a mind of her own, taking drastic decisions with no care of how others felt. How she wished she could be that bold and careless. She anxiously held her breath as she waited for him to give her a reply, but his face remained as still as ever, and this made her anxiety grow worse, before he finally gave her a compliant nod. With deliberate slowness, She turned around to face him fully, her heart dancing to a different rhythm as she looked at him. Dale patiently waited for her to ask whatever question she had. He could see the fear lingering in her eyes as she hesitated by each second. He eased the look on his face and also turned to face her squarely while he silently waited for her to speak up. "I''m a bit scared." She honestly replied. She figured she had to admit that she was frightened at the mere sight of the man who was now her ''husband'', so how was she supposed to ask him the questions that taunted her? Dale''s lips curved up when he heard her honest words. He had noticed these fears of hers since she walked into that wedding hall. It was good to know that she was one scared bunny who was true to herself. "You don''t have to be scared." He said in a deep and masculine voice that resounded deeply in her ears. "Elleanor, I won''t bite." He spoke softly and paused. "I''m your husband, after all." He added in an attempt to calm her, but little did he know those very words unsettled her more. Her eyes slightly widened at the sound of the word ''husband.'' "Ask me, Elleanor", He urged. His voice was so compelling she felt her lips quiver as she anxiously stared at him. Neveah drew in a shaky breath to calm herself. She could feel her heart thump as the question she was about to ask pricked on her lips. She had to be calm and strong, and he had said he wasn''t going to hurt her, right? She didn''t know if she should take his words for it; she had only just met the man. But there was something about how he was staring at her that made her want to believe that he might really not hurt her even though her logical senses told her not to trust him. Still, somehow her body betrayed her as her shoulders slightly slopped, and her heart rate slowed down by a certain degree. "Are you...really as they say you are?" She naively asked. Her Inquisitive eyes piercing at his as though she was could get her answers from them. Dale was slightly surprised when he heard her question. He had not expected that to be the question she badly wanted to ask, but he liked it. Another thing he was currently beginning to enjoy was the way she was now staring at him like she had not been reeking of fear seconds ago. His lips amusedly turned upward as he stared at her, "And what do people say I am, Elleanor." He asked in a dangerously gentle tone, his head slowly leaning forward. With her eyes now darting back and forth, she hesitantly replied, " A brother....slayer, a...devil." Neveah could now feel her heart race once again, this time far worse than it had been before she opened her mouth. Her breath felt bated as she watched him slowly lean closer towards her. Her heart skid when she heard a deep chuckle rumble out of the depth of his chest. And sweet heaven, why had his face looked too appealing when he smiled. Neveah was quickly pulled out of her thoughts when he spoke up, "Would you believe me if I said I''m not the devil?" "So you''re not?" That question came out almost as low as a whisper. She caught her breath when he raised his hand towards her face. Her heart thumped hard, and she flinched when his cold fingers touched her left cheek, "Oh Elle, be rest assured I''m not the devil." "Then who are you?" Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 7 - My Wife "Then who are you?" Her nervous voice seeped out, her eyes still heavily fixed on him, or rather her gaze was mysteriously locked on his, so much she couldn''t look away. Believe her, this wasn''t ordinary. Her expression shifted when Dale suddenly chuckled out. Was he laughing because of the question she had asked? If so, why? She had only meant to know what kind of a person he was, or rather what he thought of himself. So why was he laughing? She asked herself. Dale must admit her question amused him. He hadn''t expected her to ask him such a question, how bold she was. This was the first time someone had asked him such a question, but it wasn''t the question that amused him. It was the way she asked. He had noticed her choice of words. She had said, ''A devil, and not ''the devil'', and now she was asking him ''who'' he was? How amusing! If only she knew. His lips curved up as he gazed at that innocent looking face of hers, her dark brown eyes shining ever so brightly. Nevaeh leaned backwards when he inched closer again, but she soon realised she was trapped in a confined space with this man, and there was really no much space to retreat to. This wasn''t good! She stiffened when his fingers slowly and torturously trailed down her cheek till it finally rested on her chin, his hot breath fanning her face from such proximity. His touch...why does her skin tingle at the touch of his hand? "Angel, it''s not a matter of who I am, but what I am." His voice sounded so slow and so soft, enchanting and compelling her. Neveah couldn''t even bat an eye; the hairs on her skin stood as the sound of his voice vibrated across her skin. His piercing eyes moved from hers to her forehead and lingered there for a few seconds before returning to her face; his actions were odd. Still, he continued, "Don''t be bothered by what I am, but know this..." He paused for a brief moment before he continued, his face inched a bit closer till there was only a hair length space between them, "....I''m the one who''s bound to protect you from all evils in this lifetime." Neveah felt her breath caught as she stared at him breathlessly. What...was he doing to her? And what did he mean by those words? Wait, why did those words resonate so much with her? Her fixated gaze remained on the man as she was still very much held bound by whatever spell his eyes had cast on her. She was still in a daze when he slightly turned those sorcerous eyes away from her, allowing her to let go of the breath she had been holding, and giving her brain some space to boot again and think clearly. ''What just happened?'' Her eyes slightly widened when she remembered the mysterious words he had uttered and that strange tingling touch. Wait, did he call her ''Angel?'' Her lips quivered in a motion to say something, but she swallowed her words when he suddenly turned back to her and said, "We''re home." It was at this point that Neveah finally realised that the car had indeed come to a stop. She had been too engrossed and lost that she didn''t know when they arrived where ever they were right now. It had been quite a drive. If there was anything she had noticed during this long and torturous drive, it was that wherever they were was at the North end of town ¨C almost far away from life and civilisation. Snapping her neck towards the window, she noticed they were in front of a mansion. She had her eyes glued to it when the door unlocking sound of the door echoed into her ears, and soon it was held open for her. A large hand outrightly stretched out to help her alight. She hesitantly stared at it before slipping her hand into his. "Thank you." She said as he helped her out. "Stop thanking me, Elle, you''re my now wife, and husbands are bound to take care of their wives, so expect nothing less." He said. ''Huh?'' Was he going to treat her as his wife from now? Was he going to..... Neveah paused her thoughts as they were too scary. She couldn''t think of such things. In an attempt to distract herself, she took a quick look at the quaint and pristine mansion standing right in front of her. ''How strange,'' she thought. This wasn''t what she expected. Though the mansion standing before her was stately manorial, it was unobtrusive, almost as if someone intentionally made it so. And this wasn''t a place she expected a man like him would live. She had heard the rumours about him. One could say his choice of a house was nowhere on par with his status.. For someone who was known to be the wealthiest man in the country, he did live relatively small, and to think it was so far from the rest of the civilisation. How strange! You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 8 - Tradition You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Still lost in her thoughts of what possibly could have made a man like Dale Stuart live in a place like this, she jolted when she suddenly felt a hand snake around her. Snapping her head around, she saw him standing right beside her with his hand on her waist. "What...are you doing?" She asked in shocked surprise as she tried to step away from him, her eyes moving from his hand leisurely resting on her waist to his face. "Following tradition, wife." ''Tradition'' What tradition was he talking about? "A bride mustn''t walk into her new home. She should be carried," he explained when he saw the confusion dancing in her eyes. "Oh," She exclaimed inaudibly. "Is that necessary?" She asked in a careful voice. She didn''t think it was necessary. She had not imagined being in his arms, and she recoiled at how awkward it would feel to be in the arms of her sister''s husband. "By all means, it''s necessary. What kind of husband would I be if I can''t do the basic things required of me?" He said, making Neveah look at his face. Basic things? What basic things? She didn''t want him to do anything for her, basic or not. As a matter of fact, she wanted him to keep his distance away from her, as far as possible. Would it be stupid if she told him he wasn''t expected to perform any husbandly duties for her? She would be far saner if he refrained himself from doing whatever ''basic things'' he had in mind. But she already knew there were going to be certain things she couldn''t stop him from doing, such as this, because asking that of him would only make him suspicious. Tilting his head sideways, he inquired, "So shall I?" when Neveah kept staring at him silently. Should he? Neveah didn''t think she wanted him to. Being carried in his arms was something she hadn''t expected to happen and not to mention so soon. Nevertheless, she lowered her head and nodded. She had to stick to the plan of deceiving this man. Her breath hitched when she felt his grip on her waist and his other hand behind her knees, and in one swift move, he scooped her into his arms, bridal style, like she weighed nothing. He seemed strong. Hell yes, he was strong. The firmness of his hard chest and arms attested to that as they were currently being pressed against her, and she could feel them. Suddenly the image of a half-naked man with chiselled and rippling muscles and silky skin flashed through her mind like a lightning bolt. God! what was that?! Neveah!! Allowing this man to carry her was a big mistake. She should have insisted on walking! Her heart raced, even more when she realised he wasn''t moving. What was he doing now? Should she look? Ask? With her curiosity winning over her, she lifted her face to look at him, and the very second she did that, she regretted it because inches above her were those mesmerising eyes intently staring at her again! But this time, there was something different about his stare. He wasn''t staring at her the way he did before. There was an uncertain emotion that lingered in his eye, an emotion that felt strange and awkward. Was it that of guilt or sadness? She couldn''t tell because soon it was gone, like it hadn''t been there. But why was that look of his making her heart heavy? She watched as he looked away from her and finally made his way for the door, climbing up the stairs to the porch like he wasn''t carrying a human in his arms. The moment he arrived at the door, it was immediately opened from within like someone knew they had been coming. Standing in front of them was a fleet of house staff and a butler, standing arrayed by the side. "Congratulations, master and madam." They chorused. Nevaeh was slightly startled by that unexpected welcome. She flashed a small smile at the army of staff before her eyes got awed by the sight before her, as Dale carefully placed her down. Far from what she had initially thought, Neveah was shocked to see the interior of the house. It was exceedingly different from what she had seen outside. The white marbles that covered the entirety of the floor and the extravagant chandelier hanging from the high ceiling were explicitly elegant. Her jaws dropped as her eyes took in the magnificence of the house. It was so different and beautiful that she felt she had walked into a castle. The grandeur was nothing like she had ever seen before. It was unbelievable. The vast living space in which they were currently standing was breathtakingly beautiful. Her eyes roamed around the place in wonder, and it widened to the extreme when she saw the grand white piano sitting beneath the white marbled spiral stairs with golden handrails. This was incredible. The exquisiteness of this house made her understand the meaning of the proverbial adage fully, ''Never judge a book by its cover.'' This was a complete work of art. She couldn''t imagine the cost of maintaining such beauty. But all these made her wonder how just how rich this man was. Maintaining such a place was going to cost a fortune.. And once again, she couldn''t help wonder if all the stories about his mysteries about him and his wealth were true. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 9 - Enigmatic Presence You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Two years ago, the sudden appearance of a mysterious man who took over the business world of the entire country had created an uproar in the whole country and beyond. Many were perplexed and left in wonder at his mysterious appearance. A Myriad of rumours circulated about him in these two years, but none had been confirmed till date, and that had left everyone on their toes. Several published articles investigated the validity of the many scary things whispered about him in the dark. Tales of how he ruled with an iron fist, spilt blood to arrive where he was today mysteriously circulated, but they had found no source to attest to these. Many suspected the source of his wealth to be linked to the underworld, but none of these rumours could be proven. No matter how people investigated him, there was simply nothing about him. He was the true definition of the word mysterious! Many of the vague articles about him had been written by Elle, and that''s why she suspected his purpose for seeking her sister''s hand in marriage. Could it be for revenge? Having noticed the fascinating look on her face, Dale couldn''t help the gentle smile that curved his lips. This was the first positive reaction he had gotten from her since the day began. "I see you like it." He said amusedly, making Neveah look at him. Her face instantly regained its composure when she observed the way he was staring at her. She bit the inside of her lips as she realised she had just exposed herself in front of him. "It was specifically designed for you." He added when he noticed her now embarrassed reaction. She was cute. ''For her?'' Dale''s smile broadened when he saw the inquisitive look in her eyes; he knew what she was silently asking. "Yes, for you, wife." He replied. Neveah felt a hard thump in her heart when he smiled like that. She could swear she had never seen anything more glorious in her life. The smile on his face made him look more gorgeous, and it reduced the intensity of that dangerous aura that always engulfed him, almost making her feel relaxed. "Welcome home, wife." He whispered into her ears, and once again, Neveah was struck with something unknown. What was it with this stranger that made her breath cease and her heart pound? But despite all these weird feelings and spells been cast on her, Neveah knew all these weren''t for her. They were all for Elle. She was only a substitute! "Good evening and welcome, madam," The Middle-aged man stepped forward and greeted, his voice pulling Neveah out of the hypnosis Dale''s smile had placed on her before gazing at the man who was now bowing to her. "Good evening, and thank you." Neveah politely replied. Turning to the butler, Dale said, "This is butler Simon. He''s in charge of the housekeeping." "It''s nice meeting you, Mr Simon." She said with a gentle smile making the man smile back at her. He had to say she showed traits of proper mannerism. "Same here, madam." He returned her warm smile. "Get dinner ready in ten minutes," Dale said before walking away but not before glaring at the butler, who instantly cowered. His tone sounded cold and stern, and Neveah didn''t miss it. She took a peek from the corner of her eyes and noticed how tightly he narrowed his brows. Was he angry? "I''ll take you to the room." He said, and Neveah replied with a nod. She was about to take a step towards the majestic stairs when she felt her body being swooped off the floor, making her gasp loudly; her eyes fully widened as she raised her shocked face to the man who had suddenly carried her again! "W-w-what are you doing?" She stuttered. "Please put me down." She said as she tried to hop away from his arms, but his grip around her tightened even more, firmly holding her in place. What was he doing? She screamed in her mind as her heart continued to race. "I''ll take you up the stairs." "But I can walk," She hurriedly stated. "Please put me down," She begged. She had let him carry her into the house, so he could let her walk now, right? She wanted to not be in his arms; as a matter of fact, she wanted to be away from him, having minimum physical contact with him! Why was he doing this? His countenance darkened as she pleaded so desperately to be released from his arm. His brows furrowed tighter as he looked down at her. "You hate being in my arms?" He asked; his voice hinted with displeasure, and that made Neveah swallow hard. Has she provoked him with her words? Oh God, She didn''t mean to. Once again, she remembered how dangerous they said he was when she felt his aura return, which made her really frightened. "I...I. I didn''t mean to anger you. I''m just..." "Scared?" He said when fear glimmered in her eyes, like a little bunny. "And uncomfortable." She honestly added. Dale stared at her in utter silence and sighed. The stern look on his face slowly dissipated; he could understand how she felt. She had just been married to a stranger she hadn''t once met in her life, and it would be unreasonable of him to expect her to be comfortable with him....a total stranger. For once, he understood how strange and scared she must feel. He had hastily made all the arrangements so swift she must have had a hard time getting herself ready for this huge phase of her life. His lips twitched when he finally realised something. She had not said no to his question. That would mean... A pleasant smile split across his face at his thought. Wait, she had also not said yes either. The smile on his face dwindled for a second before sparking up again. He was going to hold on to the fact that she never said no. She didn''t hate him; that was all that mattered. Further relaxing his once tensed face, he looked at her feet before staring back at her face, "You''ve been in those shoes all day, let me take you up the stairs, then I''ll let go." He said in a much calmer tone. Neveah was stunned to know that he had noted her discomfort from the heels she had been wearing all day. Was this the man people called a devil incarnate? Why then does he seem so.... human? Not wanting to anger him, and also she had to admit Elle''s shoes were slightly too tight, Neveah slowly nodded her head, even though she didn''t want to be in his hands for another second. It was merely a few flights of stairs. A few more seconds wouldn''t kill her. And his almost hypnotic voice made it impossible for her to protest. How could he have such a voice? After what seemed like an eternity, they finally arrived at the top of the stairs, and he slowly let her down. And for the first time since they started the dreaded journey of climbing the stairs, she took a deep relieving breath. She slowly followed as he led down the hallway, and once again, Neveah was awestruck by the splendour of the decor. She had to admit this man was an esthete. Standing before the door which he had opened, Neveah stiffened when she realised a problem she hasn''t thought of before. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 10 - Predator You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh''s eyes widened to the fullest, and her heart clenched as she stood before the beautifully decorated room with her eyes scanning around. It was an all-white room with thick gold curtains, but the red petals scattered across the king-size bed and floor made goosebumps crawl over her skin. Of course, she knew what was lying before her and what it meant, but she couldn''t process it. She didn''t think things like this would happen so fast. She had thought since this marriage was one done out of convenience, he would be generous enough to hold back on some things...things like this. And she had hoped he wouldn''t want to consummate this marriage, at least not until Elle was found. But what was she thinking? He must have been expecting his wife to carry out her matrimonial rights as soon as possible whether this marriage was out of convenience or not, and after all, he was a man, not just a man but one rumoured to be a devil. What has she gotten herself into? How could she let her mother easily make her do such an outrageous thing? What was she thinking about agreeing to such a stupid plan? She must have been so stupid. She shouldn''t have agreed to this at all! Her heart raced as she stood fixated to the ground while these endless questions buzzed through her mind. God! She should have thought this far before allowing her mother to pull her into this mess. Neveah was still drowned in her thoughts and horror so much she didn''t hear the man call her name. "Elle," He called out again, this time a bit audibly to attract her attention. She slightly jerked when she heard his voice. With bated breath, she fluttered her eyes towards him as she prayed for some miracle to happen. Anyone at all! "Do you like it?" "Are...we sleeping...here together?" Nevaeh softly stuttered out. Her voice filled with fear and anxiety. She didn''t know how she had asked that mind plaguing question, but she was sure there was no way she could have kept mute without asking. Dale was slightly stunned, his brows furrowed as he gazed at her. Was that supposed to be a question? He asked himself. A second of silence elapsed as he intently watched her, the look in his eyes slightly changing, almost making Neveah bite her tongue in regret for asking such a question, but she couldn''t be blamed. She couldn''t help it. After all, she was seeking a miracle. Tilting his head to the side, he asked in a calm tone, "Do you wish to sleep somewhere else, Elleanor?" He paused. "Is there somewhere you''d like to spend your nights and find comfort other than your husband''s bed?" Neveah felt her heart skip when she saw him moving closer. ''Her husband''s bed? He wasn''t her husband¨C at least not on paper! But what was he doing now? Why...was he coming towards her, and why were his eyes staring at her like that?'' She opened her mouth to reply to him, but no words could come out. Her lips quivered in an attempt to say something, but her brain was too disconcerted to form a word. A gasp escaped her lips when she suddenly felt his face hovering over her, his breath fanning her face, while she subconsciously took in his scent. His scent..... His scent was like that of fresh morning dew - that untainted clear air that reminded one of the awakening of the earth, wafted through her nostrils as he leaned closer. His dewy scent was redolent of defrosting soil and green shoots breaking forth from the earth on an early spring morning. It felt almost calm and relaxing. Her breath hitched as he inched a bit closer till they were only a breath apart, and Neveah subconsciously responded by retreating her steps. Her heart froze when a wicked smirk appeared on his breathtaking face. Why does he always look so enchanting when he smiled? Neveah!!! Enchanting? Really? But that was the truth. Though the smile on his face was visibly malicious, Neveah couldn''t help but admire how heavenly beautiful he looked when he smiled, and those eyes of his always gleamed too. Her heart began to race even more when he kept walking towards her, taking one step in a slow and predatory manner. He looked like was a predator who was trying to corner his prey. Oh, that was what he was doing! Nevaeh''s eyes widened when she realized where she was currently standing. He had lured her into the room! How?! How could she be so dumb?! Drumming beats of her heart increased as it began to echo in her ears. She took one more step backwards, but unfortunately, she met a dead end. There was no more space for her to move as she was trapped between this predator and the scary white bed, which was sensuously platted with roses. Shivers ran down her spine as she looked at the bed behind her before darting her gaze back to him. "Da...Dale" She gently called out, but she was too nervous and scared to be audible. She tried to move when he once again took one more step towards her. "Elleanor," She heard his pleasing deep voice mutter her name, but this wasn''t a time to think of his voice. "Husbands and wives should never stay apart, most especially on their wedding night. Were you not taught this?" He asked. "I... I" She stiffened when he suddenly covered the space between them in one stride till they were a hair length apart. "I know this marriage came as a shock to you, but don''t you think we should make efforts towards knowing each other?" Efforts? Towards knowing him? Hell no, she didn''t want that. That was Elle''s job and not hers. She froze when he took a lock of her hair in his hands and twirled it around, "I want to know you, Elle, this you that I can''t read.. I want to know every bit of you." Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 11 - Crave Best novel online free at novelhall.com Neveah froze when he suddenly went down on one knee right in front of her. Her lashes batted up and down as her big round brown eyes followed his slow movement as he knelt before her. ''What was he trying to do now? She cried in her head. Why was he suddenly kneeling before her? She asked herself in horror. Her breath ceased, and cold air washed through her skin. Fear and unease engulfed her entire being when she suddenly saw his hand move toward her right leg. And at that moment, she didn''t know if she had suddenly swallowed her heart or if it had stopped beating. "W-w-what are you doing?" She asked in trepidation as she tried moving her foot back, but there was no space for her to move to. "Please stop." She desperately pleaded in fear. What was he trying to do to her? Undress her? Neveah felt a cold grip on her heart as that horrifying thought came to mind. Her cold, stiff heart began to race like never before. "Stop!" She suddenly exclaimed when the top of his fingers grazed her skin. Her voice was loud and firm, slightly startling Dale, who paused and raised his head to glance at her under those thick long lashes of his. "What''s wrong?" He innocently asked, remaining in his kneeling position. His eyes were genuinely coated with worry and confusion. "Don''t...you think you''re hasty?" She asked in a shaky voice. "Hasty?" Dale muttered out, almost to himself, his brows furrowed deeper in utter confusion. What was he hasty about? "Wife, do you care to elaborate?" He tilted his head, his curious gaze intently fixed on her. Neveah swallowed when his blue-green eyes stared at her with an oblivious expression of how he was making her feel. Her lips slightly quivered as she tried to reply to him. Why was she suddenly feeling tongue-tied? She had to say something to stop him else... Nevaeh drew in a short breath to calm herself before staring down at the man. Truth be told, this position of him kneeling in front of her and her standing so close to him was pretty awkward, and awkwardness was one of the many things she hated because it made her uneasy. Clearing her throat, she said, "Dale, I think you should give me some time to..." She paused to gather her next words, and those brief silent seconds increased Dale''s anxiety, prompting him to tilt his brows at her. "Time to what?" He urged. "Time to know each other more." She opted for his choice of words. "We shouldn''t rush into... doing things." She said as she darted her eyes away from him. She didn''t know why she felt uncomfortable saying those words while staring into his eyes. ''And why the hell wasn''t he standing up?!'' She cried in her head. Dale wasn''t sure if he understood her words, but after seeing the bright red colouring on her cheeks, he finally realized what she was talking about or rather what she was trying to say. Seeing her scared yet mortified expression, he chuckled in his mind. She was cuter than he thought she was. Pure innocence was boldly written over her face. His eyes glistened with something unknown as he gazed at her, ''She hasn''t lost an ounce of her beauty.'' "As much as I''d like to perform my husbandly rights on you tonight, I have to refrain myself because you''re tired and..." He briefly paused intentionally to pique her interest, and of course, it worked because Neveah soon had her intense gaze boring at him. He revealed an amused smile and continued, "I''m only trying to get you out of these shoes." He said, his hands already working their way into unbuckling the straps of her heels. He was trying to do what? She asked herself as she incredulously stared at him. She didn''t know if she should be relieved that he wasn''t trying to undress her, and he was only trying to take off her shoes. But why does that feel almost intimate? He shouldn''t be doing this! Neveah felt uncomfortable as she watched him free her slightly swollen legs from her accursed shoe. She hissed out in relief when her right foot finally breathed out in freedom. At long last! She didn''t miss the deft and gentle way he unbuckled her shoes. He carried out this action like a dire affair he ought to pay his utmost attention to. And once again, she asked herself who he truly was. A devil would never be this nice. But then again, she shouldn''t be too quick in analyzing him, as the ''devil'' they say was deceptive. But devil or not, this man was different from the men she had encountered all her life. Nevaeh flinched when she suddenly felt a warm touch on her heels. She snapped out of her thoughts and returned her attention to the man who was now holding her foot and examining it intently. She couldn''t help but notice the slight crease between his brows as he awkwardly stared at her foot. She was about to say something when he suddenly pulled his hand away from her and he stood to his feet, her eyes not leaving him for a second. He could see how tensed she was with the way she looked at him. He sighed. "Wife, as savage as I could be, I want you to know I''d never force my way on you. But when I touch you, it would because you want me to." He paused as his eyes trailed her body from head to toe in a way that made Nevaeh feel something crawl over her body.. She stiffened when he leaned towards her ear, and his breath suddenly warmed her neck, while he continued with his spine crumbling voice, "And when I do, believe me you wouldn''t want me to stop, as my touch would be all you crave for." Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 12 - Trouble? You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com The slow crawling of his warm hands across her cold, pale skin ignited a spine-tingling and pleasant feeling all over her. Her body shook as a sensual heatwave coursed over her body as she subconsciously yearned for more. More of his warm hands on her and more of his hot breath caressing her skin, stirring up that feeling she felt whenever he looked at her or grazed his skin against her. She felt her head spin when those heated hands slowly and torturously trailed down her cold cheek. The soft touch of his fingers ignited a fire in her. It was revolting yet appealing, so much she felt herself subconsciously succumb to him. No! she couldn''t do that! She shouldn''t let a stranger touch her. But why was she motionless? Her lashes drooped when he teasingly brushed his lips on that sensitive part of her neck while his hand kept caressing her cheeks. A low moan escaped her slightly parted lips as she tilted her face into his large warm palms. "Look at me," She heard his magnetic voice say, and like a hypnotised baby, her eyes slowly fluttered open to the hot and overwhelming gaze of his divinely looking eyes. "What do you want, Elleanor?" His sensuously hooded voice asked, causing ripples to blaze through her skin. Her mouth hung open as she tried to stop herself, but the more she watched him stare at her, the more something stirred inside of her, "I- I want you to touch me," She whispered. Neveah gasped when she jerked up from that horrifying dream. ''What was that?'' She asked herself in horror. Did..did she just dream of him? Of him touching her and what was that she said?! She nervously swallowed, her hand gently patting on her heaving chest. That was a nightmare. What had that man done to her? Her eyes flew to the other side of the bed, but she was surprised to find it empty. She scanned every corner of the room, but his presence was nowhere to be found. She looked at the bed again, noticing how smooth and untouched it looked like no one had slept there. ''Did she sleep alone?'' Neveah didn''t know if she should feel relieved or worried. Worried? Why should she be worried? Last night he had boldly declared she would crave for his touch, and now she had dreamt about him touching her? And she had asked him to touch her?! What sort of spell had his words cast on her? Neveah cringed as she thought about the dream once more. This man was indeed dangerous. She wasn''t safe here. Her mind drifted to the person who had always made her feel safest. She had tried calling him last night after Dale had left her alone in the room to take her bath, but she had not been able to reach him. ''How worried he must be by now.'' She thought. He must have searched for her, and knowing her mother, she knew she would never tell him about this deceitful plan she had lured her into. ''Poor Francis'', She sighed. She reached for her phone on the bedside table and once again she tried to call him, but to utmost dismay, she couldn''t reach him. Was something wrong? She tried again, but she got the same result. Her brows creased. His phone had never been unreachable; what was wrong now? Had something happened to him? Did he, by chance, find out about what had happened? Her heart skipped at that thought. Immediately she dialled her mother''s number, and after two rings, she picked up. "Hello, mother," She greeted, but what she heard from the other side of the phone got her heart frozen. "What the hell is wrong with you, Neveah?!" She heard him roar. "Fa... father." She stuttered. "What madness is this? How dare you do this? How dare the both of you do something as crazy as this?" He asked lividly. Neveah could visualize his vein pop. "I''m sorry, father. Mother had¨C" "No right to make such a decision and you had all the right to say no." He snapped, making Neveah tremble. She had never heard her father this angry. "Jacob." She heard her mother call his name, but from how quiet her voice turned, she could imagine her father had sent his signatory glare at her. "Come back home this instant." He ordered. "She won''t!" Her mother boldly refuted. "Have you gone mad? Are you going to play such a dirty game to save our family?" ''Save their family?'' Neveah was perplexed about what they were talking about. "Yes." Her mother answered. "This deceit would only ruin us. Mr Stuart will be infuriated if he finds out about this. That man is no ordinary man, and Neveah would be in trouble if he finds out he has been tricked." "He won''t hurt her." Mrs Steele declared while her husband chuckled derisively. "And how do you that? How are you sure our daughter, your daughter, will be safe when the truth about this comes to light?!" He roared. "He promised to care for Elle." "Elle, and not Neveah! And do you really believe his words? Do you read the articles at all? Dale Stuart is a monster." "Who offered to help us." Mrs Steele stated. "Yes, he might have offered to help us, but I had only agreed because Elle said yes to his proposal! Only God knows what she was thinking at the time, and now she dare runs away?!" He couldn''t believe the tenacity of that child. Didn''t she agree to this marriage? How dare she put Neveah in such a position. No, how dare his wife endanger their innocent daughter like this? Neveah wasn''t like Elle; she was a sweet young girl who had her own untainted world painted in her head. She hated trouble and had always tried to stay away from it. She made upbringing easy for him as a father, and even his wife could attest to that. Not once had she ever made a request as a child till that one time she requested to school in another country. It had been a difficult decision for him as she was still a teenager, but having complete faith in her, he had agreed because she was one child he was completely proud of. He was sure she''d never do anything that''ll make him regret his decision. Not that he wasn''t proud of his eldest child, but Neveah was a child every parent would wish for. So how dare his wife do something like this to that innocent child?! Returning his attention to the phone, he said, "Neveah, my child, please come home. I would speak to Mr Dale, and I''m sure he would understand. Don''t worry; I''ll come to get you ¨C." "No, father." She suddenly interjected him, surprising both herself and her father. Neveah wasn''t sure of what she was doing, she shouldn''t be doing anything at all, but she further heard herself say, "I''ll stay till Elle is found." "Neveah¨C" "No, father, let me do this." She said, cutting him short again. She drew a short breath and continued, "I don''t know what''s going on, but whatever trouble you guys are in, I want to help." Even if it means staying with a devil. "Find Elle and bring her back....and help me find Francis." This was her decision. Neveah was still on the phone when she suddenly felt a presence in the room.. Slowly lifting her head, she stiffened when she saw the person standing by the door. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 13 - Fear You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Neveah felt her heart skip as she watched the person standing by the door take a few steps into the room. Mr Simon! "Good morning, madam," Simon greeted with a small smile as he stared at the woman stiffly sitting on the bed, staring at him with bulging eyes, before his eyes slightly darted towards the phone in her hand. "G¨Cood morn-ing," Neveah stuttered, slowly rising to her feet as she hid the phone behind her back when she noticed his gaze on the phone. Shock and surprise were clearly written over her face. Her shaky voice, nervous eyes and the movement of her hand didn''t go unnoticed by the butler, who quickly and apologetically bowed to her. "I''m sorry for interrupting you, madam. I knocked, but there was no response, so I entered to check if everything was fine with you." He explained and bowed to her again, but Neveah wasn''t concerned about his apology. She was too fazed to ponder on that right now. Did he overhear my conversation? Was all she could ask herself. Neveah felt cold chills crawl over her as her insides quivered at the possibility of that. How could she have been this careless?! She scolded herself. Her scared and nervous eyes closely narrowed at him as fear engulfed her entire being. "Are you fine, madam?" Simon asked when he noticed how oddly she was staring at him. "Y- Yes." She stutteringly replied, but hell, she wasn''t. The man narrowed his eyes at her for a moment before he continued. "Master has requested your presence at the dining hall for breakfast. And he had asked me to inform you to take a look at the dressing room." He said, pointing to the double-sided door on the right. "Dressing room?" Neveah muttered as she turned to look at the door, he was pointing at thus missing the awkward look that flashed through his eyes. "Yes." He replied. "He''d be expecting you in an hour." He said, drawing Neveah''s attention back to him, while she slowly nodded. Her heart pounded heavily with fear as she didn''t know if he had heard her conversation over the phone. "Madam, is there something you might need?" The butler asked when she continued to stare at him in that same oddly manner. Wanted anything? She didn''t think so. If there was anything she desperately wanted was for this charade to come to an end as soon as possible. She was already feeling suffocated. Neveah intently and cautiously observed the man''s expression, her eyes profoundly searching his for some clue, but there was nothing revealed on his face other than the modest smile which he had on. She still couldn''t tell if he had heard her over the phone. But what were the chances that he hadn''t heard her? Next to none? Mr Simon patiently waited for a few more seconds before she finally replied with a shake of her head. Broadening his smile, he said, "Then I''ll let you be madam." He bowed one last time before exiting the room. Neveah watched the man''s disappearing silhouette. Her heart pounding with unease and fear. Should she stop him and ask? Hell no! She rubbed her sweaty palms on her nightgown, one which Dale had provided her last night. He had placed it on the bed for her before leaving her alone to do her business. Was there a possibility that the butler had overheard her conversation and was pretending? Her hands slightly trembled at that thought. The pounding of her heart increased erratically. God! She should have been a bit more careful. She can''t afford to be careless here. She had heard what her father had said. Dale might harm her family if he learns the truth. If the butler had indeed heard her, he could tell Dale, right? After all, Dale was his master. What would happen to her?! Neveah swallowed nervously. She doesn''t know what kind of trouble her family was in, and exposing herself on her first day would probably worsen the state they were already in. No, she couldn''t let that happen! Doing something as fraudulent as this wasn''t something she''d do, but right now, she was helpless. This was the burden, joy and curse of having a family. One could never look away, especially in times of trouble. Her eyes burned with resolve¡ªa resolve to protect and help her family. She isn''t sure if he has heard her or not. But whatever the case may be, she was going to prepare herself for it. Taking a long breath to calm herself, she turned towards the dressing room to see whatever Dale had wanted her to see. Her eyes widened the moment she opened the door. Was this a dressing room or a clothing store? It seemed like a clothing outlet. Neveah took a step into the enormous room, which was filled to the brim with luxurious racks of clothes, bags and shoes of all kinds and colours. It was all glamour. ''He did this? He bought all this?'' She was utterly surprised. Her eyes scanned the room with awe as she turned around. Her hand slowly moved across the fabrics. Though the price tags had been removed, she could tell how expensive they were. ''What was he thinking buying such expensive clothes?'' She asked herself in horror. Why would he do this for her? Her? All these weren''t for her. They were for Elle! This made her wonder if what her parents said was true. Whatever tiny glint that sparked in her eyes moments ago completely dwindled. Did he really like Elle? Was he truly going to take care of Elle as her parents had said? Whether he liked her or not wasn''t going to change the fact that he would be furious with her family when he found out he had been tricked. And that was what she had to avoid at all cost. This brought her mind back to the butler. What was she going to do about him? Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 14 - Wrong Place Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Remembering what the butler had said about the time, Nevaeh hastily got herself ready. She shouldn''t be late. Picking a dress was quite difficult as all the clothes were in Elle''s preference, but after much search, she finally found a floral sundress among the racks of clothes, which was more of her style. She quickly donned it on, combed her hair, paid herself one last look in the mirror before making her way down the grand spiral stairs to the dining room. Anxiety slowly brooding in her heart with each step she took as she thought about appearing before Dale again. The man sent chills down her spine. For the first time in her life, she woke up in a man''s house who was and was not her husband. How complicated could this be! And to think, it had to be Dale''s Stuart''s house. She imagined how Francis would feel when he hears about this, especially when she had repeatedly declined his request of spending a night in his house in the last two years. So much for all the principles, she had laid for herself all these years. A defeated sigh escaped her lips as she continued her journey down the stairs. Her hand on the gold handrail grew sweaty as she arrived at the base of the stairs, slightly tightening over it. But despite her nervousness, Nevaeh was once again Nevaeh awestruck by the grandeur of the house. It seemed daylight did more justice to its beauty than the night did. With eyes glistening with awe and appreciation for art, she subconsciously stepped down from the stairs, her eyes roaming and scanning every nook and cranny of the beauty she was standing in. Just who designed this house? She asked herself in awe as she slowly turned around to have a view of her surrounding. Though she was in a delicate situation, one where she didn''t have the time to gape and stall, Nevaeh couldn''t help but gawk at the house, completely forgetting about her fears and worries. If there was one thing that could get her completely lost in time, it was pure art, just like the one she saw now - and food. Her eyes roamed around till something caught her attention¡ªa golden glow on the floor, right at the centre of the living space. What''s that? She asked, her head slowly tilting upward. Neveah was astonished by what laid before her eyes. Her jaws dropped when she saw the intricate engravings on the ceiling. What are those? Wings? Golden wings? And in the middle hung the beautiful chandelier she had spotted last night. Drawn to the art, Neveah stood with her head lifted, completely forgetting about her destination, her hands subconsciously raising as though she could reach for the wings. What pure art! She whispered in her mind¡ªexcitement glistening in her eyes. Only a monster could make this. The details of the wings were so accurate, Neveah felt her heart dance with admiration. How did she miss seeing this last night? The golden colour of the wings reflected so brightly on the white marble floor. It was hard to miss. But why does he have such a design here? What does it even mean? She believed no one kept such works close to themselves without having a significant reason for it. While the remarkable engravings on the ceiling enthralled Nevaeh, she was oblivious to the pair of eyes that had been staring at her since her little adventure began. "I believe you''re at the wrong place, wife." A voice suddenly spoke, making Nevaeh stiffen. Every form of awe in her disappeared, and her once steady heart slowly began to pound heavily. She didn''t need anyone to tell who that voice belonged to. Though she had only heard it for the first time yesterday, it was now encoded in her head and had somehow even made its way into her dream. Slightly gripping the side of her gown, she swallowed inaudibly as she slowly turned around till her eyes fell on him. Her heart even thumping harder than before. Though she was shocked to see him standing few feet away from her with his hand buried in his pocket, his eyes solely fixed on her, she was more shocked to see how he looked. He was wearing black pants and a black shirt, his hair was quite tousled, but he looked like some demi-god on a stroll on this small planet called earth. His appearance and aura were somewhat enchanting yet stifling. Her wildly thumping heart increased its pace when he started walking towards her, his eyes locked on her, and she could feel her breath seize. His gait was as if he was gliding against the floor and not walking. She stiffened a bit more when he stopped a foot away from her, towering over her with his huge form. His devilish eyes were boring a hole into her before slowly sizing her from head to toes. Nevaeh felt the hair of her stand when his eyes crawled over her, and his intimidating shadow that loomed over her made the air stiff and dry. Her lips trembled in her attempt to say something, but she quickly bit them shut. Should she say something? Why wasn''t he saying anything? Peeking at him from under her long lashes, she pursed her lips for a moment before saying, "I''m sorry." Her voice breezed out as a whisper. Dale''s brow shut up when he heard her apology, "For what?" He asked. "F¨Cor..." She paused and pinched her lips with her teeth, her hand still firmly rooted to her side. "For making you wait. I''m sorry." She apologised and lowered her head before pursing her lips again. He watched her as she bit her lips, and he couldn''t help but notice how firm she gripped the side of her dress. He took a step forward, crossing the space between them, but she instinctively took a step backwards, making Dale paused and a frown formed on his face. Nevaeh felt her sink into her stomach when she realised what she had done, and the gloomy look on his face was an indicator that she had truly angered him. She didn''t mean to take a retreating step. She had done that out of reflex. Oh, God! "I-I" Her lips trembled in an attempt to apologise, but her words got stuck in her throat. An eery and awkward moment of silence reigned between them before his voice finally came up. "Let''s go." He said before turning around and walking away. ''Go? Go where?'' Nevaeh looked at his retreating back without taking a step, but when he suddenly paused and looked over his shoulder, her brain juggled up, and she suddenly realised where he was talking about. The dining room! Nevaeh nervously followed behind him with her head lowered till she heard the creaking sound of an opening door. Looking upward, she realised they were currently standing before the dining room. A house staff held the door open for them with her head bowed. "Good morning, madam," The staff greeted who happened to be a girl. "Good morning." She greeted back before following Dale into the room. Stepping into the room, her eyes lit up when she saw the sight that greeted her. The room was intricately well designed. What''s with him and the colour, gold? Though Nevaeh had seen exquisite materials and designs, she hadn''t seen one put so much of it in one place. His staffs sure work efficiently in making this place neat and clean. Dale took his seat at the head of the table while he waited on her to fill her gaze. His lips curved up when he saw the way her eyes glistened with awe. It was good to know she liked his arrangement. It would have been disappointing had she not liked it. But would he have complained? Absolutely not! Nevaeh stiffly and awkwardly took her seat when she realised Dale was waiting for her. "Sorry." She apologised, making Dale glance at her. "Are you that scared you apologise for everything, or do you have a thing for the word sorry?" ..... Please leave a review for this book. Thanks. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 15 - Blind You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com "Hmm?" Neveah blinked at his words. Was he going to scold her now for apologising? Was it her fault that he made her unsettled? She had to admit that she was indeed scared. Scared of who they said he was, and also of what he''d do if he found out that she wasn''t his wife but the sister. But how was she to answer his question? She couldn''t say she was scared, could she? No! That would greatly anger him. He had told her he wasn''t going to hurt her. But could she believe those words? Nevaeh hadn''t felt this much fear in her entire life. Fear of being with this stranger under his roof, fear of what might happen when her man hears about this unscrupulous act, and the fear of getting caught. She suddenly remembered the butler. It was apparent he didn''t say anything to Dale, and that made her wonder if he really didn''t hear her. She hopes so! She has to be cautious in everything she does. Even her smile could give her away. Dale could see the way her eyes darted back and forth, and her long lashes fluttered haphazardly. Her entire composure made her look innocent, but he could feel her fears. It was thick, and he could cut through it with a knife. He was about to say something when she suddenly lifted her head and gazed at him in the eyes. "I''m not scared." She blurted out, making Dale raise a brow. She wasn''t? He would say otherwise. "I-I''m just trying not to get you vexed." She said. ''Vexed?'' She was already doing that. She swallowed when she saw his eyes narrow at her, and he suddenly began to lean close in a predative manner. Why was he moving closer to her? Nevaeh could feel the hard thump of her heart as he neared her, but she tried to stay calm and unmoved. She could feel his piercing gaze on her. It took a lot of strength for her to remain still, but the moment his hand touched her chin, her body betrayed her, and she flinched. Oh no! Why has she done that again?! Nevaeh, for the sake of God, please get a grip! Dale tilted her face towards himself so she could stare directly into his eyes. She felt uncomfortable when his gaze stayed on her for too long without him saying a word. She wondered what he was going to do now, or should she try looking away? Maybe lower her eyes? What if he saw that as a disrespectful move, and Elle wasn''t the type to cower under anybody''s gaze. Neither was she, but circumstances were making her act otherwise. As much as Nevaeh wanted to look away, she couldn''t bring herself to. Because just like yesterday, this man held her spellbound with his gaze. Did his eyes change colour? She asked herself when she took note of his eyes. She could swear he had more blue in his eyes yesterday, and that awkward green streak wasn''t as dominant as it looked right now. "Are you sure you''re not scared?" His deep voice came asking, cutting through her thought. She slowly shook her head. Of course, she was scared, but she dared not admit it. "Then why do you flinch every time I try to touch you?" "Be-cause I''m not used to being touched." Her soft voice replied. Nevaeh watched as he blankly stared at her, almost as if he was trying to decipher the truth behind her words. His brows narrowed for a split second before relaxing again. His warm palms let go of her chin and slowly brushed up her cheeks. "Elleanor..." came his calm voice like a melodic chant, jolting her heart in an unfamiliar way. It was just like her dream. An image suddenly flashed through Nevaeh''s mind, and she heard his voice inside her head. It was from her dream. What was this devilish man doing to her? "I''m blind to you." He suddenly said, making Nevaeh''s eyes shoot up while his hand continued grazing her cheek and warming it up. ''Blind? To her? What does he mean by that? Dale let out a short sigh when he saw the confusion and curiosity gleaming in her eyes. He let go of her chin and picked a lock of her hair, playfully twirling it. "Stop flinching when I touch you, Elle. It makes me want to tame you, tame your body till it recognises me. I wonder how long that will take." He hissed as he grazed her lips with his finger. Nevaeh was in a daze as she stared at him unblinkingly. Does he want to tame her body? Nevaeh felt her breath hitch at that thought. Why did the memories of her dream come to mind? She could feel her skin suddenly begin to burn as he continued to stare at her with a dark glint in his eyes, almost as if he was pondering on a thousand ways he could devour her. Could he stop?! She cried in her head. Nevaeh was deeply lost in her thoughts. She didn''t take note when someone approached the table, till a plate was placed before her. Dale''s lips twitched when he saw her cute and innocent expression. "You shouldn''t worry, wife, I won''t eat you up.." He said. "At least...not yet." A teasing and taunting smile played on his face as he picked up the glass of wine placed before him. Her face flushed at his words when she discovered staff were standing beside them. What was he saying now? But why does he look so breathtaking when he smiles? What was she thinking now? She chided herself as she hastily tore her gaze from him and looked at the well-plated meal in front of her. Neveah felt her stomach rumble at the sight of the food. It made her remember the delicious meal she had been served last night. She could already imagine how divine this would taste. ''What was it? Lamb or steak?'' Dale watched with amusement as she subconsciously lowered her head and took a whiff of the food placed before her. ''Garlic butter lamb!'' She exclaimed in her mind, and Dale didn''t miss the smile in her eyes, making his lips curve up. Forgetting about the minotaur that was staring at her, rather trying to put him in the backdrop in the presence of this delicacy placed in front of her, Nevaeh delightedly reached for her eating utensils and quickly took a bite of the meat. "Hmm," She shamelessly moaned as she licked the sauce that smeared her lips with her tongue, completely oblivious of what that tiny action had done to Dale who painfully swallowed. Who made this? This was heavenly. The meat was so tender and juicy, she could feel it melt in her mouth, and the taste...God! She was sure going to ask for the recipe! If there was anything she thought she might like in this place, it was the food. Dinner seemed to be the tip of the iceberg, and breakfast was a game-changer. Maybe coming here wasn''t that bad. She could definitely pick up a few skills to sharpen her skills-set. While Nevaeh savoured the taste of her food and ate with glee like she had not wished for the world to end minutes ago, Dale amusedly watched his wife, who in his heart had taken the title of a gourmet. What a weird one. He smiled. He decided it was more delightsome to watch her eat than eat his food, but his moment was cut short when the butler came in and interrupted. "Master, she''s here." "I know." He said, letting out a wry sigh. He turned to look at his wife, who was still engrossed with her food. He shouldn''t disturb her. He reasoned as he stood up. "Wait on her." He ordered before walking away while the butler bowed. Despite been engrossed with her meal, Nevaeh had heard what the butler had said to Dale. And seeing how he had left without saying a word, she began to wonder who had come visiting. ..... Kindly drop a review. It would mean a lot to me. Thanks. Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 16 - Positivity Being alone with the butler, Nevaeh could feel her fears return. She could no longer enjoy her meal as she once did. She fearfully took side glances at him, but he had his gaze fixed elsewhere. Was she overthinking it? Maybe he had not really heard her, she thought. Yeah, maybe he did not, and even if he did, what''s the possibility that he understood what she had said? Neveah tried to keep her thoughts positive, but her heart still wasn''t at rest. This was the thing about deceit. There was barely any peace of mind, and she was sure she was never going to get any of that as long as she remained there as an imposter. She tried to calm herself down and not ponder much about it. What''s the worst that could happen? The butler telling Dale? But he hasn''t done that, so she shouldn''t bother about it now. It was better to dwell on the positive thoughts than self-wallow in the negative ones, which were nerve-wracking. She returned her attention to her food and slowly began to eat. The coming days were not going to be easy - living the life of a fake - so she must adequately feed herself. Before the storm hits, she must at least do something she loves. That would be her way of escape - escape from her fears and all the worrisome thoughts. Luckily for her, they were generous enough to make good food here. Quickly consuming her food, her eyes darted towards Dale''s plate that was still untouched. Was he going to eat that? She asked herself before glancing her eyes to the door. She bit her fork as she lusciously stared at the piece of meat. It was calling unto her; she could hear it. It wasn''t her fault that the food there tasted great, and she wanted more. Call her stupid she doesn''t care because that wasn''t going to change her situation, neither would starvation help her. Simon slightly narrowed his eyes when he saw her actions, almost making him chuckle. Understanding her intentions, he asked, "Madam, do you want more?" "Can I get more?" She hurriedly asked, her eyes slightly lit up. "Yes, of course. You are the madam." Of course, she was the madam. The fake madam! The gleam in her eyes dwindled when once again, she remembered she was an imposter. But what could she do? Sacrifice had brought her to this point. Elle had not been found, and no one knew when she would be found. But until then, she shall at least do something that eases her and help her forget about the fears constantly toiling in her heart. Snapping her head towards Simon, and with a shy smile, she nodded, "Yes." "Then I''ll get another for you." "Wait!" She halts him. "Would ¨C would Dale return to the table?" Her voice lowered as she asked, almost as if she was scared to take his name with her lips. "The master would not be returning soon." Mr Simon replied. "He won''t?" Was he going to skip breakfast? She wondered who this important visitor was that could make a man like Dale leave his breakfast. Could it be a family member? No, she didn''t think so. If they didn''t come for the wedding, why then would they be here? Speaking of which, she had not seen any of his family members, not even at the wedding. Why? Were the rumours true? She turned to look at Simon. Maybe she should ask? No! That would not be nice. Dale might get angry if he discovers that she was talking about his family with his staff. Trying not to ponder too much on anything, Neveah flashed a smile at Simon and said, "I''ll just eat this." She said, picking up Dale''s plate and placing it in front of her while Simon nodded. "Uhmm..." She moaned in pleasure as she took a bite. God, this was really good! "Do you like the food?" Simon couldn''t help but ask after seeing her pleased yet cute reaction, while Nevaeh subconsciously nodded her head. "I love it." She replied. "They should cook more of this." While she enjoyed her food, she was oblivious to Mr Simon''s gaze on her. Had she seen him, she would have seen the weird look he had in his eyes. "Are you okay, madam?" He asked when Nevaeh suddenly sighed out. Bobbing her head up and down and her hand rubbing the small bump on her stomach, she replied, "I''m too full." She hissed. ..... "You are a long way from home," Dale said with a lazy tone as he stared at the woman leisurely sitting in front of him like she was in her house. She hasn''t changed a day. "Nice to see you too." She replied, her tone just as like the aura that surrounded her ¨C heavy and divine. Dale let out a lazy sigh as he turned his gaze away from her to look at the wings glowing above his head. He didn''t have the time and energy for her. She sighed when he behaved like that. Following his line of sight, the look in her eyes changed when she saw what he was staring at. "Your little minion, where is he?" Laila inquired. Returning his gaze to her, he replied, "He is no business of yours. State your purpose of being here, Lai." His tone sounded curt, it was a sign of his brooding irritation. She knew better than to ask him stupid questions. "You know why I''m here." "Do I?" He cocked a brow at her. They both stared at each other silently, but the tension in the air could be felt. The atmosphere thickened, and it felt like a cloud of smoke was slowly brooding. After few seconds elapsed, and she tore her gaze from his, a wary sigh escaping her lips. She knew there was no way she could stand against him. "I just want to see her." She said in a more submissive and polite tone. She had come all the way here for a purpose and provoking him wasn''t going to help her accomplish that. "You can''t." Came his cold reply making her frown. "Why? I''m her...." "You''re nothing." "Engel!" She snapped, making his eyes narrow at her as the aura around him began to change and the air suddenly stiffened. "Leave while you still can." He told her in a casual voice. Her hands clenched to her side, but she dare not voice her discontent. This was the problem with him. The very reason he was stuck here. Laila bit her lips as she stood up. "You can''t hide her forever." She said, but Dale didn''t reply. He looked at her from the corner of his eyed before looking away. Laila was infuriated by his behaviour. No matter how long it took, a leopard spot will never change. She rose to her feet, her eyes staring at the door at the other end of the sitting room. "They''ll be coming soon." She suddenly said before glancing at Dale, whose lips curved with a lazy smile, "Let them come." He said. But Lai did not miss the look in his eyes.. This man has indeed changed. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 17 - Foe Or Friend Neveah felt bloated after gobbling down her breakfast. She had a satisfactory smile on her face as she remained seated at the table. She could remember the last time she ate something this good. It was before she joined the culinary school. That one-time getaway trip she had embarked on with her father had opened her eyes to the greatness of a well-cooked meal. She had been opportune to eat something created by her idol chef, and that one meal had fueled her dream of travelling abroad to learn from her. She has vyed to be half as good as her, but she was still nowhere half her cooking expertise. For years she had thought no one could unrivalled her idols cooking, but now she has seen better. "You like it that much, don''t you?" Simon suddenly asked when he saw the dreamy look on her face, and Nevaeh couldn''t help but bob her head up and down as she turned to look at him. "Like?" She didn''t just like it; she loved it. "I love it, Mr Simon. It was perfectly made. I haven''t eaten something this amazing in years." She confessed. Simon could see she was swoon with food. It seems the adage that says, ''the way to a man''s heart is through his stomach was no longer peculiar to men, as this little madam seemed to have fallen under this category. The master has married himself a gourmet. "It''s good to know that," Simon replied. "Can you tell me who made this?" She asked with curious eyes. "I did." "You?" Neveah had her eyes widened to the fullest as she stared at him with utter disbelief. She looked him over. She couldn''t believe it. "Madam, why do you look so surprised?" Simon inquired as she kept staring at him with incredulity. Blinking her eyes to regain her composure, she replied, "I - I just thought...." She paused and shook her head, "I mean, I can''t believe you made something like this. It''s so divine. The flavours, the spices, the texture of the meat and even the sauce...everything was brought to perfection." She explained, her eyes looking at him with extreme fascination. This was unbelievable. But wait, why couldn''t she believe it? Maybe it was because of what happened earlier? Simon chuckled slightly at her words. He could already tell she loved cooking. "I can tell the madam loves cooking." He said while Nevaeh bobbed her head. Something in her kept pricking her heart not to get too familiar with the man. She still wasn''t sure if he held her secret or not. But they were talking about food! Her passion! Everything related to the culinary world was a weakness to her. Just as much as she loved consuming good food, she also loved the art and science of making a delicious and beautiful meal. To her, the creativity behind every dish was real art. She was completely sold out to it. Having a skill such as this could be the breakthrough she has been pining for. They could talk about food now, and she would worry about the secret later. And maybe being familiar with him might come with its perks. She might be able to discern if indeed he had heard something about her conversation. But how? She doesn''t know, at least for now. He might turn out to be a foe or a friend later, but either way, it might just be beneficial for her if she maintained a somewhat relationship with him. Like they say, keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Flashing a smile at Simon, she asked, "Mr Simon, can please you teach me?" Her question left the man in a state of shock. "Hm?" "Can you teach me your recipes? I can use this back at the res-" She paused when she realised what she was about to say. "I mean, I''d love to sharpen my cooking skills." She said, flashing him a convincing smile that looked a bit awkward. "You want to learn?" He was surprised to hear her say that. This was the first time he had heard a madam say such a thing. But he was even more shocked when she bobbed her head enthusiastically. She was serious? She really wanted to learn how to cook? He thought ladies from aristocratic families just like hers weren''t interested in such things. But that wasn''t the foremost concern. The master was. "The master." He said. "What about him?" She asked. What had Dale got to do about this? "He''ll be angry." He quickly told her. He will? He probably would. That man didn''t just have a scary reputation; he was also frightening even though his looks didn''t match up the dreadful things people said about him or the deathly aura he emanated. ''Looks are always deceptive, Nevaeh. Just like you are.'' She heard a voice speak in her head. Looks were truly deceptive. Here she was deceiving a man that she was his wife when she wasn''t. Her countenance suddenly became downcast, and noticing her looks, Simon said, "But maybe you can ask him." Her eyes darted towards him with several emotions passing through them. Ask him? That man scared her; even her breath hitched at his presence. So how was she going to approach him, talk more of making a request? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 18 - Real Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh returned to her room after her little talk with Mr Simon. She felt nervous at the thought of talking to Dale or rather seeking permission from him about her cooking. What would he say? No? That might hurt her, but she''d have to accept it. This wasn''t her home. It was his, and whatever he''d say goes. When she agreed to come here, it wasn''t to acquire any skill or befriend anybody, but now an opportunity had presented itself, and she might as well utilise it. She exhaled deeply as she slightly paced across the room. Her eyes wandered around in search of anything to calm her racing heart, but nothing seemed to work or catch her interest. She picked up her phone and redialed Francis'' number, but it still wasn''t reachable. What was wrong? This was the second time she had tried calling him. Francis wasn''t the type to stay away from his phone. He was a diligent man who was always looking out for the next contract to bag, so why was his number not reachable? That was strange. Maybe she should call Elle? Yes, she should. She didn''t know what was going on out there, especially with Francis, which made her uncomfortable. It would be good if Elle returned early - not just for her sake, but for all the parties involved - so she could leave this place as well. She dialled Elle''s number, but it also wasn''t reachable. Her too? Why was everybody''s phone switched off? She sighed exasperatedly. What had she been thinking calling Elle? This was Elle and not someone else! If she left her wedding, she wouldn''t make it easy for anybody to find her. She must have taken due precautions to avoid been found. That cruel girl! She cussed. But why had she agreed to this union when she knew she was going to abscond from her wedding? What evil spirit was at work in her when she decided to put everyone in such a perilous situation, herself especially? Was she scared of Dale? Then why had she said yes in the first place? She should have thought things through before making a decision such as this. She was also scared of him, but here she was stuck with him under his very roof ¨C all thanks to Elle. This was the thing about humans. Their thoughts and actions were always focused on their benefit. If it weren''t beneficial for them, they''d leave without thinking about the consequences, especially for the other parties involved. Selfishness was an innate thing among humans. She sighed. If only everyone could put the next person into consideration (place someone above themselves)- know how their words and actions may affect the people around them, then wouldn''t the world be a better place? She felt unease crawl back into her heart, and she resumed walking around the vast room, which was also her ''matrimonial room''. A lot of questions were going through her mind, and they were all overwhelming. Her gaze fell on the well-laid bed, and once again, she couldn''t help but wonder where Dale had slept last night. Did he sleep by her side? Or on the couch? She pondered as her eyes darted towards the sofa. She didn''t think so. Wait! Why was she even pondering about this? She shook her head to discard that thought out of her mind. Sometimes ignorance was better. She''d rather not know, at least for now, else her head erupts with so many thoughts and fear of where he might sleep next. All she wanted at this moment was to calm her tumultuous mind. She had to get herself together before her unrest gave her away. Nevaeh aimlessly walked around the room, her hands moving against the thick drapes which covered the large windows, till her eyes suddenly fell on a frame on the wall, which piqued her interest. She slowly approached it till she was just a foot away. Was that...A feather? It was gold in colour, just like the wings in the living room. But then it seemed to have its edge burnt. Was it real? She pondered as her hands subconsciously moved towards it. It couldn''t be real. What sort of bird had golden feathers? She couldn''t think of one. A gold macaw didn''t have such golden feathers. Nevaeh was still lost pondering and admiring discovery when she suddenly felt a presence in the room. From how stiff the air had become, she could tell it was...him. Her almost calmed heart suddenly began to race, and before she could turn, she felt his presence had suddenly become so close, almost as if he was behind her. "Do you like it?" He suddenly asked, his voice coming from behind her ear. Nevaeh froze at his closeness and the hotness of his breath against her ears. "Is it real?" She asked in a small voice. It was the effect he had on her. Everything about her seemed not to function well whenever he was around her, and so close at that. Nevaeh waited for his answer, which didn''t come as prompt as she expected. She slowly turned around, taking the opportunity to take a step away from him. She noticed how he was staring at her, emotions swirling through them like she had touched a sensitive topic. Has she? Just when she thought he wasn''t going to answer that, he slowly reached for her face, closing the space she had created. His fingers gently moved across her cheek. His hand was so smooth and soft, and it made her cheek warm. Was he always this warm? "It is as real as you, my angel." He replied. Angel? He called her that again. But wait, so the feather was real? It looked- She couldn''t stay in her thoughts when his other hand suddenly went around her waist and pulled her closer, so much her body was firmly pressed against his chest. The air suddenly grew thin, and her heart began to beat erratically. His piercing gaze lingered on her for a while before he spoke up again, "Do you really want to cook?" He suddenly asked, making her completely stunned. How did he know? Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 19 - Family Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Although the Steele Family had only several hours ago celebrated what people would call a ''happy occasion'', the Steele mansion was currently ablaze with an invisible fire. Fiery darts were emanating from the eyes of the patriarch of the Steele household as he stared at his wife with intent, anger burning in his eyes. "Anything yet?" His cold steel voice soared across the room. "No, sir." The young man sitting across from him nervously replied. Cold chills coursed up his spine when the angry-looking man narrowed his gaze at him. "Then what are you doing?" Mr Steele snarled. "I''m sorry, sir," The Young Man quivered in fear as he fumbled with the keyboard of his laptop. Jacob Steele was a very humble and quiet man who always carried a smile on his face. His smile had turned a descriptive landmark in his life, which made the young man wonder what had turned the once calm man into an angry monster. This has never happened before! "Jacob-" Mrs Steele tried to speak, but the cold glare from his eyes as he halted her with his hand clamped her mouth shut. She let out an exasperated sigh and began dialling the number, which had been unreachable for hours. She knew she had done wrong. And her husband''s anger towards her had hastened that realisation. She shouldn''t have asked Neveah to take such a risk for them. She was the guardian, and as such, it was her duty to protect her child and not the other round. She had been so scared and helpless, and she didn''t seem to have an option at the time. Maybe it wasn''t just the fact that she was scared that had pushed her into throwing her daughter into the lion''s den, but also the fact that her family was in deep trouble and were at the brink of losing all they had. She hissed out when she realised her thoughts. There was no room for regret. All she needed to do was to look for a possible solution out of this mess which she had created. She had promised Nevaeh a quick return, and crying over spilt milk wasn''t going to achieve that. She paid her husband one last look before dialling Elle''s number once more. Jacob had the urge to reach for her phone and smash it against the wall, but he couldn''t let his anger get hold of him. How had repeatedly dialling that number helped in any way? He watched as she turned towards him with a distressed look on her face, "She''s still not picking." She said in a defeated tone, but Jacob ignored her and looked away. For someone bold and brilliant enough to come up with such a devilish idea, he didn''t expect her to look that way. "Honey, please, I''m sorry." She apologised as she slowly and carefully approached him. "I know my actions were stupid and can never be justified, but I was only thinking about the family." "Family?" He asked in a derisive tone. "Family is that helpless child which you tossed into this deceitful game of yours!" He roared at her, making everyone in the room shiver in fear. "I-I''m sorry." "No, you''re not! And even if you are, you''re apologising to the wrong person. Nevaeh is the one who needs an apology for getting a selfish mother. You were supposed to protect our child, not sacrifice her!" "I know!" Mrs Steele couldn''t help but snap back at her husband, not minding the fact that there was a stranger in sitted among them. "I know I shouldn''t have done that." She said in a shaky voice as her eyes welled up. "I was just desperate. I didn''t know what to do." Her voice was utterly broken and low. Mr Steele sighed when he saw her like that, "Desperation and hardship shouldn''t bring the worst of us. If at all, it''s the one time when we must be more rational because every decision made at such times can never be unmade." He said and looked away. He wasn''t going to let her emotions get to him right now. She should reflect a bit more on her actions. The young man who has been opportune and at the same time shocked to see this lovely and enviable family quarrel didn''t know if he should beckon on his boss attention to what he had just found. "What is it?" Jacob asked when he saw the boy''s contemplative gaze. "Eh...sir, I think you should see this." He said as he turned his laptop towards the man. Mr Steele sat upright and pulled up his glasses to look at what he was expected to see. But the moment he did, he was left in utter shock. What was Elle doing? Who were those people with her and why were they kidnapping Francis? ... Kindly vote and drop a review. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 20 - Wifely Duties Mr Steele gawked at the footage before him with unblinking eyes. He couldn''t believe what he was staring at! Was that truly his Elle? His daughter? Jacob could not just believe it. He slowly turned to his wife, who was equally staring at him with disbelieving eyes as wide as saucers. Her trembling jaw as she fell backwards to the couch showed just how stunned she was. She gasped, and her hand flew to cover her mouth as her body continued to tremble. "Jacob," She softly muttered, her tone hinted with disbelief. This was her child! What was she doing? She didn''t even know what to think or say! H-how could Elle do something like this? Absconding from her wedding with an unconscious man - her sister''s man! What was she thinking? And now she had made Nevaeh marry her sister''s supposed husband? What sort of twist was this? Her eyes welled up with tears as she realized the gravity of the situation. Nevaeh! Oh, Lord! What has she done?! Jacob was still frozen as he watched the footage for the second time. He was too shocked! He couldn''t even respond to his name being called by his wife. He watched the footage in utter disbelief. Francis was unconscious and was being carried into a car which obviously wasn''t Elle''s, by two unknown men, and that was with Elle trailing behind at the underground park. She looked so serious and focused on what she was doing as her eyes kept darting around on the lookout. He watched as she opened the car and handed them a stack of cash, which they received and quickly left in another car. Elle looked at the back entrance door of the hotel. Her eyes lingered there for a while as if contemplating on something before finally hopping into the car, and she drove away. His eyes remained fixated on the screen till the car disappeared from the view of the camera. Jacob was in shock. Anger was slowly brooding inside him. This was unexpected! Had he been asked to guess a thousand reasons how or why Elle had left her wedding, he wouldn''t have been able to guess this. He had not seen this coming at all! Why, in the name of the devil, did Elle kidnap Francis? What sort of connection existed between them? And what in the name of the demon''s had possessed that child?! He looked at the young man sitting opposite him. "John", He called out. "Sir!" "Find that car." He ordered in a stern and angry voice. "Yes, sir!" The young man replied, knowing full well what car he was to look about for. "Now!" Jacob roared, startling the man who quickly jerked to his feet, grabbed his laptop and dashed out of the house to get his task done. Mrs Steele had tears streaming down her eyes as she turned to her husband, "Jacob, what do we do?" She asked in a helpless tone. This had suddenly changed from a case of absconding to something far worse - worse in every ramification. "What has gone into Elle?" Panic, confusion, and frustration twirled in her eyes as tears continued to roll down her face. Jacob sighed when he saw how worried and perplexed she looked. He could tell her concern wasn''t just for Elle but also for Nevaeh. That poor child. She had just been thrown into a big mix that they had no idea how to fix. How were they going to start fixing this? He turned to his wife with a cold glint in his eyes and a grave look on his face, "Nevaeh must not find out about this." He said while she readily nodded her head. Of course! Neveah must not know about this, but what would they tell her when she asked for Francis again? "Jacob...." Mrs Steele cried out his name. "I''ll get my daughter back!" He suddenly declared. But the question was how? ... Neveah stood frozen in space as she stared at Dale, her brown eyes wildly staring at him in shock. She still didn''t know how he had come to know about her desire to cook and her intention to seek his permission. Perhaps, he spoke with Simon? Oh no! She gasped when she realized something. The call! Her eyes grew even bigger, making Dale raise a brow at her. The ramming sound of her heart was loud enough to echo around within her ears. She suddenly felt her limbs grow cold with fear. Her eyes zeroed at the serene blue-green eyes that were staring at her in an attempt to discern his thoughts, but his eyes were as calm as his face, and she couldn''t tell or guess what was within his mind. Just like Simon, he was also unreadable. "Elle." His hand grazed her chin when her answer didn''t come, and the look on her face told him she had a thought in mind, but what, he also couldn''t tell. This, he found to be strange. There was never a mind he couldn''t read¡ªany except his wife''s. Nevaeh blinked at the sound of his rich voice, which always seemed to cut through her thoughts and spoke to her wildly beating heart. With how intense his gaze was on her, she knew he was waiting for an answer. Slowly and carefully, she nodded her head, "Yes." She replied as she frightfully waited for what he was about to say next. "Why?" He suddenly asked. Why does she want to cook? Was she supposed to give him a reason for that? Her eyes darted back and forth as she thought about what her answer should be. Because whatever she says might determine his decision. "Be-cause It''s my duty as a wife to - cook for you." She replied, lowering her eyes. She had just lied, and she couldn''t look him in the face. "Duty," Dale muttered as he gazed at her heart-shaped face. So she wanted to perform her wifely duties, huh? "What other duties would you like to perform?" He suddenly asked, making Nevaeh snap her head to look at him with confused eyes. "Eh?" She didn''t know why her heartbeat suddenly piked at his words. She gulped when he suddenly scanned his eyes over her from head to toes before staring at her lips, making her instinctively purse them. Her legs subconsciously tried to take a step back, totally forgetting that she was trapped in his embrace. "Wife, if you''re in a rush to perform your wifely duties, there is one I''d want you to do now." He smoothly said with a mischievous glint dancing through his eyes as he slowly lowered them towards her chest. Nevaeh felt her heart skip a beat and her lips quivered. But before she could say a word, she felt her body move, and the next second, she was being pressed against the wall. Her body was sandwiched between the cold wall and the rock hard body of a man staring at her with gleaming eyes that were causing a crawling effect on her skin. Her breath hitched when he gently lifted her chin. His burning eyes stared at them like he was dying to have a taste of them. And just like earlier, he brushed his finger over it while he let out a sigh. "I wish I knew what you were thinking now?" He muttered before gazing directly into her eyes. Did he want to know her thoughts? She wanted him to stop - stop what he was doing now. He- he was torturing her. Nevaeh couldn''t control her eyes from staring at his thin and firm looking lips, and she couldn''t wonder if they were soft. Nevaeh!! What was she thinking now?! She bit her lips in embarrassment when she saw his lips curve up amusingly. He must have guessed her thought. "You''re amusing, wife." He said, trailing his finger down her arm, sending a tingling sensation all over her. She was amusing?! She didn''t think so! He was the one torturing her with his eyes and touch. Dale let out another sigh after staring at her for a while. "Cook as much as you want, but do not share a smile with the butler." He suddenly said before letting go of her. Nevaeh quickly let go of the breath she held, but the heat still lingered under her skin. He paid her one last look to her and said, "I''ll let you be now, my wife," before walking away with Nevaeh staring at his huge form. What was this man doing to her? Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 21 - New Questions Best novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh had no idea what she should do after being left alone. Although Dale had left, her heart kept pounding restlessly like he was still there staring at her with those wicked and magnetic eyes of his. She gently tapped her chest with her hand as the image of Dale staring at her with his fiercely heated gaze raced through her mind. There was something about the way he spoke and touched her. It was as if they pricked on the part of her she didn''t know she had. The feeling of his warm hands on her skin was still vivid in her head, and once again, that unfamiliar feeling came coursing through her making her breath heavy. She felt cold and hot simultaneously, just like she had felt when he was so close. She jerked up to her feet in shock. What was happening to her? Wh-why was she thinking about stuff like this? She violently shook her head when she remembered how thin and attractive his lips had looked. It would look good on her canvas. Ah! She almost screamed out. Her hand flew to her mouth. Something was happening to her. She had only been there for less than a day, and she was already having such thoughts? She shouldn''t be having such thoughts! Why was this happening to her?! That man! He must have done something to her. She can swear on it! Nevaeh has not experienced this sort of mental stress in her life. It felt like she had lived a hundred years in the last hours. And with these weird and unknown feelings that were stirring up in her, she felt exhausted. She hadn''t felt this restless in a very long time. Wait! Had he really allowed her to cook? He didn''t reject her, scold or yell at her like she had feared he would. But why was he acting strangely from what she had heard and expected? He hasn''t been as mean or cold as they''ve said he was. As a matter of fact, he has been acting differently, and he has exceeded her expectations in every way. It was as if he wasn''t the man everyone mysteriously talked about. The man was indeed a mystery. But what kind was he? A good one or a bad one? Nevaeh felt bored and tired thinking about so many things at the same time. This was the only thing she had been doing since she stepped into this house, thinking. She wasn''t used to lying around doing nothing. Shuffling herself between the kitchen and painting on her canvas has been the blissful way she spends her day. But now, she felt so bored. She could use a distraction. Yes! She could definitely use one. And what other way to distract herself than going to the kitchen and kick-starting her classes with Mr Simon. She should definitely do that! Certain of beginning her lessons, Nevaeh made her way to the door, but the moment she stepped outside the room, she suddenly paused. What was that? She asked herself in horror. A bright white light had just flashed out of that room. She looked at both sides of the hallway before returning her gaze to the door. She watched interestedly, but nothing happened. Did she imagine that, or was there something there? No, she didn''t imagine it. She shook her head convincingly as she nervously turned towards the direction of the room. There were four rooms on that floor, and this very room was at the end of the hallway. Slowly she took inquisitive steps towards it, and with each step she took, she felt chilled, but she didn''t stop. Her curiosity got the best of her even when she knew it wasn''t right to look through someone''s house. But this wasn''t just any house; it was the house her sister had married into. This would be Elle''s home when she returned, so what if there was something that could endanger her? What if Dale had a secret?- a secret that might put her and her sister in harm''s way? Elle would be living with him once she returns, and she might not be safe with him. It would be better if she discovers it and saves her sister while she still can. For some reason, she felt chills crawl up her skin as she stood before the door. It was as if the temperature had suddenly dropped, and invisible pairs of eyes were looking at her. Her heartbeat became heavy and loud as she hesitantly reached for the knob. She swallowed as her hand slowly began to move to turn the knob. She didn''t know what she expected to see and didn''t know if she was ready to see what was behind the door. Dale wasn''t an ordinary man, and who knows what she might stumble upon. But just as she was about to open the door, a voice suddenly called out to her, "Madam," halting the movement of her hand. ''Mr Simon?'' She was shocked. She slowly withdrew her hand and turned towards the direction of his voice. Nevaeh was stunned to see him standing so close to her. When did he get there? She had just looked, but there was no one in the hallway apart from her. And how come she didn''t hear him walk so close to her? "I - I thought I saw something." She stutteringly explained herself. Why was this man always suddenly there when she was doing something? This was the second time in one day. How odd. She watched as his eyes darted towards the door before returning to her. "You shouldn''t be here." He said. ''Shouldn''t?'' Nevaeh couldn''t help but take note of the way his eyes flickered for a second like he knew what was in there, and he was scared of it. Was there really something in there? "Come, I''ll show you around the house. The master has instructed me to." He said, cutting through her thoughts. Nevaeh gazed at him before nodding her head. "Let''s go." He said, taking a step back and gesturing with his hand for her to go ahead. Nevaeh paid one last look to the door before walking away, but not without new questions boggling her heart. ''What was Dale hiding?'' Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 22 - Irredeemable Best novel online free at novelhall.com Dale stood frozen behind the door as he listened to the voices outside. He let go of the breath he had been holding when he heard her departing footsteps. He had been befuddled when he heard her thudding heartbeats at the door. Why did she come here? He heard her the moment she opened the door to her room and stepped out. He was curious to know where she was headed, but his curiosity waned when she suddenly started approaching this room with careful steps. There were a thousand and one ways he could have stopped or distracted her, but he couldn''t think of any at the time. Thankfully Simon had shown up. A frown furrowed his brows as he turned to the man leisurely sitting on his chair; his name was Elyon. Him and his foolish light must have alerted her. "Stop glaring at me. I just saved you. Show some appreciation." Elyon snorted at him, a mocking smile sitting in his eyes. He had felt Dale''s fear when they both heard her at the door. It was exciting to know that the man still knew what fear was. They have all wondered if he had any emotions left inside of him after roaming around for too long, but it seems he still knew how to feel. Dale almost scoffed at the ridiculity of Elyon''s words. Helped him? He didn''t think so. He looked at the body lifelessly lying on the floor before staring back at Elyon with a deeper scowl on his face. "You don''t call this help." He hissed at him before walking across the corpse. "Hey, I didn''t kill her. You did." Elyon refuted in an accusing tone making Dale stare at him with blood cold eyes. "And I should probably kill you." He gritted, causing the man to smile. "You know you can''t." Elyon smugly replied. "You can never be so sure." A dangerous and malicious glint danced in his eyes which made Elyon shudder. Dale sighed. There was no need talking to this one. He was an over joyous being who knew nothing about his pain and torture. After all, pain is subjective. No one could truly know your pain and sorrow. No matter how hard they tried, they can only try to imagine and understand it. He turned back to the body as he watched it change its form. His brows furrowed when he saw her true form. He knew it was a girl, but he never thought her to be this young. He didn''t plan on killing her. He knew about her the moment she stepped into his house, but he had not planned on killing her, at least not yet, not until this fool came along! Why were they all coming in today? First, Laila had rudely shown up this morning with her never-changing attitude, now him. These unexpected visits made him wonder who else was going to drop by. Dale had not yet finished his thought when the air suddenly moved slower as if time had paused for a split second and slowed down, causing him to frown a bit more. "You all must have a lot of spare time in your hands." He spoke in a menacing tone, but the newly uninvited guest didn''t bother to spare him a glance. He walked straight to the body of the blonde girl sprawling on the floor, and he squatted beside her. "Zadkiel, don''t bother. Her memories are gone." Elyon said, making the man gaze at him before staring at Dale, who looked angry yet unperturbed by the situation in his household before returning his gaze to the body. "They lurk in the dark, Engel. This will not be the last." The man said in a grim tone. "Of course he knows that. He''s just careless." Elyon butted in, his teasing gaze fixed on Dale, who didn''t bother to look at him. "She might die at this rate, and-" His words trailed off when Dale''s macabre gaze suddenly fell on him. He should know better. Elyon trembled at Dale''s change in countenance, but Zadkiel remained unfazed. He rose to his feet and expressionlessly stared at Elyon for a while before glancing at Dale, who was already on his feet. "None of us can read her thoughts, can you?" He inquired. "No," Dale replied. Wasn''t that the very mystery plaguing his mind? "Something is wrong." Elyon sighed. "Could that be why they had sent her?" He asked, pointing his chin at the dead girl. Dale and Zadkiel simultaneously glanced at the corpse with narrowed eyes. Could that be the reason? He had seen her kind lurk around him, a few had been at the wedding last night, but none had been bold enough to step into his house until this morning. When he sent her to Elle this morning, he knew it wasn''t his butler, but he had wanted to test out a theory. But upon her return, he was surprised to see that she had erased her own memories, which made him ponder, why? Why had she done that? What did she discover? No! how the hell was she even able to do that? He shouldn''t ponder on that anymore. There were more important things to do rather than focusing on her kind and what they could or could not do. Without saying another word, he turned around to leave. "You should trend more lightly, Engel. You might become irredeemable." Zadkiel suddenly said, his tone as apathetic as ever. "I''m already irredeemable." Dale deathly replied before continuing on his strides. "And the demon?" "He stays." He coldly replied. "Engel," Zadkiel calmly called but as expected from the man who had only one care in his life, he ignored him. "Take that body with you and forget about my soul.." He said before closing the door. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 23 - A Love Story Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh strolled beside the butler as he led her around the house. Her eyes glinted with wonderment as they dashed through every turn and corner. She was amazed to discover the house was far more extensive than she had thought it was. Its transcendence was above her imagination. But what surprised her more was the huge library at the east end of the mansion. In all her years, she had never seen a place like this. It wasn''t as big as the national or school libraries she had visited, but it was unique. Its content and arrangements made her wonder if it was indeed a library or an exhibition hall. The shelves were arranged in a spherical manner at one side of the library, while the portraits were arrayed at the opposite side till they reached the ceiling. A single table and chair were placed in the middle of the room with a bright light centred on it. ''How did he collect so many books and paintings?'' She asked herself as her eyes wandered across the paintings that hung on the large walls until the very high ceiling. How does he even get up there? How does one get to the top to see them all? Nevaeh was awestruck. Dale kept surprising her with the different sides of him she didn''t know or instead hadn''t heard of. Who''d think he was a lover and fervent collector of art too? What great eyes he has, she sighed in her heart. She took slow and light steps towards the left side of the room where the portraits hung. She stared at them with admiration. They were such pure arts. She felt her heart thud at the mere sight of them. There was this feeling in her heart as she stood before these great works. It was the beats of excitement. She had been to several exhibitions, but none of the work she had seen could be compared to what stood before her eyes. She could feel it told a story. The first four paintings showed a beautiful world with the most beautiful things; Love, peace, family, and unity. She followed each painting as she tried to tell the story to herself. A lovely couple with love burning in their eyes, who seemed to be contented and happy. They had the world at their feet, and nothing but being in the arms of one another mattered to them. They could slay a billion galaxies with each look they shared. Ah, what a way to tell a love story. Nevaeh exclaimed in her heart. The artist chose the colours perfectly. The detail of each painting told you just how the painters felt. ''What geniuses could have made these?'' She pondered to herself as her eyes trailed to the bottom of the portrait, where she saw the artist signature with an initial of E.H. Attached to the initial was a red heart pierced with a cupid arrow. She hasn''t heard of this person before. She looked to the next, and the next, and she was surprised to see that all the portraits had the same initials. Does this mean one person made all these? Her eyes widened in disbelief as she scanned her eyes across the wall full of portraits. It must be a life-worth of work. She turned to Mr Simon, who was a few feet away from her. "Did he buy all these?" She curiously inquired. "No. The master owns them." She knew the master owned them, but she was asking- Wait! Was that the answer itself? No, he didn''t buy it. Then did he make them? Impossible! She didn''t think he could do this. As if reading her thoughts, Simon spoke, "They were handed to the master." Handed to him? That meant he didn''t buy them but were given to him. Who would do such a thing? "By whom?" She inquisitively asked. "Only the master can tell you," Simon replied with an apologetic smile. A slight crease crossed her brows for a brief moment before they relaxed, but the inquisitive look on her face remained. He could tell she had a myriad of questions to ask, and he could understand why. The master was an enigma to ordinary eyes. Nevaeh slowly returned her gaze to the portraits as she scanned her eyes through the first row till she got to the last. How she''d love to see them all and know what happened to this couple. "I''ll show you to the garden now," Simon said after she looked around for a while. She nodded and let him lead the way. Once again, her jaws dropped when they arrived there. The garden wasn''t large, but it was beautiful. It had all the details she''d have painted in her dream garden. The overpowering and lovely scent of marigold mixed with lavender among other flowers lingered in the air and soothed her very well. A beautiful wooden garden seat was mounted in the heart of the garden, and she could already imagine herself relaxing on it. How was Dale doing all this? Who was this man she had been married to? Everything about him and everything she had seen stirred up more questions in her heart. She didn''t know this man at all, and it seemed no one did know who he truly was. Maybe he was as bad as they said, but even the worst of us has a part hidden from the eyes of people. A good side waits to be unlocked by that person who becomes both an Achilles heel and a source of strength. And in his case, it must be Elle. He seemed to have done everything with her in mind. Oh, how lucky her sister was! But wait! Why again was she been swayed by these little acts of his? These could all be a ploy - a facade to hide his true self. No! she shouldn''t let herself be swayed by any of these. She reprimanded herself. Soon the evening came, and Nevaeh was once again in the depths of her fear. She had just shared a table with Dale at dinner, and the real question that brought her immense fear was throbbing in her mind. How she wished those few moments of calmness she had enjoyed at the kitchen while she assisted in making dinner could have lasted a little more. For the first time since she stepped into this house, she felt peaceful in her mind. Cooking helped her escape the war going on in her mind. It brought the peace she desired, but even that didn''t last as she was now tensely lying on the bed with her eyes fixed on the door awaiting his arrival. He was going to come in any moment now. She thought. Her heart skipped when she saw the doorknob turn, and she instantly pulled the quilt up and closed her eyes while she held her breath in an attempt to even it, but it wasn''t working. She listened to the sound of the closing door and his light footsteps on the ground, which told her where exactly in the room he was. Her heartbeat increased when she heard him approach her. She tightly gripped the sheet. Was he staring at her? She couldn''t tell, but she knew he was close. She felt a bit calm when she heard him move again and the sound of a closed door followed by running water reverberated in her ears. But soon her anxiety returned when she heard him opening the door again. She tried to listening to his steps again but there was none. Where was he? She strained her ears but nothing came through. All she could hear was her wildly beating heart. Slowly, she opened her eyes to peek from underneath her long lashes. But what awaited her left her frozen. "You''re quite an actress, Wife.." He said with a dangerous smirk. Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 24 - Seduction You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Her heart froze as her eyes gazed up at the shirtless man with water trickling down his steel-like body and a white towel hanging around his waist. Nevaeh swallowed at the sight of him. Even in her frightened and confused state, she noticed the ethereal beauty standing before her with amusement glistening in his eyes as he stared at her like she had been caught red-handed. Shamelessly and uncontrollably, her eyes travelled down his body. With his wet hair plastered to his face and his silk steel body that radiated beauty, he looked nothing short of a Greek god in her eyes. What sort of man was he? Nevaeh could feel her cheek heat up, but she didn''t know if it was from the embarrassment of being caught in her pretentious act or for drooling over him. Drooling? She wasn''t drooling! Her eyes immediately darted back and forth in an attempt to savour whatever reputation she still had before his eyes, "I-I", She stuttered, feeling heavily mortified. Her breath hitched, and she immediately tried to sit up when he lowered himself towards her, but she wasn''t fast enough for him as he held her trapped. Everything in her began to heat up at the sudden closeness he had put between them. Her heart skipped thousands of beats when he pushed his hair backwards, and a hellion smirk curved his almost perfect lips. Almost perfect, because she didn''t want to give him a full mark. "Your heart keeps racing." He said as he dropped his eyes towards her chest again. His smile widened for a split second when she uncomfortably reacted to his gaze. "Da-le." She stuttered again. Her brain was betraying her. How her thoughts suddenly become incoherent at the sight of this man baffles her. His gentle blue or green eyes - how confusing they were- peered at her in what Nevaeh defined as an erotic manner. "My heart race with yours too." He husked into her ears, and Neveah cold swear her blood turned hot at the sound of it. But what surprised her more and left her completely perplexed was her hand suddenly rested on his smooth skin, which felt like snowy, silky feathers. What sort of skincare product does he use? She asked herself without realizing what she was doing. She froze when Dale looked at her hand that was voluntarily moving across his bare chest. "Seems I don''t have to seduce you after all." He breathed with that signature wicked smile, making her stiffen even more. What''s that what he was doing? Seducing her? Blinking in trepidation, she slowly moved her hand away from his chest, but she almost sighed when her hand already began to miss that warmth and smoothness. But why was he so warm when he had just taken his bath? Maybe he had a hot bath. How could someone be so warm and cold? Nevaeh didn''t have enough time to ponder her thoughts as she suddenly felt her body move till she lay flat on the bed and his huge form loomed over her. "Tell me what you want right now." His incredibly mellifluous voice sounded into her eyes, completely mushing her thoughts, and his deep searching eyes crowned his compelling effect. "Tell me what you desire." He whispered as drops of water from his body trickled on her skin, but Nevaeh was too lost to notice it. Fluttering her eyes, she slowly shook her head, "I- don''t-know." she honestly replied. How strange~ She has always been so sure of what she wanted until now, and that was her freedom. A few moments of silence reigned between them as Dale tried to ascertain the truth behind her words, and when he did, he spoke up. "Then let me tell you what I want." Nevaeh felt a long gap between her next heartbeat when she saw that dangerous glint in his eyes again. A part of her feared what he wanted, but another part of her wanted to hear him say it. This man was tearing her apart. He was making her mad, but how? Impatiently, she found herself waiting to hear his wants, and her eyes couldn''t help but linger on his. She almost jumped her skin when she felt something cold slowly trail up her leg, but before she could look down, his silvery voice came penetrating through her head. "I want to trail my hand over every inch of you while my lips tightly press against yours as I slowly begin to kiss you savouring every inch of your mouth. I want to set you on heat as I tease every part of you with my mouth." He paused as he gazed at her lips which were breathtakingly inviting. And for some unknown reason, she bit her nether lip almost as if threatening him not to dare. If only she knew what that did to him. "I want to kiss you eyes, cheeks, your neck, move your hair and kiss your nape. I want to kiss you here." He paused as his fingertips grazed the entrance of her panties prompting Nevaeh to clamp her legs close, trapping his hand in between. A dirty and malicious smile played on his lips as he stared at her tightly shut legs. Nevaeh could feel her heart pounding and hammering like never before as she fearfully stared at him. ''How did his hand get there?!'' "I want to have you on all sides, Wife. I want to make love to you everywhere till I satisfy you, and I become all you desire." He whispered as he leaned in towards her. Heat, fear, anxiety and blood were wildly coursing through her at an accelerated speed as she frozenly stared at him. She could tell he was going to claim her lips, but she couldn''t let him, right? She shouldn''t- She flinched when she felt it on her cheek - his lips- before he pulled away. She stared at him with confusion dancing through her eyes when he got off her. Wait! was she feeling disappointed? Why? Her eyes followed him as he stood by her side, still shirtless, revealing those muscle toned abs on him. He brushed his hand through her hair and revealed a smile that struck her into a dead state of speechlessness. "You''ll always be mine, Elleanor." He said before turning away. Nevaeh gasped the moment he turned around, allowing oxygen to fill the deprived parts of her brain and heart. What in the name of all thing unholy just happened?! She was still lost on that thought when her eyes caught something interesting - A tattoo on his back. Another wing, similar to the one in the sitting room. She had her gaze fixed on it till he opened a door and walked through it. One she hasn''t even noticed had been there. It must be his dressing room, she thought. But what did those wings mean? What did they all mean?! As she stared at the closed door, images of what Dale had desired to do to her suddenly flashed through her head. More heat crawled underneath her skin as those images assaulted her mind. How was he doing this? You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 25 - Married? The lucent light permeating the room bashed the face of the young man sprawled on the bed, prompting him to scrunch his brows. He moaned and stretched as his eyes slowly flickered awake, but he reflexively shut his eyelids when the rays of light seeping through the drapes assaulted his eyes. A low groan escaped his lips as he tightened his eyes even more, but not because of the light but for the throbbing headache that suddenly plagued him. Why did his head hurt so bad? He wondered as he slowly opened his eyes again, but not without squinting them closely. His fingers pressed on his temples as he gently sat up on the big white bed, which didn''t feel familiar. A frown crossed his brows when he realized the place also didn''t look familiar. Where was he? He pondered as he snapped his head around, carefully observing the place he had woken up. And why did he feel so stiff? This didn''t seem like where he was yesterday. Neither was it his hotel room. Wait! What happened yesterday? He creased his brows as he tried to push his memory, but there was a block. He couldn''t remember! Where the hell was he? He asked himself while he kept looking around. The room and the fixtures that decorated it told him it was a hotel room, which he hadn''t been to before. And the keycard lying on the bedside table confirmed his suspicion. Did Nevaeh bring him here? His eyes fell on the sofa, and that was when he took note of the Sapphire blue dress lying on it as well as the black lingerie resting close to it. ''Those weren''t -'' His thoughts trailed when he heard the running sound of water from behind the door. Who was there? He didn''t have to ponder much about that answer because the door suddenly opened from within, and someone walked out of the bathroom. "Finally, you''re awake." She exclaimed as a sweet smile broke her face, widening her cheek to her ears. Happiness and relief resounded in her voice as she dropped the hand towel to the couch and sprinted towards the bed with sheer excitement. "Nevaeh?" He called. His eyes riffled her from head to toes. Her long dark hair, brown eyes hidden behind her long dark lashes, and that heart shaped face told him it was her, but... "Babe-" ''Babe?'' He looked at her with narrowed eyes. "I was so scared when you didn''t wake up after a day. I thought I had overdos-" She paused and smiled awkwardly as she sat by his side, her hand slowly reaching for his hair, but he caught it mid-air, slightly startling her. "Elle." He wasn''t guessing. He knew it was her. "Francis-" She tried to speak up, but he interjected her. "What''s the meaning of this? Where is this?" He asked as his eyes skimmed across the room before settling back on her, impatiently waiting for her answer. "Why are you here, and where is Nevaeh?" He added. He didn''t understand why she was there in a hotel room with him, looking like she just had her bath. He had almost thought for one second that she was Nevaeh, but he knew better. Nevaeh would never call him ''babe'', or rather had never called him ''babe''. She was one 21st century lady who had no clue about endearments. She was sweet, innocent and naive, and those were the very things he loved about her. She was just so tamable and not as wild as some ''people''. Revealing an awkward smile, she withdrew her hand from his hold. "Why don''t you eat, and we''ll talk later." She said in a dismissive tone, revealing a disarming smile as she tried standing up, but he grabbed her hand again. "Where is Nevaeh?" He questioned. This time she didn''t miss how sternly he spoke to her. His voice sounded cold as he looked at her with indescribable eyes. "I''ll tell you in due time. But first, you need to eat. You''ve been asleep for two days. Allow me to call for room service." "What! Two days?!" His eyes widened in n shocked surprise, as he stared at her confusedly. Has he been asleep for two days? How was that even possible? He has never slept that long! She had got to be joking. Elle took advantage of his confused state, she slipped her hand away from him, but he reflexively held her back, his grip slightly tightening over her hand. "Tell me, why did I sleep for so long? Did something happen to me? And where the hell is my fiancee, your sister?!" He snapped. He felt confused, and his body felt weird. His head felt so heavy, and his mind fuzzy. He couldn''t remember a thing, and he found it annoying. He closed his eyes briefly, missing the reaction that flickered in her eyes when he said that word- finac¨¦e. He sighed when he realized he had just yelled at her, but it wasn''t his fault. Letting out a deflated sigh, he apologized, "I''m sorry. But if what you say is true that I''ve been asleep for days, then why is Nevaeh not here?" He paused and looked at her face, suspicion glinting in his eyes, "And why are you here and not with your husband?" He inquired. His curious and searching gaze intently glued at her, but she averted her eyes away from him. Something was wrong. He could tell. "Elle." He drawled as his grip over her tightened once more, not minding how he was hurting her b up squeezing her hand so hard. "Where is Nevaeh?" He fiercely demanded, making Elle glare at him. "She is married! Nevaeh is married!" She howled in annoyance. Francis froze at her abrupt outburst. Married? Nevaeh was married? How was that even possible? A low laugh rumbled out of his chest as he let go of her hand while she gently massaged her now reddened wrist. "You''re joking." He laughed out, causing her to glare at him. "Maybe this would convince you." She stood on her feet and tossed a magazine at him. Francis looked at her before picking up the magazine, but the moment he saw the picture on the front of the magazine, a wave of shock washed through him. His hand trembled as he looked at those shiny brown eyes that lit up his days. Intently looking at the picture, he didn''t need anyone to tell him it was her. He gazed at Elle, looking completely stunned, "Wh-y....how is this possible?" He asked in a dumbfounded tone. He looked at the couple, which for some odd reason, looked like a perfect match. "Why is she married to him - your fiance?" He asked, but she didn''t answer. She simply stood there as she observed him. His brows twitched as he lividly jerked up to his feet, "What did you do, Elleanor?" He roared, almost threatening to pounce on her, but she whipped out an envelope from her pocket and stretched it at him, staring him boldly in the eye without flinching despite his heavy mood and countenance. "What''s this?" He asked in annoyance, his eyes glancing at the envelope but his hands not reaching for it. "You might want to see it." She said before putting the envelope into his hand. Francis glanced at her before reluctantly tore up the envelope. Unfolding the paper inside it, he quickly skimmed through. "What is this?" He asked confusedly, wondering why she was giving him her test result. "I''m pregnant, and you''re responsible for it." Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 26 - Ploy You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Francis was befuddled by what he had just heard. His widened eyes settled on her in shocked surprise, while she equally gazed back at him. She was what? Pregnant? For who? An aeon of awkward silence echoed through the room as they stared at each other with a locked gaze. Francis glanced at the paper in his hand once again before he broke the ear-piercing silence with a fit of derisive laughter prompting Elle to furrow her brows. "Why are you laughing?" She asked, confusion dancing in her eyes, but her question only made Francis laugh a little bit more, leaving her utterly perplexed. "Why am I laughing?" He asked amid laughter while she nodded. His laughter stopped, and a quick frown framed his face as he waved the paper at her, brusquely tossing it to her face. "This is crazy!" He hollered, pointing a finger at the paper which was floating to the ground. "You''re crazy. How can you be pregnant for me?" He asked in error because he didn''t know how she could miraculously get pregnant without him touching her. When did such miracles start to happen? She was delusional! He was confident in his mind that she was mad! Elle stared at him with eyes as wide as saucers. "But I am. I''m truly pregnant." She insisted. "You''re not, Elle!" He snapped at her, slightly jolting her. His eyes turned cold and angry as he took a step towards her, "I don''t know what you''re aiming for with this ploy Elleanor Steele, but you are certainly not pregnant, and even if you are, I''m not responsible." He boldly declared, making Elleanor gasp in shock. Her lips quaked as she stared at him in disbelief. "H-how can you say that?" She asked in an accusing tone. "How can you forget?" Her voice came sounding soft and filled with incredulity. "How could you forget making love to me and sowing your seed inside of me? How-" Her lips trembled as tears pooled in her eyes, which held an accusing and disbelieving look in them. Francis stared at her with inscrutable eyes intently narrowed at her. What was she saying? He didn''t sleep with her. What nonsense was she spewing? He hissed as he took a step away from her, "Elle, you must be imagining things. I never touched you. You have never let-" "But you did!" She yelled, cutting him short. "How?! When?!" He demanded. When did he touch her? Since his return, he had been careful enough not to cross paths with her. He had always stayed by Nevaeh''s side to avoid her because he had feared her ruining things between him and Nevaeh, so he had been cautious. So when did he touch her talk more of having sex with her? This wasn''t making any sense. "Elle, you have to stop this." He told her as he turned away. His eyes desperately combed around the room for his shoes. He had to leave and get his woman. Elle was crazy, and he didn''t have the time for her craziness. She and her delusional pregnancy can look for whoever impregnated her because it was certainly not him. "But what if you are?" He heard her say from behind him. He paused his search and turned back to her. "What if I''m what?" He inquired. "Responsible for my pregnancy." She stated. "What if I prove to you that you are the father of the child I''m carrying? Prove that we had sex, that you made passionate love to me and left your seed inside of me." She told him. Her tone and voice were unstable yet desperate and confident. He could feel the seriousness in them. "But we didn''t!" He was sure of it. "We did." She challenged him, causing Francis to stare at her suspiciously. Taking note of his confused state, she took advantage of it and walked closer to him. She lifted her gaze to him as she spoke, "Francis, I might be many things, but I''m not a liar. You and I know this." She paused and cautiously held his hand and placed it on her flat stomach. "This child inside of me, it''s ours." She said. Francis glanced at his hand on her stomach as he thought about the possibility of him being responsible, but there was none. He would never cheat on Nevaeh and certainly not with this woman. And he still couldn''t remember doing anything with her or anyone else for that matter. His eyes darkened as he drew his hand away from her. He took two retreating steps, looking her from head to toe. "Prove it.." He stoically said, taking Elle by surprise. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 27 - Jealous? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh slowly opened her eyes, waking up from her not so peaceful slumber. She had dreamt about him again! The dream was not so different from the last, but this time he had looked different. More elegant, more divine like he wasn''t a creature of this world, and more determined to have his wicked ways with her. But other than these, there was something about the man she had seen in her dreams, something she couldn''t quite place her mind on. It had felt like him, and at the same time, it had felt like someone else, someone familiar. His form was just as sturdy as he had looked last night, and in her dreams, he had touched her again, and she liked every bit of it. What were these dreams? Why was he haunting her so? She pondered as she remained lulled on the bed, lost in thought as she tried to make sense of her dream. Her round eyes flickered when she felt something hard press on her waist. She stiffened when she turned around to see what laid beside her. It was a half-naked man! Her eyes widened as she trailed his hand that was placed around her waist. She could hear the drumming sound of her heart as she stared at him in shock. ''W-why was he holding her? Wait! What was he doing in her bed? How did he even get to hold her like this without waking her up? Memories of last night came flashing through her mind. She couldn''t remember herself falling asleep. She had closed her eyes to calm herself after he had walked into the dressing room, but she couldn''t remember a thing after that. Did he... She quickly observed herself; a sigh of relief escaped her lips when she looked untouched. She wasn''t saying he was such a man. Well, she didn''t know if he was. But his awkward behaviour towards her was enough to make her think that way of him. The man was unpredictable. Her gaze returned to his gentle face, which was still as mesmerizing as the first time she had laid eyes on him at the altar. How could a man be so beautiful? She wondered. Her eyes traced his perfectly carved face, his well-lined brows, and his thin lips. They trailed down his well-toned skin, which was unmarred like what only kings and queens were meant to have, muscles rippling and flexing at every inch of him. Other men were brutish and clumsy when compared to him. Her eyes took in the full image of his torso, and her cheeks coloured at her shamelessness. She was openly gawking at another man who wasn''t her husband but her sister''s. Oh, Nevaeh! She was finished! As much as she wanted to look away from this sinful looking man, she couldn''t help but look more at his breathtaking face. He was the one in her dreams, even though it almost didn''t seem like him. He had undressed her with his heated gaze, and his hands had crawled up her legs, teased her senselessly till she had opened up for him, allowing him to do to her as he pleased. Things she hadn''t for once thought about experiencing with another man other than Francis were the things he was subconsciously taunting her with. She sighed as she realized how harmless and peaceful he looked as he slept. A calming feeling seared through her as she paid attention to the even rise and fall of his chest. Nevaeh jumped when his eyes suddenly opened, and his blue-green eyes came into view. "I-I", She stuttered, her face flushed as red as crimson with her eyes widened to the fullest, her lashes fluttering helplessly in mortification. Why was she always getting caught? No! The question was, why was she always gawking? A haughty smile split his face when he saw her cute reaction. "How kind of you, wife." He said. "Hmm?" She further widened her eyes in confusion as they blinked rapidly. His lips curved up a little more as he surprisingly pulled her a bit closer, causing her to stiffen even more, "I''d like to tease you here and now, just like you''re teasing me. Have your imagination run wild of the things I''d like to do to you on this bed, but I have something else to attend to." He said, and she couldn''t help but notice how his eyes darkly gleamed with something malicious when he said those last words. Those eyes of his. How could they be so bright and colourful yet feel so...sad and evil. She had not for once missed the deathly gaze that was permanently etched in them, almost as if he was on the lookout for something. And what did he want to do to her on this bed? Same things he did in her dream? Her heart thud at the memory of her dreams. She jolted back to reality when she felt his lips softly press against her forehead before looking down at her lips, his finger not forgetting to graze them, even giving them a light pinch. "I can''t wait to drown in the ocean of your kisses, my love." He muttered, leaving her completely startled. ''His love?'' His gaze lingered on her lips a bit longer before he rolled out of bed. Nevaeh slowly lifted her hand to touch the part of her lips where he had touched, as her eyes followed his half-naked form till he disappeared out of sight. It was after he was gone did she let go of the breath she didn''t know she had been holding. Her wildly beating heart still echoed in her ears, and it was all because of him. Nevaeh remained on that spot with her thoughts as blank as a sheet. She couldn''t bring herself to think of anything, so she stayed in a daze. Her breath got caught when Dale walked out of the dressing room fully dressed. His long legs were covered in ash pants, with a white shirt tucked over it. The first few buttons were opened, leaving her to a feast of seeing his exposed chest. He had a black shoe on, and the only accessory he had on was a black leather watch. Was he going out like this? With his chest opened to all? Nevaeh was oblivious that she was openly staring at the man who had a curious frown on his face when he saw her tight look. "What is the problem, wife?" He asked. "Do...you have to go out like that?" She asked, her eyes not leaving his exposed chest. Dale followed her gaze to his chest, not understanding what she meant. "How do you mean?" He innocently inquired while Nevaeh slowly lifted her eyes to his face. "You''re exposed. People will look," she said. "Just like you''re looking now?" He cocked a taunting brow at her making her swallow embarrassedly when he understood what she was talking about. Dale was amused seeing her like that. A satisfied smile tugged his lips. "I... I''m not staring." She denied turning her eyes away from him. "Of course you''re not." Dale smiled. "You''re just checking out your husband, aren''t you?" He teased, making Nevaeh feel more embarrassed. She flinched when he started approaching her again, and her nervous eyes darted all around the room but at him. He held her chin up with a finger and turned her face towards him. "Don''t worry, wife. I won''t let another human touch me, at least not now that I know my wife is a jealous one." Jealous? Her eyes shot up. She wasn''t jealous. She was just... Ah! Why did she open her mouth in the first place? Damn you! Nevaeh. She cursed inwardly. But she wasn''t feeling jealous. She was only looking out for her sister''s man. With his eyes still glued on her, he inched a bit closer till his warm breath kissed the flesh of her ear, making her breath hitch. "Love, how about I let you touch me when I return?" His seductive voice whispered into her ears. .... Hey, lovelies. Thanks for adding the book and reading this far. I appreciate. Please keep supporting the book with your comment, reviews, recommendation and votes. Thanks a lot for joining on Dale and Nevaeh''s journey.. Let''s make it a fun filled one. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 28 - Riddles You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh was lost on what to do after Dale had left. It was another day of pondering and being unusually idle. There was nothing for her to do in this vast house other than taking her short cooking lessons with Mr Simon, which she hoped could last a little longer. Nevaeh watched as Mr Simon moved around the kitchen. His skills were remarkable, and his strength was undeserving of his age. It was as if unmatched youth and vigour flowed behind his middle-aged form. It was astonishing. "You must have been physically active." She asked as she watched him move the double door refrigerator with so much ease. The man paused before returning the refrigerator to its rightful position. He turned towards her, handing over her ring, and with a smile, he briefly replied, "Yes, madam. I had served in war." Served in war? She wondered what that meant. Her gaze lingered on the shining silver band outstretched to her. It had fallen while she had taken it off to work in the kitchen. The sight of the ring brought a heavy feeling to her heart. A wedding ring symbolised eternal love and commitment within a relationship, yet hers felt like a lie and burden. Just like a circle has no beginning or end, so does it symbolise an infinity of companionship. It was meant to be a show of her undying love for whoever she has agreed to be bound to death with, but hers was as meaningless as a purposeless life. This ring, something so true and pure, has now become an object of deceit. Guilt, pain, and anxiety weighed heavily on her heart as she slowly reached for the ring. She couldn''t forget how anxious and scared she had felt when she made those vows at the altar, and Dale had slipped this ring into her finger. She had gone breathless at that time, and if anyone had heard the raging sound of her heart, they probably would have thought she might die of a heart attack. A question suddenly plagued her mind. If Elle should not return, what would happen to her? Would she be bound to Dale for all eternity, till death do them apart? A wry and inaudible sigh escaped her lips as she tried to shake out that disastrous and frightening thought out of her mind as she wore back her symbol of deceit and entrapment. Elle would return, and she would be free, she convinced herself. Raising her head to Mr Simon, who had been paying unusual attention to her, she flashed a smile and said, "Thank you." he bowed before turning away from her to continue plating the meal they had both prepared. "How long have you worked for the master?" She asked as she slowly approached him. Mr Simon paused and looked straight ahead as if trying to ascertain the answer to her question. He turned towards her and replied, "Too long to remember." Nevaeh''s brows creased as she thought about how ''too long'' actually meant. But this told that he knew the master well. "So you know the master well?" She asked, making the man smile as he replied. "No one truly knows the master. Even the master doesn''t fully know himself." A quick frown framed her face, but it quickly disappeared just as it came. Why does it feel like he was speaking in riddles? She had guessed he was loyal to his master, but she wasn''t asking out of the world questions, was she? While she didn''t quite appreciate his mode of answering her, she couldn''t help but admire his strategy of giving her a proper reply. It wasn''t everyday people got such employees to work for them. Nevaeh wasn''t sure if she should ask another question, as she guessed it would be another riddle, but she couldn''t stop herself from asking the next question. "Tell me, where is the master''s family?" She asked, making the man abruptly halt his work. Maybe it was abnormal for her to ask such a question, but she couldn''t help it. He looked at her in a strange way which she couldn''t quite understand. A sense of unease pricked her veins at his intent gaze on her. "The master has no family." He said. Nevaeh narrowed her eyes as she thought about the meaning of his words. What did he mean by he had no family? What about the Stuart family? She wondered. Though no one had ever seen them, not even one, but there were rumours. Rumours that had made people shiver and live in dread, even though they were unverified. So what was he saying? Seeing the perplexed look on her face, Mr Simon revealed a disarming smile and said, "Do not worry, madam, the master will reveal in time." She wasn''t sure what he meant by those words, but she found herself nodding to them. He''d reveal himself with time? What was he going to reveal? Nevaeh could feel cold fear crawl up her feet and hands as she thought about it. Why does it feel she has been married to a very dark and dangerous man. But wasn''t he already dark and dangerous? Her fear increased as she thought about what she might get to discover about the man called her ''husband''. Nevaeh returned to her room after having her breakfast. She had eaten alone, and for some unknown reason, it felt lonely without having those piercing green eyes stare at her while she ate. What was wrong with her now? She idly sat by the side of the bed as she thought about Francis again. He must have called her. She whipped out of her phone from the bedside drawer, but she was disappointed not to see a missed call from him. He didn''t even call. She sighed as she began dialling his number, but it was still unreachable, which made her really anxious and scared. Its been two days. Did something happen to him? Or perhaps he found out about this crazy shenanigan her mother had pushed her into. What would he do if he found out? Leave her? No! She didn''t even want to think of it. She might die if he left her. She wouldn''t be able to handle it. There had to be some way to reach him. But how? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 29 - One Huge Mess Best novel online free at novelhall.com A proof was what he asked for and a proof he got. Francis was surprised to see the evidence she had provided him. And the wary look on his face told her he wasn''t going to accept it. This was not possible! "This...this can not be possible." He stuttered as he stared at her. "I couldn''t have..." He slurred at the ridiculity of the situation. His frightened eyes darted to and fro while his head throbbed with pain. This wasn''t just any pain. It was the type that resulted from the fear of things being true. He viciously grazed his hair as he shook his head in denial. There was no way he could have touched anyone else other than Nevaeh! Not even her sister, even though they looked alike. He would never sleep with her on his own accord. He glanced at the footage displayed on the t.v, and his brain felt muddled once again. That was him, and he was violently kissing her, touching her in an uncouth manner, ripping her apart and ravishing her. And that was undoubtedly Elle. How was this possible?! His mouth hung open as his eyes warmed with tears. How could he? His eyes slowly trailed towards Elle, but he quickly darted it away in shame, "What have I done?" He whimpered in shock. His shoulders were trembling with him. He could barely remember that night, which had been one of the craziest things that had happened since his return with Nevaeh. All he could remember was attending a yacht party with Elle and Nevaeh, who had insisted he come along. He had barely drunk the wine, but somehow he had woken up in a room half-naked with Nevaeh passed out by his side. He was sure nothing had happened to Nevaeh, but now this? How could this be? He had slept with one sister and woke up with another?! This wasn''t making sense to him. There were so many questionable aspects of that night, but he couldn''t remember. It was as if a black cloud covered a part of his mind, and he couldn''t see past that. This wasn''t ordinary! His brows furrowed as he turned to her. "That night, you did something to me, didn''t you?" He accused. His eyes flamed with anger and suspicion. He wasn''t asking; he was telling her. His suspicious gaze directed at her said how much he wanted to believe what he had just said, causing Elle to blink in confusion as she turned to look at him with incredulity. "You did something to me. To Nevaeh. You must have tricked me! I...I would never touch you." He firmly told her. This had to be the case because he was sure he''d never betray and hurt Nevaeh in this fashion. That girl was so fragile and tender, and she''d break because of this. He had never seen someone with a more beautiful soul than her. She was a priceless jewel who had touched his heart to its core, fixed the broken part of him, shown him the true meaning of love while others used him, helped him overcome his weakness and inferiority. He had come to value her, so he would never, ever do anything to jeopardize what he had with her. Elle couldn''t believe the nonsense he had just spewed out of his mouth. She scoffed as she glared at him, "Trick you?" She asked, her arched brows revealing her disappointment in his words. "Francis, I didn''t trick you. You wanted it. You took my innocence, assaulted me like an animal!" "Stop!" He raised his hand to stop her. He cringed at the sound of those words, but Elle continued... "You got me pregnant!" "Then why are you telling me now?!" He snapped as he jerked up to his feet, his eyes burning with so many indescribable emotions. Why was she saying this now? This incident had happened three days after their return. Why didn''t she say something until now? To what end was all this? A derisive scoff escaped her lips as she looked at him like he had just asked a foolish question, "And say what? That I was raped by my sister''s fiance, few days before my own wedding? That he took my innocence before my soon to be husband could lay a finger on me? Francis, that''s a thing of shame!" She snapped at him. Francis was tongue-tied when she said it like that. It was indeed a thing of shame, but now? She has absconded from her wedding, kidnapped him...wait! How was she even able to do that? "How did you bring me here?" He suddenly asked, deviating from the topic at hand. "I had it arranged. I''m sorry, but it was all I could do." She apologized. "So, what do we do?" He wearily asked. He was mentally exhausted, and he still felt stiff and sore. Why was he asking her? Wasn''t the answer as clear as crystal? "There''s nothing to do except take responsibility for this baby." She told him. He looked at her with widened eyes before lowering them to her stomach. "What about Nevaeh?" How would she take this? He didn''t even want to imagine her reaction. "What about her?" Elle asked. A slight frown framed her face, which she tried to hide. "She won''t be able to handle this." He sighed out in frustration as he pulled the root of the hair. "We''re about to marry." "But she''s already married!" "As your substitute!" He flared up; he still couldn''t believe that his Nevaeh had been thrown into this mess, which had mysteriously started with him. He had seen the magazine, and it had Elle''s name written on it, which could only mean Nevaeh was impersonating her. She must be scared to death¡ªpoor thing. "But does it matter?" Elle asked, surprising Francis, who cocked a brow at her. "She has someone now. And we...we have a child." She said as she caressed her stomach. Francis felt his brow twitched with anger at her words. Why does it feel like Elle was happy with the turnout of the event? Why does it feel like she wanted this to happen? He frowned when she suddenly crossed the space between him, and her fingers trailed up his arm. "I know you''re not happy with this, but there''s nothing left for us to do. I''m pregnant with your child, and my sister, your fiancee, is now married to my fiance, who is no match for you." She paused and tsked, allowing her words to sink into his head before she continued, "We''re all woven into one huge mess, one which we can''t fix but try to live with. Nevaeh can take care of herself. She had lived abroad alone for years and gained everyone''s love and attention, so don''t worry about her. After all, we both know you don''t truly love Nevaeh.. She was nothing but a replacement." Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 30 - Replacement Best novel online free at novelhall.com A replacement? What did she mean by that? His brows furrowed with anger searing in his eyes. "Come on Francis," She rolled her eyes when she saw the look he was shooting at her. She inched closer to him, her hands still moving up and down his arms, "We both know you were using Nevaeh as a substitute for something you couldn''t have, mmm." She fluttered her eyes at him as she lowered her voice. "How I wanted to scream when you touched me, but then you whispered my name. You begged me to hold you, to let you have me as that has been all you desired. You wanted me and not her, just as much as I want you now." "Stop!" Francis fumed as he shook her off, but her sharp nails clenched unto his shirt, and she pushed herself towards him again and continued. "You know it, Francis, accept it. Just accept that you are with my sister because you couldn''t get what you desired. That you went to her for solace." ''Solace?'' "That is a lie! Nevaeh is not a replacement! She''ll never be!" He yelled as he angrily pushed her off him, letting her stagger backwards, but she stabilised herself. They both looked at each other with violent anger and pain. Each with their type of pain. "If she isn''t my replacement, what then is she?" She snapped at him. "You claim to love her, but yet you kept a secret." Francis opened his mouth to speak, but he couldn''t find his words. He didn''t think he needed to answer or explain anything to her. Wasn''t this the sole reason he had been avoiding her? He never wanted to return, but Nevaeh wouldn''t hear of it. She didn''t know her sister was crazy! His sceptical eyes stayed at Elle when something finally occurred to him. "You planned this, didn''t you?" His intent gaze bore a hole in her face. He wasn''t sure, but he could feel it in his bones. She had invited Nevaeh for a party, which she knew he was bound to attend. He had mysteriously slept with her with no recollecting memories whatsoever, but somehow she had clips of his savage act? He and Nevaeh had mysteriously woken up in a strange room on the ship, but she was gone. She had kidnapped him and absconded her wedding, leaving Nevaeh to replace her because she already knew that would be the outcome. "You had this all planned out!" He raged. A while ago, he wasn''t sure, but now he was certain of it. His fingers clenched, and his veins twitched in anger as he lunged at her, tightly gripping her neck. "You evil witch!" He roared lividly as Elle struggled with him, desperately trying to take his hand off her neck, but she was no match for his strength. "Fran...cis, stop." She choked, her red eyes bulging out as she struggled to breathe. "Francis, the...baby," She said, and that was enough to make the man stiffen. He looked down at her stomach, and he couldn''t believe she was with child, one she claimed to be his. But how sure was he that the child was his? She was dangerous and manipulative, and she was capable of anything. In a fit of violent coughing, Elle deathly glared at Francis. Her hands held her neck, which was burning with pain. "Does this make you feel better?" She asked with cold eyes. And as if she could read his mind, she said, "If you doubt the paternity of this child, wait a few more weeks, and we can have a test done. But till then, you''ll stay and take care of this child and me." She firmly told him. Wait a few weeks? With her? She was mad! He would never spend a day with her talk more of weeks. That was too long. And something could have happened to Nevaeh by then. But could he go back now? And tell Nevaeh what? That he had slept with his sister, who now claims to be pregnant for him, but he was sure it didn''t belong to him? What if he left now and the child was indeed his? But what if it wasn''t? What could happen to Nevaeh in weeks? Ah! This was maddening! How did he even get here?! What deity was playing these tricks on him! .... It was noon, but Dale was yet to return. Why was she even bothered about his whereabouts? It was better if he made himself scarce. That man was always doing something to her she didn''t understand. Had she believed in something supernatural, she would have said he was using sorcery on her. His words suddenly flashed through her mind, and her heart thuds heavily. He''ll let her touch him? How? What was he going to do to her now? Goosebumps crawled her skin at that thought. Her heart anxiously began to beat in fear of Dale''s word. He wasn''t there, yet he was still haunting her. Her hand touched her cheek where he had kissed this morning, and she could still feel the tingling sensation he had caused with his lips. His lips, could they be soft? They felt like they were. Her eyes widened at her lewd and shameless thought. She pinched herself to get her thoughts in line. Francis''s lips were soft. She should think about that. "Ah!" She sighed and hastened out of the room when the image of Dale''s naked body came blaring through her mind. That man, he was doing this to her purpose. He was truly seducing her, wasn''t he? What a devil! Nevaeh found herself walking down the stairs pondering what to do to clean her thoughts before losing her mind. The Library! She remembered. She could go there. That seemed like a good distraction. Nevaeh couldn''t get over the awe feeling she got whenever she stepped into this place. It was so serene, calm and filled with art. It felt like the most reverenced part of the house, and she''d understand why if it was. Her legs subconsciously took her those amazing paintings. They were so colourful and very much peaceful to look at. Her eyes trailed the stroke of the brushes, but she suddenly froze when something caught her eye. She narrowed her eyes at the portraits as she paid a closer look at them. She hurriedly looked from to the other, and she gasped. She had seen this portrait a day ago. How did she not see this? How was this even possible? The woman in the portrait...she looked like her, like Elle! Not exactly her, but it was. The resemblance... was uncanny. And the man, that was Dale. Not Dale himself, but the familiar yet different one from her dream. What was this? You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 31 - Loyal Dog You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Shock, surprise and utter confusion engulfed Nevaeh as she gapedly stared at the portraits. She couldn''t believe it. How was this even possible? She had seen these portraits when Mr Simon took her on a tour of the mansion. She had seen the beautiful couple in them, but they weren''t looking like this. Like her, or like Dale. She hurriedly searched her mind to remember what they looked like, but all she could find was an image of her and Dale like it was what she had seen all along. But that wasn''t right. How was that possible? She had seen clearly, and nothing was wrong with her mind or eyes. But why then does it feel like she had seen this before? Why does she look like her? No! this couldn''t be her, It must be Elle. Had Dale painted a plethora of portraits of Elle and himself? She gasped at that thought, her hand flying over her mouth as her eyes widened to the fullest. That was so surreal even for her. It was way beyond her imagination. Oh, Dale. What sort of man was he truly? Her dancing eyes skimmed across the wall, and she was stunned beyond words. There were so many pictures of himself and them together. But again, that was strange. If she remembered correctly, Elle and Dale hadn''t met for too long. If what she heard was correct, then they haven''t met at all. Except her mother had hidden something away from her. Had she? Despite these confusing questions echoing in her head, her frantic heart beats with excitement and anxiety. She had never thought Dale would go this far to make a woman his. Every day he surprised her with a different side of him. Things she didn''t expect from him were the things he did (though not for her) - which makes her ask the same question repeatedly. Who indeed was Dale Stuart? A brutish tyrant or a wife lover? Her eyes gazed at the girl in the portraits again. Although it looked like her and her sister, she was far more regal, more divinely looking and elegant. Her dark flowing hair cascaded behind her like an ocean wave splashed with the beauty of golden sun rays, shining like a king turtle beneath deep waters. Her long lashes hovered above her hazel eyes as she smiled, staring at the man before her like he was the god over her heart, adoring him with every inch of her lovely eyes. Her beautiful beaming face looked everything like a queen should, and the smile she held felt so bright and contagious; Nevaeh felt her lips curve. Even as a mere portrait, Nevaeh could feel the magnifying presence she possessed, not just her but Dale too. He looked pretty different too. Younger, handsome, kingly like a magnificent noble, just like the man in her dream. But there was something different about this Dale and the one who tortured her to no end. It was his eyes. As beautiful and soul-piercing as Dale''s eyes could be, there was a certain sadness and deadness hidden behind those colours. But here, she could see something different. Happiness, love, and warmth circled the eyes she was now staring at. Who could have painted this? And what sort of clothes were they even wearing? She pondered. How could she have missed this yesterday? For someone who loved arts and always paid detailed attention to it, she couldn''t have missed something so pertinent. That was strange. Very strange. Almost like her vision had been mysteriously impaired, or she had been manipulated to see differently. She chuckled at that thought. That was lame, even for her. She must have been too dazzled by the glamour of the place and the number of paintings, hence why she must have missed that. That was a more reasonable theory. After all, there were no such things as supernatural, right? But should she ask Dale about the portraits? And say what? That she liked them if he asked back? No! She probably shouldn''t say a word. ..... Nevaeh spent the whole day doing nothing useful to herself, which she found incredibly boring. She had picked up a book to read in the garden. It was all she could do with her time. After a few hours, she had finished the book and started with another before helping Simon to make dinner. Sitting at the dining table, she stared at the door waiting for him to walk through, but he hadn''t shown up. "Does the master stay this long?" She looked at Simon and asked. "The master must be busy." He replied. Again, he was tacitly avoiding her question while providing her with an answer. What a loyal dog. She sighed. "You should eat, Madam. The master would eat when he returns." Mr Simon said while Nevaeh nodded. Maybe it was better for her to eat alone and feel free than be under his melting gaze. He always had a way of stirring and causing a wave of heat under her skin with his eyes. She closed her eyes, and the image of his bewitching eyes flashed through. No, it was better to eat alone than with him watching her every move, making her act clumsy on her every move. And not to mention those words he had said before leaving this morning, they still hunted her. Hurriedly eating her food which she had made under the guidance of Simon, she smiled proudly to herself. She has indeed improved in her skill. Finishing her food, Neveah retired to her room. It was late, and it would be best she got ready for bed before Dale returned. She had only stepped out of the bathroom when she saw him standing by the door. She gasped in shock, almost losing the grip over the towel around her chest, but she was reflexively fast to grasp it. Her nervous eyes stared at the man gazing at her with so much intent. A mischievous glint gleaning in his eyes. When did he even get back? She had just been trying to avoid him, but he was already here! Why was he so sneaky? Nevaeh felt rooted to the ground under his gaze even though her brain told her to make a run for the bathroom door. "You sure know how to welcome a man home, wife." He said, his eyes trailing her from toes to her head, causing her to swallow nervously. She opened her mouth, but her lips could only move inaudibly. She took a retreating step when he took a step towards her. But he didn''t stop there, as he continued taking even more steps towards her. "D..ale", She stuttered. The slight protest from the dressing table pressing against her told her she was at a dead-end, but the man kept stalking her like a predator as he kept closing in on her. Raising her hand to him, she yelled, "Dale, stop!" abruptly halting him on his heels. Her countenance wavered when she saw the look on his face as he stared at her outstretched hand. "Please..stop," Her voice lowered as well as her hand. Her eyes desperately begging for him not to take a step closer. Neveah felt her head almost roll off her shoulder when he suddenly replied, "But I can''t." ~~~ AB9TYE4SCWGXCHUUA Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 32 - His Thoughts Best novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh felt her body stiffen, her heart wildly hammering behind her rib cage as she watched him stalk her, closing the space between them while she stood still with a single piece of clothing wrapped over her body, feeling completely vulnerable and exposed. She took one more retreating step, but she barely moved an inch as she felt the hard surface of the table behind her press hard against her thighs. Her hand gripped the edge of the dressing table while the other firmly held her towel in place like her life depended on it. She watched him with hanging breath as he slowly unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt, revealing his silky looking chest while he took those torturing steps towards her. What was he going to do now? Consummate their marriage? Nevaeh felt fear crawl over her as her heart thud even harder. He couldn''t do that. ''D..Dale'' She had wanted to say, but his husky voice suddenly came cutting through her thoughts, making her completely numb. "You are beautiful, Elleanor." She heard him say as he stopped a foot barely away from her. She swallowed when she saw the dark glint that hovered in his eyes as he gazed at her like she was something he was fascinated about. He was doing it again, staring at her, touching her with his burning gaze like an attracted moth. She opened her mouth like a fish out of water when his hand reached for her face, tucking a wet tendril behind her ear. "Oh, the things I want to do you, Elleanor." He whispered. She gasped when she suddenly felt her body in the air, and the next second she was sitting on the dressing table with him standing between her legs¡ªhis body pressing against her thighs. "D...Dal.." She stuttered, but his deep sirenic voice hushed her, but not her pounding heart. Nevaeh could hear her heart violently drumming in her ears, sending her warning signals of what was about to come her way. Her eyes were dancing with panic as she anxiously stared at him. Their proximity made her breathless. And as if he could feel her fears, he whispered, "Do not be afraid, love. I don''t want to touch you...yet." Nevaeh heard the hesitation in his voice when he said his last word. He doesn''t want to touch her ''yet''? But he would eventually! Oh, God! But if he wasn''t going to touch her, then what was he going to do? "I...if you''re not....what are you...going to do to...me?" Her tiny voice came asking, causing Dale to chuckle as he leaned into her ear, a dangerous and haughty smile playing on his lips. Even his laugh made her feet tingle. "Why don''t I show you?" He breathed into her ears. Nevaeh gulped at his words. Her grip over the table and towel tightened as she sat with hitched breath, hoping and praying this wasn''t what she thought it was. Another seduction play, where he would do those things to her body, and she would respond in a way she hadn''t experienced before or worse in a way she wasn''t supposed to react. Oh heavens! What should she do? She wasn''t supposed to be this way with her sister''s husband! And most importantly, she was naked, and the only thing covering her was a towel that barely covered her thighs but was now exposed to him. Maybe she could ask him to stop. She could protest to his touch or even lie to be on her time of the month. But wasn''t she wearing a white towel? Why wasn''t she stained yet? What ill-luck did she have? Would he even believe her if she lied? She could provoke him or, worse, make him suspicious of her. No! she couldn''t do that. She could still remember that moment when his countenance had changed when she begged him to stop approaching her. Nevaeh was still twirling in her thoughts when his heavy voice suddenly came sounding from above her ear, steeling her as well as her thoughts. "I thought about you all day, Elle." He said, breathing against her lips, his heat warming up her face and leaving her flushed. His voice was as gentle and mesmerizing as ever. "I thought about how lonely you''d be at home, how I should be with you to keep you company, care for you and make you happy." He tilted his head and placed a kiss behind her ear, making her jolt. "I thought about holding you, having your soft body against mine while I drown in your sweet embrace." He kissed the lobe of her ears while his right hand slowly crawled up her legs in the most painful and torturous way ever, sending shivers down her spine. "I thought about kissing you and having a drink of your lips again." A deep chuckle rumbled out of his chest before he kissed her neck, making her jolt again. Her breath bated with fear, heat and unease. She felt tiny electric jolts tingle around her skin as her chest slowly heaved with fear of breathing too fast. "I want to love you, Elle, in ways you possibly can''t imagine. I want to make you mine as I am fully yours. Yours to love, have and keep." He pulled his face from her neck, making her hiss at the absence of his warmth against her neck. "Make me yours." His breathy voice came almost pleading. Nevaeh could taste his breath as he stood against her lips, his eyes piercing deep into hers as they stared at one another, with the tension between them slowly rising to its peak. Nevaeh knew this wasn''t right. How could she be responding to him in such a way? She had prepared herself mentally all through the day but whatever walls she had built during the day came crumbling the moment his eyes kissed her face. What sort of temptation was this? Why was her body betraying her in such a way? All these foreign feelings he was making her feel, what did they even mean? She felt her head spin when he slowly leaned, and he covered her lips with his. Her eyes widened, and her heart skipped when his lips grazed hers. W-what was he doing? Nevaeh felt her body tremble, but the slow movement of his soft lips against hers made something chilly and warm course through her veins, fluttering her eyes till her lids closed. All of her thought utterly pushed out of her head as the smell of earth lingered over her nose. A low moan escaped her lips when his teeth grazed her lips, and he kissed her ever so gently, caressing her lips in ways that sensuously tingled every nerve of her body till she felt herself roll over into the dark abyss of pleasure. A satisfied groan rolled out of his Dale when she responded to him. Though it was small, it was all he needed. He ran his lips over her till she could feel nothing but jellies in her bones. Her grip over the table subconsciously loosened as it trembled, and the hand on her towel now clenched to his shirt. Nevaeh hissed for air when he suddenly pulled away, but his grip over her waist was as firm as the claw of a wild beast. His darkened eyes gazed at her as she tried to calm her ragging breath, but all she could feel was goosebumps crawling over her. "Remember how this feels, Angel. Next time, it will be more intense." He muttered, placing a kiss on the tip of her shoulder before walking away leaving her on the tabletop. Nevaeh watched as he walked out of the room. Her whole body trembled at the rush of the memories from seconds ago. She remembered every word he had whispered to her and the way they made her feel. Nevaeh covered her mouth in shock and embarrassment. What was happening to her? Why was she so weak and helpless before him? She had imagined him carrying out every of his word to the latter -Taking care of her, loving her? Her shoulders trembled as she covered her quivering lips, as tears stung her eyes.. ''What sort of person was she becoming? She wasn''t supposed to be doing this or feeling anything at all. So what then was she doing? Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 33 - Failed To Prepare Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Resolution, determination, and strength to protect herself were the things Nevaeh had failed to garner before she was thrust into this hell-loop by her mother. She had told her it would be simple. Impersonate for a while and be replaced was the plan, but she has come to realize it wasn''t as simple as that. Now she had to struggle with something more. Something more....intimate and dangerous. Something she hadn''t quite experienced before. Many things she hadn''t for once thought about were now the things happening to her ¡ªthings she couldn''t even understand. Things she didn''t want to feel were the things she now felt. Things she didn''t want to imagine were the thoughts that now flooded her mind. To be touched and loved by her sister''s husband was all she could imagine. To have him hold her, kiss her, and be with her has slowly become the torturous whispers of her mind. She could still hear his whispers in her head like she had been bewitched or something. The man was walking a temptation. She loses her breath the moment he walks in. When he stared at her with those soulful eyes of his, she could never look away. His touch and whispers melt her away, bringing her to her knees. This wasn''t right. It was madness! Something was undeniably happening to her! She was sure of it. This was her sister''s husband! Her sister''s! What in the name of all things dishonest and unholy was wrong with her? Her body has now become a traitor, failing her every moment he as much as breaths her way. It has grown a mind of its own. Never for once has she imagined desiring another man''s touch other than Francis. But last night, she had kissed him. But that wasn''t just the issue. The problem was, she had liked it. The kiss had been unexpected as he has always teased her with it. It was far different from the one they shared at the altar, but it had crawled down her stomach and tingled her toes. This one had made her yearn for something - for him not to stop. Dear God! What was happening with her? Why was she fantasizing about her sister''s man? Tears stung her eyes as she looked at herself in the mirror. She didn''t like the person she was becoming. Nevaeh covered her face in shame of what she had done and what she had been thinking about. She didn''t know what to do. According to all her morals, this was wrong. She couldn''t lust over her sister''s man. What sort of carnality has suddenly possessed her?! She was being tortured day and night, both by the man she lived with and her secret developing desires. A part of him also taunted her dreams, which was even crueller than the Dale in her reality. The Dale in her dream felt so real, she could swear it was more than a dream. These were all the things she had failed to prepare for. She couldn''t deny what was happening to her anymore; neither could she explain it, but one thing was certain. She had to leave there as soon as possible, even if it meant looking for Elle herself. Yes! That was what she must do. She must look for Elle by herself. And she knew exactly where to begin her search. Nevaeh hastily got herself ready. She whipped out a formal attire from the wardrobe - something that screamed the name, Elleanor Steele. She pulled her hair into a neat low bun and smeared her face with a bit of makeup as her sister would. She heaved a satisfied sigh when she saw her look in the mirror. No one would undoubtedly tell she wasn''t Elle. She anxiously walked down the stairs as she thought about informing Dale about her desire to leave the mansion. She wasn''t a prisoner, but they were supposedly newlyweds, and telling him she was going to work would be unexpected and unappreciated. "Going somewhere?" Nevaeh was startled when his voice suddenly echoed into her ear. She was even more shocked to see him standing right in front of her. How was he... "Elle?" He gently called, jolting her out of her thoughts. He raised a brow as his eyes crawled over her. "Going somewhere?" He asked again, stretching his hand to help her down the stairs. Nevaeh nodded as she stared at his hand, not sure if she should receive it or not. She had promised herself to avoid his touch, but she was supposed to be his ''wife''. So wouldn''t it be rude for her to reject his gesture? Nevaeh bit her lip as she slowly slipped her hand into his, letting her mind not focus on the smoothness of his palm. "Where do you want to go? I''ll take you." He said, making Nevaeh stiffen. Her eyes blinked rapidly as she thought about what to say. He couldn''t go with her. "I...I want to get something from the office, it''s important, and you don''t have to go with me." She said while she prayed in her heart, he shouldn''t insist. "But you''re not..." Dale paused and looked at her again. "Simon will take you." He said, causing her eyes to widen, but Nevaeh quickly regained her composure. Compromise. She had to compromise. It was better to go out with the butler than with Dale. "Thank you." She forced a small smile at him. "You don''t have to thank me. You''re my wife, and it''s my sole responsibility to protect you." ''Protect.'' Did she need protection? From what? If there was anything she should be protected from, it was him. "Be back before twilight, love. The dark is not safe for you." He said as he kissed her head before looking at Simon, who was already approaching them like he was aware of his new task. Nevaeh was quite startled by his kiss. She couldn''t get used to this, and she shouldn''t. But him....well, never mind. All she needed was to get Elle back and run away from here. All she hoped was for Elle to have left a clue of wherever she had run to. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 34 - His Darkness You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Dale''s eyes were narrowed on Nevaeh as he watched her leave. He knew he shouldn''t have let her, but he was sure she would be safe if she heeds to his instructions and returns before dark. Many things dwelled in the darkness, and they all were dangerous to her, but he couldn''t tell her that. She wasn''t ready for all that yet. The darkness was not something to be mentioned before her innocent eyes. She was already scared of him. He could feel her fears when he was close. The way she flinched whenever he walked in. The way her eyes begged to be saved when he touched her, he had seen them all, hence why he tried not to hover her around her for too long, so telling her about other stuff that was scarier would break her. He wanted to make her feel comfortable, protected and make her want him without being subdued. Being around her like this was torturous, but he was willing to wait. After all, waiting was his forte. "You shouldn''t have let her go." A voice said from behind him, making him frown. These people really didn''t know the meaning of privacy. "Don''t you have better things to do, Elyon?" He asked as he turned around to see the golden-haired man leisurely sitting on his chair with his legs resting on his table. A playful smile tugged Elyon''s lips upward as he played with the knife in his hand. "There''s nothing better than taunting your already taunted soul." He chuckled. Dale glared at him before turning away to ascend the stairs, but the man suddenly manifested in from of him, blocking his path. A dark frown creased Dale''s brows as he stared at Elyon with murderous intent, but the man didn''t flinch, even though his blood had run cold to the spine. Something about Dale made him uncomfortable, but he wasn''t about to say it, especially when the man refused to acknowledge the fact that he had changed. "Your little minion can''t take care of her. Whatever has been protecting her before broke after your union. Engel, she''s vulnerable." Elyon asked as he sheathed his little dagger. Although his voice sounded natural, it was hinted with worry and concern. Dale sighed as he looked at him, slightly releasing the tension in the air. He understood his warnings were from a place of concern, but he didn''t have the strength to banter with him. He had embarked on a long journey yesterday, and he needed to rest. As a matter of fact, he''d appreciate it if they stopped dropping into his house like they were flatmates. "She''ll be fine." His tone was dismissive as he nudged Elyon away from his path, but Elyon placed a hand on his shoulder, halting him on his heels. "But what exactly is she? Human or witch? You must have found something." He asked the ultimate question. His attentive eyes watched him, eagerly waiting for his reply as Dale turned around to look at him with angled brows. "I know, you went in search of answers yesterday. So tell me, what did you find?" "You were following me?" Dale asked, his eyes suddenly turning black, while Elyon shrugged, dismissing Dale''s imminent danger. "I had no choice." He withdrew his hand from his shoulder, but his keen eyes were still fixed on him. "Engel, you''re changing, and if it doesn''t bother you, it bothers us, and I think it should bother you too because of her. You''re a light bringer, a guardian, and there should be no darkness in you." Dale deathly gaze slowly withered. He hissed before continuing on his strides. ''Darkness?'' He sighed inwardly. The darkness in him was all that had kept him going all these years. It has become a part of him. It has become his strength and comfort while he walked this earth alone. He wouldn''t be lying if he said it was the darkness that had guarded him in his time of weakness, and it was his darkness that would keep her safe. His light had failed before, and he couldn''t depend on that. "Engel, what did you find?" Elyon''s called after him. "Leave Elyon, and let me worry about my darkness and woman." Dale kicked off his shoes the moment he walked into the room. He felt suffocated, not because of what Elyon had said but because he was clueless about what his wife was. It was strange and bothersome that she was a black spot to him. He pulled out a drawer on the bedside table and brought out a bottle of wine from it. He had always kept a bottle there to drown himself whenever he felt this suffocated and helpless. Not knowing was something he wasn''t used to. He poured himself a glass and gulped it down in a go. He hissed as the hotness of the alcohol against the wall of his stomach. He poured himself another drink. He looked at her side of the bed, and his lips curved upwards. He could remember how cute she looked when she slept. Those slight snores were like music to his ears. He wondered if she knew she snored and sometimes giggled in her sleep. Her dark hair, always sprawling over the pillows, made her look even more beautiful. He sighed as he walked over and lay there. He sniffed the pillows, and her heavenly scent came wafting into his nose from the sheets. It had a calming effect on him, relieving the tightness in his chest. Her scent has become a calming spell to him since he found her. Wait! her scent, it was- Dale jerked up and picked up the pillow. He closed his eyes and sniffed it. It was different. Different from when he had met her. It seems a lot of things have changed after their fateful meet. Not just was her scent was different now, he also couldn''t read her thoughts, unlike that night when she had sought death. Dale closed his eyes and sighed frustratedly.. A lot of things about his wife were mysterious. He needed answers as that was the only he could protect her, but who would provide them? Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 35 - Be Careful Nevaeh sucked in air as she stood before the building complex that stood tall like the mountain of fear weighing heavily on her heart. She felt cold crawl over her stomach as her eyes glanced over the building. There were hundreds of people working inside, some who had worked with Elle for years. What if someone recognizes her and could tell she wasn''t Elle? She dragged in another round of shaky breath. That shouldn''t be possible. She didn''t know what to expect, but she wanted to believe everything would be fine. It had to be because she was in a precarious situation and finding a clue was of great pertinence to her. It was the only way she could save herself from the impending doom that loomed about her. Nevaeh didn''t know what to look for, but she hoped Elle must have left something, anything that could help in finding her. "Madam," She heard him say, halting her on her heels. Neveah turned to see Simon standing beside her. ''He wasn''t going in with her, was he?'' "You can wait here," She told him. "But I can''t, the master-" "Is not here." She interjected him. "Don''t worry Simon, I''ll be back shortly." She smiled confidently at him, but the reluctant look on his face told her he wasn''t having it, but before he could protest, she turned away and walked into the building leaving him in a compromised position. With squared shoulders, she ambled across the lobby and into the elevator. She was awed to see where her sister worked. Elle had vaguely talked about her workplace over their conversations in the past years, and she had looked it up a few times but she didn''t expect it to be this grand. It was the biggest publishing house in the country with hundreds of workers. Elle must be doing well for herself. Neveah could feel the confused and uncomfortable eyes peering at her the moment she walked out of the elevator. She greeted a few people, but that only worsened the situation as they scampered away in fear, leaving her utterly confused. Her eyes darted around the people desperately looking for the person whose contact in Elle''s phone was saved as ''Secretary'', and she had spoken with her this morning. As if she had conjured the person out of her mind, a small-framed brunette haired girl suddenly appeared in front of her with a nervous smile etched on her lips and a quavering hand bearing a cup of tea. "Miss Elle... I''m sorry I couldn''t get your coffee. I...I wasn''t aware you''d be coming in today till you called, so...so I got tea." She stuttered, cold sweat breaking on her face as her hands trembled. Nevaeh''s brows creased as she stared at the girl. She must have been running, and it was obvious she was scared of her. Fear has become familiar to her. She could feel it, taste it, even with her eyes closed, because it has become her companion these past days. But why was this girl so scared? She sighed as she took a step closer, her eyes gazing over the ID tag hanging over her neck. She tucked a sweat stuck lock behind her ear, before receiving the cup of tea. "Thank you, Ariana, I love tea." She smiled leaving the girl completely stunned, not just her but the people who had been shooting cautious glances at her. "Miss... Steele." Her fully widened eyes blinked in confusion making Nevaeh chuckle. She was cute. "Let''s head to my desk, shall we?" She smiled sweetly at her, while the girl nodded. Nevaeh carefully let the girl lead her to the office with her trailing behind. But she didn''t miss the fearful look buried in the eyes of the staff as she walked past. What in the name of the devil has her sister been doing to these people? Nevaeh wasn''t too surprised to see Elle''s office. It was just as she had imagined. Very Elle-ish. All red, properly arranged and no family photograph. Typical Elle. Her eyes scanned across the room before settling back on Ariana who stiffly stood by the door with her observant eyes fixed on her. "You can leave, Ariana. I''ll call for you if I need anything." She said while the girl nodded before leaving the room. Nevaeh took a sip of the tea and moaned in satisfaction. She was a tea person, and it seems Ariana''s mistake was in her favour. Nevaeh settled down on the seat and immediately delved into what had brought her there. She didn''t have the time to waste. Drawer after drawer she searched. File after file she looked, but after two long hours, she still couldn''t find a clue. Not an odd piece of information or anything at all to point in a direction of where her sister had run off to. She sighed defeatedly as she lolled back on the chair, her mind running through any of the places Elle could be, but nothing popped into her mind. This was a waste of time. She should have known better than to come here. If there was anything peculiar about her sister, it was the fact that she was calculative and meticulous. If she truly wanted to disappear, she wouldn''t be stupid enough to leave a clue lying around. "Miss Steele." Nevaeh jerked upright when someone knocked on her door, it was Ariana. The shocked look on the girl''s face as she looked over the mess she had created made her feel embarrassed. "Are you searching for something?" Ariana asked. "No. Don''t worry, I''ll fix it," Nevaeh replied with an apologetic note making the girl pay her an odd look. Nevaeh shifted uncomfortably under Ariana''s odd gaze. "Is there something you want?" She inquired. "The email you sent last night, do you still want me to submit it to the editor, or will you-?" "Email? She sent an email?" Nevaeh''s asked in shock surprise as she jerked to her feet while Ariana gazed at her confusedly. Nevaeh faked a weird laugh, "I mean I sent an email, let me see it." She said. Ariana approached her with her laptop, an open file on display. "Get me another cup of tea, would you?." She requested, her eyes following Ariana till she was out of sight. She looked at the file and she couldn''t help but sigh. It was another article about another family. Elle was always looking for trouble. She has always wondered why she picked this line of work. Nevaeh didn''t have much time to waste as Ariana might return soon. She quickly took a snap of the IP address and sent it to her father. It seems going there wasn''t an absolute waste of time. Nevaeh was just about to step out of the office when Ariana returned. "Your tea." "Thank you, Ariana, but I have to leave now." She said. "And...the file." "Submit it." She replied as she hurried towards the door, but Ariana stopped her. "Be careful, Miss Steele." The girl said with worry and concern. "And you too, Ariana. Take care." Nevaeh smiled and walked away. Nevaeh was about dialling her father''s number when his call came in. "Nevaeh, what did you send me? Are you okay?" He asked the moment she answered the phone. Nevaeh sighed when she heard the worry in his voice. "Dad, I''m fine. It''s an IP address can you help me trace it?" She asked. "For Elle?" He asked. "Yes." "Where did you get it? Did she send you a mail? What did she say?" He asked in one breath. Other than being worried for her, Nevaeh could tell he was also worried for Elle. He might be angry at her, but he was still their father. She sighed realizing how difficult all this must be for her parents. "No, she didn''t send me a mail." She told him. "Then-" "Father, just help me. I want to go home." Her voice lowered making her father sigh bitterly. "I will. I will bring you home, my dear. I promise." He said before hanging up. Nevaeh had only hung up the call when someone suddenly bumped into her. "I''m sor-" Her voice trailed when her eyes gazed at the face of the person she had collided into. She looked so beautiful, with emerald green eyes that gleamed so brightly, so did her skin. She was practically glowing. What sort of skin product were people using these days? She pondered "I''m sorry." She apologized while the lady smiled at her. She was about to walk away when she suddenly felt a tight grip on her hand. She was surprised to see the lady holding onto her so firmly. "You-" "Be careful Nevaeh, they see you now. Remember what you are." Nevaeh suddenly felt her body been pushed to the side and she expected a fall, but she was firmly standing on her feet. Her heart suddenly began to race. She snapped her head around to look for the lady, but she was gone. What the hell just happened? She craned her neck to look but there was nothing. Did she just imagine that or that had really happened? She looked at her hand which she had gripped and that was when she saw the blood dripping from her hand. She had been cut? How? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 36 - Danger? Best novel online free at novelhall.com ''Remember who you are.'' Nevaeh frowned as those words reverberated inside her head. Who was that woman? And what did she mean by those words? Who was watching her? She craned her neck as she cautiously looked around. Was someone tailing her? Her heart slowly began to race at that thought. She felt a sudden unsettling feeling in the pit of her stomach. Fear was creeping into her again. She was slowly getting used to this feeling. She looked at her wrist. It was a small cut, but the pain was five times its size, like whatever had cut her had deeply pierced a vein or a nerve. She could not tell when or how she had been cut, but she had a feeling it was that strange lady. But why would she cut her? She didn''t feel her skin being pierced at the time. She winced in pain as she wiped the surface of the wound before returning to the car. "Madam, you''re -" Simon slurred when she approached him. His eyes fell on the blood-stained handkerchief in her hand, and a deep frown crossed his brows. "Madam, what happened?" He asked, his eyes closely fixed on the cut on her wrist. Nevaeh looked at her hand and sighed. What keen eyes he had. Revealing a disarming smile, she replied, "It''s nothing. I was a bit clumsy, and bumped into someone on my way." Simon''s eyes suddenly became alert as he gazed at her wrist again, but he quickly darted them away to look behind her. Nevaeh noticed the change in his eyes and she followed his gaze, but whatever he was looking at, she couldn''t see. "Mr Simon-" "You bumped into someone, and you saw that?" He inquired. His gaze returned to her hand. Nevaeh nodded, "Yes." "We should go home." He opened the door while Nevaeh suspiciously stared at him. She carefully observed his face, and the tight knot between his brows told her something was wrong. That gut feeling she had earlier, intensified in her stomach. Did it have something to do with the mysterious lady she had seen or the cut? Or was this sort of related to Dale? Though she wanted to ask, she knew it was better to listen to him for now. If something was amiss, then it would be better to go home. Nevaeh occasionally noticed Simon''s gaze on her, most especially on her wrist all through their drive home. She could tell he was worried and had something to ask, but he was refraining himself. "Mr Simon-" "Does it itch?" He finally asked. ''Itch?'' Why would it itch? "Is it supposed to?" She curiously asked, her inquisitive gaze fixed on him. "No." He replied before returning his eyes to the road. Nevaeh knew that was a lie. She wasn''t a lie detector, but she could tell Mr Simon wasn''t telling the truth. She could feel something was wrong. Mr Simon was acting...strange. Could this really be related to Dale? She had never been in trouble before, as a matter of fact, she had tried her best to avoid being in one. She lived amicably with everybody, so what was wrong now? Nevaeh had her mind filled with thoughts, she didn''t pay attention to the rest of their journey home. The moment they arrived at the mansion, Simon opened the door for her to alight. "I''ll bring a first aid kit." He said. Nevaeh had something to ask but she stopped herself. She simply nodded and walked ahead. She had a feeling she might be in danger, but for what reason, she didn''t know. She had expected to see Dale in the sitting room when she arrived, but he wasn''t there. She wasn''t sure if she should be relieved about that or not. She had advised herself to maintain some distance between them, at least till Elle was found. She had to protect herself from that lustful man at all costs. Wait! she was the lustful one. Having desires and want from a man who wasn''t hers. How wild and shameless she has become. Staying away from him was the safest measure she could take. She prayed in her heart he wasn''t in the bedroom as she made her way up the stairs. Her steps slowed when she thought about the possibility of him being in the room. Maybe she should go somewhere else, but she had to change out of her clothes, and there was nowhere else to go. The hard thumping beats of her heart echoed in her ears as she slowly opened the door. "Dale?" She whispered his name while her eyes scanned across the empty room. She sighed in relief when she didn''t see him there. She hurried towards the wardrobe to pick something casual. She had barely taken off the first buttons of her shirt when she felt a presence behind her. She gasped in shock when she turned around and saw him there, staring at her with frantic and fearful eyes. W-when did he...? How was he doing that? "How...did you get here?" She asked in shock. She had just walked in and she had locked the door. So how was he there? She didn''t even hear him walk in! "Where is it?" He asked, not bothering to answer her question. Where was what? She pondered. Her eyes followed his gaze which rested on her hand. She took a retreating step when he crossed the space between them. She hid her left hand behind her when she realized what he was looking for. Mr Simon must have informed him about it. What a tattletale! Nevaeh tried retreating again, but he stopped her when he gripped her hand and pulled her close, his inquisitive eyes desperately searching for something on her arm. "Let me." He said. Nevaeh''s eyes danced with hesitation as she stared at him. Slowly she released her hand and Dale took a careful look at it. "Does it hurt?" He inquired, gently grazing his hand over it. "A little." She swallowed when he glanced at her for certainty. Her nervous eyes blinked rapidly while she cleared her throat. "Maybe more than little." She mumbled, lowering her eyes from his face while he nodded. "Let me help with it." He said. Help her with it? How? Seeing the questions in her eyes, he revealed the first aid box in his other hand. Nevaeh was surprised she hadn''t even noticed it. Without waiting for her response, he led her to the bedroom and made her sit on the bed. The pounding sounds of her heart slowly began to fill the room when he squatted before her and opened the box to tend to her wound. She watched every one of his actions with bated breath as the slight touch of his fingers made the memories of the night come blaring through her head. Her eyes darted to the dressing table and her cheeks suddenly turned hot . She instinctively retrieved her hand making Dale frown. "You...don''t have to do this. I can handle this." She stuttered. "But I''m here. Allow me to care for you." He said as he took her hand back. Nevaeh swallowed when he blew on her hand after he applied ointments to the wound. His warm breath tingled even more than the ointment did. "Do you remember who bumped into you?" He asked as he applied a bandage on her hand. He gazed at her when she hesitated. "Elle?" He gently called, while staring at her. "It was some lady." She replied. "Can you remember her looks?" Her looks? Nevaeh desperately searched her mind to remember how she looked but there was no memory of her face. All she could remember were her green eyes. They were spectacular. She shook her head in response. "Tell me what you remember." He said. Nevaeh told him all that happened, and she couldn''t help but notice the flash of fear hinted with rage that flickered in his eyes. "Am I in any form of danger?" Her small voice revealed the fear that was brooding in her heart. She could feel its heavy beat against the wall of her chest. He held her hands. She sighed as the gentle stroke of his thumb against her skin stilled her fear. "I''ll protect you with my life, even till my death." His death? Nevaeh didn''t know why he was making such promises. She wasn''t in such deep trouble, was she? For some reason, she didn''t like the sound or the thought of him dying. A pang hit her chest at that horrid imagination. She could see the sincerity in his eyes. She wasn''t in any danger that might endanger his life, right? Why was she even been bothered about his life and not hers? His grip over her hand tightened and she looked at him. "Love, do you think you can stay indoors for now?" "Are you keeping me, prisoner?" "No." He declared. "I just want to keep you safe." "Keep me safe? From what?" You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 37 - Trust You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh''s eyes desperately pierced his as she waited for his answer. She could tell he was being hesitant with his response, or maybe he was ambivalent on what he should say. But she wanted to know. For once since this shenanigan began, she wanted to be in the know of something. Know how she was in danger, and whoever was watching her. She has been wallowing in oblivion from the moment her mother draped that gown on her. She had said yes to a man she didn''t know. Came to his house with no knowledge on how to live with him, or what he expected from her. She wasn''t used to not knowing. It was frustrating and overwhelming. Since she left home years ago, she had been in charge of her life, made every decision on her own, defended herself to the best of her capabilities. She wasn''t used to being told what to do. It was hard living a life she wasn''t used to. But here she was living the life of someone else, and now, even her emotions has become unknown to her. Her slender hands covered his large ones. "You can tell me, Dale." She said in the gentlest voice she could muster. "If I must protect myself, I must know what I''m in danger of." The incident from Elle''s office still haunted her. Something of such nature has never happened to her before, and truth be told, it was scary. "Do you think I can''t?" His cold voice came asking. Nevaeh gulped when he suddenly turned gleam. His eyes darkened in a way she had never seen before, and so did his face. "I-I didn''t say that." She stuttered. Was he angry because of what she had said? She didn''t mean it that way. She was sure he could protect her, but she had always looked after herself and hadn''t depended on anybody, not even her father and Francis, who had been the only men in her life. And still, she didn''t know if he was the reason why she was in danger. If he was, could she depend on the very man who endangers her life? She watched as he sighed, maybe from realizing that he had scared her with his look. He held her hand and placed a kiss on the back of her palm while his face relaxed. "Protecting you is my life job, Elleanor. If I can''t do that now, then to what reason have I waited? Keeping you safe is my life purpose." His life purpose? S..she was his life purpose? Nevaeh was confused. Her round eyes narrowed at him in sheer confusion. And what exactly has he been waiting for? Nevaeh felt her head spin with every word that fell from his lips. Not just because she didn''t quite understand them - the man spoke in ways that left her lost - but because those words could tug on the strings of every woman''s heart, including hers. Why was he saying things like this? And why was her heart fluttering this way, even when she knew those words weren''t for her? Her heart loudly raged in her chest when he sat beside her and he turned her chin towards him. His eyes looked deeply into hers in a way that made her helpless and spineless, she couldn''t help but look back. "I can''t provide you with the answers you seek." "Why?" "Because I fear you won''t be able to take it. You''re not ready for it." "And how would you know if you don''t tell me?" She challenged him. "I''m not that fragile. I can protect myself." She stubbornly declared. "At least I can try." He smiled at her words. She didn''t know what amused him so, but she was stricken with his perfectly lit-up face. His large warm palms lovingly cupped the side of her cheek and he stroked it ever so gently, "Elleanor, the answers you seek destroys even the toughest of mortals, but at the right time, you''ll have them all. I shall not hide a thing from you, but for now, let me keep you safe. Trust me, I can." Trust him? Would it be stupid if she said she already did? She could tell he didn''t want to tell the answer to her question for some unknown reason. Maybe to protect her? But if anyone could keep herself then it should be him. The man was rumoured to be formidable. "Promise me, you won''t make me wait too long." She said while he nodded. "On my life, my Angel." He held her hands and raised them to his lips again. Angel? It''s been days since he called her that. Nevaeh didn''t know what else to say, so she nodded to his words. She would believe that he''d tell her the answers at the right time. Oh, God, this meant she wouldn''t be able to leave now, right? If she was in danger, wouldn''t it mean Elle would be in danger too? Could she leave and let her sister replace her despite knowing there was a possible threat to her life? ... Dale believed her when she said she could protect herself. Because for the first time she looked braver than she had ever been since she first stepped into his house. He was sure she wasn''t ready to get the answers she wanted. How could he tell her the mysterious and supernatural things that existed in this world, that her present mortal mind is oblivious to? Tell her of the dangers lurking around her. That she was a mystery, not just to him, but also to the people who sought after her. He truly didn''t know how to do that. He still wasn''t sure if she was a mere mortal, or something more. Telling her about it would involve revealing his true identity ''His true identity?'' He scoffed inwardly. He didn''t know who he was anymore. Just like Elyon had said, he had changed and he could feel it. His soul was always thirsty and in rage. He walked out of the room to let her have some privacy. He had thoughtlessly hurried over to her when he heard what had happened to her. He could remember how cold his blood ran when he read Simon''s thoughts. He shouldn''t have let her out as Elyon had said. What was he thinking letting her go alone? He had been surprised when Nevaeh agreed to stay indoors. He had expected her to protest to it. He didn''t like the thought of keeping her hostage, but there was nothing he could do. His house was almost impenetrable, thanks to the demon that lived with him, but he could protect her from here. Dale wasn''t sure of where he should go, but he saw himself standing before the door of the library, and soon he stood before the portraits. His eyes slowly travelled across them. A bitter smile played on his lips as he stared at the beautiful smile on her face. The smile on his face died down when the atmosphere suddenly changed, and the hand of the clock ticked slowly. "Come out, Kiel." He said, and like a figure had been conjured out of space, a man suddenly appeared by his side, but he didn''t turn to look at him. They both stood in silence as they watched the portraits. Dale glanced at Zadkiel when he noticed his gaze on him. "What is it?" He boredly asked. He wasn''t in the mood for this wannabe. "You should let me take her. The elders can help her." Zadkiel said making Dale chuckle. "My wife is no ticket for your redemption, Kiel. Go look for something else." He said and turned away from him. "I''m not saying she is. But we need to find answers. Do you think you can protect her if you don''t know who she is?" "I''ll find answers, and I''ll keep her safe." He said as he turned around to leave. "But you don''t intend on telling her," Zadkiel said, halting him on his heels. He turned to look at him once again. "You don''t intend on telling her who she had seen, and what that injury can do to her, do you?" Dale frowned at him but the man wasn''t fazed. "Accept it, Engel, you''re scared. You''re scared she''ll find out you''re the reason why she''s here facing the pain of mortality. That she''ll hate you for the sacrifices and mistakes you have made. You can''t even protect her, not in this form. Accept the truth and let me take her." "No one takes my wife." Dale told him. Deep frown lines ran across his face as he deathly stared at Zadkiel. They both stared at each other in a silent challenge. "We need to find answers, Engel. Not just for us, but her." "I''ll find them." He declared. He walked leaving Zadkiel to disappear to wherever he came from. That stupid creature. Only he had the nerve to rile him up. But down in his heart, he knew Kiel was right. He knew who Nevaeh had seen and why she had taken her blood. But he couldn''t tell her. Neither could he tell her he was the reason why they were there in the first place. His failure was the sole reason for all she had been through, and more that she would encounter. But Zadkiel was wrong about one thing.. This form wasn''t his weakest form. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 38 - Nightmare Best novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh opened her eyes to see herself standing in the center of a field of poppies. Her eyes skimmed across the field. There was nothing but poppies stretched out for miles to the horizon, basking under the rays of the golden sun. ''Where was she?'' She tried taking a step forward but she couldn''t. She was stuck. She lowered her eyes, only then did she realize the shackles that held her bound on her hands and feet. She kicked against them but they didn''t budge. How did she get here? She looked around again, but she was the only being standing on that field. ''Who brought her here?'' She had an eery feeling tingle in her stomach. She kicked against the shackle again, but nothing changed, but she didn''t relent. She struggled to set herself free even when she knew it was a fruitless effort. She winced in pain when her hand brushed against a poppy flower. She looked at her hand and she was surprised to see she had been cut and blood was dripping from it. Nevaeh felt her heart stop when the red field of poppies suddenly began to turn black like a plague of darkness had been unleashed upon it. In the twinkle of an eye, every poppy on the field had turned black, and a thick dark mist covered the sky. Nevaeh frantically looked around her, but it was all same. There was darkness everywhere. Her heart wildly began to beat in fear, as the ominous feeling in the pit of her stomach intensified. Every inch of her stomach churned as cold sweat broke out on her back. She struggled again, violently shaking the shackles, but the more she moved the more the metals bruised her skin but she didn''t care. She stiffened when the ground began to rumble, and a dark figure rose from a distance. It was huge, and from its shape and size she feared it wasn''t human. It had to be a monster. A tear rolled down her cheek at the sight of it. She didn''t need to be told, she was in danger. Fear sent it''s cold shivers down her spine even as the sky began to send droplets of rain. She violently shook the metals that kept her bound, but her eyes remained on the scary creature heading towards her. Nevaeh almost dropped dead on the spot when more of the creature began to appear from all sides. Each approaching her. Someone should help her, but who could she call? She was alone. She gasped in fright when she saw the fangs that pierced out of their mouth. They had claws too, and the red color of their eyes was the only color that shone in the darkness that swallowed them. Wh...at were they? Someone save her. Anyone. She snapped her head around in fright. She screamed, when a dark creepy hand reached for her. "Noo!!" "Elleanor!" Nevaeh gasped when someone called out her name. Her eyes fluttered open to see him staring at her with troubled eyes. "Are you okay?" His face was filled with worry. She leaped into his arms as she panted, completely surprising Dale who blinked at her sudden action. She laid her head on his chest before shaking her head indicating she wasn''t fine. She had just had the scariest dream of her life. It wasn''t just a dream. It was a nightmare. A horrible one. Nevaeh laid still as she listened to the steady beating of his heart which seemed to calm her pounding one. His scent lingered in her nose and calmed her down. Nevaeh felt his arm wrap around her and she felt safe. This was heaven compared to that dream she had just had. "It''s okay." He whispered as he pat her back. Nevaeh absentmindedly laid still in his arms, lost in the peace and comfort he provided her. Her hands clenched unto him as she was yet to completely shake off the dread from her nightmare. She didn''t know how long she had stayed in his arms, until her brain finally returned back to her. She stiffened when she realized what she had done. Her face turned red with embarrassment as she slowly pulled away from him. "I''m sorry. I had a-" "Nightmare?" He completed her sentence, while she nodded. "What did you see?" He asked. Nevaeh looked at him as she thought about the dream she had just had. "There was a field of poppies and...darkness and some creatures with...with fangs." Her voice shook with fear, and sweat began to form on her face again. "It was scary." Thinking about it alone was like she was reliving each second of that heart reaping dream. "Shh." Dale shifted closer to her and wrapped his hand around her. He patted her hair to comfort her when he saw the fear in her eyes. "Don''t worry, it was just a dream. You''re safe now." He told her, while she nodded. Nevaeh didn''t want anything else but to stay like this, so she let him hold her. She gasped loudly when she saw the wound on her hand. It had blackened and it looked infectious. "My hand." She cried in horror. Dale looked at the mark on her hand and his eyes darkened. "What''s happening to me?" She looked at him with desperate eyes. "Is it infected?" Infected? Who was she kidding? This didn''t look like an infection. She looked at Dale, whose eyes were closely fixed on her hand. "It''s not infected." "Then what''s happening to it?" She hasn''t experienced something of such nature before. Why was strange things happening to her. "Be calm. I''ll fix it." He said and kissed her forehead. Dale soothed her till she was completely calm. He coerced her back to bed and waited till she closed her eyes before rolling out of bed. Nevaeh opened her eyes after he had left. Fix it? How was he going to do that? Why does she feel this had something to do with the answers she wanted from him? Things weren''t looking funny anymore. .... Dale was enraged as he strolled out of the room. A dark aura emanated from him, while his eyes turned black. He didn''t want to be at like this, even though he wanted to stay at her side just in case she had another nightmare. This was what becomes of him whenever he was angry. His soul gets thirsty. He knew exactly who to go for. He headed for the door, when someone suddenly appeared in front of him. "What do you think you''re doing?" The angry man who had just appeared sneered as he held his hand out to stop him, but Dale ignored him and walked past. "Engel, get a grip of yourself. You can''t take another life." "This one won''t matter." "Look at yourself, Engel! You''re changing." He appeared in front of him again. "She''ll suffer those nightmares, if nothing is done!" He roared, causing the aura around him to increase to a stifling level. "Elyon, step aside." He warned, but the man refused. "Engel, you''re way beyond fallen. If you kill one more person, witch or human, you''ll be irredeemable." "I do not wish to be redeemed." "Then why did you marry her?" Kiel suddenly appeared behind them. The bored look on his face, told Elyon he was angry that he had been disturbed. He always acted aloof, and also as if he hated the idea of always babysitting Dale, and trying to pacify him before he claimed a life. Dale turned to see him leisurely sitting on the couch. "Of what use would your marriage be if you become rotten? Wouldn''t you have waited in vain?" He cocked a brow at him. "And who do you think would protect her if you can''t keep that thing forming inside of you in check? Me? Elyon?" He pointed his chin to Elyon. Dale frowned at his words. His hands clenched as he glared at Kiel. "I will." Zadkiel hissed as he stood up. His eyes scanned the man from head to toes in a pitiable manner. "No, Dale, the question is, who would protect her from you when you turn?" Dale remained quiet as he stared at Kiel, silently. He hated it when he spoke the truth. kiel always had a way of making him look small and stupid. But again, he was right. He shouldn''t harm a soul, not now that he had her. He closed his eyes and sighed. When he opened them, his eyes were back to normal. "I need the nightmares to stop." He said. "But they might help her remember. And her memories could provide some answers." Elyon replied. "Not when she''s been tortured." He could still remember the way she shivered with fear in her sleep. She had looked white and pale. "So what do you want?" Elyon asked. "Find the witch to break the spell or find me someone who can." ... Hello guys! Happy new month. Wishing you a most fruitful and eventful month. Henceforth, we''ll be having daily updates. Thanks for the patience and support in the last weeks. I know the wait hasn''t been easy. I''m grateful. Keep supporting this book. Love you guys. ~xoxo~ Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 39 - Overthinking You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh had a headache when she woke up, and the bright light entering her eyes made it worse. She groaned as she momentarily closed her eyes. She looked at his side of the bed, but he wasn''t there. She felt an unknown feeling in her chest at his absence. Why was she thinking about him again? He had held her and cuddled her after her nightmare. She could still remember the soft and steady rhythm of his heart. Her cheeks flushed when she remembered how she had shamelessly clung unto him, not wanting him to let go of her. So much for wanting to put some distance between them! She couldn''t even last a day. Ah, she was doomed. What sort of man was he? Her temptation?! Her mind flashed back to the conversation they had yesterday. The way he looked at her as he cared for her hand. Her hand. The injury. Her eyes instantly darted towards her hand. She was startled when she saw it was almost healed. The blackness on the surface of the wound was gone. How was this possible? Nevaeh was in a state of shock. So many things keeps happening to her recently. Things that were beyond human comprehension, and they were becoming overwhelming. Perhaps, he had something to do with this. He had said he would fix it. And it seems he had, but how? What did he do? Was this some sort of sorcery? Sorcery? She scoffed at the absurdity of her thought. Why was she even thinking about that again? Those sorts of things didn''t exist in this world. She must be losing her mind. She suddenly remembered the time from yesterday when he had appeared in the room even though she had locked the door. How did he get in? She chuckled and shook her head. Maybe she didn''t lock the door as she had thought. She must be overthinking. As a matter of fact, she was overthinking. A knock on the door brought her back to reality. "Come in." She said as she stood up from the bed. Nevaeh was surprised to see a maid walk into the room. Had she not seen the line of servants on her first day, she''d have thought Mr Simon was the only staff in the house. "Good morning madam, the master asked to wake you up, and also inform you to come down for lunch." The young maid said. ''Lunch?'' Nevaeh looked at the table clock on the bedside table. She was surprised when she saw the time. It was noon already. How did she sleep for so long? She had had trouble sleeping after he had left her, taking his warmth with him, but she had somehow put herself to sleep. But how could she sleep for this long? "Where is your master?" "At the garden." The girl replied while Nevaeh nodded. She furrowed her brows when the girl remained standing. "Is there anything else?" She inquired. "The master asked us to bring this." The girl stepped aside, and two other maids brought in bags. Nevaeh was stunned at the number of shopping bags, and carts of clothes that were being carried into the room. What was all this? She took a look at one of the bags and there were skincare products. She was dumbfounded. "He bought all these?" She asked as she looked at the room which was now filled like a mini-store. "Yes." Nevaeh gasped in shock. What was wrong with him? Where were they going to fit into? She had a walk-in closet filled with clothes, so where was she going to put all these? She looked at the maids and said, "Thank you." They bowed to her and left. Nevaeh stood in awe as she looked around the crammed-up room. Was there an end to all these luxuries he provided her? She smiled when she looked at the skincare products he had gotten for her. It was the same as his. He must have seen her surf the net for good skincare products the other day. She didn''t even know he had been paying attention to her. She wasn''t a vain person, but after seeing how smooth and silk his skin was, she had been wondering if she could get something like that too. She couldn''t wait to try it out and see some good results. But why did he get her new clothes? She decided not to ponder much on the reasons why he did what he did, it would only make her headache worse. Soon, Nevaeh got herself ready. She spent more time in the bathroom and in dressing up than she usually did. Why was she even going through so much to look pretty? It obviously wasn''t for him. It couldn''t be. She looked at the mirror and heaved a sigh before walking out of the room. She headed for the garden to meet him. Nevaeh was stunned when he welcomed her with a radiant smile, and she couldn''t help but smile back. She watched as he walked towards her with his hands buried deep in the pocket of the maroon pants that covered his pair of long legs. She couldn''t tell if white soothed him more, but the black shirt which revealed a fair portion of his chest wasn''t looking bad on him. "Good afternoon, my love." He placed a kiss on her forehead. "Good afternoon." She greeted back. She could never get used to the endearments. "Slept well?" He asked while she nodded. The greater part of the night had been horrible with that eery nightmare, but she had slept better after that. He smiled at her as he brushed his hand over her hair. "You look beautiful." He said, making her blush. Nevaeh didn''t know why she blushed, but her cheeks seemed to be betraying her a lot. Was it his voice, or was it the way he acted towards her that made her this way? Maybe both? She couldn''t help it. He was getting worse at whatever he was doing to her, and she was badly falling for it. God, help her soul. "Come let''s eat." He held her hand and led her towards the round table filled with delicacies. Her eyes glowed at the sight of the food. "Thank you." She said when he pulled a seat for her. She had expected him to sit opposite her, but he pulled his chair close to her making her look at him confusedly. As if he had read her mind, he smiled and picked up her plate and served in some food. "I''ll feed you," he said. Feed her? He was feeding her now? "W..why?" Why? She wasn''t supposed to ask why, but outrightly decline. She gulped when he stared at her with his stirring eyes. His eyes directly pierced into hers. "Because you''re injured." Nevaeh looked at her supposedly wounded hand before staring back at him. It was only just a cut, and it was on her left hand. "I can feed myself." "Then I''ll be useless." She speechless gazed at him. "Let me feed you," he said raising a spoon towards her mouth. Her eyes blinked rapidly as she stared at him and the spoon. This wasn''t happening, was it? Nevaeh could hear the warning bells in her head, but she found herself already opening her mouth. He smiled and as he fed her. She closed her eyes and moaned in pleasure at the deliciousness of the food. Simon was truly a food prodigy. She sighed in her heart. She lowered her head in mortification when he chuckled amusedly at her remark. "It''s good, you like his cooking." After a few spoons, Nevaeh no longer felt uncomfortable with him feeding her. He was doing it so naturally, and it also felt...nice. "Thanks for the gifts." She said after a few minutes of silence had elapsed. "They''re not gifts. They''re what you need, and as your husband, I must provide. You deserve that and more." He replied. Nevaeh stared at him, not sure of what to say but her stupid heart was already at it. "You shouldn''t have gotten me more clothes." They were unnecessary. She thought. He paused the hand bringing a spoonful of food towards her mouth. "Your style seems to have changed. I''ll get you more of what you like." He said before feeding her. Nevaeh chewed as she thought about it. The clothes the maid had brought seemed to be more of her style than the extravagant ones in the closet. He truly was paying much attention to her, wasn''t he? She didn''t know if that was a good thing or a bad one. It couldn''t be good, right. It would only be a matter of time before he discovered she was a fraud. This man was dangerous. He was beginning to know she was different from Elleanor. Her hand nervously gripped her clothe. "What is wrong?" He asked with a frown. She shook her head and tried to compose herself. "Nothing." She said. "Are you sure?" "Yes." "Then eat some more." He told her. Nevaeh ate as he had asked, but she no longer enjoyed the food. Her mind was suddenly filled with tumultuous thoughts. Why were her emotions suddenly conflicted? She was slightly startled when her phone when it chimed with a notification. It was a message from her dad.. It said Elleanor had been located. Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 40 - Disappointed Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh didn''t know why she left the table and hurried to the room even though she wasn''t full, and her actions might upset him, but she couldn''t take it anymore. She couldn''t take one more bite of that food. She couldn''t allow him to continue touching her or feeding her, especially after that message from her father. Her stomach churned badly, she feared she might throw up. "Nevaeh." She slapped her cheeks to pull herself together. She picked up her phone and her hand quavered as she read the message again. Elle has truly been located, but why wasn''t she excited as she should be? Why was she feeling nervous and...sad? This was her chance to leave and return back to her life, back to Francis, but her heart...it was racing and clenching hard in pain. What was happening to her? She shouldn''t be feeling this way. She took a seat in front of the mirror and stared at the girl reflecting back at her. The girl she saw didn''t look like her. This wasn''t her. She has changed. Her eyes fell on her lips and she remembered how he had gently wiped it with his hand while he fed her. She could remember the way he looked at her, like he was swooned by her, and she was all that mattered to him, and his world revolved around her. She slapped her cheeks again on both sides to compose herself. "Nevaeh, please get a grip over yourself." She chided. "This isn''t your home. You don''t belong here." She told herself, but her eyes welled with tears at those words. Something was definitely wrong with her. Why was she crying? She has completely lost her mind. Funny how she has to remind herself of her status. It wasn''t supposed to be so. She had gone there with a defined status of a substitute, but now? She didn''t know. She couldn''t describe the way she felt, and she didn''t even know why she felt the way she did. But one thing she knew was that, she was weak and she was highly disappointed in herself for being so. She was weak around him and everything that pertained to him. She contemplated dialling her father''s number but before she could, her phone rang. It was her mother. She slowly raised the phone to her ear as she answered. "Hello mother." "Nevaeh, my love. How are you? Have you been fine? I''m sorry I haven''t called. I''ve been so ashamed of myself." Her voice reeked of concern but Nevaeh doubted there was any sincerity in her words. She didn''t sound this way when she sent her there. "I''m fine." She curtly replied. She heard her mother sigh as if she knew of her resentment towards her. "Vae, mother is sorry. I''m truly sorry for being so selfish. I regret my actions everyday. Your father hates me for it, and I hate myself for being inconsiderate towards you." She sincerely apologized. "But don''t you worry anymore. Your father has traced the IP address you sent, and has gone to get Elle. She''ll be back and you can leave soon, okay?" ''Leave?'' Nevaeh didn''t know why, but the sound of that word felt like a thousand needles had pricked her heart. "Mother-" She softly called, piquing her mother''s attention. "Something... something is happening to me." Her voice trembled as she said those words. Mrs Steele panicked when she heard her voice. "What is it? Did he do something to you?" Do something to her? He hasn''t just done something to her. He has done a lot of things to her. Nevaeh searched her mind to find the right answer to her mother''s question, but she couldn''t seem to find any. All she could say was, "I''m confused, and I think I''m losing myself." Tears streamed down her cheek. Mrs Steele let out a knowing sigh when she heard her. Nevaeh wasn''t a complicated child. She was the sweetest child any mother would pray for. Her emotions has always been simple and transparent. She was so easy to sway and please, and as a mother she had feared people would take advantage of her, but the girl had managed herself well. While raising Elle and Nevaeh, this has always been the clear difference between both children. "Nevaeh, he''s your sister''s husband." She told him and that brought more tears to Nevaeh''s eyes. She knew that. She was aware he belonged to Elle, and she was only a substitute. She had been clear of this, but something seems to have changed in her. Something in her wanted more. "Mom-" Nevaeh didn''t know why she was crying this hard but it worsened when she heard her mother sobbed with her. "I''m sorry for putting you in such a position." Her mother apologized. "I promise to get you out of there as soon as possible. Everything will be fine as soon as you''re back." She said in a convincing tone. But would it be that simple? Nevaeh didn''t know. Maybe it would. Maybe if she left, whatever spell has been cast on her would be broken and all these feelings would go away. She jerked to her feet when the door suddenly opened and he stepped into the room. Her heart skipped when she fell under his observant eyes. She slipped her phone behind her. "What happened? Why are you crying?" He asked as he hurried over to her. Concern and worry hovering in his voice and eyes. "Nothing." She shook her head and walked away from the table while her eyes avoided his gaze. Dale paused as his narrowed eyes followed her to the other side of the bed. "You left without finishing your food. Did I do something wrong?" Do something wrong? She chuckled in her mind. He didn''t do anything wrong. As a matter of fact she didn''t think he was capable of that. Or maybe she could fault him for making her feel this way ¨C Feeling this confused and scared. A bitter smile crossed her lips as she shook her head. "You did nothing wrong." If anyone was wrong, it was her. She was the one who had deceitfully come into his house. He had shown her nothing but love and care, while she deceived him. Pretending to be his wife when she was not. "Then why did you leave? Why are you crying" He asked. Nevaeh could see the anxiety that twirled in his eyes. She felt a pound of guilt hit her chest as she stared into his transparent and sincere eyes. Her lips quivered as she shook her head, trying to prevent her tears from falling. "I''m sorry." She apologized, but a tear rolled down her face. Dale panicked when he saw her in tears. He took a step towards her, but Nevaeh raised her hand to stop him. "Please don''t." His brows creased as he stared at her in surprise. "I.. I" She stuttered but before the could coordinate her thoughts he was already walking towards her. She tried stopping him again, but he was now standing in front of her, his hands cupping her cheeks. "What happened, my love? What makes you so?" He lifted her face up, and stared into her eyes. "Talk to me, please." Nevaeh fixed her tearful eyes at his imploring ones while his thumb wiped her tears away. "What would you do, if you discover I''m a lie?" She watched as he paused his hand and simply stared at her. Her heart pounded heavily as she regretted asking such a question. But she wanted to hear his answer. Would he hate her? Hurt her? "You can never be a lie, Elleanor." He replied. ''Elleanor.'' Wasn''t that the lie? A bitter smile crossed her lips as she sadly nodded at him, but he continued. "You can never be a lie, because I''ve waited for you and yearned for you. And they must be torturing me by changing something in you, but I know you''re the one I''ve been waiting for." Waiting? He was using that word again. And who were ''they''? She wasn''t understanding his words again. He always had a way of making her confused. "You speak in riddles, Dale." She said. "Because they are better than the outright answers you seek. I don''t want you hate me for what I''ve done and become." Hate him? Why would she hate him? Was he by chance referring to the rumours about him? She stiffened when he lowered himself and kissed the remnant of tears on her face. "I promised myself never to make you cry again. So please don''t. Seeing you this way breaks my heart." He whispered into her ears before dropping feathery kisses on her face till he reached her lips. "Da-le." She whispered as her body slowly began to feel excited by his kisses. "Engel. Call me Engel." He said again her lips before claiming them with his. That enchanting and seductive voice of his was all it took to make her head spin. Nevaeh''s heart skipped as he sensuously slaved her lips to the torturous pleasure of his lips. Her hand subconsciously went around his waist as she pulled herself closer to him, losing herself in the sweet delight of his mouth. Alarm bells rang in her head, but the dark abyss of pleasure overshadowed her rationality as she let him do as he pleased with her. His hands left her cheek and snaked around her waist, pressing her against his firm chest. She moaned when he gently bit her lips and took advantage of it, by slipping his tongue into hers, exploring the entirety of her mouth as they tongue danced together. Nevaeh hissed when he pulled away. She bit her parted lips as her hooded eyes stared at him, the sound of their bated breath and beating heart filled the room. Her hunger for him was getting high and she felt she might explode if she wasn''t fed. Her body burned with heat and her breathing was fast and heavy. "Engel." She gently called him and before she could say another word, she felt a gush of wind blow against her body and the next second she was pressed against the wall, with his eyes sensously staring down at her. "Damn it.." He cussed as he ferociously claimed her lips again. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 41 - Toxic Love Best novel online free at novelhall.com Francis keenly observed Elle as she impatiently stared at her phone almost as if she was waiting for a call or a text. She has been at it for hours and he wondered what she was waiting for. "What evil scheme are you devising now, Elleanor Steele?" He tautingly asked before regretting his actions of speaking to her. He shouldn''t have spoken to her. Elle raised her head and smiled at him, but her smile creeped him out. Everything about her irked him to his bones. "You don''t have to pretend like you hate me all the time. I know you don''t." She smiled while he scoffed at her. "You''re just delusional." He hissed. How foolish of him to start a conversation with her. These last few days with her has been horrible. He had never experienced worst days in his life. She had intentionally left his card and phone, making him stranded and stuck with her. Who knew if she had them hidden or had gotten rid of them? He didn''t believe her lie of saying she had forgotten to take them with her. The girl was too calculative. How he longed to call Nevaeh and hear her voice. Tell her he was going to come for her as soon as he handled the mess with her crazy sister. He peeked at her from under his brows when he felt her gaze on him. "Are you not tired of pretending to hate me?" A playful yet taunting smile curved her lips as she stared at him in a sultry way. ''Pretending?'' Francis almost laughed at the ridiculity of her question. This girl seems to be smoking something bad. He shot her a knowing look, that told her she was being stupid for asking such a question. "If this is pretence, then I want to pretend for the rest of my life." He curtly replied before returning his attention to the television. Watching stupid movie channels has become the boring hobby of his life. But he would endure this for a short while, so he could return to his love, soon. A quick frown framed her face as she stared at him with unreadable eyes, before composing herself and smiling broadly at him again. "Because of my sister?" She asked. "You really think you prefer my sister over me?" A derisive scoff rolled out his lips as he shot her a pointed look. "I don''t think Elle, I know it." She lolled back on her chair and crossed her legs, her gaze intently fixed on him. "I disagree Francis. You don''t know who and what you want." She told him. Francis hated that smile on her face. He hated the very look in her eyes. It riled him up in ways he never knew he could be. But he simply rolled his eyes and ignored her. He didn''t have the time for her nonsense. He could kill her with his bare hands if he considered her attitude. She could deceive herself for all he cares. "Francis" She called his name when he rudely ignored her, but that riled him up. He tossed the remote to the ground and sternly glared at her. "Who do you think you are?" He snapped back at her, slightly startling her, but he could see the excitement in her eyes as her eyes glistened in seeing him vexed. "Your wife to be?" She tilted a brow at him. "Elle, I don''t know what you want by doing this, but you should have a rethink. This would hurt your sister." "Hurt my sister?" For the first time since this crazy argument started she looked at him in a serious way. "You both hurt me first." She snapped. "You hurt me when you left me for her." Francis felt a vein in his head twitch. What nonsense was she saying? He never left her for Nevaeh. "I never left you for her, you pushed me into her arms." He bellowed, pointing a finger at her. "Three years Elle. For three damned years I loved you. I waited and begged you to give me a minute of your affection but you tossed my feelings to my face. You used me to no end. You made my love toxic but you expected me to cling unto you?" "Yes! That''s what true love is all about." She fired back, making him hiss at her. He sighed and lowered his voice. Now he was happy to see her vexed up. "You sound like you know the true meaning of love, Elleanor. If you think my feelings for you weren''t real, then I guess I never loved you." Her hands clenched into a fist and as she tried to hold back the tears that now warmed her eyes. "And you think you love her? You think you love my sister?" He raised a brow at her and asked, not minding the broken look on her face. For all he knows they were fake. "What do you think? Why do you think I''m here with you?" "Because of the baby? And me?" Her voice was utterly low as her heart hammered behind her chest. "No Elle. I''m here because I don''t want to go back to her with a baggage such as yourself. Elleanor, you can''t eat your cake and have it. Life doesn''t revolve around you. No one clings to relationships that are toxic to them. Get that into your thick skull." He glared at her and hissed. Seeing her in this despicable form he wondered what he had seen in her before. Fine, there was once a time he had been swoon by her diligence, her leadership spirit, her capability to strive and succeed in the midst of men who looked down on women. She had toppled them and made a seat for herself, but he had missed out on the other parts she lacked not until they started dating. He tried to understand and support for years but the more he tried, the more she let him down, stringing and toiling with his heart along the way. Elle''s fingers dug deeper into her palms while her body shook with rage. She bit her lips and exhaled to calm herself before speaking again. "Francis I''ve apologized. I made a mistake. Can''t you see I''m trying? I''m carrying our baby." "Trying? You call this trying?" He looked at her incredulously. "This isn''t you trying. This is you being selfish, manipulative and evil. Have you wondered how all of this affects Nevaeh? Did you for once ask if I wanted this? And that child isn''t mine!" Several seconds of silence elasped as they both stared at each other. "You were just using her." She mumbled in a convincing tone, not sure if she was trying to convince herself or him. Something fueled in her eyes as she repeated herself. "You were just using Nevaeh. You were using her to get back at me." Using Nevaeh? Francis couldn''t believe her. It was obvious she wasn''t mentally stable. He turned away from her and sighed. "Maybe at first I was. I was too hooked on you I lost my mind the first time I saw her." A self demeaning laugh escaped his lips as he looked into the distance like he had fallen into a trance. "I thought it was the heaven granting me a second chance with you, and later I wanted to hurt you, but Nevaeh... she''s different. She was a breath of fresh air. She made my heart race in ways I haven''t felt before." "Stop it!" She roared, but he ignored her and continued. "Her heart is good and pure, I felt I could wait a thousand years if she asked me to." He turned towards her smiled. "It was my mistake for even thinking she was a replacement, but the truth is, she can never be a replacement, and especially not for someone like you." He said, looking into her eyes which were burning with rage. ''Someone like her.'' What was she like? A tear rolled down her face as she looked at him. A wry smile split her face as she nodded her head. "Francis." She called his name amid tears, but Francis wasn''t at all moved by the pathetic look on her face. To him, she should consider it a privilege he was sitting quietly and accommodating her foolishness. Did she think her tears would move him? He had once been in that position. Crying and begging her, completely letting go of his shame but she had stringed him along for years even when she knew he wasn''t her choice. That she was never going to return his feelings. So what was she all about now? Why was she going through all this to keep him by her side? He watched her as she cried but her tears made him irk. "Francis, am I really worth nothing to you?" She asked. "Do you really not love me at all?" Her once vibrant voice sounded so small and broken. "Elleanor Steele, you mean nothing to me.." He coldly replied. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 42 - Answers You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Nevaeh sat in the garden under the shade of the swinging chair, with a sketch book and a pencil in hand. Another futile attempt to keep herself busy, but her mind kept drifting back to the moment she had shared with Dale, this afternoon. He had cussed when he pinned her against the wall, his huge frame hovering over her. It was the first time she had heard him cuss, but sweet lord, it was stimulating. The sound of his guttural voice made jelly fill her legs. The heat of his gaze as he stared at her had caused goosebumps to ripple through her skin, she felt like melting away. She bit her pencil when the memory of his lips sinking into hers came rushing to her while he pinned her hand above her head giving her the torture of not being able to touch him. He had set a sudden kind of heat all over her body, and she felt she could melt and burn in his arms. His hands had touched her in many places, and ways she hadn''t experienced before, and she didn''t feel repulsed by it. Even when she wanted to, she just couldn''t. It was as if he knew her body well, and her body knew the touch of his hands, so much it yearned for more. Thinking about it now, she could feel her cheek and skin burn in a certain way. This was crazy. "Ouch" She winced when the lead of the pencil pierced her lips. She had been too carried away, she had hurt herself. She felt the metallic taste of blood in her mouth. Running her tongue over it, she felt the small sore. It was quite painful. How careless of her. She looked at her sketch and she was mortified by what she had drawn. She hissed and quickly tore it out. That man was overtaking every bit of her. She couldn''t even focus without the thought of him running through her mind. To think she had just been crying and reprimanding herself before she had shamelessly let him devour her like that. She has lost her self control. He made it look like she never had one in the first place. "Are you that bored?" She lifted her eyes to see him walking towards her. Her brows creased when she noticed he was dressed to leave. "You''re going somewhere?" She asked as she rose to her feet. "Yes." He replied while he continued walking towards her. He picked up the piece of paper she had thrown to the ground. Her eyes widened when she saw him unfold it. ''He shouldn''t see it.'' Nevaeh tried to reach it. She couldn''t let him see it. But the advantage of height tilting towards him made it impossible for her to do so. He chuckled when he saw her sketch. "I never knew I was your muse." He teased making her lower her head. He lifted her chin with a finger. "I''ve never looked more handsome." He smiled and kissed the corner of her lips making her cheeks flush. He was always taking her by surprise with his kisses. "You have a hall full of portraits." She said, making him tilt a brow. "You saw." He wasn''t asking. It was a conclusion. "They have been my solace while waiting for your arrival." He was using that word again. Nevaeh looked him in the eyes and asked. "How long have you waited?" She didn''t know why she asked, but she felt like it. He pushed a stray strand behind her ears, while holding her gaze. "So long, I lost track of time." Nevaeh stared at him, not sure of what sense to make of his answer. Well, she asked and she got her answer. "Where are you off to?" She finally remembered to ask. She noticed he wasn''t leaving his chest exposed anymore. He seems to have taken her words seriously. "To see some annoying creatures." Annoying creatures? That was the term her father used whenever he had a meeting with the board of his company. Was he by chance going to his company? She had almost forgotten he had one due to the time he leisurely spent at home. Even when he went out, he barely stayed long except that one time he had teased her with touching him. "Do you have a meeting this late?" She asked. Her shiny brown eyes curiously fixed on his face. "Not a meeting, love. An interrogation." He replied. "I must go now, I''ll be back soon." He told her while she nodded. "Do not miss me while I''m gone. I won''t be able to tell." He raised her chin up and kissed her. His brows tightened as he pulled away. He took her unaware when he suddenly touched her lips and gently protruded it out. A weary sigh escaped his lips when he saw the small wound in her mouth. "You''re always so careless." He sighed and kissed her again, this time it was more gentle. Nevaeh stood still as he kissed her. She wasn''t used to this, but she couldn''t see herself retreating whenever he kissed her. "I''ll see you soon, wife." He turned and walked away, leaving her to watch his disappearing silhouette. His broad shoulders and tall form made him elegant whenever he walked. She ran her tongue over lips to feel the wound that had tagged her careless, but she couldn''t find it. She searched but there was nothing. She gently bit that spot of her lips, but it was painless and the small swell was no longer there. Nevaeh protruded her lips and touched it with her hand, but everything looked just...fine. Strange. Where did it go? .... A smile tugged on Dale''s face as he walked into the living room. "You seem to be in a good mood." Elyon suddenly appeared from nowhere. He had his little knife in his hands again. "I''m always in a good mood." Dale replied as he picked up a car key, making Elyon frown even though he wanted to reply to that statement. "What are you going to do with that?" "Drive?" Dale looked at Elyon like he had asked a stupid question. "You want to drive? To see the elders?" Elyon looked at him as if he was crazy. Their destination wasn''t a place mortals could go to, so how exactly was he supposed to drive through it with a car? "Yes." Dale replied. Elyon could tell what this was all about. The man has a thing for being rebellious, and this was going to be a way of showing disrespect, by keep the elders waiting. He liked it. "Let''s go." He winked at Dale and led the way. Dale scoffed as he followed him out of the house. His purpose of taking a car was far different from Elyon''s idea. To his wife, he was human who needed a form of mobility, so he couldn''t just puff in to thin air whenever he wanted. "You''re late." Zadkiel frowned when Dale and Elyon finally appeared after a while, but Dale didn''t bother to cast a glance. He stared at the three creatures standing at the other side of the room, with their light emiting apparels. "Engel, cause no trouble." Zadkiel warned when he saw the look in his eyes, but the man seemed to be lost in his thought. He followed behind when Dale slowly began to approach them. "You''re late, Engel." The man at the right side said, a glare playing in his eyes but Dale ignored him. His eyes were solely fixed on the lady at the middle. "They said you needed answers. Ask what you want." The man on the other side said, but Dale barely looked from the corner of the eyes before settling his gaze on the woman again. Zadkiel stepped forward when it seems Dale wouldn''t ask. "His wife, what is she?" Zadkiel asked. "He should ask." The woman tilted her chin towards the man standing in front of her. Her magnetic voice reverberated across the room, reminding them exactly who she was. With the way her eyes stilled with coldness, Elyon felt goosebumps rise on his skin. He hated this woman with life. Her eyes were calm, yet they flowed with some sort of intensity, just like her voice that showed she waited for Dale''s obeisance. "Engel." Elyon tapped him on the side, but the man remained unmoved. They watched as he gritted his teeth in order to calm himself. Dale took a step closer to her, their eyes fixedly locked on one another, before glancing at Zadkiel. "This is a waste of my time." He said before turning away to leave. "Engel." Elyon called, while Zadkiel silently watched him leave. "It''s seems you''ve learnt nothing, afterall." Her voice flowed across the room, making him halt on his heels. He heard her resounding steps as she walked closer, but they suddenly stopped. "You claim to love, gave up your powers and dwelled as mere guardian-" She looked at Elyon and Zadkiel before looking back at him and continued. "You broke rules that shouldn''t be broken and lived on earth all to save her, yet you still lack the humility you require." She said. "Sanaiah." One of the elders called when they saw the dark hue emanating from his body, but she was unperturbed. "They''ll come for her again. I hope then, you can open your mouth to ask for the answers you need." She sighed. Dale turned around to look at her, but she was gone. They were all gone, save Zadkiel and Elyon. His felt raged on that spot. This was the reason he shouldn''t have come to seek them in the first place.. This was all Zadkiel''s fault. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 43 - Find The Witch Best novel online free at novelhall.com "Why didn''t you ask, Engel?" Elyon asked when they teleported to his place. Dale stood by the window with his hands buried deep in his pockets and his eyes fixed at nothing in particular as they gazed at the open sky. He could still hear Sanaiah''s voice in his head. How he hated that woman. Not just her, he hated every Elder. He hated their very existence. They were supposed to be the hand of authority for creatures like them, but he felt they weren''t deserving of the position given to them. He had no one but himself to blame for his predicament, but he wanted to blame them. They had sat and watched while he lost her. "Engel." Elyon called again, but he remained unanswered. He turned to Zadkiel who lolled on the sofa with that permanently etched stoic look on his face, and it was obvious he also had nothing to say. He sighed and vanished to his room when it seemed none of them was ready to say anything. Zadkiel remained on his spot, his eyes fixed on Engel''s back. "Sanaiah has always been known to be torturous with words." He said as he walked towards him. He stopped by his side and looked at the sun setting far in the sky, before glancing at Dale. "If you must protect her, and you don''t desire their help, then you must seek what you want on your own." Engel turned towards him. "I don''t believe the sacrifices you made makes you weak. If it all, it shows your real strength. She might want your head when she has knowledge of what you''ve done, but I believe her soul hasn''t changed." Dale was surprised to hear such words from him. He wasn''t the type to say such encouraging words as he always remained aloof and unperturbed by whatever happened with them. "I can''t protect her, if I don''t know what they''ve made her. I don''t know what she is." "Then maybe you should ask her." Zadkiel replied. Dale''s eyes narrowed at him. Ask her? She seemed clueless to stuff like this. She was more human than any human he had seen. He could feel the humanity in her. He had walked among humans for a while, but he had felt less humanity with each day that passed by, but with her, it was different. He could feel something whenever he was with her. He could feel and taste her fears whenever she tried to be brave around him. The thumping of her heart the moment he walks into the room hasn''t missed his attention not for once. She even cared for a demon. Though he tries not to be obvious, he sees everything she does in the house. So, he really doubted she had any idea about who she was. She had seen a wall full of portraits of her, yet she had no questions. Maybe she does, but he thinks she must have thought of it as a human romantic gesture. "I don''t think she knows." He concluded. "Then you should find out. If Sanaiah is right that they''d come for her, then even your home wouldn''t be safe for her, and without your powers you can''t protect her." Engel sighed and looked out the window again. He turned around to leave when Zadkiel spoke up again. "The spell would be reactivated soon, and her nightmare will return. We have to look for the witch." He said before Dale teleported himself out. Dale appeared in the living room of his house. He listened for her heart beat, and the even and steady sound of it told him she was asleep. "Master Dale." Simon appeared and bowed to him. "You don''t have to be too formal. She isn''t here." Dale said. "I''m sorry." Simon bowed to him again. Dale looked at him and smiled. "This form truly suits you, it makes you more...loyal." "It makes my body ache." Simon sighed as he tried to flex his muscles, making Dale chuckle. "It''s only for a while." Dale gave him a pat on the shoulder while Simon nodded. Dale teleported to the room where she laid like the true beauty she was. He walked closer to her. The even, steady rise and fall of her chest as she slept felt mesmerizing. He lowered himself and brushed the hair off her face. "You sleep like an angel." He smiled. His fingers gently and cautiously trailed her face so as not to wake her. She stirred in her sleep, but he whispered into her ears making her to fall deeper into sleep. Her gentle face and almost parted lips made her look more innocent and adorable. He felt his heart at ease at the sight of her. "I''m sorry." He said. He held her hand and placed a kiss on it. "I''ll make it right this time." He said. His brows furrowed when he saw the cut on her hand again. It remained the same. Unhealing. Elyon had gone in search of someone who could help her, but he had only returned with a powerless one, just like himself, who could only provide her with a temporary cure. She had said the remembering spell could only be broken by the person who had cast it. But Dale feared whoever it was must be a powerful witch and beings of that kind were difficult to find. They had powers to live in the shadows without been found. What a time for him to lose the powers that could help her. He felt he was about to relive the same cycle, but he wouldn''t let it happen. He''d protect her, even if it costs him his soul. He kissed her cheeks again before disappearing back to the sitting room where he saw Simon. "Can you find the witch?" He asked. "I think I can." Simon replied in a not so confident tone, but he couldn''t say no. He felt slightly guilty for what had happened to her, as she had been under his care. He should have insisted on going with her, but he had been so foolish. "I guess you were. But there''s no need to beat yourself. Help me and the find witch." He told him while Simon nodded. "What if she asks?" "I''ll give an excuse for you." .... Nevaeh was surprised when she woke up with no Dale by her side. She felt slightly relieved to miss out on the routine torture he cursed her with. For the first time she felt relieved having not to deal with her overpowering and wanton emotions when her supposed seducing husband was around. She hurried into the bathroom to get herself ready, and she was even more grateful when he didn''t return at that time. He had not interrupted her whenever she was getting herself ready, but she had always felt nervous. Hoping he wouldn''t walk in on her like he did some days ago. She walked to the kitchen in search of Mr Simon but she was surprised to be greeted by his absence. He was always there at this time. She was about to go check the dinning room when she saw Dale standing behind her. She almost jumped her skin at the sight of him. How was he always doing that? Sneaking up on her like some ghost. "Good morning." She greeted. "Good morning." "Where''s Mr Simon?" She quickly asked. "He''s on a break." "Break?" That was unexpected. "He''d be back in a few days or maybe sooner." He told her. "Is he fine? Did he fall sick?" Nevaeh almost felt she saw a smile almost break out on his face, but he didn''t. "He isn''t sick, and believe me, he can never fall sick." Nevaeh frowned at his words. She didn''t believe there was a human that could ever sick. And Simon was middle aged man that would be prone to sickness because of his age. "Come on, let''s have breakfast together." He told her, making her more surprised. She wondered if he had made breakfast for her, but one look at the breakfast table she was convinced he had no hand in it''s making. It was obviously Simon''s work. And again, she wondered if he was okay. Nevaeh focused her attention on her food. She tried not to look at him as they ate, least he made her choke on her food with his gaze or his hand. He could barely keep them to himself. ..... A/N: Hello dearies, So I realized some of you have purchased the second tier privilege and are currently reading my current chapters. I had no idea, and I''m sorry for the errors made. Work has been overwhelming these days, but that shouldn''t be an excuse for any wrong doing on my part. I apologize for it and I promise to keep up to date with uploads. My sincere apologies to each and everyone of you. I''ll put my best into this and work harder. THANKS FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 44 - Please You Two days had passed but Nevaeh was yet to hear from her father or her mother. She couldn''t tell if she should be relieved or worried, but the conflict in her heart grew each day into a storm and she feared it would swallow her. Each day she felt more and more overwhelmed by her feelings. She laid still on the bed with her eyes closed as she waited for Dale to leave, but it seems the man wasn''t doing that today. He had been spending an unusual amount of time out these last few days and that had helped to reduce her torture. She had a feeling he was staring at her, and the curiousity to confirm her thoughts gained way in her heart. She slowly and pretentiously turned around, and the gleaming colors of his eyes that met hers confirmed her thoughts. He was indeed staring at her. His hand propped his head up as his beguiling eyes unblinkingly peered at her, making her heart skip a beat. Her eyes fluttered in oblivion of what to say. "I see you''re at it again, wife." He smiled and kissed her fluffy round cheek. "Your beating heart always gives you away." He cheekily smiled. Her heart? Could he hear it? "W-why are you still in bed?" She asked as she struggled to hide the nervousness in her voice. "I missed seeing your face at dawn." He replied, combing his hand through her jet black hair that sprawled over the pillow. In the past two days, he had been leaving before dawn. Nevaeh rolled out of bed, escaping his face which was leaning towards her. She knew what was about to come next, so she saved herself. "Yo..you''ve been out a lot these days." She said without looking at him as she pulled up her robe. She wasn''t sure if she was complaining or was she? "Did you miss me?" He tilted a brow at her. She looked at him from over her shoulder and the haughty smile that graced his face told her to put even more distance between her and this dangerous man. He chuckled as he watched her walk towards the dressing table. He sat up and leaned against the headboard. "I''m sorry. I''ll keep you company today." He said, making her stiffen and her heart skip another beat. ''Keep her company?'' That wasn''t what she wanted. "Or do you want me to leave?" He asked when he noticed her reaction, her darting eyes gave her away. Nevaeh looked at him through the mirror. She felt tongue-tied on what her response should be. She couldn''t say yes to him, as it might hurt him, neither could she say no as that would inspire him to haunt her to no end. She knew she was playing the role of his wife, but she desperately needed some space from him. Each day her rationality dwindled and she feared what might become of her if she kept accommodating and accepting the feelings brooding inside of her. Having him in the house, keeping her company would do a lot of harm than good. She had tried to keep sane, but he... "Elle?" He cut through her thoughts. She tore her gaze from him as she picked a brush to comb her hair. "What about work? Aren''t you supposed to be at work?" She asked while still trying to avoid his gaze. "Work is with you. Keeping you company and making you happy." Her hand paused as she gazed at him through the mirror again. She watched with hanging breath when he rolled out of bed, revealing his bare chest, she hadn''t taken note of, until now. Did he go to bed with her like that? Her eyes nervously followed him till he stopped behind her. He reached for the comb in her hand and gently began to comb her hair. "They are just as I remember." He smiled as he twirled his hand through them. Nevaeh watched him with careful eyes, so much she didn''t miss the sudden change in his eyes as he stared at her. His eyes for a second seemed lost and sad, but that wasn''t the part that worried her. What bothered her was the fact that his sudden change in countenance pricked her heart. She had her gaze fixed on him as he slowly brushed the comb through her hair, and his long fingers tingled her scalp in a way that made her feel good. She sighed in her heart when he stopped and put the brush down. "What would you want your husband to do for you, today?" He asked. Do for her? Nevaeh looked at him as she thought about what to say, but before she could think of something, he lowered his head towards her ear. "If you don''t know what you want, I can show you a thing or two you might like." He whispered into her ear. His hot breath and tongue sent a wave of tingling sensation through her spine. Why did her imagination run wild at the sound of those words. It wasn''t her fault. It was the fault of the man she was wrongly married to. "Are you trying to seduce me again?" Her small voice muttered out. A haughty and dangerous smile played on his face, and his eyes glistened with mischief as she held his gaze through the mirror. "I''m not, but..." He paused and kissed the nape of her neck before looking at her again. "Maybe I should." Nevaeh stiffened at his words. She jerked to her feet, leaving Dale stunned. "I..I. You should go to work." She blurted out. His brows narrowed at her when he saw how nervous she was. "Do you have more concern for that company or for me?" He cocked a brow at her. Ah, another question she couldn''t answer. Was he taunting her on purpose with these questions? She shook her head and replied. "I just thought you should work." "The company was to convince your father to give you to me. I have no interest in it." He took a step closer towards her, but Nevaeh retreated backwards making him frown as he completed his words. "What I''m interested, and all I''m interested in, is you." He said as he took her unaware and closed the space between. His arm snaking around her waist making her stiffen on the spot. His gentle eyes trailed her face while his hand played with her hair. Nevaeh held her breath when he leaned closer and sniffed her hair. "You do smell different, but I like this more." He let go of her hair and focused his gaze on her face. "Now tell me angel, how should this husband of yours please you?" Nevaeh didn''t want him to please her or do anything for her, but it seems his mind was set at it. How would he please her, she had no idea. But she almost dropped to the floor when he said, "Come let me help you with a bath?" ..... Nevaeh had barely escaped him this morning, but that didn''t stop him from hovering around her and following wherever she went. She had been lonely since Mr Simon left, but it wasn''t so today. Her eyes stayed glued to his face as he gave her a foot massage at the garden while she fed herself with nuts. How she wanted him to stop but another part wanted him to continue doing whatever he was doing. "Dale, why is there a wall full of portraits of my...me?" She asked making him to pause his hands and look at her before resuming his massage. "Because it helps me remember." "Remember what?" She asked, while he looked at her. "You." "How?" She asked again. She was confused by his response. It was always like this with him. Whenever he answered her question, he left her with ten more questions. He looked at her face. "The portraits, they remind me of how weak I was. How stupid and negligent I chose to be. They reminded me that everyday....I wasn''t fit of being a protector and a partner. That I couldn''t be good and befitting of the person I claim to love. The portraits are my punishment for letting you down." Nevaeh felt her squeeze badly and a deep pain surge through her. Her eyes stung with tears at the pain and sadness in his eyes. She didn''t know why, but she wanted to comfort him. Tell him he wasn''t those things he said about himself. She could tell, he had a lot of depressing emotions bottled up inside of him. To her, he seemed...lonely. He had said somethings that she didn''t understand, but all she wanted was to hold him. Nevaeh was surprised when tears began to flow from her eyes, but the mysterious and indescribable feeling in her heart bothered her more. She pulled her legs away from him and moved closer to him. She hooked her arms around him and burying her face on his chest making Dale completely surprised. "You''re a great partner, Engel.. And you''re not weak." You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 45 - Emotions Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Dale was stunned when he heard her words. He stiffly sat on the spot while she held him closely. Her small arms tightly wrapped around him and her warmth comforting the coldness in his heart, even though he didn''t want her to comfort him that way. He deserved every feeling and burden he carried in his heart. Having her here alone was enough to brighten his almost darkened soul, and he didn''t want her to put more efforts in him. "Engel." He lowered his eyes to see her staring at him with tear-glistening eyes. This was the third time she was calling him by this name since he told her. And heaven bears him witness he had never longed to be called by that name till now. "I don''t think you''re negligent, or weak or stupid." She said in a gentle and heart-strucking voice. "If it''s any compensation, you''re the most attentive man, I''ve ever seen." "That''s because I try to right my wrongs." He said, but she shook her head. "I think it''s a part of you, Dale. I know you''re a good person even when people say otherwise." Dale felt she was being too generous with her words. He didn''t think he deserved to be called good at a time like this. If he was good he should have done well by her. He should have protected her with all he had, fought for her, and took her stead. But he couldn''t protect her. She had made him promise, but he couldn''t even keep his words. He had made a sacrifice she would probably not forgive him for. He doubted she''d call him good when she truly knows the truth. "Your heart is raging." She whispered as she placed her right hand on his chest. Dale looked at her small hand placed on his chest before staring at her face again. He could feel his wildly beating heart struggling to calm it''s pace at the touch of her hand. What is she doing? He watched as she put her other hand on his chest like she was doing something magical when she wasn''t. "What are you doing?" He asked in a calm and clueless tone. His eyes even more curious than his voice. Nevaeh looked at him and flashed a weak smile. "Calming you, like you did when I had a nightmare." A light chuckle escaped her lips, and Dale was stricken by it. His dazzled eyes just maintained it''s attention on her. They both sat there in silence, while he let her do whatever she wanted. Her smile broadened when she felt it beat normally again. She lifted her eyes to him, and was surprised to see the way he was looking at her. "Your eyes... they are beautiful." She said, surprising herself but she continued. "Sometimes I feel like they change." She paused and shook her head as she chuckled. "I must be crazy." "You''re not." He told her. She paused and just stared at him for a short while before resuming again. "I don''t know how I feel, or why I feel the way I feel, but I fear you''ll make me sin. There''s a part of me that wants to comfort you." Her hand uncontrollably travelled up his face, gently moving against his fair skin. "You''re different from what they say, and I''m tempted each day to claim you for myself even though I shouldn''t, and I know I can''t." Dale held her hand on his face when she was about to take it away. His brows were tightly furrowed as he thought about her words. "Why?" He asked. He must say he was surprised to hear her talking about her emotions this way, but he wouldn''t lie that he desperately wanted her to claim him for herself. For her to feel comfortable around him like she was doing now, and have more conversations with him like this, but there was still that fear that lingered in her eyes. Nevaeh withdrew her hand from him. "I..I.. I''m..." She slurred and looked away. "You won''t understand." She sighed as she pulled away from him and returned to her position. Dale looked at her confusedly. His intent gaze intensely fixed on her. "Is there something you want to tell me?" He asked while she shook her head. "But your heart says otherwise." He said, making her glance at him. "Can you hear my heartbeat from there?" Why does she feel like he can. And when he nodded his head, she felt goosebumps crawl over her skin. How could he hear that? She placed a hand on her chest before looking at him again. She sighed inwardly. "You must be messing with me." She smiled. Dale wished he was. He''d love to tell her who he was and what he could do. Tell he could hear her heart racing everytime she was nervous. That his eyes truly changed depending on his mood. But he couldn''t do all that, at least not now. He still didn''t think she was ready for that yet. "I''m sorry but I can''t provide you with the answer you seek." She used his own words on him. He stared at her for a while before nodding his head in understanding. "Then we shall both reveal the truth when we''re ready." He told her. .... Reveal the truth? Nevaeh didn''t think her truth was to be revealed. She didn''t think she''d ever be ready to reveal it. Because telling him she wasn''t his wife, meant exposing her parents, and putting them in harms way. She couldn''t bring them more trouble than the one they were already facing. Though she had come to realize that there was more to the man she was currently living with, she feared what he might do when he discovers he has been played, especially when he has been nothing but good to her. She sat on the edge of the bed as she pondered on a lot of things. Her life, her family, her job and every other thing she had left behind. She also couldn''t help but think about her conversation with Dale, and the way she reacted towards him. It was strange. There was something in her heart that grew by the second for him, or more like came alive for him. And whatever it was, it scared her. He had suddenly gone out again, leaving her lonely, but he had assured she was safe indoors and he would be back soon. She really hoped Mr Simon would return soon, then she wouldn''t be this bored. She looked at her wounded hand which for some funny reason had refused to heal more than it had been days ago. It was beginning to itch her, and she feared scratching it might worsen it, so she decided to leave it be. She picked up a book she had earlier collected from the library to keep herself and mind busy. She had barely read more than two chapters when her eyes became heavy and sleep overtook her. Her eyes barely been closed for long when she heard the gentle whispers of her name. A sirenic voice calling onto her. "Nevaeh." She opened her eyes but she was surprised to see herself standing in a forest. She looked around her and it was all woods. Dried leaves and twigs covering the entire surface. The trees were high almost to the sky, and the atmosphere around it was chilling and eery. Was she having another nightmare? But why was she panting so heavily, and her heart racing like she has been running. Heavy beads of sweat fell from her forehead. She suddenly felt a dark ominous feeling in the pit of stomach, as adrenaline began to kick in. Goosebumps crawling over her skin. Her blood ran cold when she heard a low growl behind. Something was behind her. She could feel it. With suspended breath, she slowly turned around, and her heart ready to leap out of her chest when she saw what stood in front of her. An ear piercing scream lunged out of her mouth. Blood was dripping out of it fangs and claws. "Run." She heard a voice echo in her head. But she was too fear stricken to move a foot. "Nevaeh run." The voice came sounding again, and this time she put her legs to full flight, running with everything she had. As much as she ran she could hear its angry growl behind her, and soon she could here more. More were joining the chase. What was happening? Her leg kicked a fallen log and she fell on her to her knees, spraining her ankle and bruising her skin. A single drop of her blood fell on the dry ground of the forest and it made the beasts more agitated, or should she say more excited as the growling sounds increased. Her heart hammered and she feared her ribs might break at the ferocity of it''s beats, but that was because they were gaining on her. She had to move. She had to run but she was stuck. Something was holding her down. She struggled to move but she couldn''t. Her heart pounded harder and she screamed when one suddenly landed in front of her like he had leaped from the sky, it''s claws aimed at her. "Engel!!" You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 46 - Laila Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com "Hey, wake up." A small voice whispered into her ears as she panted in her sleep. "Wake up." The faint voice beckoned on her again, and her eyes flew wide open, as she gasped from her sleep ¨C her nightmare. Her eyes trailed the wavy locks of hair that hovered above her face, and another gasp escaped her lips when she saw the unfamiliar face smiling at her. "Hey." The lady smiled. Nevaeh jerked up and looked around the room to ensure she was in the same place she had been before she slept. It was her''s and Dale''s room, so how was she here? Who was she? Her eyes travelled back to her. With suspicious and nervous eyes, she glanced back at the stranger, while her body stayed alert. Her honey brown eyes which had an awkward streak of gold that circled around it, caught her attention. It was similar to Dale''s eye feature. Her cheek bone looked perfectly carved and her face was beautiful, just like her fair skin. Her ethereal blonde hair made her look distressingly perfect. "Who are you? And...and how did you get here?" She inquired. The girl leaned towards her and Nevaeh moved away to the other side of the bed, her eyes as calculative as they could get at the moment. A short and amused laugh escaped the lady''s lips as she stared at Nevaeh with fascination. "I''m not here to hurt you." She said, but Nevaeh''s suspicious eyes narrowed further. "Isn''t that what all bad people say?" The lady chuckled again, making Nevaeh realize she had just said that out. She smiled and sat on the edge of the bed while Nevaeh jumped out of it. Fear tickling her spine, but she tried to keep a brave front even though her mind was panickly devising an escape route out of the room. Though the girl looked beautiful and harmless, there was an intimidating air around her that made her look terrifying. Where was Dale? And how did she get into the house? The girl turned to her and said, "I know you''re a scared-" "I''m not scared." Nevaeh interjected her. She couldn''t let her know she was. "Right." The girl nodded. "I know you''re not scared, but believe me, I''m not here to hurt you. I just came to see you." She said while Nevaeh raised a brow at her. She came to see her? Why? "But I don''t know you." Nevaeh said. "I know. But you will." She said. "Let''s say I''m Dale''s sister." ''Dale''s sister?'' Nevaeh looked at her from head to toes. She didn''t think she was Dale''s sister. There was no resemblance whatsoever. And Simon had told her Dale had no family, so was she? "Maybe you should come back, when Dale''s around." She told her. She had thought about threatening her with Dale''s name, but if she was bold to enter into their bedroom, then she must be aware that she was alone at home, and that would show she was indeed scared. The girl nodded and rose to her feet. But instead of walking towards the door, she started towards Nevaeh, making her retreat towards the wall while her eyes scanned around for something she could use to defend herself. "Don''t come closer. I don''t want to hurt you." Nevaeh warned as she grabbed something behind her, while her hand struggled to identify what she held. The girl was unfazed by her threat as she walked even closer with her eyes fixed on Nevaeh''s hand. "Let me help you with that" She pointed her chin towards her hand. Nevaeh looked at her hand and she was surprised to see, the infection has returned and her hand was in that horrible form it once was. It had turned black again. She could feel it itch too, even more than it was before she slept and it was quite painful. "It must hurt." She said. Nevaeh looked at her with shocked eyes. How did she know? She stopped a few feet away from Nevaeh, maintaining some good distance to make her comfortable. "Let me see it." She stretched her hand to her. Nevaeh peered at her before looking at her outstretched hand. "I promise, I won''t hurt you. I swear on my light." She swore. Her face and tone showing the sincerity in her words. Nevaeh felt her heart waver as she skeptically looked at the girl. She struggled internally, but the pain from her hand had her stretching her hand to the girl. She smiled at her. "You should close your eyes." She said, making Nevaeh a bit more suspicious again. Her tightly knotted brows made the girl smile even more. "I can''t hurt you. If I dare, Dale would have my head." She said. Nevaeh hesitated as she slowly closed her eyes. She knew she shouldn''t be trusting a stranger that might be of harm to her, but if she really wanted to harm her wouldn''t she had done it while she slept? She heaved a round of raspy breath, and tightly closed her eyes. She felt something warm tingle her skin, which gradually coursed through her spine, warming up her stomach and every bit of her. It feel good and...magical. What was that? She pondered. "Open your eyes." She heard the girl say and she fluttered her eyes open. Nevaeh was stunned to see her hand. Though the cut remained, the blackness was gone again and was the itching and pain. She looked at the girl with widened eyes. "How?" She asked. When she had said she could help, she didn''t know it would be like this. The girl lovingly smiled at her. "Call it magic." She said as she turned away and walked to the dressing table. Nevaeh looked at her hand. Magic? That wasn''t possible. "Come here. I''ll help with your hair." She waved the brush in her hand. Nevaeh gazed at her, not sure of what to think or say. She let go of the object she had grabbed to defend herself, and she was mortified to discover she had only been holding a Plastic piece of art that decorated the room. She heard her chuckle and she felt more embarrassed. "Come on." The girl beckoned on her. Though Nevaeh felt less threatened by her she was still uneasy. Yet, she took slow steps towards the girl and sat down on the chair she pulled out for her. Her nervous eyes glued at her through the mirror, as she gently combed her hair. Nevaeh watched her in silence as she combed and styled her hair in an unfamiliar way, but it looked nice. She touched her hair and muttered, "Thank you." "It''s the least I can do." She replied. Nevaeh turned to her and asked, "Are you truly his sister?" She still doubted that, but the girl hasn''t harmed her in any way, so she could probably be saying the truth, right? Nevaeh paid rapt attention to her when she hesitated her reply. "Actually, I''m not." She replied and Nevaeh''s eyes hardened at her. "But i know him. Me and him, are close." "How?" Nevaeh immediately asked in a tight voice. The girl smiled when she noticed the change in Nevaeh''s eyes. What was she thinking now? "Don''t worry, I don''t know him in that manner." She replied. "And it''s good to know you''re still protective of him in this manner." Still protective of him? How was she protective of him? "You must be bored being alone in this house." She said before Nevaeh could say something. "Mr Simon is not around." "Mister?" She chuckled amusedly making Nevaeh furrow her brows as she thought about what could be funny. "Dale and his minion are really selling it." She snickered, while Nevaeh kept staring at her, pondering on what her words meant. Everyone seems to be talking in some mysterious ways. "Don''t worry. I''ll keep you company till he returns." She announced. Nevaeh couldn''t help but blink at her words. Keep her company? She couldn''t do that. She couldn''t just stay with a stranger at home at home, right? Though, she had helped her with her hand, and she had also allowed her to style her hair, but that didn''t mean she could stay alone with her. What if this was all pretense? "I don''t think-" "Don''t worry, I''ll be good to you, okay? I''ll keep you company till he returns." "I''m not sure." Nevaeh sighed. "Don''t you trust me, yet?" Trust? Nevaeh gazed at her. Trust wasn''t earned in one day right? Though for some unknown reason she felt quite comfortable with her, that didn''t mean she could let her guards down and be with a stranger. Noticing the struggle in her eyes, the girl sighed. "I understand. Trust isn''t built in one day, and it''s mostly hard for humans to do so with people." She said while Nevaeh looked at her in a pitiable way. But the situation couldn''t be helped. "I''ll leave now, but you must take good care of yourself, okay?" She said. Neveah found herself nodding at her words. She watched as turned towards the door to leave. "Wait! I don''t know your name." Nevaeh said. The girl turned and smiled at her, like was pleased to hear her question. "Laila." She said. Nevaeh repeated the name I. her head and it oddly felt familiar. "Thank you, Laila." She said while the girl nodded at her before heading for the door. Her hand on the door knob paused and she turned around to look at Nevaeh. "You must not tell him, I was here." Nevaeh frowned at her words. "Why?" She asked. "Because, he might have my head for it." Best novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 47 - Believe? You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com A few more days quickly went by and Nevaeh spent them alone. Dale was barely around, and if she was honest, he seemed to be spending more and more time out each day and she wasn''t comfortable. She didn''t think he was working, because the man had showed his disinterest towards work. Her nightmares had returned once again, and they seem to grow worse by the day. They haunted her badly, she now dreads the night. It was always as if each nightmare was more horrifying than the last. She was always been chased by monsters, and she didn''t know why. It seemed they were after something, but what? She hasn''t figured it out. But she was sure they were. In her dreams, someone was always beckoning on her name, telling her when to run and where to hide. It was a siren feminine voice, and it sounded familiar. It was always guiding her and whoever it was has become a night saviour. In her last dream, she had seen a huge dark gate, with vines growing around it, almost hiding it from human eyes. The gate seemed to guard a city, and the monsters had caught her there. She sighed as she looked at her hand which was itching. It grew worse by the day. It now had black-like veins spreading towards her arm, like dark vines, which creeped her out, and the pain was becoming unbearable. She could tell Dale was looking for some solution for her mysterious affliction. He was bothered about it and she knew it. She also knew he had an idea about what was going on with her, but he wouldn''t tell her. She could see it from the way he helplessly and sadly looks at her hand like he was to be blamed for her problem, and maybe this was the reason he barely stayed indoors these days. She didn''t like seeing him like that. Though she desired to put some space between them, she hated being alone more. There was some sort of serenity and comfort he provided her, and honestly, she missed it when he wasn''t there. She sat in the library alone as she drew on her sketch book. Lately, this was how she spent her days. She was scared of falling asleep during the day, as Dale wasn''t there to comfort her or wake her up, so she tried to keep herself busy. Her sketching hand paused when she felt a presence around her. She raised her head and she was shocked to see her standing there, smiling cheerfully at her. Nevaeh rose to her feet as she looked around before glancing back at her. "H-how are you here?" She had not heard her walk in, neither did she hear the sound of the door. After their first mysterious encounter, she had wished she would visit again, and she waited but she didn''t come. Laila smiled and walked towards her. "Doors are only for those who are limited." Nevaeh tried to understand what she had said. She wasn''t limited by a door? Was that what she meant? Laila smiled at her as she approached the table. "Don''t worry, I''ll try to behave more... human next time." She said before glancing at the open sketch book on the table. "They must scare you." Her voice died down in a low and sad tone as she traced the lines with her hand, while Nevaeh watched her. She flipped over the book, and in every page was a sketch of the monster in her dreams. "Such sick things, they must trouble you." Laila hissed. Nevaeh narrowed her eyes at her as she tried to comprehend her words and countenance. "You know these things, don''t you?" She asked, while Laila nodded. "Everyone of my kind knows them." She closed the book. "Your kind?" Nevaeh muttered. "What are your kind?" She suddenly asked. Her eyes flamed with curiosity and also with uncertainty. She didn''t know why she was asking such a question, which to her and every normal human was stupid, but she wanted to ask. She had realized everyone spoke in riddles, and maybe it was time she stopped dismissing them and started reading some meanings to them. Dale spoke like he was in a past time, like he knew her from a past time. At first she had thought he must have been referring to Elle, but now she didn''t know anymore. And he also did some mysterious things like popping out of nowhere like her. And mysterious things were also happening to her too. She needed answers, and it seemed Dale was scared to provide her with the ones she needs. She had agreed to wait, but she was beginning to think she might have made the wrong decision. Her eyes focused on Laila with ferocious intensity as it seems she might know.'' Laila''s smile dwindled a bit before she broadly smiled again. She walked round the table towards Nevaeh. "Do you believe in the supernatural, Elleanor?" She asked. The supernatural? "Like angels and demons?" She asked, while the girl nodded. "Yes." "Well...I don''t." She replied and Laila smiled again. "You were once a believer." Was that a question or a statement? "I..." Nevaeh stuttered. "I don''t think so." She had never believed in stuff like that. Laila gave a brief nod as she stopped in front of her and held her injured hand, before looking at Nevaeh straight in the eye. "Then tell me Elleanor, wife of Engel, what do you believe in?" Nevaeh felt an awkward, yet intense feeling in her heart when Laila asked that question. She could feel the answers at the tip of her tongue and she was ready to roll them out, but she felt stuck, like that wasn''t what she needed. There was more. Nevertheless, she replied. "I believe in good, and bad. In love, family, friendships and goodwill and freewill." Laila''s lips twitched at her response. "You should believe more." "What does more mean? Believe in what exactly?" Nevaeh pressed. "What exist beneath human eyes?" Laila shrugged and looked at her hand. "Your hand gets worse." She frowned as she looked at it, making Nevaeh to look at it as well. "It is." She sighed. "I don''t understand what''s going on. It seems to worsen whenever I wake up." "And the dreams get intense the next time." "How did you know?" Nevaeh''s eyes gleamed with suspicion, but Laila sighed and evaded her gaze. "I wish I can help you now." She said. Nevaeh could tell she had just evaded her question. "How did you help me the first time? You did something didn''t you? Do you think you can do it again?" She was desperate to have this thing off her hand. It creeped her out. She didn''t know what it was and she was tempted to go to the hospital, but Dale had asked her to stay indoors. Laila sadly looked at her as she shook her head. "I''m not permitted to." Nevaeh could see the anger that glowed in her eyes. "So you can help, but you won''t?" A frown creased her brows making Laila to look at her with concern. "It''s not like that. I just...." "You know what, forget it." Nevaeh frowned. "You''re just some stranger who keeps showing up in this hell I''m being trapped in." She drawled. "Elleanor..." Laila''s voice trembled. "Leave." Nevaeh drawled. "Elle-" "Calling me that, means you know nothing. Just leave!." She snapped, as she pointed to the door. Laila was surprised by her sudden outburst and she could only nod. She turned around to leave, but she walked towards one of the book shelves, and picked a book. Nevaeh felt her body shake with anger and she was ready to yell one more time, when Laila spoke up first. "I know everything might be strange and overwhelming for you, but know it''s no one''s fault. Dale already has a hard time as it is, but if you badly want some answers then you should read and prepare yourself." Nevaeh looked at the book she had placed on the table. Mythology? Really? Her anger scaled up while her eyes glowed with fury. "Just leave, and don''t you come back here." Laila turned and around and left, leaving Nevaeh in her standing position. Nevaeh felt her head was about to explode. Something was happening to her. She wasn''t a violent person, but she couldn''t handle the secrecy and mystery anymore. She wasn''t feeling comfortable anymore. Her hand looked like some cursed ... or plagued object, and she was being haunted in her sleep. She needed sleep, but she couldn''t sleep. Dale was gone to God knows where and she was lonely. She was slowly getting sleep deprived. She needed answers, she needed some peace and she wanted this thing on her hand gone. Maybe she should chop it off, but who was she kidding? She couldn''t cut off her hand. She fell back on the chair as tears slowly began to warm her eyes. She didn''t want to cry, but she couldn''t help it.. All these things were becoming too much. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 48 - A Dream Not A Nightmare Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com The moment Laila stepped out of the library, Sanaiah manifested in front of her with a deep glare in her eyes. "Engel, would not appreciate you dropping into his house." Laila said with a non-chalant tone. Her tone showed she wasn''t bothered that she stood before an elder. "He would not like you here either." Sanaiah replied. "He hates me less." Laila told her. "He hates us all, including himself." "Well then, I guess I should stick around him more." Laila shrugged, before attempting to leave. "What do you think you''re doing, Lai? You''ve been warned from helping her." Sanaiah said. Her eyes staring ahead and not bothering to look at the girl who was now glaring at her. Laila felt immense anger scourge through her veins when she heard her. She turned sideways to look at Sanaiah. "And what do you gain from seeing her suffer? Hasn''t she suffered enough? And now, what you still want more?" Sanaiah slightly turned her head to glance at Laila. She was amused to see Laila stare at her in that way. "This was Engel''s own doing. He brought her back, therefore making her a target again." "And you took the powers he needs to protect her. He''s stranded here. Is this what divinity have turned to? We close our eyes to our own kind?" The gold streak in Laila''s eye glowed as her anger scaled in leaps and bounds. Sanaiah sighed. "You should learn to control your anger. See where it brought Engel." She said before looking ahead. She took a step towards the door and placed her hand on it as if listening to whatever was going on behind it. She could hear the whimpering sounds from within. "Engel unleashed this on her, not me. You shouldn''t fault me." "You should help." Laila said. She wasn''t begging, she was telling her. It was her responsibility as an elder to maintain order. "Tell Engel how to protect her. More still protect her." "Haven''t I?" Sanaiah muttered under her breath. She turned towards Laila who had missed her words. "Do not help her again. The spell might make her remember." "You mean the pain and torture." Laila scoffed and she looked at her with angst. She took a step towards her while the side of her lips curled up. "If she suffers too much, Engel will come for you, powers or not, and nothing can save you from his wrath." She hissed and vanished away. Sanaiah maintained the calm look on her face as she looked back at the door. She didn''t doubt that Engel will lose all reasoning if his wife suffered too much. But she didn''t take Engel''s powers, he gave it away. Why was she to blame? "I''m sorry Nevaeh, but this is as far as I can go." She sighed and disappeared. ..... "Engel, you should stop." Elyon said when it seems Engel was beginning to lose his patience. A dark and intense aura was beginning to envelope him as he firmly gripped the neck of the choking girl, struggling in his hands. "Tell me, where can I find her?" His cold voice came asking, completely ignoring Elyon''s words. Elyon turned to Zadkiel who blankly stared at Engel while he tortured the witches. Round about them were witches they had forcefully pulled out of their homes. Their bodies shook with horror as they kneeled before Engel in his horrifying state. "You should stop him. He''s going to kill someone." Elyon said to Zadkiel telepathically, causing Zadkiel to look at him from the corner of his eyes, but he didn''t reply. His iron-clad face look unperturbed. Elyon tried to maintain his cool but he could not. "Zadkiel!" He yelled into the man''s head making Kiel frown as he glared at him. Kiel looked at Engel and softly sighed. He stepped away from the wall he had been leaning on and walked towards Engel. "They don''t seem to know." He said, but the man didn''t budge. "You should let them be, Engel. She must be waiting for you." Zadkiel said, making Dale pause. Dale had no intentions of letting them go, but Zadkiel lasts statement made him realize, his wife was probably alone again. The girl whose life Kiel had just saved, looked at him with grateful eyes, as she struggled to breath. She couldn''t have imagined what Dale would have done to her. The man was a monster. Zadkiel turned to Elyon, "Take them out." He said, while Elyon immediately got to it, teleporting them outside his house, as they couldn''t do it on their own. Apart from the fact that they''ve been drained out of their energy, they were also powerless in a guardian''s home. A guardian''s house was an impenetrable fortress to other creatures except their kinds. Guardians were fallens who sought redemption for their sins. Their punishment was to dwell with humanity, and they had their power restrained till their were deemed worthy and salvable. Elyon didn''t like the fact that his house has become a holding cell and a torturing site for witches, but he couldn''t complain. "You should go home." Kiel said while Dale sighed warily. He looked at his hand which were slightly bloody and hissed again. "She sleeps less." He ruly said as his eyes turned empty and dull. "She''ll be fine." "She''s not fine." They had barely been married for weeks and she was already been tortured. He hated it when he saw her struggle in her sleeps. She always looked frightened whenever she woke up. He hated it. "Is the demon back?" Kiel asked. "No." Engel frowned when he remembered that Simon was yet to return. It was days already. Where had he gone in search of the witch? He had tried reaching him, but he couldn''t. He didn''t want to think of the worst, so he maintained a positive thought about it. "He might return with some answers. But we just have to keep looking." Elyon said as he returned to join them. He gazed at the pathetic looking man and sighed. "It must be good to have your house impregnable now that your demon is gone." He walked to the bar and poured himself a drink. He would have offered them one, but he still didn''t know how to deal with these men. Their moods and expression we''re almost too difficult go read. He might offer them one, and they might reject it. He hissed. No one was allowed to hurt his feelings. He gulped down his drink before walking back to them. "So I was thinking what if, whoever we''re looking for isn''t from here." He said making Engel and Kiel to glance at him. "I mean, we''ve looked almost everywhere. So what if she''s from the other side?" "You mean, crossed from another dimension?" Kiel asked, while Elyon nodded. "That would be impossible." Kiel said. He had earlier thought about it, and from the look on Dale''s face it was obvious he must have thought about it too. Elyon chuckled when he saw the confident look on Kiel''s face. "You think those people still cares about anything right now? They only have their titles and they care about maintaining the order. Anything can slip through and they would turn a blind eye" He didn''t think he''d had to educate Kiel on stuff like this. He was usually the calculative one. "Something must have clawed through and back. And if that''s the case, then we''re looking at something bigger." He said as a matter of factly. They turned to look at Engel, but the man teleported out of there before they could say anything to him. ..... Dale didn''t want to think of what Elyon was saying so he teleported out. He felt suffocated by everything. His helplessness was eating deep into his heart. He shouldn''t be this helpless but there was nothing he could do now. He stood at in front of his house for a while to sort himself out before teleporting into the house. He appeared in the library where he heard her steady heart beat. Was she sleeping? He wondered as he appeared inside. She had her head rested on her table with her arms serving as a pillow. He slowly walked towards her and indeed she was sleeping. She had her eyes closed while her hair sprawled over her face. He pushed the hair back and he noticed the tears that stained her face. His heart clenched tightly when he imagined how much he made her suffer. "I''m sorry, Angel." He muttered. He observed she was sleeping peacefully, and that meant she wasn''t having a night mare. That was a relief for once. He gently lifted her off the chair into his arms, but her eyes fluttered but she didn''t wake up, but rather she smiled and giggled in her sleep. Was she dreaming? It didn''t seem like a night mare to him? How was that possible? His brows furrowed when it finally occured to him, that someone was here.. And he had a guess who. You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 49 - Open Mind For the first time in days, Nevaeh felt refreshed after sleeping with no nightmares. It wasn''t like the sleep she had before she came here, but it was far better than all the nights she had had since these nightmares started. It felt like the heavens had decided to give her a break from her night torture. She had slept longer than she ever did, and her face was a tad bit better than she looked in the past days. Her eyes scanned across the room, but there was no Dale. He must have left again. She truly had no idea where he goes to, and she was only left with her assumptions. Assume, that he was trying to look for some solution to her affliction, but still, she felt slightly disappointed to know he was gone, again. A resigned sigh rolled out of her lips. She didn''t ponder to know who had brought her to bed, she was sure he had done it. The thought of being carried in his arms again suddenly made her cheek warm-up, even if she felt annoyed with him. She was annoyed with his recent and constant disappearance, annoyed at being kept idle and lonely with nothing but baseless imaginations, annoyed at the pain she was suffering, and annoyed that he was affecting her mind more than he was supposed to. She must be stupid thinking of him when she should be mad at him. He was the reason why she was going through things she hasn''t experienced before. Or maybe she should be mad at her mother who had promised to set her free but was yet to call her after so many days. She wondered what was going on, on that end. "Stupid Nevaeh." She reprimanded herself as she pulled her hair into a bun. Waking up in a better mood than she was last night, she realized she had been rude to Laila. Though she knew nothing of her identity, and her mysterious and uninvited visits were very strange and slightly upsetting, she still felt she had to apologize to her. It wasn''t in her nature to be rude to people, and she couldn''t start now. But how could she contact her? She knew nothing about her other than the name she had given her. Everything about her was strange and alarming, yet, she felt kind of comfortable around her like she could trust her. How strange. Maybe this charade was beginning to affect her more than she wanted to admit. She was beginning to act differently, and it''s gradually getting scary. She thought it was about time she told Dale about her visit. She had not meant to keep it a secret, but the man was barely around. It wasn''t her fault, it was his. Nevaeh got herself ready and made her way to the lonely dining room. She sighed when she saw her food was already placed on the table. This has become the new routine. She missed Mr Simon. She sighed as she sat at the table. It was a bit depressing sharing the table alone. Although Dale made her nervous while they ate together, it was better than sitting alone in a large room with nothing but furniture and hidden maids. These days she had no one to talk to but herself. She suddenly didn''t have the appetite for much, so she only ate as much as she could. Not sure of what to do next, she decided to resume her routine of going to the library. Drawing had always been therapeutic and relaxing for her until she started drawing the monsters in her dreams. Now it was all about whiling away the time and trying not to fall asleep. It wasn''t as fun as it used to be. As a matter of fact, nothing in her life felt the same anymore. Her emotions and thoughts were always so conflicting, so much she felt she was always in a struggle. Struggling to act right, and not betray her sister and her moral compass. And who knows if those monsters would return in her sleep again? The moment she stepped into the Library, she remembered the book Laila had given to her. It was a book about mythology, and it made her wonder how such a book would give her the answers she required. Or would it? Well, she was sceptical it would. She was surprised when she discovered the book was gone. She searched the shelf she had seen Laila retrieve it, but it wasn''t there. She felt like giving up, but her curiosity kept her going. Shelf after shelf she looked but she still couldn''t find it. Had Dale taken it? She had given up on her search when a small book hidden between two other books suddenly caught the attention of her eyes. It was small and ancient, and very dusty like it hadn''t been read in a long time. She felt like looking away, but something about it pulled her to it. She pulled out the book and she suddenly felt strange. There was no title on it and from the looks of it, it felt like a journal. She opened it and she wasn''t surprised to see his name on it. But attached to his name was a familiar signature she had seen before. She wondered where. She opened the first page of the book, and she was surprised to see it was indeed a diary. His diary. "Looking for something?" Nevaeh jolted when she suddenly heard his voice behind her, she almost dropped the book. For a moment she thought she might have imagined his voice, but that was so real. She quickly slipped the book back to the place where she had seen it before turning around. She was surprised to see standing him by the door. Her eyes trailed him from head to toe, almost as something she couldn''t believe could be seen at this time of the day. She had seen less and less of him each day. She composed the look on her face, and replied, "No." Her tone was curt, and the way she looked away from him it was obvious she was displeased with him. She picked another book from the shelf and walked towards the desk, while he approached her. They silently fixed their gaze on each other for seconds which felt like an eternity. He tried reaching for her face, but she turned her face away from him to the book she had picked, while her eyes surreptitiously looked at the book he had placed on the table. It was indeed the book from last night. Its unique pattern was hard to miss and it was also ancient. "It''s good to finally see you in daylight, Mr Stuart." She said in a casual note while she opened the book. Dale watched her furrowed brows, but she ensured to avert her gaze from his. "You''re angry." He wasn''t asking, he was stating the obvious. "Why should I be?" "I''m sorry." He replied. "What for?" She cocked a brow at him. "What are you sorry for, Engel?" For leaving her alone to endure the pain she has been afflicted with because of him? Or for having her trapped in his house when he couldn''t even be there with her? Why was she even fussing over this? "For everything." He said, making her hand pause for a brief second. "Well, don''t be. It''s not like I care." She curtly replied and looked away as she continued flipping through the book. "You don''t?" He asked. His voice wasn''t forced or displeased as she had thought it would be. She raised her head and glanced at him, and she was surprised to see the haughty smile that tugged on his lips. But she didn''t let it faze her. "I''d be surprised if I was." "Then why then are you reading a book from the opposite side? Or has my wife developed some super abilities?" He tilted a taunting brow at her. Nevaeh looked at the book and she was horridly mortified to see she has been ''reading'' the book upside down. She closed her eyes in mortification. "You don''t have to be embarrassed." He said, but she could hear the smile in his voice. ''Laugh all you want, evil man.'' She yelled in her heart. "I guess you were looking for this." He said as he slipped the book he had brought towards her. She glanced at the book and nodded. "It appears you took it. Why?" She gazed at him. "Nothing. I just wondered why it suddenly interested you to read." He replied. "And you think it''s something I shouldn''t?" Her brows were now challengingly raised at him. Dale knew that he shouldn''t just answer her questions, as a wrong response from him would probably flare her up as she was already angry with him. "It''s there something you think I shouldn''t find in it?" Her curious voice asked again. Dale sighed and walked closer to her while her eyes cautiously followed him. He wasn''t going to do his eye mojo on her again, was he? She watched as he turned her chair and squatted in front of her, before taking her hands in his. "Having you know everything about me is what I truly desire. But I..." "Fear I can''t take it. I''m not fragile, Dale." She interjected him. "I know you''re not. I just feel you''re not prepared." Hinted in his voice were sincere concerns and worry for her. "Prepared for what?" She asked as she became more curious than ever. For the first time, she wanted to listen and understand what he was saying and what he had to say. Dale sighed when he saw the blazing curiosity in her eyes. She looked eager to hear whatever he had to say. He cupped her cheek and stroke it with his thumb. "There are many things that exist beyond human imagination. Things other than death and life. There are forces that make things be and forge the adventures that man seek as well as the pain that it sometimes brings." "Are you talking about supernatural forces?" "It seems you truly met her." He smiled. "Laila?" His brows furrowed when he heard Laila''s name. And she also realized that he wasn''t referring to Laila. So who else was she supposed to see? Her eyes turned desperate when he suddenly stood up. "Are you leaving again?" She asked as she rose with him. He brushed his hand through her hair, his eyes gently and lovingly staring at her. "I''ll be back soon, I promise." He kissed her forehead, before placing the book in her hand. "Read with an open mind, love." He said and walked away while she watched him leave. Nevaeh looked at the book as she wondered what exactly should her mind be open to. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 50 - Get His Powers Back You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Elyon wasn''t surprised when he arrived Kiel''s home and saw him by the window. There hasn''t been a time he came visiting and the man wasn''t sitting on that very spot, bleakly staring into space like he was doing now. "Why are you lazying about? Shouldn''t you be attending to the needs of humanity?" Elyon asked as he lolled on the seat opposite him with his feet resting on the table and his hand spreading across the sofa. Kiel glanced at him and looked away. He wasn''t in the mood to be bothered by him, and Elyon wasn''t affected. He was used to this. He sighed and also looked away. His eyes gazed around the almost empty house which had just two couches and a table. The house was just as boring and apathetic as it''s owner. "Your house sucks." He tsked. "Then leave." Kiel said in his signatory indifferent tone while Elyon rolled his eyes at him. "You''re boring, but you''re better than Engel. So I''ll stay." He sighed as he threw his head back on the couch and enjoyed the peace and quiet of Kiel''s home. His house has recently become Engel''s torturing ground in the past few days, so he wanted somewhere different even if it was as boring as Kiel''s. The man didn''t even have a bar. He took back his words. Engel''s house was way better than this, at least he could always have a drink. Elyon hissed when he felt Engel''s presence. "Think about him and he pops up." He turned and saw Dale approaching them, or rather him. What did he want now? He sighed. "I''m not in the mood to hunt anything other than some peace. And my house is not an interrogation center for your quest. So before you ask, I say no." He said while his eyes cautiously looked at Dale who was still walking closer to him. He looked up at the man with his intimidating figure when he stopped right in front of him. "Engel, what do you want?" He sighed and asked. "Call Laila." Dale replied. "Why? Can''t you summon a mere angel like her anymore?" Elyon asked but the glare that creased Dale''s eyes made him sigh out in resignation. It was obvious Laila had done something wrong and he didn''t want to be in his line of fire. He closed his eyes and the next moment, the she appeared. "What do you want now Ely-" Her words slurred when she saw the person standing in front of Elyon, staring at her with anger blazing eyes. She glared at Elyon, but the man shrugged and rose to his feet. "You traitor." She grimaced. "I''d like to see this through, but I''m sure you won''t be leaving in one piece, so I''d leave you guys to it." He said and immediately teleported out of sight. Give it to Engel to always know how to spoil his fun, even if it was just as simple as boringly sitting in Kiel''s furniture deprived home. Kiel turned to look at the duo before excusing himself as well. He wasn''t in the mood for any disturbance. Zadkiel wasn''t surprised when he saw Elyon standing by his bed and examining the sheets. "Privacy is a word, Elyon." He said as he strolled to sit by the window again. Elyon scoffed as he looked around the empty room. "There isn''t much difference between where you live and where humans keep their corpses. You should probably relocate there." He said, while Kiel completely ignored him. Elyon stared at him before walking closer to where he sat. He stood by his side as they both gazed far into the sky, his hand buried inside his pocket. "Something is coming." Elyon said. "I can feel it." "He is probably rising." Kiel replied like he didn''t care about he had said. Elyon briefly glanced at him before looking out the window again. "Do you think it''s because of her?" "I don''t know." Kiel stood up from his seat and strolled over to his bed with Elyon''s eyes keenly following him. "Do you think Engel can get his powers back?" He asked another question halting Kiel on his heels, but he didn''t turn to look at him. "He knows what he must do. The choice is his." He said before climbing onto his bed. He shut off the light with his mind making the room dark. "Don''t make a sound when you leave." He said and closed his eyes. Elyon eyed his dark silhouette on the bed before walking towards the door. He even sleeps like a dead body, he hissed. His lips twitched as he walked towards the door. He turned on the light and loudly banged the door on his way out. ... Laila wasn''t surprised when Kiel and Elyon left her alone with the monster staring at her with furious eyes. She drew a deep breath and composed herself. "What do you want Engel?" She asked in a fearless tone as she walked towards the couch while Dale watched her. "Do you have wax in your ears? Or are you begging me to hurt you?" His cold voice came asking, but Laila maintained the inscrutable look on her face like she wasn''t fazed by what she had heard. She already knew why he had sought her out and why he had used Elyon to do it. She wouldn''t have showed up had he or Kiel summoned her. "Threats don''t work on me." She told him. "And I also asked nicely, you refused me." She hissed at him. "So you brought Sanaiah with you?" He asked. Laila couldn''t help but chuckle at the ridiculity of his question. Could she bring an elder with her? "In case you''ve forgotten, Sanaiah is an elder. She goes wherever she likes and no one brings wheresoever." She felt chilly when his aura began to change but she still wasn''t moved. "You''re-" "I''m what?" She tilted a brow at him, rudely interjecting him. "You don''t get all riled up when you keep a demon in your house breaking the circle of protection around you house and putting her in eminent daner? But you''re angry when a creature of your kind comes in?" She scoffed. "Aren''t you being an hypocrite?" She raised a taunting brow at him. "That demon is far more loyal, than you all will ever be." He drawled. She jerked to her feet, "We''re not your enemy Engel. You can hate me, hate us all you want because we all deserved it. But you should learn to accept help when you see it, because if you don''t, you might lose her again. This form of yours can''t even break a witches spell. You should-" She swallowed back the rest of her words when she felt the change in him. "My form can''t break a witches spell?" He asked. Laila gulped when she saw the dangerous glint in his eyes. "E..Engel, I only wanted to see her." She said, her voice desperately trying to hide the panic brooding in it. "To do what? I warned you never to show your face in front of her." He took a step towards her. Laila was about to take a retreating step when she felt something strong pull her down to her knees. She darted her eyes towards him and she was shocked to see his eyes turn dark. She struggled to move but she was held bound. "Look at me." His voice seared into her ears and body responded against her will. Her eyes fearfully glued to his dark ones. "I might not be the same, I can still put an end to you." "Eng... Engel." She struggled to breath. Her heart began to race when she saw the dark hue emanating from him. For the first time she experienced what everybody has been saying. The man was changing. "Engel, please. I..I couldn''t help it. And she was lonely. She was sad and lonely, and you weren''t there. I would never hurt her." "I know you won''t." He smiled, but that crept her out. He walked closer to her. Laila struggled to stay composed when he crouched down to her level and held her chin tight. She wanted to move away but she was under his siege. "Tell Sanaiah when I get my powers back, no dimension on this universe would keep her safe from me, not even hell." He said. Laila had never been terrified in her life so she could only bob her head in understanding. ..... Hello guys, I want to sincerely apologize for yesterday and the day before that. I was terribly sick. I was scared I had got the new variant, as it''s sort of making a wave here, but fortunately it wasn''t. I''m glad and relieved. Pheew. I''ll make it up with a mass release as soon as I''m done with the hospital. Thanks for the support and understanding. You guys should stay safe as well. Thanks and love you. Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 51 - Mislead Best novel online free at novelhall.com Nevaeh was stunned by what was written within the pages of the book. When they had said the book would provide the answers she needed, she had not thought this would be it. She had expected something different, something more realistic and believing to the human mind. But this.... this wasn''t what she expected. A world of divine and dark creatures filled with paranormal powers wasn''t what she expected for an answer. Angels, demons, witches, immortals, realms and dimensions, creatures that have gone extinct weren''t the answers she needed. Or was it? A confused and puzzled look contorted her face as she looked at the book before her. Her slender fingers kneaded her temples. She could feel a headache coming. Her eyes lowered to the book again, and a wry yet dismissive sigh rolled off her lips. This was insane! They must be toiling with her. She hissed and closed the book. Even the title said Mythology, so what did they take her for? A fool?! The things written in the book didn''t exist. They couldn''t. They were myths, and old wives tales told to intrigue or scare children. So what did Dale mean by this? She''d be a fool to believe any of these. She slammed her hand against the book as she jerked to her feet, her eyes burning with anger. Anger of being misled. ''Read with an open mind.'' She remembered his words from this morning, but she shook them out of her head. This wasn''t right. There was nothing to be open minded about, she hissed and stormed out of the library. Nevaeh was surprised to see Dale in the room the moment she opened the door. He was lazily seated on the side of the bed, with his elbows resting on his thighs, and his head hanging low. He turned towards her the moment she opened the door and walked into the room. His observant eyes rested on her face before he spoke, "Are you done reading for the day?" Nevaeh couldn''t help the glare that she directed at him after hearing his question. She stared at him with sting eyes before heading for the dressing room. "Love?" He called after her, but she ignored him. Nevaeh felt like throwing something at him. She wished she had brought that book from the library, so she could toss it at him, and he could choke on the answers he wanted her to get from it. "Love, are you angry?" He asked while he followed her into the dressing room. She turned to him with deeply angry eyes. "Engel, I want to change out of my clothes." She told him, but the man cluelessly walked deeper into her closet and closer to her. "Tell me wife, did I do something this time?" He asked. Nevaeh felt like spitting out blood and venom at him for asking such a question. She had spent hours going through some meaningless book because him and his so called ''sister'' had told her to do so. No! This was all on her. Shame on her for reading page after page after the very first one had proven to be filled with crazy stuff. What had gotten into her in the first place? They weren''t the stupid ones, she was! "Engel, leave my closet, I want to change." She snapped at him. "Then do it, after all you''re my wife, and there''s nothing I won''t get to see later." He boldly replied. Nevaeh looked at him with widened eyes, but the serious look on his face told her he wasn''t kidding. "Engel!" She called his name with an even more angry tone. "Are you shy?" He asked. "You''ve seen me almost naked, so can''t be shy now." He shamelessly cocked a brow at her. Nevaeh could see the mocking smile in his eyes, and it angered her even more. He sighed when he realized he wasn''t helping the situation and became a bit more serious about the situation on ground, "Tell me what the problem is. Did I do something wrong?" Do something wrong? She scoffed as she glared at him. Yes he did!. "Yes, you did." She snarled at him. "You and your crazy sister, or whoever she is, thought it wise to make a mockery of me by making me read through that non..nonsense book. Was this some kind of joke to you?" Her angry brows flared up, and her brown eyes burned with something he hasn''t seen before. "If you didn''t want to tell me the truth, why mislead me and waste my time, like It hasn''t been wasted enough? Engel that was not fair!" She yelled at him. "You don''t expect me to believe such things do you?" She asked but continued before he could even answer. "Demons and witches? Are those even real?" "What if they are?" He suddenly replied making her to pause. She briefly looked at him in silence as if contemplating on his words. She sighed and shook her head. "That''s not true. I don''t believe you." She told him. "Say I believe you, what then are you trying to say? That you''re not human? That I''m married to what, a demon, a wizard, Lucifer?! An angel?" "What if I am?" He said. His voice was intense and firm making Nevaeh Intensely look at him. She watched as he took a step closer to her. "What if I''m not human but one of those things you''ve listed." He paused and looked at her narrowed eyes. He took further steps towards her till he completely closed the space between them. "What if I''m not an ordinary man?" He asked as he held up her chin with his hand. She tried to turn away from him, but he whispered, "Look at me." His voice felt compelling, she couldn''t help but hold his gaze, her eyes deeply staring into his bewitching ones, and just like a dream Nevaeh saw his eyes change. Her eyes widened and she tried to blink but she couldn''t. He leaned closer to her ear and whispered. "I''m something you might not want to imagine, and you also once were." Nevaeh''s eyes danced back and forth as they searched his, while desperately trying to decipher the meaning of his words, but the more she looked at him the more his face showed the seriousness that it shouldn''t have. This was a joke right? He gently grazed her cheeks and said, "You should read again, Angel. But this time, be more open minded." Nevaeh stiffly watched as he brushed his hand through her hair, placed a kiss on the top of her head before walking away. Nevaeh felt her head spin and her feet wobble. She felt she was about to fall. She couldn''t believe what he had just.... But wait! His eyes, they had really changed colors, and she had not imagined that? Nevaeh felt she was about to go crazy. No! This wasn''t real! It couldn''t be! Nevaeh was surprised to see the book waiting by her bedside table when she came out of the dressing room fully changed. Her eyes glanced across the room, but there was no sign of Dale. What was the meaning of this? Why has he kept it there? Her eyes darted back to the book, and she felt a weird and funny feeling envelope her heart. It was fear. Why was she suddenly feeling scared? Nevaeh stood rooted to the spot with her eyes fixed on the book. The book suddenly felt like a can of worms she feared to open. The dread of what lies within, or rather the fear of believing what lied within was real paled her skin and ate a hole in her stomach. This wasn''t what she had felt when she saw and held the book for the first time. Then, she had been curious, but now...not anymore. An image of Dale''s changing eyes flashed through her mind and her body reactively stiffened. She slowly looked around just to ensure she was alone in the room. ''What if I''m not human, but one of those things you''ve listed?'' His voice came running through her head again and Nevaeh felt the earth was spinning, as the feeling boring a hole in her stomach suddenly intensified. She felt she might throw up whatever undigested food she still had left in her system. This was far more crazy than anything she had experienced and expected. Non-humans? The only non-human living thing she knew were animals, so how was she to keep her mind open to the possibility of other creatures existing in this world? What possiblity was she even looking at? A demon? A wizard or something far worse? Her hands slowly fidgeted, she gripped the side of her dress. What has she gotten herself into? What has her mother gotten her into? Was she to go on with this madness, accepting everything she encountered, or was she to discard it and move on like it never happened? ..... Kindly drop a review for the book today. It would mean a lot to me. Thank you. Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 52 - A World Of Possibilities You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Dale frowned when she panted loudly in her sleep. She was having another nightmare, but this seems to be more serious - she was suffocating. It seems whatever Sanaiah had done to her the day before, had waned out, and the nightmare had returned, but this time it was worse than before. He felt his heart clench at the paleness of her face as she slept. Cold sweat broke out all over her face and body. His hand clenched in anger. He''d rip the heart of that witch when he finds her, he swears on it. He moved closer to her and tapped her cheeks. "Love, wake up." He beckoned onto her. "Love, please wake up." He called, but she was unresponsive as she carried on struggling to breathe. His brows creased as panic suddenly washed over his face. He sat upright and held her shoulders. "Elleanor, wake up." He called but the girl kept gasping and struggling. He could hear the strange pounding of her heart, it was faint and slow. She wasn''t having a dream. Something real was holding onto her from the other side. Where had she wandered into? "Elleanor!" His deep voice echoed across the room as he violently shook her. Her eyes instantly flickered open as she gasped awake. She jerked up so that she could sit upright, but when she saw the person holding onto her, she gasped again while her shivering body instinctively jolted away. Dale was shocked by her response to him. He watched as she coughed. Her trembling hand went around her neck, which seemed to hurt her, and his eyes darkened when he saw the print on her neck. Something had really held onto her. His heart clenched tightly when she kept panting heavily. He tried to touch her again, but she flinched away. He could see the fear swirling in her eyes, while her body shook with trepidation. He didn''t know what she had seen or what had taunted her so that she now responded to him in this way. But whatever it was, it must have shaken her to the core. "Elleanor." His voice desperately whispered as he leaned closer again. All he wanted was to comfort her, so why was she acting this way? Why was she pushing him away? "D..don''t...please don''t." She shook her head at him, as she laid back on the bed. Dale could only watch as she curled herself into a ball and hugged her knees. He had seen the tears in her eyes before she turned away from him. "Elle-" He tried to touch her but his hand stopped halfway. He helplessly stared at her, not sure of what to do. He sighed as he rolled away from the bed and walked out of the room. ... Nevaeh slowly lifted her head when she heard him leave. Apart of her wanted to stop him but she couldn''t. She sat upright and walked to the mirror after he had left. She gasped in horror when she saw the red prints on her neck. ''So it was real.'' Her hand slowly reached for her neck and she winced at how much it hurts. Tears began to warm her eyes again. How was this possible? She pondered as she continued to examine her neck. This had happened from her dream? What was that thing she had seen? Her body stiffened when she thought about the creature. It was so scary that her skin turned white, and her hands slowly began to tremble and her heart increased its pace. She limply fell on the chair as she tried to get a grip over herself. But her body kept trembling inwardly. That monster wasn''t like any of the monsters she had seen before. This one moved like a shadow. As a matter of fact, it was a shadow that carried an eery and chilling aura. A faceless monster with red blazing eyes. Even its hand had been like smoke. She had felt cold to the bone at the sight of it. Even now her bones were still chilled. She jolted when Dale walked back into the room. She rose to her feet as he slowly walked towards her with a mug in hand. He stopped a few feet away from her and they just stared at each other. "You should drink this." He said and placed the mug on the table. Nevaeh looked at it before staring back at him again. She gazed at his eyes and she remembered what he had done last night and her hand uncontrollably quavered again. She saw the emotions that flickered in his eyes when he saw the way she now responded to him. She didn''t mean to act this way, but the things she had seen were scary. She couldn''t even explain them. But she was petrified. Not by him, but what she feared he might be. Was she already accepting that these things they wanted her to believe, were real? "I don''t know what you saw, but whatever it is, that''s not what I am." He said. She stiffened when she saw him take a step towards her. It took all her willpower to keep her feet rooted to the ground. He gently put away the sweat-stuck hair from her face, but he was quick to retrieve his hand. Her big brown eyes lifted up to his face. "I''m sorry, you have to go through this. But believe me, I''ll put an end to every vile thing that had ever laid a hand on you." He swore. Nevaeh had never heard him speak in such a way before. She could feel the anger in his voice and words. Hearing him swear to avenge her like that, she suddenly began to fear for his sake. Could he hurt the kind of creatures she had seen in her sleep? That thing was scary and dangerous. What if it hurts him? Her eyes suddenly glowed with fear, but before she could say a word he had already turned away and walked out. Her pounding heart continued to increase it''s pace. She looked at her neck on the mirror again, and her gaze suddenly fell on the book on the bedside table. Her eyes lingered on it for a while before she turned towards it. A myriad of thoughts flashed through her mind. Yesterday, she had read that book and she had dismissed every word she had read as folklore, but today.... she wasn''t sure anymore. What if those things were real? Supernatural beings and their realms. What if things like monsters really existed? It seemed whatever she had seen in her dream had come to make her a believer of this craziness. She pursed her lips as looked at the book one more time. Should she continue or should she not? What other weird and scary things would she find written there? Nevaeh wasn''t sure she wanted to follow on this path because she feared what she might discover, but something in her wanted her to prepare herself. Prepare herself to know exactly who she was wrongly ''married'' to. Was he a man or was he something more? What sort of being was Dale Stuart? Thinking about it this way, Nevaeh could already feel the wave of fear roaring inside her stomach. She looked at the cup of tea he had made for her. Demons and angels? He couldn''t be a demon, right? What sort of demon would he be? Nevaeh sighed as she dismissed her thoughts. She shouldn''t let her fears make her think the worst of him. People might have said scary things about him, but she had seen him. She had lived with him and he couldn''t be a demon. He had to be something better. She gulped at the sudden and weird imagination that went through her head. She couldn''t believe her own thoughts at the moment. Was she really believing this? But wasn''t there enough clues around her already? Just yesterday she still couldn''t believe things of these nature were real. She was someone who had barely had a nightmare but now she was been haunted in hers. But here she was trying to bottle in her fear and open her mind to a world of crazy possibilities. She heaved a deep breath to calm herself, but her body still trembled, slightly. She picked up the cup that Dale had served her, and she slowly seeped on it. She braced herself as she slowly walked towards the book like someone trying to approach their fears. Her heart skipped as she picked and looked at again. "Possibilities." She whispered to herself as she carried the book with and walked back to the table. She could feel the rhythm of heart change as she sat in front of the book. Her nervous gazed at it, as she once again asked herself if she was ready for what she was about to do.. Because whatever she accepted now, she wouldn''t be able to walk out from it. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 53 - Dream Or Reality Best novel online free at novelhall.com Dale fumed in anger as he paced the hallway of the house. He wasn''t angry with the way she had reacted to him, but he was angry that something could bring such fear to her. He was angry that he has some how become a source of fear to her. She was already suffering enough. She has suffered enough. He knew believing and accepting things that were beyond human imagination wouldn''t be easy, so he didn''t blame her. Humans believed that the world was round, and the sky was naturally blue, so how could he blame her? He had prepared himself for all these, and he was willing to keep all these away from her and dwell powerless on this earth if that would keep her with him. He wouldn''t mind embracing complete mortality if that was what she desired. But that wouldn''t be possible anymore. She was already in danger, and knowing was the only way he could protect her. His hand clenched when he remembered the mark on her neck. What exactly had she seen? What was powerful enough to hurt her from her dream? He teleported to the Library where he picked up her sketch book. He knew she has been drawing the creatures in her dreams. He felt a pang when he saw her drawings. These were not things a human mind as naive and fragile as hers should see. She must have been tortured by the images in her head. Seeing indescribable and horrifying things for one day was enough to haunt a human mind, but she suffered it whenever her eyes closed to rest. He couldn''t imagine how frightened and exhausted she must have been these past days. He realized how strong she was. Many humans of her kind would have lost their peace and sanity over something as horrendous as this, but she...she carried on every day even when he left her alone in this house to deal with her fears alone. Not to mention the pain. Dale felt like reprimanding himself in the worst way possible. He heaved deeply as he flipped through the book. The demons in her book, none were powerful enough to hurt her from her dream. So what was that? And weren''t her dreams supposed to be memories, so what has changed? He didn''t know exactly what kind of creature she had seen, but he feared it might wait for her another time, and if he does, he was going to kill it, even if it meant looking for a way to enter that dream of hers. .... Nevaeh found herself lost, enthralled and petrified by all she had read, and was reading. She had been sitting on the same spot for hours too horrified and engrossed by the information in the book that she had lost track of time. It was the same book she had read yesterday, but it felt like she was reading it for the first time. The things written in it were exactly the things she and the majority of this world had laughed about. But for the first time she was reading it with the possibility that they were real and honestly, it scared her. It scared her in ways she had never been before. To believe that heaven or hell, demons, angels, witches and their spells were real wasn''t something she''d thought she could do. The maids had come knocking but she had sent them away. Her mind was overwhelmed she needed time to grasp all she had read. She wanted her mind to understand the possibility that all these might be real and true, and that she might have been thrown into a dangerous world where she might end up as a casualty. A snack for some beast. With everything she had read her curiousity to know what exactly what Dale was, intensified. What if what others had been saying about him was real? What if she hadn''t being listening like she has been doing since she came here, and Dale was literally a monster like the ones in her dream? Nevaeh shuddered at that thought. She still didn''t want to believe that. All these things were crazy. She felt she was losing her mind. Maybe she should sleep and when she woke up, she''d realize all these was just one big nightmare, and she''d wake up in her house under her quilt with golden sunrays splashing over her face, ready to be the maid of honor in sister''s wedding. She was exhausted from all these nightmares, and the pain. She felt her head spin when she stood up and her body wavered. She feared she was about to fall but she suddenly felt a strong hand hold her steady. She lifted her eyes up and she saw him looking at her with sad yet angry eyes. "You should stop now." He said and she nodded. She also wanted to stop. She was tired and hungry, but she didn''t want to eat, she wanted to sleep but she knew she couldn''t do that. What awaited her was terrifying. Right now she didn''t know which of the worlds she experienced was more scarier. Was it the one in her dreams, or this reality that was about to turn into a nightmare of it''s own. She suddenly felt her body mid air. She looked around and that''s when she realized she was in his arms. She didn''t have any strength in her so she let him carry her. He laid her on the soft bed and walked towards the foot of the bed. Her eyes followed him and she was surprised when he brought a tray towards her. "I was about scolding you to eat when I walked in." He said when he saw the look on her face. He placed the tray on the bed and sat by her side. Nevaeh looked at the tray of food and fruits before looking at him. "Thank you." She muttered as she picked up a slice of toasted bread. But after a bite she felt her stomach churn, she feared she might throw up. She didn''t know what was wrong with her. She sipped some juice but her stomach churned the more. "Are you okay?" He asked. She could hear the worry and concern in his voice. Seeing his face which was hundred percent human she didn''t know how to believe he couldn''t be human. She could see his tightened brows and that was what only humans did right? The worry and concern for her, the words he had said to her, and the things he had done to her, she had experienced them all, so why and how couldn''t he be human? "Are you truly not human?" Her small hoarse voice came asking. She pulled herself up, and her weak hand slowly rose towards his face. Her fingers traced his thick and well lined brows, his perfectly shaped nose, his high cheek bone, and his lips. She lifted her big brownish eyes to him, "How can you not be human, Engel?" For some awkward reason her voice broke as she asked that question. Her eyes couldn''t leave his face as he also stared at her. "I don''t know want to believe anymore. The things you want me to believe makes me feel like I''ve been living a lie, and I''ll forever live in fear." "You don''t have to. I''ll always protect you." He said removed her hand from his face and held it in his hand. She looked at their hands before looking back at him. "From what?" She asked. "The monsters in my sleep? Or the physical ones that did these to me?" She stretched her hand and showed him. Dale looked at her hand and sighed. She sighed when he didn''t say anything. "Or from you?" "I''ll never hurt you." She believed him. For reasons unknown to her, she believed he''ll never hurt her. ''Why?'' Why did she trust him so? She withdrew her hand from his. "If these world of yours is real, I don''t I want to be a part of it." "But Elleanor-" He moved closer to her, but she shook her head. "I''m exhausted." She said as she lied down. She wasn''t exhausted physically, but mentally, so much she was beginning to feel her energy depletes. Dale nodded in understanding while he took the tray away from her side. "You should sleep." He said as he pulled the quilt over her. "You know I can''t. It''s scary over there." She said. And that was why she wanted this part of her world to remain as peaceful and calm as it was right now. No monsters or demon. Nothing. "Can I hold you?" He asked. Nevaeh stared at him for a while before nodding her head. He walked to the other side of the bed and climbed in, but Nevaeh didn''t turn to face him. He placed his hand around her and pulled her closer till her back was against her chest. "I''ll be here." He whispered into her ears while she nodded. After a few moments of silence, she spoke. "Engel" She called while he answered. "What if this is also a nightmare?" She asked with her back still turned to him. Engel leaned in and kissed her hair.. "I can never be your nightmare." You can read the novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 54 - Manipulative And Cruel An ear piercing silence echoed in the room of four, everyone with their own thought. Mrs Steele had her gaze fixed on her husband who hasn''t said a word to her since she arrived. He had requested for her presence, and she wondered what they were doing in a hospital. "Jacob," She softly called his name, but the man said nothing, he didn''t even spare her a glance, but she could see the anger buried in his eyes. She looked at the men who had brought her, but they shrugged and stepped out of sight, leaving just her and her husband. "Jacob?" She called again, but the man briefly glanced at her, his eyes almost spitting fire and brimstone before he turned away, a heavy sigh rolling out of his lips. With how tight he fisted his entangled hands, she could tell he was enraged, as well as nervous. But why? She felt her heart thump hardly when a thought suddenly came into her head. Her eyes darted around the room before staring at her husband. "Jacob, have you found Elle?" She asked, but he didn''t answer. He ignored her like he hadn''t heard her question. Mrs Steele suddenly felt a weird and cold tingling sensation pricking the wall of her stomach. Had he not gone in search of Elle? She had been waiting for days for his return with their daughter, but she had not heard from him until today when he had sent for her. She was even more surprised he has been in the Capital, when he should be at the coast side of the country where Elle had been traced to. Her nervous eyes studied his countenance but she couldn''t get anything. She felt a cold feeling in her heart. She was slightly getting scared. "Jacob, why are we here? Where is our daughter?" She asked again. Her voice trembled with fear and anxiety, but the man still didn''t answer. She grabbed the sleeve of his shirt and shook his arm, "Tell me Jacob, did something happen to Elle?" Her voice showed more panic than ever. He turned to her with anger flaming eyes, "Had she been dead, I wouldn''t be here thinking about ways to murder her." He drawled as he roughly pulled his hand away from her, leaving her in shock. Mrs Steele was dumbfounded by her husband''s words and his level of anger. He gritted his things and clenched his fidgeting hands. He had never used such words before and definitely not in the same sentence with their children. Whatever made him this enraged must be serious, she thought. And this could only mean he had found Elle and she had done something wrong. But what could she have done? Mrs Steele was about to ask another question when the door opened and Elle walked into the room with a smile on her face. "Elleanor. My God!" She gasped as she jumped to her feet and hurried towards her. "Elle, my love." She cupped her face, her eyes carefully examining her before pulling her into a hug. "Mother," Elleanor''s smile widened as she hugged her back. Mrs Steele pulled away from the hug and looked her over again. "Have you been well?" She asked, her voice filled with relief and happiness while Elleanor nodded. "I''ve been fine." Mrs Steele tucked a lock of hair behind Elle''s ear. "You scared me, Elleanor. Why did you do that? Why did you leave like that?" She asked. "Didn''t you think of us? Of me? And how worried we would be?" "I''m sorry, mother." She apologized, but her voice.... Mrs Steele was about to say something when she suddenly took note of the person standing behind Elle with a looming face. "Francis," She frowned when she saw the dejected look on his face. Her brows furrowed as she realized she has forgotten the most important thing to do, and that was scolding Elle for kidnapping Francis. Why had she done that? But wait, why were they in a hospital in the first place? She gave Francis a look over and she was relieved to see he was unscathed. So why were they there? "Elle-" She was about to say something when she heard her husband''s voice came sounding from behind her. "So?" She took a step aside when he approached them. ''So what?'' She wondered. "Francis, what did the result say?" "What result?" Her curious eyes darted from her husband to Francis. She didn''t understand what was going on. She looked at Elle who seemed to be quite nervous under her father''s intimidating presence. With his head lowered Francis handed a white envelope to him, but the man didn''t receive it. "I didn''t ask you to hand it over, I said what did it say." His voice was grave and deep, showing how fast his anger was rising. Francis looked at Elle who had a smile buried in her eyes. He could see through the pretencious countenance on her face. He glanced back at the brooding man and sighed before he replied. "That the child-" "He''s the father." Elle intercepted. A resounding and ear deafening slap echoed across the room leaving everyone in shock. Mrs Steele looked at her husband with widened eyes before staring at Elle who held the left side of her cheek while her body vibrated with shock. "Jacob!" She snapped, but Mr Steele turned towards Elle. "I vowed never to strike any child that I''ve raised, but you have clearly shown me that you''re no child of mine." "Jacob!" Mrs Steele angrily called but he still ignored her and went ahead. "No child of mine can never be as manipulative, selfish and wicked as you are. Do you even know what you''ve done? He was supposed to be your sister''s fiancee!" "But he was mine first." She interjected him, and her actions almost earned her another slap from her father had her mother not intercepted. She opened her halfly closed eyes to see her mother standing between her and her murderous looking father. "He was yours first?" He scoffed. "If he was yours, why didn''t you keep him in the first place? Why didn''t you hold on to him like you''re doing now?" He roared at her. "Why did you have to create a mess by saying yes to Mr Stuart when you had no intentions of marrying him, and putting your sister in danger?" He asked but she didn''t answer. He wasn''t even expecting her answer. He took a deep breath to calm himself. He could kill her with his own bare hands if he failed to keep his anger in check. "I hope you have a good life and live with this mess you''ve created for yourself. But believe me you can never be happy with this forced relationship." He paused. "And Congratulations on ruining your life, and from this day henceforth, you seize to be a child of mine." He announced making his wife who was confused about what was going on, stare at him in shock. "Jacob-" He raised his hand to stop her as he turned to her. "Is this the person you had sacrificed our child for?" He pointed at Elle. "Nevaeh is probably crying her eyes out, going through a lot of emotional distress because of this ungrateful and irresponsible child. Is this what she deserved? Betrayal and pain?" He asked with lividty, while Elle snorted. "I was the one who was betrayed you know." she said, riling her father up. "No one betrayed you!" Mr Steele snapped back at her, his eyes heavily glaring at her. "You''re just making up things inside that head of yours. You were once a good child, but I don''t know how you''ve become this...person." He looked at her in an indescribable way, like he wondered what had changed in her. He had been surprised when she shamelessly told him she was pregnant for Francis. He had been infuriated with Francis for messing with his daughters and causing such a shame for his family, but after discovering the young man was also a victim of his daugther''s scheme he felt utterly embarrassed. He didn''t know what to do or say, and he had been hopeful that maybe Elle was probably messing with them, hence why he had arranged for the test to be done in the Capital, where he could be assured of the authenticity of the result. But it seemed he had just be deceiving himself. And the most infuriating thing was that, she wasn''t even looking remorseful. She seem to be happy with what she has done. He sighed and glanced back at his wife again. "You and I have done a good job in raising this girl. No one can shame us for bad parenting because Nevaeh turned out right, and I''d rather be a father of one child than of multiple children who can''t tell what''s wrong and what''s right. And as an adult that she is, she can take care of herself and take responsibility for the damage she has created. "What are you saying?" Mrs Steele''s small voice came asking, her confusion heightened to another level. She had never heard her husband talk like this before. "What''s going on?" She asked again. "Ask this ungrateful child why she''s pregnant with Francis''s child?" He drawled and walked away. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 55 - Played Shock and disbelief washed through her face when she heard her husband''s words. Slowly, she turned towards Elle, and her eyes lowered to her flat stomach before slowly going back to her face. It couldn''t be true. "Tell me it''s not true." She pleaded. She didn''t want to believe that it was. She didn''t have the heart to take it, and she wasn''t ready for something as huge as this. Her feet subconsciously took a step towards Elle, while her red eyes desperately begged her to say it wasn''t real. "Elleanor, please." She begged. "Tell me you''re not preg¨C" Her lips quavered as her words slurred. She couldn''t even say it out. Elle sighed when she saw her mother''s face. "I''m sorry." She lowered her head and apologized. Mrs Steele felt the earth spin as she had just received the biggest shock of her life. This wasn''t happening, she thought. It couldn''t be. "How could you?" She asked, her eyes welling up with tears. "Ho...ow could you do this to your sister?" Her daughter. A low gasp escaped her lips when she realized that Nevaeh''s predicament was her fault. What has she done? She had asked Nevaeh to stand in as a temporary replacement. What has she done to her child? Her trembling hands covered her mouth while her body quavered. "You-" She didn''t even know what to say. She was utterly speechless. How Nevaeh had begged, cried, held her legs and pleaded not to be sent away, but she had stubbornly pushed her into this mess. The poor child. Tears streamed down her face as she looked at Elle''s stomach again. "How could you do this?" She yelled and threw her purse at her. "How could you have made me do this to my child?" "Your child?" Elle raised a brow at her. "I''m your child too. Is Nevaeh the only child you all see?" Her voice and tone were pensive while Mrs Steele frowned at her. "Did you think as my child when you decided to bring shame to the name I endangered your sister to preserve?" She fired back. "Did you for once think about how your mother would feel with...with this?" She pointed to her stomach. "But it''s your grandchild." Elle told her. "One I never asked for!" She paused and sighed as she lowered her voice. "At least not this way." She felt her head spin and she staggered backwards. "Mother." Elle panickly called, but she held out her hand to stop Elle from approaching her, while she held her head with the other. She straightened herself and looked back at her. Her eyes filled with disappointment. "Your father was right. No child of mine would behave like you''ve done, Elleanor." She said. "Moth-" "I begged Nevaeh to make a huge sacrifice for your sake, without thinking of her happiness. And now she''s trapped with Dale Stuart all because of you." Her eyes suddenly burned with anger. Anger not just for Elle, but for herself. She picked up her purse and glared at Elle who had a dumbfounded look in her eyes. "I''ll get my daughter back. And for your child''s sake, I pray you live a healthy life." She told her before turning away. The frown on her face deepened when she turned around and saw Francis still standing by the door. She couldn''t help but remember how broken and conflicted Nevaeh had sounded over the phone the last time they spoke, because of her feelings. She gazed at him with disgust. She couldn''t believe Nevaeh had been worried for him for nothing. "You better look after her and that child. And don''t you dare show your miserable face to my daughter again." She warned before storming out of the room. She didn''t know exactly what had happened to have resulted to this and she didn''t care. All she cared about was how to get her Nevaeh back. But how was she going to do that? Would Dale willingly let her child go? She felt a cold chill run down her spine when she thought about his reaction when he discovers he had been played and has been living with a fake. It would be scary. The man was said to be a monster. She shook her head to chase off her fear. She''d kneel, beg and lay her life at his mercy if she must. All she cared about was her daughter and her happiness which she should have taken into consideration before pushing her into this craziness. She halted on the spot when she suddenly realized she had forgotten something very important. Nevaeh. How would she feel when she hears of this betrayal? That the man she has been esctatic to be married to, was now expecting a child from her sister. It would shatter her baby''s heart. Her poor child. How could she have made her make such an unworthy sacrifice. This was all on her. ..... Francis had seen the way Nevaeh''s mother had looked at him, he could tell the thoughts going through her mind, and he didn''t blame her. He''d probably have the same thought had he been in her shoes. In her eyes he was probably an animal who was engaged to one of her daughters, while he impregnated another, thereby bringing shame and pain to her family. But that wasn''t true. He''d never do something like this. He was also a victim in all this. A few days ago, he had been surprised when Mr Steele appeared at the place he had been hauled up for weeks with his psychopathic daughter. He had not expected any form of calvary because he was certain Elle had ensured they couldn''t be found, so he was surprised when the man came with his men tearing down the door. He had expected the man to diss his explanation and he feared what Elle might say to her father, but she had surprised him when she admitted to everything. He had not expected her to do that at all. And he was happy when Mr Steele offered to take responsibility for the test. Honestly, he had been worried about the authenticity of the test result Elle would provide for him. He was stranded and he''d have to make do with whatever She provided him. But now seeing the results, he was shattered. He slowly approached her and stopped in front her. "Is this really what you want?" He asked making her lift her gaze to him. "Is this child really what you want?" He asked again. "Do you still doubt it''s paternity?" She cocked a brow at him. Could he still doubt the paternity of the child? He had been there when they carried out the test, and he had been there when the result was issued, so he couldn''t. His brows narrowed when something finally occured to him. He looked at Elle with narrowed eyes. "You had this all planned too, didn''t you?" He asked. His eyes carefully and intensely observing her countenance. "Planned what?" "Your father''s appearance and involvement in the test." "It was the only you''d believe me and accept the authenticity of the result." She shrugged and smiled, while his eyes slightly widened. She chuckled at his reaction. "I knew you''d always have some doubt if I decided everything about it." "So you let your father find you." He muttered as he fell into deep thoughts. He suddenly remembered how she had been too engrossed with her phone in the last week, and this day was exactly the end of two weeks she had requested for. A satisfied smile split her face. "My dear little sister would always be predictable. She made the whole thing so easy." "You crazy bitch." He snarled, while she snorted. "I might be crazy but my craziness got my man back, didn''t it?" She smiled at him. "And yes this is what I want. I want this baby and you." She firmly told him. Francis looked at her in shock and with incredulity. She was slowly beginning to scare him. She had craftily planned this thing from the very beginning. Her accepting the marriage must have been to lure her sister back, and him included. She had kidnapped him away, because she had predicted her mother''s move as well. She had played everyone just to achieve her sick game. But he wasn''t going to settle for this. He didn''t know exactly why she was doing all this, but wasn''t going to let her and her sick, twisted mind manipulate his life. "Elleanor, you''re sick." He told her "You can have this baby, but just so you know you can never have me." "But I already have you." She smiled as she walked closer to him. "I have you here with me where you truly belong, don''t I?" Her lips wickedly curved up. She lifted her eyes and looked at him sultrily, while her hand fiddled with the collar of his shirt, "You say you don''t love me now, but believe me you will love me once again." Francis glared at her as he smacked her hand away from him. His eyes Showing how disgusted he was with her, but his actions only made her amuse. "I''ll never love you. Never." "Oh, you will, Francis." She smiled. "You will because I''ll make you even if it means doing my worst." ..... One word for Elle. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 56 - A Void You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Elle didn''t think she wanted to do her worst like she had told Francis. She didn''t think she wanted to hurt anybody either, and definitely not her sister, but all she desired was to fill the void in her heart. There was a huge hole in her chest, that made her feel empty and alone no matter how much she tried to fill it. She didn''t know why, but it overwhelmed her daily. It clouded her mind and soul, so much she feels drained by it. She could feel it stir up a darkness inside of her with each passing day ¨C a darkness, she couldn''t describe, but she desperately wanted to get rid of it. She wanted to fill the blankness and feel whole. Feel complete like every other person out there. She didn''t know exactly how to go about it, but she knew she needed to do something, before she lost herself to whatever threatened her sanity. She desired something real and warm to cover the cold and empty spot in her soul. To lighten up her bleak life. But whatever it was that she needed, it was vague and she couldn''t get a clear picture of it. She didn''t even know why she felt so in the first place. It was overwhelming. It was as if she was born to feel this way. Even as a child she has always felt like this, felt she needed something, like she wanted to do something more than what was expected of her, but what? She still didn''t know. She didn''t even know what was expected of her. She had felt better when Francis came into her life. Though she has been bothered by his feelings and clinginess, but she had shared a few real smiles and laughter with him, ones she''d do anything to get back. Francis must be the key to unlocking her soul and setting her free from whatever bleakness that hovered around her. When he had left her, she had felt even more lost than she had ever felt in her entire life. She had loved his chase, but it wasn''t her fault she couldn''t open up herself to him, to accept him no matter how much she tried. Maybe she didn''t try enough then, but now, she wanted to. She wanted to give her best, to feel those tiny snippets of warmth she had once felt with him. Maybe she was manipulative and evil as they''ve all called her, but she didn''t care. She just wanted to feel normal, and Francis would make her feel that way. He had genuinely loved her, and she was certain he could do it again. He would love her again and she''d relive those good times she longed for. A wry sigh escaped her lip as she watched him leave. She could only think of one place he''d like to go now since he was back, and that was to Nevaeh. She needn''t worry about that, because if her prediction was right he''d not be able to show his face to her. She was certain of it. Because right now, it was no longer about him and his feelings, but more about her sister who he now claimed to be in love with, for now. Would he be able to hurt her by telling her the truth? She didn''t think so. .... Francis stood in front of the pristine mansion with black huge gates where he believed Nevaeh was currently trapped. He could see the huge doors that served as her prison doors, from where he stood. He could imagine the sadness in her eyes as she lived behind this prison wall, hoping and praying someone would come and rescue her. Fear and loneliness must have become her new companion, he thought. His heart ached at the thought of her feeling sad and alone in a place where she knew no one and her life was currently endangered. He wondered if she had ever felt at peace since the day she stepped into this place. Nevaeh was a sweet girl with a magical smile that could paint the world colorful. The snorting sound she made when she laughs or giggles were just as amazing as her soul. She was one to make people happy with her cooking and love filled heart, and he wondered if she had been able to do any of that, since she moved here. The smile on her face when she sees a well cooked meal and a beautiful piece of art, was something that could shame the sun. And he doubted she had been able to that too. He chuckled at that thought. Maybe nothing else would entice her, but definitely not food. That girl would never keep a frown in the sight of good food. He took a step towards the gate but he suddenly halted when a few questions came blaring through his mind. His feet suddenly felt heavy and unmoving. He couldn''t go in there. What would he say? That he was there to get his woman back? That would only expose Nevaeh and he''d put her in grave danger. The man she lives with was no ordinary man, so he had heard, and he couldn''t take any chances with her. And what would he say when she asks him where he has been? Why he had left her alone and hasn''t come for her after so many days? What was he to say to her then? That he had been engaged in an unfortunate event with her sister? That Elle, her sister, the very one she was impersonating was now pregnant for him in the most unconventional way? No, He couldn''t do that. He had been confident Elle''s child wasn''t his, hence why he had agreed to stay till the test was done, that way he''d boldly return for her with no entanglement whatsoever with Elle, and he''d confidently claim his woman back. But now, he didn''t feel that way. He wasn''t confident not in the least, because the baby was truly his. His fault or not, he felt ashamed, broken and disappointed with himself, and she''d probably feel the same when she hears of this betrayal. Whatever thread of hope she must have being clinging on to would be completely destroyed. And he didn''t want that. He limply stood before the gate as his eyes looked over the building. She could be anywhere right now, he thought. He pulled out his phone which had been returned to him, from his pocket. He looked at her picture displaying on his phone, and he missed her more. He just wanted to hear her voice. He couldn''t control himself as he searched for her number. He was about dialling her number when his phone rang. His heart skipped when he saw who was calling. It was Nevaeh. Did she see him? Did she know he was there? He raised his gaze to the building in front of him, his eyes darting around before glancing back at his phone. His heart thumped nervously as the phone rang. He subconsciously held his breath as his hand hovered over the phone and he answered it. He felt his heart freeze when her voice wafted through the phone. "Fran...cis?" He could hear the surprise in her voce which still sounded small and pleasant as usual. He could sleep in peace at just the sound of it. "Francis," She called again, and his heart quickened its pace again. He opened his mouth to say something, but he didn''t know what to say. No word could come through from his head. His heart hammered heavily behind his chest as he listened to her voice. "Are you there?" her voice small voice asked, and with each word she spoke. "Francis if you''re there, please say something." She pleaded. A few moments of silence elasped without him saying a word. "I...I''m sorry." He heard her say. Sorry? What was she sorry for? For replacing her sister without telling him? How would she feel when she knows her sister had played and used her. She had nothing to be sorry for. It wasn''t her fault and he couldn''t blame her for anything. As a matter of fact, he should be the one apologizing to her. He wanted to say all these to her but nothing could come out of his mouth. "Francis, are you still there? If you''re say please something." She pleaded once again. But what should he, or what could he say? He couldn''t think of anything at all. "I..I''m sorry too, Love." He mumbled out. He heard ruffling movement and he could guess she was sitting up. "It really is you." The smile that sounded through her voice was hard to miss. "Yes, it''s me." "Oh my God." She gasped but he could hear her voice tremble. "Where have you been? What happened to your phone? I was scared, Francis. You really scared me." Of course he knew she must have been scared and worried. "I''m sorry." He lowered his head and apologized. "I miss you, Vaeh. I really do. I don''t know what''s going to happen here on out, but I''m already lost." "Francis-" "Alot is going on out here, and I don''t know if I''d survive it without you." Tears rolled out his eyes, and he could tell she was crying too. "Are you crying?" Her broken voice came asking, and he could only shake his head as he wiped his face. "I can''t promise you anything for now, but please wait for me, Vaeh. I''ll try to fix this. I''ll get you back at whatever cost." He promised, even if he was certain he had no idea how to go about it.. But he wanted to try, atleast for her. You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Chapter 57 - Conflict Despite the heaviness of her lids, Nevaeh struggled to stay awake, not because she was too afraid to slip under the dark blanket of sleep, but because her mind was a tumultuous ground of thoughts. Thoughts of herself, her family, her sister, her fiance, the weird and strange things happening to her, and most importantly, how she was currently enjoying the warmth and comfort that Dale was providing her. His strong hand wrapped around her waist as he held firmly against his chest, providing her with a sense of security as she laid still under the warmth of his hand. He held her so firmly like that would take away her fear and worries. Heaven knows how much she wanted to break away from him, but her body seemed to want something entirely different. What had she thought when she agreed for him to hold her. Dear Lord, something was happening to her since the very moment she walked down the aisle with him. She had not felt the same since she laid eyes on him. And her heart was constantly in a conflict between her want and need. She needed her freedom. She needed to return to the life she knew, but her body desired something else. She desired the man who was currently holding her, even though she feared he might be whatever he claimed he was. She shut her eyes firmly and heaved a deep breath, but her action made Dale pull her closer, making her stiffen, even though all she wanted was to melt in his embrace. "I''m sorry." He suddenly whispered into her ears, making her frown. She heard the heavy emotion in his voice, and it unsettled her. "For what?" She asked without turning around to look at him. "For being helpless again. I know you''re scared to sleep, and I can''t do anything about it, and it''s my fault for bringing you into all this. I''m sorry." He apologised again. Nevaeh felt a pang in her chest when she heard him apologise like that. She didn''t know why, but she felt sad whenever he sounded this way. Maybe it was indeed his fault that she was being afflicted like this, but she didn''t like it when he took the blame. She wasn''t the type to apportion blames to people for whatever misfortune she experienced. Blaming people for inevitable mishaps wouldn''t change anything but would lead to more pain and resentment. "You shouldn''t blame yourself." She told him. She placed her small hand on his large one that held her. "We''ll find a solution to whatever this is." She told him. She didn''t even know what was truly happening to her, neither did she know how they were going to fix it, but she wanted to believe that everything would be fine. She still hasn''t convinced herself to come to terms with the crazy things Dale wanted her to believe, but she wanted to believe everything would be back to normal. All these things would turn out to be one big bad nightmare, and her life would be whole and peaceful once again. A few moments of silence reigned between them before they were interrupted by the sound of Nevaeh''s growling stomach. She was about to touch her stomach when she felt Dale''s hand give her tummy a gentle squeeze. "You''ll fall sick if you don''t eat. I''ll go bring you some food." He said against her ear. Nevaeh, who was slightly distracted by his warm breath against her ear, still didn''t think she was in the mood to eat, but her growling stomach insisted she should. And she knew she had to eat to replenish herself since she was currently lacking sleep. She nodded her head, and he kissed the back of her ear and whispered, "I''ll be back with something delicious." He said before rolling out of bed. Nevaeh watched him as he picked up the tray from before and walked out of the room. Her gaze remained on the door, but her thought remained on him and the way he kept making her feel. There was a warm feeling he ignited inside of her when he was there and a longing feeling when he wasn''t. As much as she wanted to push him away and remind herself of who she was to him, she found herself falling and drifting into his embrace and wishing he''d call her by her name. He was making a space for himself in her heart, as a matter of fact, he has already. She was falling for him, wasn''t she? A weird feeling coursed over her at that scary thought. She couldn''t fall for him. She couldn''t have feelings for him. He was her sister''s man, and she... she had Francis. She slowly reached for the bedside table and pulled out the drawer where she kept her phone. She hesitantly stared at it before scrolling through and dialling Francis'' number. She had not wanted to call him, because she was sure his number was still unreachable, but she was shocked when the number suddenly started ringing. Her eyes slightly widened as she stared at the phone, her heart slowly picking up its pace as it rang. She slowly placed it on her ear as it continued ringing. Would he answer? Her breath seized when the phone suddenly connected. "Fran-cis?" She whispered, her voice revealing the nervousness that was slowly engulfing her. "Francis," She called again when she didn''t hear his voice. Her hands holding the phone, suddenly turned sweaty as it struggled to keep the phone in place. "Francis, if you''re there, please say something." Her soft voice pleaded. She couldn''t hear his voice, but she could hear the faint sound of his breath. She knew he was there, listening to her. "I...I''m sorry." She apologised. He was probably disappointed in her and was speechless on what to say to her. She couldn''t blame him. She didn''t know what she''d say had she been in his shoes. But she wanted him to know this wasn''t her choice. She had not chosen to be there, neither did she choose to feel conflicted about her emotions for her sister''s husband. Tears pooled in her eyes as she thought about her betrayal. Her feelings had betrayed her and Francis. "Francis, are you still there? If you are, say please something. Please." She pleaded again as her tears streamed down her cheek. "I...I''m sorry too, Love." Her heart skipped when she heard his voice, and she instantly sat up. "It is you." She gasped in relief. "Yes, it''s me." "Oh my God." Her hand covered her mouth as she tried to hide her sobs. It was indeed him. This was the first time in weeks she had heard his voice. "Where have you been? What happened to your phone? I was scared, Francis. You really scared me." "I''m sorry." Sorry? Why was he apologising? She was the one to apologise to him. She had left without saying a word to him, and he couldn''t see her. She was about to say something when he spoke up. "I miss you, Vaeh. I really do. I don''t know what''s going to happen here on out, but I''m already lost." ''Lost?'' "Francis." More tears rolled down her cheek. "A lot is going on out here, and I don''t know if I''d survive it without you." "Are you crying?" She asked. She knew he was, and that broke her heart even more. "I can''t promise you anything for now, but please wait for me, Vaeh. I''ll try to fix this. I''ll get you back at whatever cost." He assured in a firm tone. She could tell he meant everything he had said, but how was he going to do that? Things weren''t as simple as her just leaving anymore.. A part of her now wanted Dale Stuart. So would she be able to leave if she had the means to? What did these feelings even mean? Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 58 - Peculiar Feeling Best novel online free at novelhall.com Exhaustion was all Nevaeh could feel on the last day. She had tried avoiding everything, including her thoughts, but no matter how she tried, she couldn''t. She hasn''t felt this mentally exhausted in her life before. Nothing was clear to her, and not one thing made sense. She had slept off last night even before Dale could return with the food. Hearing Francis'' voice and knowing how worried he was, intensified her anxiety, and she had cried herself to sleep despite being scared of what awaited her in her dreams. It seemed reality was more overwhelming and depressing than her dreams. In her dreams, all she knew was fear, and all she had to do was run. But here, she was running from so much more, and no matter how hard she ran, she couldn''t escape them. Though she had tried to sleep, she had a really rough night, as she kept waking at intervals because of her fears. But anytime she opened her eyes, she would see Dale staring at her like he was on guard, and he''d pat her to sleep again. She had noticed he had the light on all night, and it was because of her. She raised her eyes to Dale, who was standing in front of her with eyes impatiently staring at her and a plate of fruits in his hand while he watched her draw. Did he sleep at all? It seems he was punishing himself for her. He was trying to share in her turmoil. "I don''t think the fruits are necessary. I had my fill at the table, and...and you should sit." She said as she resumed shading. "You ate nothing yesterday, love. I have to make up for it." She raised her brows and peeked at him. Her eyes slowly took in his gorgeous form. He always looked better and more pleasing to the eyes each passing day. She wondered how she could still do that despite all the traumas she was experiencing at the time - Fantasizing about a man. A soft sigh escaped her lips as she resumed shading. She heaved another sigh when she saw the finished work of her drawing. She picked it and looked at Dale, her hands stretching out to give it to him. "This was what I saw in my dream." She said. He had asked her to draw the recent monster she had seen in her dream. Her curious eyes intently bored at him as she observed his countenance. "How does this help?" She asked when she saw the look on his face. He had asked her to draw it without telling her why. "At least, now I know what''s holding on to you." Holding on to her? "You mean¡ª" She paused as her hand travelled to her neck, and her eyes looked at the dark, scary monster in the paper. That thing had gripped her neck and looked like it was trying to take something off her. Was he trying to say that thing was real? "Is..is that thing..real?" Her voice wavered as she asked. Her brown eyes glistened with curiosity and fear. She knew she had almost believed their theories after that dream, but... Dale looked at her and placed the plate on the table before walking towards her. He crouched down in front of her and held her hands while she maintained her gaze on him, nervously waiting for him to answer her. His hand tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Everything I say to you is real, my love." He answered. Nevaeh felt her heart softly begin to thump behind her chest. Her racing heart was now a constant sign of her fears. Her mouth slightly gaped, but nothing came out. It was real? Dale sighed when he saw the look on her face. She wasn''t going to believe him too, was she? He looked at her hand that seemed far worst than anything he could imagine. The cut has eaten deeper and looked really ugly. "How''s the pain?" He asked. She lowered her eyes to her hand and replied. "Worse." He trailed his fingers around the cut and dark lines that ran up her arm. "I''ll take this off you, I promise." He raised her hand to his lips and placed a kiss on them. She could see the sincerity and determination in his eyes; she didn''t doubt him. But how was he going to take it off? He wouldn''t even let her see a physician. "I''ll be back." He told her. Was he leaving again? "Where are you going?" She asked. "To find a way to kill that monster." He replied, making her eyes widen. "K-kill?" She muttered under her breath. His lips curved up into a smile when he saw her innocent, scared look in her eyes. She was so easy to read. Though her thoughts were hidden to him, he could still guess all her thoughts with the sincere emotions that constantly flickered through her eyes. It was as if those eyes of hers were a mirror to her soul. So pure and true. "You should eat. I''ll be back before lunch." He told her with a smile, but she wasn''t smiling back at him; instead, she was reeking of fear, and the now intense sound of her pounding heart could attest to it. It was one thing to believe in demons, and it was another to hear her husband say he was going to kill one. ''Her husband?'' Well, that wasn''t the issue at hand. That thing in her dream was strong and scary. It exuded an ominous scent. If it was real, he shouldn''t be going after something like that. It...it could hurt him. Her heart race increased even more, and her hands slowly began to fidget. "Engel." She softly called as she held his hand, making him furrow his brows. "Please don''t go." She begged. She didn''t know what she was doing, but she couldn''t let him go. Real or not, she didn''t want him hurt. There was a strange protective feeling for him stirring in her heart. An odd yet familiar feeling pricked her so badly she didn''t want him to leave. He cupped her cheek and smiled, "You don''t have to fear, honey. I''ll be fine." His smile was calm and assuring, but it didn''t calm her heart. "Engel, please." She desperately pleaded, but he kissed her hands. "I''m just going out to find some answers, love. Even if I want to kill it now, it doesn''t stand a chance." He told her. He was going to get some answers? And not do anything like killing? Her worried eyes looked at him suspiciously, wondering if he was telling the truth. She sighed when she thought he wouldn''t lie to her. She nodded and slowly let go of his hand. She didn''t know what had come over her, but she had had a peculiar feeling. He rubbed his hand down her hair while smiling at her. His bewitching eyes glowed in a way that made her once-raging heart flutter. "Don''t miss me much." He said while she nodded. She has always tried not to, but her stupid heart always reacted differently. He stood up and pushed the fruits closer to her. "Don''t leave a piece of it." He told her. He was ordering her, and she knew it. She didn''t think she''d be able to finish it all, but she nodded anyway. "Good. I''ll be back soon." He told her while she nodded again. Dale had only taken a few steps when she stopped him. "Wait." She said. She stood to her feet and walked to the side of the table. "Laila-" She said and paused. "I want to talk to her." Her lips pursed when she saw the way his brows furrowed. "Why?" He asked. He sounded indifferent and not ecstatic to have her see the person she wanted. Why? Why did she want to see her? She also wanted answers for that too. Or maybe she already has it. "I want some answers too." She said. She waited as he silently stared at her as if trying to decide if he should grant her request or not. She heard him sigh, "Don''t get too familiar with her." He said, making her nod obediently. She could tell he wasn''t really into the idea of having her talk to Laila. "How do I reach her?" She asked when he was turning around. "Call her name." He said and walked out. ... Happy new year, everyone. We made it! It has been quite a year. To some of us, it has been a great year; to others, a challenging year. In all, we scaled through, and here we are. We''re most grateful to God for being faithful. I appreciate every one of you for your love, support and understanding in the last months. I''m grateful. I can''t love you enough. For this new year, I pray it brings us the positive things that the past years couldn''t, and even more. May each day of this year bring you and your family happiness and joy. Happy new year! Love.. Da_Rose. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 59 - Angel Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com ''Call her name.'' Nevaeh sat behind the table as she pondered on those words. How possible was it to call on someone by just calling out their name? How could it be... possible? She didn''t think it was. She bit on the lead of her pencil as she pondered on that crazy possibility. "Laila?" She softly called, her voice filled with doubt and anxiety, while her eyes darted around the place in search of whatever might pop up. What was she doing? She didn''t believe this, right? A soft chuckle escaped her lips when nothing happened. There was no Laila. How stupid of her to believe such a thing was even possible. She couldn''t even blame Dale this time. She had herself to blame for even considering this foolishness. "Elle." Her thoughts slurred when she thought she had heard someone call her. "Stop being stupid." She hissed and reprimanded herself. She couldn''t believe she was beginning to imagine things like this already. "It isn''t-" "Real?" She stiffened when she heard that. Her eyes dashed towards the door, but there was no...one. Her heart slowly began to thump hard when she realised that had come from behind her. And its pace increased when she realised there was a presence behind her. Her breath suddenly became heavy and slow. Like a turtle, she rose to her feet and slowly turned around. She gasped, and her feet stumbled backwards when she saw her ¨C Laila. S-she was...truly standing there, smiling at her. Her eyes looked around the walls and celiing before glancing back at her. She gently looked the girl over, and an inaudible gasp slipped off her lips again. "L¡ªLai-la?" She muttered under her breath as she looked over her in utter shock and disbelief. "I''m sorry, I startled you. He warned me not to, but I thought this would help you." ''Help her?'' Nevaeh didn''t know how this was going to help her. But wait! How was this even possible?! How did she get in there? "How?" Was the only word she could say. Laila smiled when she heard her question. "How am I here?" She asked as she walked closer, making Nevaeh instinctively take a step back. Laila stopped and gazed at her. She understood her fear. It was natural for her to feel that way. She''d be surprised if she behaved differently. "I can move through space. It''s called teleportation." She said with a smile that seemed like she lectured a small child. Of course, Nevaeh knew what teleportation was. Wasn''t that a fancy word created by crazy scientists and animators to deceive children and the minority of the world who believed in stuff like that? B-but how was it still possible? Laila''s smile dissipated when she saw the look on Nevaeh''s face. She sighed deflatedly. "Look, I''m not here to hurt you. I won''t hurt you." Won''t hurt her? Nevaeh took note of the word ''won''t''. The last time, she had used the word ''can''t'' when she begged for her help. She didn''t know why, but she believed her, just the same way she believes Dale. Laila took another step towards her, and this time she didn''t move. Nevaeh''s eyes followed her as she walked closer and closer till she stopped right in front of her. Laila''s hand slowly reached for her face, and Nevaeh heard her sigh again. "You''re not sleeping, Elleanor. The nightmares must have gotten worse." Nevaeh didn''t respond, as she could only look at her. She was still in shock by what had just happened. She couldn''t believe she had just appeared out of nowhere. They both stood and stared at each other in silence before Laila spoke up. "Engel said you wanted to see me." She said as she walked around the library hall while Nevaeh''s eyes closely followed, watching and observing her. "Yes," Nevaeh replied. Laila paused and looked at her. "Why?" ''Why?'' Minutes ago, she had wanted to ask her to show her something, anything to make her believe ¡ª believe all they''ve been saying. That supernatural beings truly existed in the world. But now... She had seen something unexplainable, and she didn''t know what to ask anymore. "How is any of this possible?" She inquired. She believed she and the majority of the people living in the world didn''t think any of this was possible. Laila smiled, "It''s no fault of yours that you don''t believe. After all, no one wants to believe in crazy stuff. That will only make them crazy. And also like they say, seeing is¡ª" "Believing." Nevaeh completed her sentence, making Laila smile. "Yes, but you forgot the last part. But feeling is the truth." She said as she turned and reached for a book on the shelf. She hissed and placed it back before resuming her walk around the room with her finger trailing the edge of the books. "Knowing and accepting what we are isn''t an easy fit, Elleanor. That I know, and also I know, henceforth, you''d guess and worry about our real identities and capabilities, but you already know who we are by what you feel, Elle." Nevaeh understood what she was trying to say. She doesn''t get any fiendish feeling around her or Dale, even though the man had a formidable aura about him. But that didn''t reveal what they were, and it doesn''t mean she could just accept anything. Knowing one''s identity was different from knowing their personality. She wasn''t asking who they were but what they were. "What are you?" Nevaeh outrightly asked. She remembered asking this question wrongly was the first mistake she had made when she met Dale. She had asked him, ''who'' he was, and he had told her, it wasn''t a matter of who, but ''what'' he was. He had left her a hint from the very beginning, but she had been too stupid to read some meaning into it. She nervously gulped when Laila suddenly turned towards her with a strange look gleaning in her eyes. She retreated when Laila took a step towards her, but she stopped herself and buried her feet to the ground as she kept coming towards her with eyes keenly glued to hers. She shouldn''t be afraid now. She had asked, so she should be brave enough to get the answers she wanted. She tried to calm herself as she gazed at Laila. "Why don''t I show you," Laila said. Nevaeh didn''t know what to expect but held her breath to brace herself for whatever was about to be revealed to her. But she held it even longer when Laila moved her shoulders, and a pair of sky-blue wings appeared before her eyes. Her eyes widened to the fullest as they stared at what stood before them. They were large, snowy and...and magnificent. It was surreal. Nevaeh blinked to ensure she was seeing something real and not just hallucinating. She had seen looping images of Angel Gabriel and Micheal, the archangel of God in the ancient and holy city of Jerusalem. But watching T.V, you could always tell yourself that it wasn''t real, that it''s nothing but a mere illusion perfectly enhanced by modern-day technology. But this... "Are they-" "Real?" Laila chuckled while she nodded. "Why don''t you see for yourself." She told her, silently urging her to come forward. Nevaeh subconsciously took slow steps towards her. Her eyes were solely fixed on the wings like they had enchanted her. Her heart thumped hard as she approached her while her astonished eyes looked at the celestial properties hanging from her shoulders, and her hand joined in the thrill as she struck it. A short gasp escaped her lips when she felt it against her fingertips. It was nothing like she had ever seen or felt before. It was fluffy and snowy. "You''re an...angel." Nevaeh didn''t know if she was asking or informing her. An angel? She took a step back and looked at Laila, who had a permanently amused look etched in her eyes like she was staring at her child exploring its amazing new toy. "You''re an Angel, Laila." She muttered in disbelief. "I am." Laila nodded with a smile. Nevaeh couldn''t believe it. Her mind stumbled back to some of the information she had read from that book. Supernatural beings and the abilities they possessed. Like super hearing, teleportation, telepathic skills and many more. So all those things were real? Angels truly existed? What about Dale? Was he an angel too? She believed he was. The wings! And the tattoo! Her eyes widened just as she thought about it. "Engel? He.. he''s an angel?" "Not really." Not really? Her brows furrowed. What did she mean? "What is he?" Her tone and voice were serious. She saw the hesitation in Laila''s eyes, and it made her nervous. "Laila, what is he?" She could already feel her heart pounding with unease. She didn''t know why, but she wanted him to be an angel with wings too. But the answer she got made her confused and worried. "Engel isn''t what you''ll call an angel. He supersedes that. He''s something more...." She paused when she thought about the right word to use. "Ancient." Ancient? Nevaeh was confused. But the wings? "The wings," she said. "He has a tattoo. I thought-" "That is a punishment he gave to himself.. It''s something to make him remember what he once lost." Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 60 - Punishment A punishment. Nevaeh was sure she had heard that before. He had said something about his punishment. Her eyes moved danced around in accordance with her brain as she tried to remember. The portraits. Her eyes widened as she turned towards them. This... this was the punishment he talked about. And now the tattoo was another? She didn''t quite understand this. Though she was getting some answers, she was left with a thousand more questions. How was this a punishment? And why was he punishing himself? This seems to be self-inflicted. And how does it help him remember? And what does he want to remember? She turned around to Laila, who had put her wings away. "Why is he punishing himself?" She asked. She didn''t know why, but she was already feeling sad again. It was as if she could feel the pain behind the answer she was yet to receive. Something was always happening to her whenever it came to Dale. There was a heavy and depressing feeling that comes to her heart when she remembers the heaviness of his voice or the sadness that lingers in his eyes sometimes when he stares at her. Her gaze on Laila was pressing, demanding an impromptu answer from her. Laila sighed when she saw the look in her eyes. "There are some things he should tell you himself, but be rest assured Engel is never going to hurt you. He''d die before a strand of your hair is hurt." She chuckled at her words. Hasn''t she been hurt already? Well, good luck to whoever placed that spell on her. They should find a dimension beyond reach for Engel. They''d be dead the moment his eyes fell on them. Nevaeh also believed Dale wouldn''t hurt her. Though she had been scared of the rumours surrounding him, the man had shown her there was more to him. And now, she was only scared because of how he made her feel. Nevaeh wasn''t satisfied with the answer she had be given. Wasn''t that the same answer Mr Simon had given her? She didn''t think Dale would tell her what he was or why he was punishing himself. She doubted he would give her all the answers she needed. Or would he? She had a feeling this punishment had something to do with Elle. Elle was his actual wife, so it should be related to her, right? She didn''t know. She wanted more answers, especially about Dale. But it seems those around him weren''t going to provide her with them. But, if Laila weren''t going to tell her anything about Dale, then maybe she would tell her about other stuff, like her kind. Things that would help her prepare herself. Whatever she was supposed to prepare herself for. "Are there others like you? I mean more, Angels." She asked as she walked towards her seat. She was feeling a bit tired. The things sleeplessness could do. She sighed inwardly. Laila followed her to the desk, where she also sat. "Yes, there are. But only a few dwell on this dimension, earth." "Dimensions?" She had read that too. "So there truly are planets exclusive for different creatures?" Laila nodded to her question. "And some of these other creatures live here?" She asked. A hint of fear was already lingering inside her eyes. She couldn''t imagine that the kind of monsters in that book actually walked among humans. That only meant they could take human forms. And as if Laila had read the last thoughts on her mind, she answered. "Yes. They take on the forms of humans and live among them." "Why?" She asked. "Different reasons, depending on their kind." Nevaeh slowly gulped at that information. She wondered if she had ever encountered a non-human species before. Her eyes fell on her hand. The lady who had done that to her wasn''t human, right? She couldn''t be. She had looked different and had suddenly disappeared into thin air. "The person who did this, was she human?" She asked. Her intensely curious eyes bore at Laila like she could kiss the answers off her lips with them. Laila gently touched her hand before replying, "No. She was a witch." Nevaeh''s eyes almost fell out. ''A witch?'' So there were witches too. But what business did she have with a witch? She looked at her hand again. Now this explains why the wound wouldn''t heal. There were so many mysteries surrounding this unfortunate cut on her hand. This was why Dale blamed himself for it and why he had not let her see a doctor because it wasn''t an ordinary cut. But why would a witch hurt her? "Why did she cut me? Was it some sort of ritual?" She asked. The curiosity glistening in her eyes was blinding. "Ritual? That''s your theory?" Laila almost laughed out. Nevaeh''s childish theory amused her. Nevaeh didn''t see the need to laugh. What did she expect her to say? She was new to all this. She lowered her eyes in embarrassment. "If it wasn''t that, then what was it?" She asked. "A spell," Laila replied as she tucked a piece of fruit into her mouth. "A s...spell?" Nevaeh asked in shock, while Laila nodded. She was spelled? She looked at her hand in horror before looking back at Laila. Laila sat upright when she saw the horrified look on her face. The girl had turned pale-white in an instant. "Elleanor, it''s not that kind of spell." She hurriedly said. "I''m not sure I know what has gone through that head of yours, but it isn''t a spell that kills you." Not the one that kills her. She whispered in her head. Nevaeh still wasn''t relaxed after that answer. "T¨Cthen what sort of spell is it?" Her trembling voice revealed how much fear was brooding inside her. "It''s a remembering spell." "Remembering what?" "Spell," Laila answered. "It''s a spell cast on people to make them remember memories they''ve lost or-" She paused. "A past life they can''t remember." She said. Nevaeh''s lid rapidly fluttered in a haphazard manner suggesting her befuddlement by what she had just said. A lost memory or a past life? W-what nonsense was this? Which of those cases applied to her? She didn''t suffer from memory loss. And what past life? "Which of both cases applies to my...to me?" She asked. Her heart was slowly pounding with fretful anticipation. She felt an eternity had passed when Laila didn''t instantly give her the answer she wanted. "Laila?" She softly called. She was feeling extremely nervous. "A past life." A past life? Dale had a past life with Elle? T¨Cthat was unexpected. Her eyes suddenly began to sting with tears. Why was her heart squeezing so badly? Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 61 - Pretence Or Not? You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com "Elleanor, are you crying?" Laila asked when she saw the tears that hovered in Nevaeh''s eyes, but Nevaeh shook her head. She wasn''t crying. She didn''t mean to cry. She has been crying a lot for no reason lately. She didn''t want to cry! But she was too late, as a tear already rolled down her cheek. Laila leaned closer to her and held her chin. "Elle, are you okay?" She asked with immense concern while Nevaeh nodded. She immediately wiped her tears away. She couldn''t tell her what troubled her mind or the emotion that seemed to be strangling her chest. She couldn''t tell her or anyone she felt jealous of her sister. Jealousy was a standard attribute of humans, but she shouldn''t be feeling this way. She couldn''t. She had thought this was a case of Dale only being in love with Elle, but it went far beyond that. She suddenly felt like an outsider, an intruder, and it made her feel bad. Her emotions made her feel like a horrible person. "Elleanor." Laila worriedly called out when more tears fell out of Nevaeh''s eyes. She leaned closer and cupped her cheek. "What is wrong?" "E..everything." Nevaeh broke down in tears. Laila didn''t know what had happened to her or why she acted this way. She thought she wanted some answers. Did she make a mistake by telling her? She sighed as she moved closer to her and hugged her head. Nevaeh wasn''t the type to accept sympathy. She didn''t like being weak in people''s presence, but she couldn''t help it. Here she was crying for the wrong reasons, even when she didn''t want to. "You should leave." She pulled away from Laila, who shot her a confused look. "Elle." "There''s too much to process in one day. I want to be alone." She said. Laila gazed at her with sadness in her eyes. She didn''t know why she was crying, but from how she looked, the girl seemed to have something eating her inside. How she wished she could read her mind, then maybe she''d be able to help her. The girl was always going through so much in her lifetime. Fighting unseen battles no one could help her with. She sighed as she continued to look at her. "I''ll call Dale." She said, making Nevaeh look at her in panic. "You shouldn''t. I.. Don''t¡ª" She stuttered. "Please don''t." She earnestly pleaded, making Laila sigh defeatedly. She patted her head. "Be fine, Elleanor." She said before disappearing out of sight, leaving Nevaeh startled. She looked at the spot she had just been standing, and she felt woozy. Could Dale do that too? Why was she thinking about him again? "Nevaeh, please know when to stop, I beg." She scolded herself as more tears streamed down her face. She wanted to lie down. She suddenly felt sick, and her head felt like it might explode. "Madam, should I get you something?" One of the maids suddenly approached her when she stepped out of the library. She flinched at the sudden intrusion. Her eyes trailed the blonde girl from head to toe. Was she an angel too? Or human? Would Dale keep more Angels around him? She didn''t know what to think. It seems the world she once knew and lived in had turned into something she was now clueless about. Anybody could be living under a disguise. She shook her head and walked away. Nevaeh laid in a fetal position on her bed, her eyes blankly staring at the bright light from the lamp post. A myriad of questions went through her mind, and she knew there was no escape for her. How had she gotten here? What ill-luck did she have to have been placed under such circumstances? Nothing in her life and about her made sense. She has lost the principles that guided her life, all for what, filial piety? All to save her family, she was leaving a lie. A spell had been cast on her for a memory she did not have but longed to have. Monsters were hunting her in her dream, which she now feared were real. She was losing her love for Francis and helplessly desiring her sister''s husband. What precisely in her life made sense right now? Absolutely nothing! She tossed the pillow to the floor and used her hand. She didn''t want to soil it with her tears. Memories of each moment she had spent with Dale came rushing through her head. The moments he had seduced her were so vivid and taunting. She groaned and muffled her tears as she bit her flesh to stop her from crying out. Her treacherous heart was throbbing hard, and it ached severely. "Elleanor." "Go away. I''m not thinking about him." She sobbed. "But I''m here." He was here? Her whole body stilled when she heard that. She wasn''t sure she wanted to look at him. In short, she didn''t want to. She closed her eyes when she heard the soft sound of his shoes against the floor as he walked towards her. "Don''t come closer." She said. Her eyes still shut so as not to look at him. He paused for a brief moment, but she heard him move again. She opened her eyes and glared at him. "Don''t come closer." She drawled as she slowly stood to her feet. She squarely stared at him, and the confusion and concern in his eyes for her almost swayed her. How gullible has he made her? Didn''t he know she was a twin? Or didn''t he know his so-called destined mate was a twin before he had married her? If he had abilities, why couldn''t he tell he had been living with an imposter? Why did he make her go through all this emotional turmoil, resulting in her wanting to hate herself? He should have saved her all this pain and stress. Did he know and was only pretending not to? "Do you know?" She suddenly asked, her tearful eyes suspiciously staring at him. "Know what, love?" He asked with an innocent tone. Was he playing her? Nevaeh wanted to scratch that face of his and sink her teeth in his flesh, completely tearing it off. If he didn''t want to say it, then she would. "That I''m not-" She paused. "That I-I''m not yo-" She couldn''t bring herself to say it. He took a step towards her, but she shook her head, telling him not to come closer. "Elleanor, what are you doing?" He asked. What was she doing? The question should be, why were they doing this to her? Did her emotions mean nothing to them? To her parents? To him? She looked at him in a pained way. He took another step towards her, but she took a retreating step. "Stop." She heard him say, and like a spell had been cast on her, she felt her feet rooted to the ground. Her surprised eyes looked at him as he crossed the space between them. "What did you-" "Shh,", He hushed her and cupped her cheek and wiped her tears away with his thumb. "Elleanor, I hate seeing you cry. It breaks me in a thousand ways you possibly can''t imagine." ''Elleanor?'' Her gaze was locked to his like she had been spellbound. Did he really not know, or was he still keeping in her deceit? Read novel fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 62 - Unedited You can read the novel online free at novelhall.com Dale had been surprised when Laila showed up at Kiel''s house with a worried look on her face. His brows narrowed when he saw the look in her eyes. He could tell something was wrong. "What did you do?" He asked in a grave tone making Laila shudder, and her lips tremble. She hastily shook her head indicating she had done nothing wrong, but the look on the faces of all three men told her no one believed her. "I didn''t do anything." She declared, but Dale was already on his feet stalking towards her. She took retreating steps away from the man. She still hasn''t forgotten her encounter with him few days ago. She''d live to remember it everyday of her life. The man was dangerous and out of control, especially when it came to his wife. "Laila?" Elyon teasingly called, and she heard the taunting amusement in his voice. She turned and glared at him before returning her gaze to Dale, who looked grim. "I showed her my wings and told her about the¡ª" She hesitated, her eyes quickly darting away from Dale''s gaze, too afraid to behold his murderous intent in them. "I told her about the spell and what it was supposed to do. And...." She paused again. She bit her lips and peeked at him from under her lashes before she continued. "S-she started crying, but I don''t know why." Laila felt her blood run cold when Dale''s appearance suddenly looked grimmer. "I swear Engel, that was all. I didn''t do anything to her." She hurriedly added. She trembled under his intimidating and menacing frame. She heaved a sigh of relief when he turned away from her. "Engel, what about the Hydregor?" Elyon asked when he saw he was about to leave. He turned to Kiel, who looked as if he was too bored to ask or make any contributions, and sighed. "An Hydregor?" Laila''s eyes widened when she heard him. She caught a glimpse of the paper in Dale''s hand, and her eyes widened even more. "She has a fear feeding demon in her dream?" Laila asked, sheer horror looming in her eyes. Engel turned to look at her. "Do you know how to kill it?" He coldly asked. "Kill it?" Laila was amused by his response. He should know better. An Hydregor wasn''t like every demon he could kill. But this was Engel. His only desire and concern was his wife, and to kill whatever causes her any harm. "You can''t kill it, only her can send it away." She said making Engel to narrow his eyes at her. She sighed and continued when it seems he was silently ordering her to continue. "The demon only feeds on fears, and she must have a lot of it to have attracted such a demon in her sleep." "What are you suggesting?" Elyon was getting bored and irritated. He wanted out of there. Engel had summoned him without asking if he had any prior engagement. "She must let go of her fears." "That''s impossible." Kiel suddenly said, making everyone look at him. This was the first word he had said since they started the conversation. Even now, he had his eyes fixed on whatever he found enticing, outside his window. He turned to look at them. His apathetic face still as inscrutable as ever. "She died with the fear of losing him." He gazed at Dale before looking outside again. "She has fear etched in her soul. She always be afraid. And as a human, she has even more fears." He said making them all quiet. But he spoke up again. "Aren''t you all over forgetting the main problem here?" He looked back at them, most especially at Engel who had a impatient look in his eyes. "Her nightmares. Weren''t they supposed to be memories? What changed?" He thoughtfully asked. Everyone turned their gaze to Engel who was completely silent, with a thoughtful look in his eyes. They waited for him to say something, but the man turned around and vanished out of sight. Dale felt a pang in his chest the moment he appeared in the room and he saw in her all curved up in a ball and in tears. She looked sorrowful from where he stood. "Elleanor." He softly called, but he felt another pang on his chest when she muttered in a tearful voice, "Go away, I''m not thinking of him." Was she trying to fight her thoughts for him? Why? He had tried approaching her, but she asked him to stop. His brows furrowed at that. What was wrong? Why was she always trying to push him away? His body stilled when she staggeringly stood up from the bed and raised her hand to stop him, again. He felt like a knife had been thrust through him. He was hurt. But he was more hurt seeing her scared and in tears. That broke him. He didn''t want to see her like this. This was the third time she was crying this badly and he was yet to know why. And this time she seemed to be in so much pain. He wanted to hug and calm her down. Beg her to stop crying, as it would make her sick. His muscles twitched to be wrapped around her. He took a step closer but she took a step backwards. "Do you know?" He heard her say, but underneath her words he could see the anger that lingered there, as it also burned in her eyes, as well as the accusing look that were pointed at him. He was lost on what she was asking about, and he could tell she was struggling to ask him something. Something important. But right now, he didn''t care about whatever it was. He only wanted to calm her down. "Stop." He ordered. He saw the shock in her eyes when she couldn''t move. She was making him do what he wasn''t supposed to. "What did yo-" "Shh-" He stopped her. His heart gave him a tight squeeze when he saw the look on her face. Her shining and mesmerizing eyes seemed to be reflecting so much anger and hurt. He cupped her cheeks and wiped her tears away. She struggled to move but he refused to let her go. "Please stop crying, my love." He pleaded, as he wiped her tears away. But more kept rolling down her cheeks. "Elleanor, are you scared of me?" He didn''t want to ask, but he feared he should. He couldn''t think of anything else, why she would always be in tears. They both gazed at each other without saying a word as they tried to ascertain each other thoughts. "I feel you''re scared of being with me, hence why you always push me away. Is that it?" He asked. "E-ngel." She whispered her name. He watched as her lips moved but nothing came out. "Tell me Elleanor, what do you want? Why are you so scared?" He asked again as he nudged her a bit closer. The drumming sound of her heart filled the entire room. "That I can''t read your mind, makes me feel useless." He said as he removed tear stuck hair away from her face, and kissed her salty cheek. He raised her chin up, so she could look deeply into his eyes. "What makes you so scared?" "You.." She replied. Read novel online free fast updates at novelhall.com Chapter 63 - Unedited Nevaeh had not meant to say that out loud but it had fallen off her lips without her realizing it. Her big glistening eyes gazed at him as he did her. "I ¨CI" She stuttered. She had seen the pained look on his face when she said that. It was as if he had expected her to say that. But she was sure he didn''t understand her words. She wasn''t scared of him, she was scared of how he made her feel. She was scared of how she felt about him. How he made her toes curl when he looked at her the way he was doing right now. How he easily makes every of her resolve crumble to the ground at a glimpse of his eyes. All these were what scared her. They both stared at each other in silence, but Nevaeh could swear he wanted to say something. "What do you want to say?" She heard herself ask. Her heart race increased as she waited for him to give her an answer. Her shiny eyes intently boring into his. Her heart took a long skip when he''s eyes twinkled and changed colors as he leaned closer. "That you''re beautiful, my love." He kissed her cheek. "That''s what I wanted to say." He smiled. ''Beautiful?'' That was it? Hard drumming sounds of her heart loudly began to echo in her ears when he leaned closer again, her eyes cautiously following him. "W-hat are you doing Engel?" She whispered in trepidation. "Making you less scared." He replied before sealing her lips in a kiss, making her stiffen on the spot. She tried moving away but the man held her tight to himself. She winced when he sank his teeth into her lips, and by the slight parting of her lips he took advantage of her. Nevaeh felt the wall of her heart was about to explode when he kissed her. W-what was he doing? She wanted to protest but he didn''t give her the opportunity to. She could fill the slow yet torturous movement of his lips against hers. "You can let your fears go now." He whispered against her lips without taking his lips off her. Let her fears go? Was that what he was doing? Trying to take her fears? Nevaeh wasn''t sure she could do that. She pinned her toes to the ground when he pulled away from her lips and kissed her chin and her cheeks. A shameless moan threatened to slip out her lips, but she held it in. "I want you to want me, love, without your fears. Just once." His warm breath kissed her neck before his contrasting cold lips came in contact with her neck. Nevaeh felt a tingle in her spine. She didn''t know if it was his lips or his voice that made every of her cells swell. "En-gel." She mumbled. He shouldn''t do this to her. She wasn''t in a good frame of mind. "Once my love. Just once, let me be all you desire." He desperately pleaded. His slow torturing hand travelled up her thighs and underneath her gown. "You want nothing else but me." He whispered. "I want peace." She whispered back. "Then let me be that." He said. Neveah was hazed up when she suddenly felt her body move through space and soon she herself against the wall, her body trapped between his heated body, and the cold wall behind her back. So he could do that. Move through space. An unintentional moan rolled off her lips when his lips travelled around her neck, kissing her and creating bumps on her skin with his hot fanning breath. She moaned a bit louder when he kissed her breast, and his tongue licked her up to her collar. His hand lifting her left leg to his waist while the other squeezed her waist. Her fingers gripped his shirt while her toes dug deeper into the floor. "Dal-e, please stop." She begged, but the tone at which she begged and the way her neck tilted to the side to give him all the access he needed, contrasted one another. "Are you sure?" He whispered against her ears, as the tip of his tongue teased the sensitive spot of her ear, and his finger touched the entrance of her core, making her grip him a bit more. "Tell me love, what are you scared of?" "I-I" She stuttered, not because she didn''t know what to say, but because she couldn''t arrange her thoughts. He was confusing her. His soft and angelic voice was making her lose reasoning, and his tongue...and hands. Sweet lord. "Love?" He urged. He was doing this intentionally. "Losing you Engel. I''m scared of losing you." She blurted out. She hissed when he suddenly pulled away from her. But his finger didn''t stop trailing her folds. She could barely keep her leg hanging on his waist. Her glistening eyes pierced his when he lifted her face to his and said, "You''ll never lose me. Never." Nevaeh didn''t think that was true. He didn''t understand what she meant, neither did she understand what he was doing to her body. She gasped when suddenly lifted her off the ground and placed on the bed. A naughty smirk curved up his face and Nevaeh swallowed. She knew his intentions were never good when he stared at her like that. And he confirmed it when he lowered himself to her and started kissing her legs. "Engel-" "Shh, let me ease your pain for today, honey. Just today. Then you can decide if you want more tomorrow." Nevaeh feared the way his eyes twinkled when he said that. But she didn''t have the time ponder on them, when his lips came in contact with her skin and that made her squirm. It was as if he was torturing her with a jet load of pleasure. And she wanted more of it.. What was Dale doing to her? She didn''t know, and she feared she might not last the night with him. Chapter 64 - Easing The Tension Warning: R18. Read with caution. (But I know you''ll still read. Hehe) ... A cup of warm chocolate was pressed against her lips while she leaned against the headboard of the large kings'' sized bed. Her eyes were lost in space, but her mind was filled with the events of this morning. Dale had done a lot to her, and at the mere thought of it, her cheeks turned brick red. She bit the side of her lips when she remembered it all. "Engel, what are you doing?" She had asked in a lazy voice, almost sounding like a whisper. She could see his intention, but she still asked. His lips curved in a wicked way that made him look more mischievous and sinfully handsome. "Easing the tension." Easing what tension? Her tension? She didn''t think this was the best way to ease whatever she felt. She wanted to talk to him. She had just been crying moments ago because of how she felt, and now he was making her feel something else: heat and hunger. Nevaeh had her mouth gaped when he continued to travel up her thighs, his mouth dropping spine curling kisses wherever his lips touched, and his tongue intentionally teasing her skin. In contrast, his fingers slowly travelled up her other leg. The feeling was tingling and stimulating and.... taunting. She arched her back when his lips reached her inner thighs, and he decided to use his rough, hot tongue to tickle her skin. A low gasp escaped her lips in excitement. She was burning up like a sick cub with fever. He was igniting a fire in her. A fire she wanted to quench before it consumed her and her rationality, but he was slowly tilting her off that cliff. Her hand reached for his shoulders, but he gripped them just before she could touch him. He was careful enough to avoid the cut on her hand. Her half hooded eyes flew open when he stopped her. She held her breath when his gorgeous face came on display. His hair hanging over a side of his face and his magical eyes, gleaming and staring at her with intense passion like he could set her ablaze like an inferno. She waited to hear what he''d say, but he left her dumbfounded when he put her fingers in his mouth and began to lick them like a delicious cone of ice cream, with his seductive gaze still fixed on her. His movement was slow, stirring up a turmoil of strangling anticipation. Nevaeh felt embarrassed having him lick her fingers while he stared at her like she was some goddess whose feet he''d worship and grovel at. Her hands weren''t even washed, but pondering about the dirtiness of her fingers became the least of her worries when he began to do something crazier¡ªtouching her core. Even though it was just the tip of his fingers grazing her folds through the linen of her underwear, Nevaeh still felt she could melt into the sheets of the bed and simply vaporise with the amount of heat burning up inside of her. She felt like molten lava. "D-Dale," "Mm," He answered without looking at her. He kissed her hand down till he diverted his attention towards her chest, which he was now torturously pleasuring with his mouth. He grazed her nipple through her gown, making her squirm. "I''m... very hot." She said. Her eyes glowed, and her batted breath hitched when he looked at her again. "That is good, my love. Hot is good." His husky voice replied before rolling the hand of her dress off, leaving her shocked as she wondered when and how he had undone her zip. His eyes darkened when her mounds came in view, and Nevaeh could swear his eyes had changed again. He kissed her taut pink nipples, and she writhed underneath him. "Careful, love. You don''t want to hurt your hand." Hurt her hand? He was the one hurting her with all these wicked things he was doing. Her body was twitching and burning with need. He was making her feel what she hadn''t felt before. And his heated body on hers made her feel she was in a burning furnace about to be extinguished by his fiery passion. It was too much. She moaned when his tongue rolled around her areolar, and his hand played with the other, flicking the nipples in a way that made her jolt with sensuous waves. "Da¨C." She swallowed her words when he sucked her breast, and soon he alternated his movement between both breasts. It was maddening and passionate. Nevaeh has never felt anything like it before. She felt, even more, need and passion, in places, she hadn''t thought she could. A web of dark bliss engulfed her, and she feared she was going to be lost in it. She squirmed when he pulled away from his wicked exploration on her mounds and crawled down on her. Nevaeh could feel rational warning bells set off in her head, but the chains of lust had shackled her to her knees, and she was at the mercy of Dale Stuart and his deviousness. Even now, the man exuded a kind of aura that made her want to claim him for herself. She wanted him for herself and no one else. What was all this? She jerked at intervals when electrifying waves coursed through her skin, and the muscles of her stomach contracted when his lips touch her. He was going down on her, and her pounding heart began to thump harder. He held her legs apart and planted himself there. Her eyes flew wide open when she wondered what he was about to do. He couldn''t...he shouldn''t go that far. "Engel, Please don''t." Her tiny voice seeped out. But he looked at her briefly before looking at her lady part, making her face flush with embarrassment. "I''m not doing anything, love. I just want to kiss you and have a taste of you. It will reduce your tension." He should stop saying that. She didn''t want ...him...to "Uhmm", She moaned when she felt his lips suddenly pressed against the lips of her core. It was surprising and incredibly sensuous.. She jolted when he kissed her again, and Nevaeh felt a gush of shocking and stimulating waves wash through her. Chapter 65 - Read Thoughts Warning: Half of the chapter is rated 18. You can skip to the lower half if you''re not not interested. .... ''What was that feeling?'' Nevaeh had never felt the way she was now, before. His hot breath was touching her there, and it increased her temperature by leaps. She wanted him to kiss her again but without the restriction of the material covering her. And as if he had heard her plea, ripping sounds of cloth passed through her ear and in the next second, she felt his tongue on her fold. She was naked before him, and that jolted her brain back to reality. What was she thinking? She couldn''t let him kiss her there. She tried moving backwards, but Dale''s reflex was fast as his strong hands pulled closer, and he buried his lips there. His tongue ran up the entire length of her core. "Lord-" She moaned at the delicious and strange feeling that soared through her. "That is it, love. Just relax, my angel." He muttered, and Nevaeh could swear his lips were still against her because she felt her muscles twitch at the movement of his lips. Her nails dug into the sheet when he spread the lips of her core and sucked her most sensitive part. She writhed and squirmed. Her eyes rolled back into her head as she fell into the abyss of carnal pleasure. It was remarkable and tauntingly delightsome. She wanted more. Bundles of nerves and muscles were being interlinked in her stomach. Her hand subconsciously reached for his head, desperately asking him to give her more. More of his mouth and wicked tongue. She didn''t want this feeling to end. And as if he understood her cry, he went deeper, moved faster, pleased every part of her till loud cries of pleasure came gushing out of her mouth. "E-ngel, please." She cried. Tears pooled in her eyes, but this time it wasn''t tears of fear or pain but of pleasure¡ªthe pleasure of this devilish man working wonders on her. "Oh god." She gasped when he gently pressed his teeth against her folds, holding them together and building some anticipatory tension and need in her. In a swooping move, he flicked her clits with his tongue, making her jolt. "Damn, you Engel!" She cussed, making the man chuckle. He groaned when she dug her nails in his back, and that stirred him to eat her more. His tongue sorted her entrance, and he thrust it in but pulled away whenever he hit that small barricade. Nevaeh didn''t know how long that had gone, but soon she felt a burning pressure building inside of her. She felt every stroke of his tongue in a magnified and intense way, and she felt like she might explode. In her head, she was floating in a cloud of ecstasy with images of Dale soaring around. "Engel, I-I," "Let it out, love. All of it." He said, and as if that was all she needed, Nevaeh felt a thundering load of pleasure hit her, and her body began to tremble uncontrollably. She felt hot juice slip out of her, but Dale had his lips still mounted on her like he wanted to drink out of the stream that flowed out of her. He kissed her dry till she stilled, and all she could hear was ragged breath. Her cheeks flushed in embarrassment when he looked at her with a naughty smile and licked his lips. "Feel good?" He cocked a brow at her. She covered her face in embarrassment and looked away, too ashamed to admit that was the most remarkable feeling she had ever felt, and she had enjoyed it without guilt. She had utterly forgotten about every negative emotion she had been wallowing in. A deep chuckle rumbled out of his chest, making her look at him through her fingers. By the gods, the man was sinfully beautiful, and he made her want to commit more sin with him. She flinched when he plopped himself by her side and wrapped his hand around her waist. But soon, her shoulders slouched, and she melted into his embrace. This felt good. Really good. "You should think less, love. You''ll always have me, always." He kissed her shoulders while he pulled her closer. Nevaeh wished his words could be true. She also wanted that. She didn''t know when this covetousness or greed started, but she wanted his words to be true. A part of her wanted him, and she still wasn''t sure why. She jolted out of her reverie when she heard the sound of the door, and her shaded face went a few shades darker when she saw the half-naked man approaching her with a tray of food. He was bent on feeding her. "Why''s your face red?" "Nothing." She lied as she put away the cup of chocolate that had now turned cold on the bedside table. She was too embarrassed to look at him. He shot her a knowing look that suggested he already had his answer, but he was going to let her get away this time. She shyly bit her lips and lowered her head in embarrassment. They had both done something intimate, and she didn''t know how to look at him anymore. She should have built a stronger resolve. Even if she did, she was sure he''d bring it down with little or no effort. This man was a walking, living, breathing temptation. A temptation that made her want to forget all her morals and simply sin with him. "Did you go to the kitchen like this?" She asked, her eyes staring at his bare chest. He chuckled and nodded his head, making her eyes widen. "You don''t have to be so possessive, wife. No one saw me." He told her, but she glared at him. "I''m not hungry." She said before he could even put the tray down. "You didn''t eat the fruits I asked you to." How did he know? "Did Laila tell you?" She asked in a guilty note. "She didn''t have to. The maids'' thoughts were loud and clear." The maid thoughts. He could read the maids thoughts? Her eyes widened as she gazed at him. "You can read thoughts?" She asked in shocked surprise, but her eyes widened more when he replied. "Yes." Yes? Did that mean he could read hers? If he could, what did that mean? That maybe he knew? Her heart suddenly began to beat. "Can you can read mine?" She didn''t know what answer to expect. Her heart was already hammering fast. "No." He said. Was that disappointment she heard in his voice? She didn''t know why she felt relieved by his answer. But wait, he couldn''t read hers? Why? "Why can''t you read mine? Is there something wrong with me?" She panickly asked. She couldn''t believe she was worried he couldn''t read her thoughts. What did she even want? She watched as his face turned serious. He held her hand and moved closer to her. "There''s nothing wrong with you, love." "Then why can''t you... Are there other people whose thoughts are unreadable?" She asked, but he shook his head. "Just you." He told her. "And which I somehow still find strange." Nevaeh narrowed her eyes at him, "Strange? How?" He sighed as he kissed the back of her hand. "The first time we met, I had read your thoughts, and you were about to die.. You were sad and depressed, and you desired me to kill you." Chapter 66 - The Wait For millennials, Dale had waited to once again have what he had lost, to have and cherish a second opportunity at love, and cling onto it with his entire being. Years, he waited and almost in vain he had thought his wait would be, till that faithful day which he''d forever have etched in his heart. He could remember like yesterday. Like she was still standing on that bridge wanting to take her life. The broken look on her face was unforgettable as she stood under the angrily pouring rain, all drenched but with no care for what was happening around her. He was transfixed like he had been struck by a bolt of lightning when he saw the one face that had been etched on the walls of his heart for thousands of years. The face he had desperately longed for with all his heart, was now before him. He had lived times and eras, searched countries and roamed realms to find her and catch a glimpse of her face again. To see her eyes twinkle like the stars and watch her smile even if it was from a distance. But the wait was so long and he wondered if she''d ever return. He had paid a price to have her back, but he didn''t think she''d return. Many times he''d sit and look at the portraits on his wall with so much pain in his heart, that it finally became numb. But for the first time in millennials, Dale had felt his heart beat again, but not out of joy, out of fear. Fear of losing her again before he could even get to be with her. He had saved her from falling when she jumped but she had made an outrageous request; a punishment for saving her and request, she had called it. "Please put out of my misery." She had earnestly begged when she saw the blade he had at hand. The very blade he had stolen to experiment another way of ending his life. "Let it be a kind request from one miserable fellow to another." She had said like she knew why he was there. He didn''t need to ask how she had come to the conclusion that he was also miserable, because he truly looked the part, and there was also a blade in his hand. Dale had felt his heart squeeze and pull him in different directions at the look in her eyes. One glance into her mind and he saw the anger, pain, and void that overwhelmed her, just like he felt. "Let me end our misery, but not with death." He told her, while she looked at him with confusion. He kept a distant eye on her for years while he worked on a most appropriate approach to seek her hand. All these he did without trying to take another look inside her head. For he knew exactly what he''d find there. She was without her memories and he had forcefully given her another lifetime which she might not want. Looking at the woman seated before him now, Dale wondered if he had made the right decision then, because even now she seemed to be with so much fear and he couldn''t tell why. Maybe if he had looked more and had not stopped himself, maybe now, he''d know why she still acted this way. He sighed as he looked at Nevaeh who was staring at him with unreadable eyes. He brushed his hand down her face. "I don''t know what makes you sad, Elle. I wish I can see it." He really wish he could. He had not expected the sudden block in her head. Something had changed with her and he didn''t know what or why. Despite his search for answers he hasn''t found just one clue. Had he not read her mind before, he''d say she wasn''t human, but now he was dumbfounded. .... Nevaeh was shocked to hear that Elle had been depressed and had tried to take her life. She looked at Dale in utter disbelief, not able to believe what she has heard. Her sister was always so tough she couldn''t imagine that she would ever want to die. She had a good life going for her, or so she thought. Elle hasn''t always been forthcoming with the things happening in her life. It was as if she had high walls erected around her heart that kept people from knowing her ¡ªfrom seeing through her heart . Even as kids, she had been the one trying to make all the moves in keeping their bond. She''d tell her all that was going on with her, she was the first she told when she had started dating Francis, had her first kiss and even said yes to Francis. Every detail of her life she had shared, but Elle...she never told her anything. They were twins but they were worlds apart. Never connected at heart or anything, but she should have known her sister was depressed. Nevaeh was shocked and disappointed in herself. She wasn''t a good sister. And now here she was convecting her sister''s man. "Elleanor, are you crying?" She heard him ask. Crying? She wasn''t crying. "No," she replied as she reached for her face and wiped her tears. She looked at him. There were questions burning in her. Questions she wanted to ask, but she feared their answers. "When you said, the portraits helps you remember, that meant that you''ve¨C" She paused when she realized she was about to use the wrong word. "It means that we''ve met before, before this lifetime, right?" She couldn''t believe, she was now talking about reincarnation. "Yes." He nodded. "In our past lives¨C?" "Not ours. Just yours." He corrected her. Just hers? Nevaeh frowned as she pondered about it. If it was just Elle''s that meant¨CHe was immortal. He was some creature she still didn''t know. She knew she shouldn''t be surprised by any of these information, but she couldn''t help but still feel surprised. She calmed herself to continue with her question. "In my past life, was I by chance...a twin?" Her voice thinned out with each word she had said. She knew asking such a question was dangerous but she couldn''t help it. A part of her wanted to be hopeful that maybe, just maybe, she had also been a twin and he''d had been with her. But his answer shattered any fragment.of hope that lingered in her heart. "No." "No?" Nevaeh felt heart constrict at his answer. So if she wasn''t a twin then, that also meant Elle wasn''t a twin. What does that mean? How come they were now twins? "Would you know if you I wasn''t the one you''ve been waiting for?" She asked making him look at her confusedly. "What do you mean?" "I mean, how would you tell the difference if i were to be a twin?" Dale narrowed his eyes at her. She could tell he was trying to understand where her questions were coming from. Nevaeh knew these weren''t the question she was supposed to ask, but she couldn''t help herself. There was an innate desire to be with him, and if there was the slightest possibility that she was truly his soulmate, then she''d find it. "Elleanor, what are trying to say?" "I''m saying, w..what if I am not your wife, Engel? What if I only look like her? Like a spitting image of her?" "That''s impossible." He told her. Impossible? She didn''t think it was. "But how would you know?" He silently gazed at her for a while and said. "I don''t know. But I don''t think it''s possible, love. I know all these things are new and overwhelming, but you shouldn''t fill your head with such imaginations." imaginations? She wished they were just imaginations. She wished they weren''t real. She truly wished she wasn''t caught up in all this ¡ª between telling him the truth and continue to have him believe in a lie. She really wished it was that simple. She looked at his eyes and her heart pricked her. He was good and true. Too good to be lied to or make his waiting be in vain. There were so much things she still wanted to know about him, but she wasn''t so sure anymore. maybe there was no need because she had to tell him. She had to tell him the truth. If he had truly waited for so long, then he didn''t deserve to be lied to. "Dale, there''s something I have to tell you." She said making the man gaze at her with much intent. "What is it?" "My imagination, it is real." She told him, making the man brows furrow at her. "I''m sorry for Lying Engel, but.. I''m not your wife. My sister is." My imagination, it is real." She told him, making the man brows furrow at her. "I''m sorry for Lying Engel, but.. I''m not your wife.. My sister is." Chapter 67 - Destiny? Nevaeh felt the world at a standstill as she stared at the face of the man peering at her with an inscrutable look. Her heart pounded with anxiety and fear. She couldn''t guess if he were in a state of bewilderment, but she thought he was. Her heart trembled erratically, just like her fingers suddenly turned sweaty. Her nervous gaze was keenly fixed on him, too afraid to bat her lashes. She knew it was about time she told him the truth. As a matter of fact, it was long overdue, but seeing his reaction, she feared if she had made a mistake. Has she? She stilled at the thoughts of what was possibly going through his mind. She had dallied and overly pondered on several questions for too long - questions she might never be able to answer, and that had brought her to this point, breaking his trust. But if she must shake off this feeling of guilt and fear that loomed in her heart and overwhelmed her soul, if she must set herself free, then the truth was the only way. After all, it was said that only the truth makes one free. Her lungs felt tight as they slowly ran out of air. She was too nervous to take a breath and too tensed to let her lids flutter. She feared he might disappear from her sight if she as much as blinks, and she''ll forever miss the opportunity to apologise genuinely. The entirety of her being was glued and focused on the man before her¡ªthe man who she had once feared for the danger signs around him, but now all she feared was what he thought of her. "En-" "What did you say?" He finally broke the silence after aeons of utter silence. His voice wasn''t filled with shock or surprise. It sounded neutral so much it missed the vigour that had always lingered in it, and it scared her. She sunk her sweaty hands into the sheet, firmly gripping it for support to garner the strength to repeat the tongue slicing words she had muttered seconds ago. "I¡ªI''m not your wife." She repeated, and for the first time, he gave a reaction; his eyes changed. As if the previous round of silence wasn''t frustrating enough, he fell into another round of it, making her heart skip and beat erratically. She felt intensely nervous when she couldn''t tell what he was thinking. His blue-green eyes were calculative and discerning. "You''re not Elle." Nevaeh wasn''t sure if that was a question or not, but all she could do was nod affirmatively. "I''m sorry." She apologised, her eyes instantly brimming with tears that burned her throat and chest. "I didn''t mean to lie. I had no choice. I was only trying to ¨C" "Save your family." He said, and she nodded. She carefully moved closer. With hitched breath and trembling hands, she slowly reached for his hand on the bed, and she fearfully placed her small hand on his. He looked at her hand on his, and she feared he might take it away, but he didn''t. "Dale, believe me, I didn''t intend to lie to you. I had no choice at the time." "So you decided to what...use me?" "No!" She vigorously shook her head, her hand over his instinctively tightened while she crawled closer to him, her eyes dancing with dread and staring at him with intense desperation. "I didn''t want to use you, or lie to you, or take advantage of you. I never planned for this." She hurriedly explained. ''I didn''t intend to want you or fall for you as I have done.'' Were the words she didn''t add. "Engel, I didn''t intend for any of this to happen." She subconsciously squeezed his hand even more, making him glance at his hand and back at her. "Every day with you was torture because I had to remind myself that you''re my sister''s man, and I shouldn''t give in to you. I never wanted any of this." Her eyes glistened with more tears. She could tell he was trying to gauge the weight of her words, and she wanted him to believe her. She had been thrust into this just like he was, making them victims of her mother''s ploy, but the only difference was, she knew the truth. She knew the truth, yet she kept it. She knew he wasn''t his, but she had fallen for him nonetheless. She had enjoyed every one of his kisses and caresses, accepted his care and kindness in her sister''s stead. "So why are you telling me now?" He asked, making her stiffen. Why was she telling him now? Because she was being hopeful that maybe he could find some way to know if perhaps she was what he was looking for. If perhaps she was his... destiny? Her grip around his fingers subconsciously loosened as she lowered her head. "Be¡ªbecause it is the right thing to do." She muttered. Her voice was low, and she dared not look at his face. She feared he might see the truth from her eyes. He might not be able to read her thoughts, but his soul searching eyes always reflected her thoughts. A part of her wanted to tell him the truth, tell him why she was spewing this truth, but she couldn''t. She couldn''t let her selfishness ruin his life or make his sacrifice be in vain. A tear rolled down her eyes as she whispered, "I''m truly sorry, Engel. You have no idea how sorry I am." She cried. Seconds of silence reigned between them, and Nevaeh, who was filled with curiosity, raised her head to him. She was surprised to see him staring at her chest like he was listening to her heartbeat. "What''s your name?" "N-Nevaeh." Her lips trembled. "Nevaeh Steele." She told him. Her heart skipped when she saw his lips in an attempt to mutter her name, but it never came. "Is there something else you have to say?" He asked while she shook her head. "Then tell me, where is Elle?" She lowered her head in shame and replied, "I don''t know." Chapter 68 - The Truth Dale couldn''t believe all he had heard, but he knew she spoke the truth, except once. She had lied when he asked about her reason for making this confession. Her eyes had given her away, and the rhythm of her heart had changed as well. It had a unique way of beating when she told a lie. Whoever or whatever this woman sitting in front of him was, she was the most predictable and readable soul he had ever met despite not being able to read her mind. One glance into her eyes was all it required to see through the pages of her heart and deepest thoughts. Her emotions and thoughts were always so perfectly reflected in her eyes. Though she rendered his powers useless, she still made it easy for him to figure her out. In their short time together, he had learnt to decipher her emotions. He knew when she lied and spoke the truth. He knew when her fears overwhelmed her, and she tried to put up a front. He knew when she felt relaxed and happy, even though it was rare. Thinking about it now, her fears and reactions all made perfect sense to him. She had been trying to fit in while being cautious and scared of getting caught. The fear she had exuded was indeed enough to attract a fear feeding demon in her sleep. Right at this moment, he felt sorry for her. She was somewhat a victim in whatever ''cosmic'' play was going on. His eyes grazed over her again. If all she said was true, there was indeed no disparity between her and the woman he had met on the bridge. And there was no difference between them and the woman he had loved for thousands of years. He couldn''t believe she was reborn as a twin, or whatever the case was. But how was this even possible? He wondered as he looked her over again. Now, he understood why her taste and attitude had changed. She had behaved differently and almost spoke differently, but he had been too engrossed with being with her and having her relax around him that he had missed it all. How did he not know of her for so long? Her heart was still pounding like a beating drum about to rupture, and the nervousness emanating from her was suffocating. He could see how tight she gripped the sheet for support. What a scared bunny she has always been. This confession utterly destabilised Dale. He felt betrayed and hurt, but not by her. But by everyone who had felt his feelings were a joke and had played such a trick on him. The price he had to pay! The nerve they had! Twins? What was this supposed to mean? He didn''t know what to make of the situation, but one thing was set in his mind. He would find whoever was responsible for this, and he''d make them pay. He stood up to his feet, making Nevaeh anxiously look up at him. "Are you leaving?" She asked. He looked down at her and answered, "Yes." He took note of her reaction. "Are you...Should I¡ª?" She gulped back her words, and her heart hammered even more heavily. Dale could imagine what she wanted to ask. Looking at her, his heart ached, and he felt slightly disoriented on what to do. Her eyes were filled with so much fear and anxiety he could almost taste them. "Thank you for telling me the truth." He said to her, making her nervous eyes narrow at him intently. "I''-i''m sorry I took so long to tell you." She apologised again. "I should have told you sooner." "It''s okay. I''m grateful for your honesty, and you should stop being scared now. I won''t hurt you." "I''m...not scared." She told him. He tilted his head to the side to carefully gaze at her before taking a step towards her. He held her chin up. "Yes, you are." He told her. He gently brushed his hand through her hair, and he sighed. He could feel his heart racing in an unfamiliar way. Why? He leaned a bit closer and said. "I''m not going to hurt you." "I know." Her tiny voice sounded so confident than she had ever expressed since this conversation began. Dale narrowed his eyes at her, "How?" He asked. He wanted to know how she could be so confident even at a time like this. He could be angry, and she knew he wasn''t human. Nevaeh moved a bit closer to him, bringing her face so close to his. He could feel her breath on his face, and her lips were staring right at his. Her shining eyes gazed at him in a piercing manner while she reached for his left hand. "Because I trust you, Engel." She said. ''Trust?'' If she did, why was her¡ª "Then why is your heart beating so fast?" He lowered his eyes to the left side of her chest. He could hear it thumping hard, almost as if it would break her ribs and burst out of her chest. "Because I''m nervous." He cocked his brow in a questioning manner. He watched her swallow as she leaned even closer to him, and her hand on his held him a bit tighter. "Why?" He inquired. "Between my sister and I, who have you been waiting for?" She asked. Dale was stunned by her question. That was the question he had not been able to ask himself. Who between them was his wife? He took a clear picture of her face, and he pulled away, almost making her lose her balance, but she stabilised herself. "I have to go." He said as he took a step back. "Where are you going to?" "To get some answers." He told her. He realised this had become a constant thing for her to hear from him. She stared at him for a while and nodded. "Don''t leave." He suddenly told her. He didn''t know why but he had a feeling she might leave before he returned. "Wait for me." He added while she nodded. He glanced at her one more time before turning towards the door. He paused when she suddenly called his name. "Engel." She called, and he turned to her. Her lips moved hesitantly. "My..my parents." She stuttered. Dale knew what she was trying to say. She was still worried for the people who put her in a mess such as this. "I won''t hurt them." He assured her while she nodded appreciatively. Had she not said something, he still wouldn''t have hurt them. They must be clueless about the situation. If anyone knew something about this, it would be that damned Elder, Sanaiah. Ahh! The things he would do to her! Chapter 69 - Struggles Nevaeh has always believed life shouldn''t be complicated, but should be lived with ease. Love and family, have always been the simple things she wanted out of life, but now she wanted a miracle. A miracle of owning something that probably isn''t hers ¡ª Dale Stuart. For weeks, she had feared he was her sister''s husband, and she had feared being a bad person by admitting what she felt inside of her. But now that she knew the truth, that they had only been one of them in their past lives, she didn''t know what to feel anymore. Who between them was reincarnated? Was it her? Or Elle? Dale had gone in search of answers, and she wondered what the answers would be. She had her eyes fixed on the door, while her heart kept pounding loudly. He had promised not to hurt her family, and she believed him, but she had to inform them. Reaching for her phone from the bedside table, she dialled her father''s number, but he didn''t pick up. She dialed her mother''s number, after the third ring she answered. "Nevaeh?" She called in surprise. "I was about calling you." "Mother." Nevaeh''s voice trembled when she heard her mother''s voice. Mrs Steele suddenly became alert when she heard the way she sounded. "Are you okay?" She asked with concern, making Nevaeh shake her head even though she couldn''t see her. "I...told him, mother. I told him the truth." She said. Her mother''s eyes narrowed. "What truth?" She asked. She looked at the person before her and she excused herself. "I...I told him, I wasn''t Elle." "You did?" Mrs Steele asked in shock-surprise. She couldn''t believe Nevaeh had done that. She had not expected her to do something like that so soon. She and Jacob were just about calling Dale to inform him about their visit when an uninvited guest arrived. She turned and looked behind her. Mrs Steele shouldn''t be surprised by Nevaeh''s actions. It was in the girl''s nature to do what was right, and as a mother she was proud to know she had an upright daughter, unlike the other. She looked behind her again and sighed. "Yes." Nevaeh replied. "And what did he say? Did he hurt you? Are you okay?" Mrs Steele asked worriedly. She couldn''t imagine Dale taking things calmly after discovering such a thing. She feared for her daughter''s well being. "I''m fine." Nevaeh replied. "Your father will come get you." She told her, but Nevaeh''s reply left her stunned. "No." Her brows shot up when she heard her. "Veah?" She called. "He asked me to wait, mum. I will wait." She said. She couldn''t give her the details of what was going on or why she wanted to wait. Mrs Steele was short of words. She was befuddled by her response, but then she remembered their last conversation. Her daughter must be far too emotionally involved with the man than she had thought. But it could still be dangerous. What if he didn''t care for her, like she was beginning to care for him? "Nevaeh, are you sure?" She asked. "The man is dangerous." "He won''t hurt me, believe me." She assured her, making her mother sigh. Nevaeh understood her mother''s worries. She would have felt the same had she not lived with the man. But why was her mother only feeling worried now? She should have felt this way when sending her there. She sighed and dismissed these thoughts out of her head. She didn''t want to ponder on such things any more. "How do you feel, Nevaeh? Truly?" Mrs Steele trusted her daughter''s words, and she trusted her judgement. Neveah wasn''t one who''d grow feelings for a man who wasn''t good and kind to her. But she wanted to know how she truly felt. She still felt guilty for putting her in such a precarious situation. How did she feel? Nevaeh had only one word. "Nervous." She sighed and replied, making her mother nod in understanding. "Call me if anything happens." "Yes." Nevaeh nodded. "Promise me you will." "I promise." Nevaeh assured her. "What about Elle? Have you found her?" She asked the moment she remembered. She still couldn''t believe Elleanor has been depressed and had attempted ending her life. She feared for her wherever she was. Mrs Steele briefly looked over her shoulder before she lied, "No." Nevaeh let out a defeated sigh when she heard her. She hoped nothing had happened to her sister. She really hoped she hadn''t done anything foolish to herself wherever she was. She''d love to tell her mother about what Dale had said, but she knew she couldn''t. That would make her worried. "Find her as soon as you can." Nevaeh told her. "I will." Her mother assured her before disconnecting the call. Not sure of what to do, Nevaeh decided to lay on the bed while she waited for his return. ..... Mrs Steele heaved a sigh before turning around towards the guest in her house. Her countenance turned grim when she looked at her. "What do you want?" She asked in a cold and stern voice, indicating she wasn''t pleased with this visit. She took a step towards the round table fixed into the pavilion. "Tell me, Elleanor, why are you here?" She coldly demanded, but the girl didn''t bother to answer her, rather she had her gaze fixed on her mother''s phone. "That was Nevaeh wasn''t it?" She inquired making her mother frown, her brows deeply furrowed at her. "I won''t ask again. Why are you here?" She asked in a more colder tone. Elleanor sighed and lolled back on her seat. "I''m still your child, and this is my home." "It stopped being your home when you chose to bring disgrace upon this family." Elleanor looked at her with incredulity. "Disgrace?" "Yes." Mrs Steele firmly replied. "All these things going on are all your fault. Nevaeh''s struggles and worries-" "Nevaeh''s struggles?" Elleanor scoffed, her brows slightly raised at her mother. She didn''t know the struggles she was talking about. As far as she was concerned, she was the one struggling. She has been struggling her whole life for reasons unknown to her. Struggling to live, feel and love. So what struggles could Nevaeh have?! Mrs Steele composed herself when she realized she had almost slipped. She didn''t know why, but she couldn''t trust Elleanor to know about what was going with Nevaeh at the moment. "You should leave. Your father won''t be happy to see you." She said indifferently. "Aren''t you going to ask about your grandchild? How we''re faring?" Mrs Steele looked at her stomach and at her face. "I never asked for a grandchild, and I trust you''ll do a good job taking care of it. Since you so wanted it, keep it and care for it." Elleanor felt her blood boil when she heard her mother''s words. Was she really her mother? "This is all because I made you send your precious little daughter to that crazy man? Isn''t it?!"She asked with lividty making her mother gaze at her with unreadable eyes. Eleanor stood on her feet. "This is because I took back my man from her and she''s somewhere stuck with another man who she doesn''t love. This is why you won''t look at me?" She asked in a pained voice but her mother still didn''t answer. "Do you ever care about me at all!" She hollered but her mother didn''t flinch. "Do you ever worry about me, or all you see and care about is Nevaeh? Have you ever thought about my own struggles and pain?!" "And have you ever thought about someone else is your entire life?" Mrs Steele finally asked back. Their blazing eyes glaring at one another. "No! I haven''t!" Elleanor snapped. "And that''s because there isn''t much going on in mine! Do you know even how I feel? How I''ve felt? Do you even know why I''m doing this?" Mrs Steele scowled at her as she took another step closer to her. "I don''t care Elleanor, because even if I do, I doubt you''ll still care for someone else." "You don''t care because I''m not Nevaeh." She said in a very cold tone. Mrs Steele didn''t see the need to say anything to her so she just turned away and ignored her. Elleanor nodded her head as she but her lips. "You don''t have to care, but I will make you care, everyone of you." She declared and picked up her purse. She paused and turned towards her mother who still had her back towards her. "No matter what I do henceforth, it is all on you." She said and stormed away. Mrs Steele turned and watched her leave.. Elleanor''s words weren''t true, but she wasn''t going to convince her otherwise. What was the worse she could do? Haven''t she done it already? Chapter 70 - The Five Nevaeh took in a shaky breath as she stood before the dark and eery looking cave. The thick vines covering its entrance indicated no one had ventured in for a very long time, and heavy webs of spiders interwoven with it affirmed it. She was panting from the race, and she needed to hide. Looking back to where she had come from, she realized she was a long way from home and she had been warned never to come this far most especially close to the caves in the woods. Her heart skipped when she heard the approaching steps, the giggles and the call of her name coming from behind her. She wasn''t about to lose this round. Her eyes darted around to find another suitable place to hide but there was none. She glanced back at the cave and her mind hesitated to have her go in. She looked behind her and sighed. Her grandmother could yell after this, but now she just had to win. This wasn''t the games girls her age indulged in her grandmother had said, but she didn''t know the other kinds of games girls her age played. She didn''t even know other girls her age other than her friend and handmaiden, Aryeth, and winning this game was her opportunity to do so. Aryeth had wagered and promised to help her sneak out if she won. She picked up her gown as she hurried towards the entrance of the cave. She pushed open the vines and made a small space for her to slip through before adjusting it so it wouldn''t be noticeable. She winced when the spikes on the vines cut her finger. She sucked on it to stop the bleeding. Her nose wrenched when the unpleasant smell of dust and everything abandoned wafted through her nose. She covered her nose to stifle her sneeze. The place was cold and darker than she had imagined, and her brows narrowed at how eery it felt. Maybe it wasn''t a great idea hiding there. Her grandmother had warned them not to wander away from the house. And had especially told her to stay away from the woods, but she couldn''t help it at the moment. She removed the cobwebs hovering over her face as she craned her neck to see if Aryeth was coming. Her heart thumped excitedly when she saw her drawing near. She was going to win this round of the game and that meant there wouldn''t be any training or etiquette classes for the rest of the day. She would sneak into the town while Aryeth, her handmaiden, took her place in the mansor, feigning sickness. She couldn''t wait!. With her back to the cave, she retreated inside when she drew closer to the cave. A light giggle escaped her mouth when Aryeth began to call out her name with a hint of worry. "Haniel!" She could call all she wants, but she was going to be victorious. She took another step deeper into the cave but she suddenly stiffened when she stepped on a rock and it sank into the ground. She jolted when she heard rumbling sounds and the next second a huge rock slid down the top of the cave and shut its entrance, trapping her in. "No!" She screamed and dashed towards the entrance and with all her strength she pushed it but it didn''t budge. Her heart raced heavily. She was trapped! "Aryeth!" She screamed as she kept pushing and kicking. She pressed her ear against the large but she couldn''t hear anything from the other side. Her breath hitched when she heard another sound behind her, and like a mummified corpse she turned around, but the place was pitch dark. She snapped her fingers but only a small spark emanated before it died down. This was when she wished she had taken her grandmother''s training seriously. She tried again and this time a wisp of light sprung forth from her fingers, but it still wasn''t enough to light up the place. She gazed ahead but she could barely see. All around her were dark shadows and she trembled with fear. The longer she stood there, her breath became cold and heavy. She focused her eyes ahead of her and that was when she caught sight of a high shaped stone in front of her. It was in the very heart of the cave. ''What was that?'' Her heart thumped loudly, she could feel its reverberating sound in her ears. She took a cautious step forward while her eyes kept darting around with fear. She froze when she got a clearer view of it. A coffin? A stoned coffin, chained on all sides and its top. She gulped and gripped the side of her gown with her right hand as she took cautionary steps towards it. What was a coffin doing here? Did this mean the cave was some sort of tomb? Her eyes darted around the cave in search of anything else but there was none. Alarm bells rang in her head as she drew closer to it. There were engravings on it. She looked at the engravings on top of it and traced them with her hand. ''A darkness of the five. A rise of one is the rise of all.'' Her lips muttered the words. ''The five.'' She wondered why it sounded so familiar. The words were written in the ancient witches language. It could only mean whatever was in there was caged by the witches and the chains were spelled. She winced when the coarse surface of the stone rubbed against the cut on her finger thereby smearing the surface with her blood. Nevaeh gasped and stumbled back when a gold bright light suddenly began to emanate from the place she had touched and the engravings, and the chains began to shake while the coffin trembled and its sound filled the cave. What was going on?! She fell to the floor when the chain broke and shattered, and the whole room lit up. Her eyes widened in horror as the coffin slowly opened on its own accord. This couldn''t be good! Has she just freed whatever was locked in there? Whatever was locked in there couldn''t be good. But how has she unlocked it? Her eyes darted around in horror in search of an escape route. Her curiosity was the cause for this. She scrambled off the ground and jerked to her feet when a black smoke emanated from the coffin and twirled on the ground. Nevaeh felt her heart leap off her chest at the sight of it, but she suddenly felt frozen in space when the cloud disappeared and a man formed in front of her. Nevaeh could feel the beats of her heart tremble to her fingertips as she trifled him with her eyes. His eyes were black and bleak, and the aura around him was stifling. She retreated when he turned towards her and his obsidian eyes were locked on her. She hitched when he looked her over and his face turned into a deep and frightening frown. "Witch, what did you do?" Nevaeh stirred up from her sleep when she felt someone call her name, and slightly nudge her. Her eyes looked at the white ceiling above her as she tried to calm her breath. What sort of dream was that? "Madam." She snapped her neck to the side and her eyes darted towards the source of the voice. She was surprised to see a maid standing by her side. She must have woken her. Why did she do that? She had just been having a weird dream about Dale. Dale! Was he back? Her heart skipped at that thought. She jerked up from the bed. "My husband, is he back?" She asked as she tried to hide the anxiety in her eyes. "No, but there''s someone here to see you." The girl politely informed her. A slight frown creased Nevaeh''s brows. She looked at the time, it has been hours. He still wasn''t back? But wait, someone was here to see her? Who? She glanced at the girl and asked. "Who?" "Your sister, madam." Chapter 71 - Mock Everyone in the room stiffened on the spot the moment Engel teleported in to the room. The once bubbly hall suddenly turned quiet like a grave yard, that even a fallen pin could be heard echoing across the walls of the large hall. It was a large hall with beautiful decorations. Fine linens draped the walls and the beautiful, gigantic chandelier illuminated the room. There were large rectangular tables stationed at the sides of the hall and there were few people sitting around it while the majority of the crowd covered the open space at the middle. They seemed to be having a party. Dale''s lips twitched seeing this. The nerve they had. He had not imagined visiting this realm anytime soon after his last meeting with Sanaiah and the other two elders, but here he was again. His eyes travelled across the crowd, past the musicians who stood frozen in pace with their instruments at hand, but he paused when his eyes fell on the person he was looking for. She was boldly and cooly staring back at him. She knew he was searching for her. Dale took a step and the crowd parted, making a space for him as they shared looks of worries and fear amongst themselves. ''What was he doing here?'' Was the common thought shared among everyone present. All except Sanaiah, who maintained the inscrutable look in her eyes as she watched him approach her. "Engel," She called as she took a sip of her wine and passed the glass to the person by her side who quickly received it before strolling towards him. She riffled him from head to toes as she walked closer, but he stopped waiting for her to approach him. "To what do we owe this honour?" She asked in a casual tone, but Dale didn''t respond to her. "I never thought there''ll be a day when the mighty lord will return and visit his subjects. Does earth no longer appeal to you, or perhaps you want to return with your wife?" She asked with a taunting smile. She turned to the side when she heard a voice in her head, but she soon turned back to Dale. "You should listen to them." Dale drawled. He had also heard what the other elder had warned her, but Sanaiah maintained the cool look on her face. In the council of elders which governed the realm, she was the only highly ranked female, and present in the hall, she was the highest. "Why are you here?" She inquired. His eyes darkened and his face hardened at the question she had just asked. He could feel the anger burning through his veins but he clenched his jaws to hold it in. Sanaiah could also tell he was enraged. "What did you do to her?" He asked. Cocking a brow, she asked back, "Do to who?" Gritting his teeth, he clenched his right hand. He took a step forward and paused. "What did you do her?" He asked again, his voice sounding fierce and horrifying. He was daring her to feign ignorance one more time. The others looked from him to Sanaiah, desperately praying she quickly answers him. "I did nothing." She shrugged. "You made a request and it was granted." She nonchalantly replied. ''A request?'' His lips curved up into a depreciative smile. The coldness and deadness in his eyes became prominent and stiffling. He gazed at her intently and in a flash his eyes turned black and a dark hue began to emanate from his body, making the others gasp as they took retreating steps. "Do you dare make a joke of me?" He drawled as he walked closer to her. "A mere angel dare mock me?" "I do not mock you Engel. But you chose this path for us all. You brought her sacrifice to nought by bringing her back, so we must protect her." Protect her? "Who are you to protect her? What do you have to protect my woman?!" He roared and for the first time Sanaiah blinked under his terrifying presence, but before she could respond, Dale had already manifested before her. The air around her became stiff and suffocating. "We''re not the enemy, Engel. You must know this." "I''ll be the judge of that. Now, for the last time, what did you do to her?" He asked. "Sanaiah." Someone called from behind her, eagerly telling her to answer him. Although Dale wasn''t in his full form, she was still no match for him. None of them were. "We did nothing to her." She told him, and from how he stared at her, she could tell he didn''t believe her and just to confirm her thoughts, she felt her body move off the ground like she had tied by an invisible bound. Dale moved towards her and looked at her body suspended from the ground and said, "I won''t ask again. Who''s the witch?" Sanaiah gritted when she felt her body squeeze tightly like she was being crushed. "I''m saying the truth, I did nothing. Your wife is the witch." She truthfully told him. Dale stared at her as if trying decipher the truth in her words. He didn''t believe her. How then does she explain why there are two identical persons when there should only be one. She sighed when she saw the sceptical look on his face. "I speak the truth, Engel. Nevaeh is the one seek." She confirmed. They all sighed in relief when he suddenly let her down, but his appearance didn''t change. His eyes were still black and the dark hue emanating from him like smoke still remained. Sanaiah sighed when she saw the look he was giving her. He was asking her to explain herself. "I did nothing in this. Her kindred decided it was best to protect her by making her a twin." Protect her by making her a twin? How was that reasonable? What sort of wisdom was that? Dale thought. He narrowed his eyes at her and asked. "So what is the twin? Human?" Chapter 72 - Grateful? Nevaeh felt cold air kiss her skin as she nervously made her way down the hallway to the stairs. She had thought there was some misunderstanding and the maid was wrong about her sister being around, but her hopes were shattered when the maid said they looked identical. Elle was really there? She gulped as she rubbed her sweaty palm on her gown. Didn''t her mother say Elle hasn''t been found? How come she was here now? Nevaeh had never thought Elle''s return would make her feel this way¡ªUneasy. She had wished for her safe return, but now she was having unimaginable thoughts which she was so ashamed of. She rubbed her hand on her arm.The news of Elle''s presence had suddenly turned her cold, and her insides were twirling and churning. Every worry she had felt since she stepped foot into Dale''s house came rushing down to her, making her heart pound when she saw it was indeed Elle. She was truly back. Her heart skidded like a beating drum when Elleanor turned towards her and held her gaze. They both shared an indescribable look, while Nevaeh wondered what was going through her sister''s mind. Her gaze was inscrutable. She drew in a short, sharp breath and her lips quavered and formed a shaky smile when Elle lightly smiled at her. "Vaeh." She called, her eyes still bearing her gaze. Nevaeh gripped the cold rail and descended the stairs. "Elleanor." She called with a slight tone of surprise. Her gaze skimmed over her body, and a sigh of relief hissed through her lips when she saw she was unscathed. As a matter of fact, she looked better than she had been before her wedding. Despite her fears and worries, she was grateful to have her back in good shape especially after what Dale had said. Several horrible imaginations had gone through her mind after Dale told her about her state of mind. Dale, where was he? Why wasn''t he coming? She wanted to tell him about that weird dream she had. Was it a dream or a memory? If it was a memory, what did it mean? She didn''t want to assume anything or keep her hopes up, least she gets disappointed and heart, shattered. Nevaeh was surprised when Elle suddenly hugged her. "I''m sorry, Vaeh." She whispered into her ears, making Nevaeh slightly stiffen. "I''m the reason why you here. I''m so sorry." She apologized. Nevaeh felt her heart squeeze her badly at the sound of Elle''s words. She had not hugged her as much as she was doing now, and her words and actions made her feel guilty. Guilty, for currently thinking about Dale who was supposed to be hers. For falling for him even before she was aware of all the craziness that she had been enlightened about. She was supposed to keep her sister''s man and help maintain her marriage, but now she was hoping he belonged to her instead. She covected him like nothing else mattered other him. The man was an enigma, but she doesn''t care. Or maybe she did, hence why she hasn''t asked him what he was. Her arms trembled to go around Elle and return her hug, but she couldn''t. Whatever cold she felt was slowly dissipating and sweat buds were begining to form over her. "I...I''m sorry too." She muttered against Elle''s ears who broke the hug. Her misty eyes gazed at Elle when she cupped her face and stared into her eyes. "Why do you apologize?" Elle curiously inquired. She bit her lips and darted her eyes away when Nevaeh observed her keen look on her. She couldn''t tell her why. The reason for her apology was so shameful so she opted for a lie. "Be...because, mother said you were going through alot, and as your sister I didn''t even notice." Her gentle voice said. Well, it wasn''t just a lie, there was some truth in her words, because that was exactly how she felt. She felt ashamed for not being there for her sister. For not knowing her struggles and sharing in it. "You don''t have to apologize. You''re the one making a huge sacrifice for me, and I''m grateful." Elle said. ''Grateful?'' Nevaeh didn''t think she was deserving of that. If only she knew, she wouldn''t be as grateful as she was right now. In a space of two weeks, she has changed. Her thoughts were no longer as innocent and harmless as they used to be. She now wanted so many things. And what bothered her wasn''t the change she was undergoing, but that she wasn''t perturbed by it. "Vaeh?" Elle snapped her out of her thoughts. Nevaeh gazed at her as she now wondered why she was here. Was she here to take her place? That must the reason why she had made such an appearance, right? But Dale could have been home, and that would have put them both in trouble, and she didn''t know she had told Dale the truth. Or did she? Had her mother lied to her? "Are you back?" Nevaeh asked. Heavy thudding sounds filled her ears as she waited for Elle''s response. How she''d loved to ask where she had been for these many days and why she had run away in the first place, but this question was more important to her. She has not only became greedy, but selfish. Change was indeed a constant variable among humans. Elle''s return meant so many things, and the most important yet scary part of them was, she had to leave. Would Elle make her leave before Dale returned? Should she share with her all she had learnt and experienced? Maybe she should ask if strange things had also happened to her? Perhaps it would help her discover the answer she desired. Nevaeh suddenly felt uneasy as she observed Elle''s strange look on her. Why was she staring at her in such manner? Was she really here to take Dale back? Her fingers fidgeted but she clenched them when Elle seem to take note of them. "Francis." She said and paused, causing Nevaeh to stare at her. ''Francis'' "What happened to him? Is he okay?" Worry and concern hinted her words. Of course, he wouldn''t be okay. They had a made a promise to be married to each other. A vow she hadn''t even thought about in days. What kind of a person has she truly become? She heard Elle sigh after staring at her for a little bit longer. Her eyes followed her as she reached for hair and brushed her hand through it. "Something has changed about you, Vaeh." She said. "You seem to be more worried about something else than Francis." "That''s not¡ª" "True?" Elle cocked a brow at her. "Why are you here, Elleanor? Eng.." She paused. "Dale could have been around." She said. She couldn''t tell what was wrong but felt uncomfortable with Elle''s gaze and attitude. She tried to calm herself when Elle placed her hand on her shoulder and slowly circled her. "I was really hoping I would see him." Nevaeh''s eyes widened in shock at the sound of her words. She wanted to see him? Why? "W.. why?" Her curious gaze fell on Elle when she finally stood in front of her. "Why?" Elle raised a brow at her. "Because he''s my husband." ''Husband.'' Nevaeh almost felt her heart explode. She slowly trailed Elle''s gaze and she was surprised to find her resting her hand on her chest. Elle chuckled. "It feels like it might explode." Nevaeh took a retreating step, but Elle gripped her gown and pulled her close. She suddenly looked scary. Her eyes glowed of something strange. Something that terrified her. Nevaeh wasn''t sure what she was feeling at the moment, but her body vibrated with fear, and Elle''s next question made her tremble even more. "Nevaeh, have you fallen for my husband?" Chapter 73 - Pain "Have you fallen for my husband?" Elleanor asked in a cold and suspicious tone as she closely watched Nevaeh, awaiting her answer. Elle had not imagined herself there asking such a question. She had come there because she was livid and in pain, but here she was asking such a question while feeling immense pain and anger, and overwhelming sadness. She need not wait long for Nevaeh to answer, as her trembling lips, fluttering lashes, and darting eyes, all confirmed her suspicion. Fear and guilt formed a mist in her eyes, and therein lies the answer she needed. Nevaeh has indeed fallen for another man. But how was this possible? Was it that easy to fall in and out of love? If so, why hasn''t she experienced this wholesome feeling which seems to come easy to everyone except her? Why was her heart not leaping and soaring in this love? Why hasn''t Francis fallen for her again, and why did he have to take something away from her? Why now has he become the reason why she was hurting? There were so many why''s in her heart that others didn''t seem to get. Others like her sister. She gazed at Nevaeh. "I...I..." Nevaeh stuttered. "Don''t you dare lie, vaeh. It doesn''t suit you." She drawled. Her grip over Nevaeh consciously tightened as she pulled her even closer making the girl blink in fear. If anyone was an open book, then it was Nevaeh. The girl was transparent as water, and her emotions always flashed through her eyes like ocean waves, revealing every turbulence and calm within her heart. This was who she was. So easy and predictable She watched Nevaeh battle the tears that formed in her eyes as she lowered her head. "Elle, I am sorry." She apologized, but her apology only made the anger in Elle run deeper. To be honest, she was surprised by this discovery, but intently pondering on it now, she felt infuriated. Was love this fickle, it could be lost and forgotten in such a short time? She fixed her gaze on Nevaeh. "Do you really not love Francis anymore?" She asked, slightly startling Nevaeh who blinked rapidly. She seemed to be a bit flustered by the question as she suddenly looked a bit lost. Or did she not know? Her eyes were intently fixed on her as she waited for her answer. Nevaeh seem to have loved Francis with all her heart, and would die without him. So what had changed in such a short time? Nevaeh slowly gazed at her but she lowered her head again. "I don''t know." She replied making Elle frown. What did she mean by that? How could she not know? Elle was about saying something when Nevaeh continued. "I honestly don''t know what I feel for Francis anymore, maybe it''s guilt or love, I don''t know. But I''m sure of my feelings for Dale." She said while Elle focused on her like she was trying to guage the truth in her words. She told the truth, but she could also tell Nevaeh was holding back on something. She could see it in her eyes, and she wondered what it was. She couldn''t believe Nevaeh had so easily forgotten Francis, the man who was very much still obsessed with her and she had tried everything to make him be with her. And did she say, guilt? She''d love for Francis to hear this. It seems life was indeed unfair. It didn''t play fair to some of its subject. Here she was longing for something her sister could easily discard in a few days. Life really do favour some people in a platter, and to others, it cast no care. All she wanted was to feel whole and be certain of her feelings just like her sister was. But even that, she couldn''t get. Without meeting her gaze Nevaeh apologized again. "I''m sorry." Sorry? For what? She wondered. Sorry, wouldn''t bring back what she had just lost. Neither would it grant her what she desired. Her apology only made her hurt more. The man she thought was her salvation was still obsessed with her sister, who was now in love with the man she had used as a pawn to entrap the very man who has now caused her pain. A low wince escaped her lips and her grip over Nevaeh loosened. Nevaeh looked at her with worry when she staggered backwards. "Elleanor, what is wrong?" Nevaeh reflexively reached for her. Her small arms holding her steady. The concern and her worry in her eyes were so genuine but Elle felt irritated by it. She hissed. "I''m in so much pain, Vaeh." She closed her eyes and said. "Pain? What pain? Where do you hurt?" Nevaeh fawned over her with worry. Her eyes carefully trailing over her in search of where she hurts. Elle looked at her with heavy emotions flickering through eyes as her hand went over her stomach, and she sighed. "Help me to the restroom." She said making Nevaeh nodded. But the girl suddenly stiffened and a worried frown flashed through her face, her eyes were also disorganized like she had realized something important. Cocking a brow at her, Elle asked. "Are you reluctant to help me?" And that brought the naive girl to her senses who shook her head. "Then help me." She hissed. Nevaeh nodded obediently but again she paused and her eyes became frightful. "What is it now?" Elle asked irritably. Nevaeh nervously and guiltily looked at her and replied. "Dale would be back soon." "And that would be a problem?" She raised a questioning brow at her. "He doesn''t know." She replied, but Elle felt Nevaeh had just told a lie. The girl really doesn''t know herself well. Understanding what she meant, Elle replied. "He won''t know." She took notice of the look in her eyes as if she thought otherwise. "Will you help me or not?" She asked cutting in Nevaeh''s thought. Nevaeh nodded and placed her hand around her as she led her to one of rooms by the hallway. ..... Nevaeh knew Elle couldn''t understand her worries because she didn''t know what Dale was. Though he might not be there at the moment, but he''d know of her presence as soon as he returned. He wouldn''t be able to read her mind, but the maid''s minds were permeable to him. Would he think she had lied to him just like she had lied to Elle? She wasn''t trying to be selfish with Dale, but she couldn''t help it. Blame her for falling for him, but what could do against a man who taunted and tempted her till he became a sin in her heart. The sin of convetiousness and lust has he cloaked her with. Elle wasn''t forthcoming with her reason for being there and she couldn''t be too direct to ask again, could she? No! she didn''t think so. Elle was making signals of worry blare in her heart. She had a feeling Elle was here to send her away and she was looking for a subtle way to do so without hurting her feelings. But she was already feeling hurt. Her heart was hammering heavily, she feared her ribs would break. Could she leave? She didn''t want to. A week ago this had been the uttermost desire of her heart, but now... She didn''t want to. But what claim had she over Dale? He had not said much after her confession, but he had asked her to wait. Wait and not stay. But she wanted to wait for him. She wanted to hear what he had to say, as well as share her dream with him. She wanted him to say, he chose her even if she wasn''t who he was waiting for. Could she tell everything to Elle and hope she''d understand and give her sometime? She glanced at Elle who really seemed to be in so much pain as beads of sweat formed over her face as they walked towards one of the visitors room on the ground floor. "Elleanor what is wrong with you? Do you want to go to the hospital?" She asked with concern and held the bathroom door for her. Elle walked in but didn''t bother spare her a look neither did she answer her. But Nevaeh caught a glimpse of her countenance on the mirror. "I''ll wait for you here." She said and closed the door, giving her some privacy. Nevaeh could feel her heart hammering more and more behind her chest. She didn''t know what to do, what to expect, or even what to pray for. She snapped her head around when the door opened and Elle walked out of the bathroom, but her skipped when she saw what laid in her hand. Her eyes widened in shock, and they opened inches more when saw the cold and dead look in Elle''s eyes. What was she doing? Why did she have a gun? Wait! Why was she pointing it at her? "El..le...what are you doing?" She asked in horror, her face turning pale in an instant. She took a step back when Elle stalked towards her. Her face void of any emotion, but pain. But not physical pain, but something more emotional. "Elle..." She panickly called. What was going on here? "Do you really want to know I''m here?" She asked, but she continued before Nevaeh could register her question. "Because I am hurt, Nevaeh. I''m hurt in an unimaginable way, and I don''t even know why I am. He took my child, our child because of you." "Child?" What was she talking about? What child was she.... "Francis murdered my child because of you. You keep taking some much from me, Vaeh, even without trying, and I can''t help but feel, maybe, just maybe I''ll finally be whole when you''re gone, and Francis would feel the pain he put me through when he loses you." What?! Nevaeh''s heart thundered when she heard her. What was she saying? "Elleanor, I don''t understand." She couldn''t make sense of what she was saying? How was she to make her feel whole? What did that even mean? And what had Francis done to her baby? What baby were they even talking about here? "I don''t think you''d be able to understand even if I told you, so I''d rather things remain this way." She said. Nevaeh''s eyes followed her finger as she removed the safety, and at the very moment it occured to she was truly in danger, and at the mercy of her sister. Her eyes darted towards the door as she analysed an escape plan, but she knew wouldn''t be able to make it. Her legs couldn''t be faster than a moving bullet. Or maybe she should call for help? But who would she call? Engel? But calling him would reveal him in front of Elle. She had to call for someone else. Laila. Though she might be fast enough to call out for help, but what Nevaeh did not know was that, she wouldn''t be able to finish the first syllable of the name she called when she felt something go through her neck. Did Elle just shoot her? Why does it feel.... Chapter 74 - Soul Dale felt his heart pound with relief and anxiety as he stood in front of the mansion. He was relieved to know she was his dream come true. For a moment after her confession he had felt an unusual feeling in his heart. He had suffered a few moments of confusion as he wondered what he''d do with her if he finds out she wasn''t what he has been waiting for. An uneasy and unfamiliar feeling stirred inside of him at the time. He had seen the way she looks at him, how she tries to hid her blush and calm her pounding heart when he was near. He could tell she wanted to be with him, and a part of him had felt same too. But it seems his worries were unfounded as she was one and the same. It would have been a difficult situation had things turned out differently, because he wouldn''t want to hurt her. The girl was so naive and innocent. It must be because she was the same person he longed for. Her soul was still the same. His face lit up when he remembered her name. ''Nevaeh.'' It had registered itself in his head like she had spelled him not to forget. ''That little witch,'' he smiled. Heaven was the reverse spelling of her name, and they weren''t wrong to have given her that. She was indeed his heaven, and life without her was worse than hell. The look on his face wavered when he remembered what Sanaiah had said about the other twin. The one he had met on the bridge, Elle. A worry frown framed his face. What had possessed those witches to make such a decision? The foolishness behind their logic was alarming. Who were they to play God?! Their foolishness would not only cause trouble, but it would harm Nevaeh, and he wondered what he''d do. Elle would be dangerous not just to Nevaeh, but also to her own self. She was a human conjured from sorcery. And a human vessel with no proper soul. Now he understood the emptiness and deadness in her. She was like an abyss filled with nothing but emptiness. She had no sense of living, nor PURPOSE. She was barely existing, and that was the most dangerous form any creature could live in. He couldn''t imagine her struggle. Struggle to live, love and feel. A purposeless life is likened to a ship with no rudder. There was no control or direction. She must feel like a waif, he hissed. It must be hard. But no matter how he felt, he has to keep Nevaeh away from her, because she was tied to her in all this. Dale listened for Nevaeh''s heartbeat from where he stood. He could imagine her somewhere in the house anxiously waiting for his return. The frightful look in her eyes when he left was something he''d never forget. He should have kissed her before leaving. A frown furrowed his brows when he couldn''t hear her. He teleported outside the room which they both shared and he listened again, but his brows furrowed deeper when he heard a heart beat from inside the room, but it wasn''t Nevaeh''s. Her small heart has its unique rhythm either when she was anxious or relaxed, and this was no way hers. His hand rested on the knob but he stopped himself. He teleported to the staff quarters which was behind the mansion and from a corner he read the mind of one of the girls. Nevaeh had received a visitor, and it was her sister. The person in the room was... He teleported back to the room and he swung the door open making the girl lying on his bed jolt. She looked at him with surprised eyes but she quickly recomposed herself. He noticed her well she maintained her composure as she stared at him. He could have missed her for Nevaeh, had he not known better. "Welcome back." She greeted with a faint smile, but his eyes narrowed at her hand which she has wrapped in a crepe bandage. The girl was smart, he''d give her that. He pierced his gaze at her as he walked towards her. She rose up from the bed, and he didn''t miss the grimace that flashed through her face for a split second there. "Dale." She called, her eyes still staring at his, while she maintained the smile on her face. "Where is she?"He directly asked. He wasn''t in the mood to dally as he might lose his temper soon and kill her on the spot, sister or whatever she was. "Where is who?" She asked feigning ignorance, making Dale''s frown run deeper. He stopped a few feets away from her as he trailed her from head to toes before staring back at her eyes. "I know who you''re, so tell me, where''s my wife?" He said. His voice losing any subtlety inside it. Flashing him a confused look she replied, "I''m your wife. What are you talking about?" Of course, legally she was his wife. Her name was on the papers. But Dale wasn''t in the mood for this neither did he have the time to accommodate her tricks. As far as he was concerned, something horrible could have happened to Nevaeh already. He hasn''t come this far to lose her when he just got her. Pity or not, he would do her a favour of putting her out of her misery if anything as much as happened to Nevaeh. Good thing he could read Elle''s thoughts. He read her thoughts, and he felt enraged by what had happened. He beheld her gaze and his eyes changed. She had shot Nevaeh with a tranquilizer, swapped their clothes so as not to raise suspicion and handed her to some men who had taken her away. She had given them a location, and it seems they must have taken her there. It seems she had not meant to kill her after all. But for how long would that be, before she truly desires to kill her. According to Sanaiah, Nevaeh was the reason why she was here. He looked at her stomach and he sighed. Someone had pushed her and she had lost her child. She was indeed in so much pain. Not just physical, but emotional and psychological pain. And he very much knew this kind of pain. He had felt it when he once lost the woman of his heart. He had felt like his sole purpose for living had been snatched away, and everyday was a struggle. The helplessness had been overwhelming, and everyday he waited to have her back, and when he got tired of waiting, he sought death from everywhere. Right now, she was like a stray kitten out on a rainy day, looking for warmth and somewhere to call home. She was truly lost, and he felt sympathetic towards her. Every of her actions were her attempts to search for what she lacks but sees in people, and she''d forever be in this turmoil until something happens to her. But whatever it was, it should be good, else she might become catastrophic. He turned away from her, but she gripped his hand, making him turn to look at her. From the way she stared at him, it seems she was tired of pretending, and she had something important to say. "That day you said you''d end my misery, but not with death, what did you mean? Can you help me? I feel worse. Please help me.." She pleaded. Chapter 75 - Need And Want Elleanor felt her anger give way as she stood in desperate wait for his answer, anxiety and suspense slowly rippling in her and slightly drowning the pain in her heart. The pain caused by everything and everyone surrounding her. Earlier, she had tried not to ponder on her mother''s provocation and kept her anger in check as she walked into the apartment she now lives with Francis. At the sight of him, she remembered herself why she had to behave differently from henceforth - behave like every other girl would, and anticipate the positive change she was about to experience. He was going to save her and be with her, and her lips curved up at that thought. She watched him from a distance as a lot of beautiful thoughts seared through her mind. How she''d love to come back home and see him waiting for her with petals of red roses strewn around the floor and a beautiful candle light dinner. These were the things couples did and she had seen all different kind of romantic gestures on movies and social media platforms. The couples always wore looks of happiness and satisfaction, and that was what she yearned for, happiness. Carefully observing herself, she hasn''t felt different from how she has always felt, but she was hopeful. Hopeful he''d come around and he''ll definitely save her and give her what she desires. A smile graced her lips as she made her way towards him, but they soon twitched and her smile faltered when she discovered what he was staring at. A picture of Nevaeh. Her face fell and a dark and gloomy expression took over the once smiling face. "What are you doing?" She coldly inquired, slightly startling Francis, who hissed and quickly put his phone away. He paid no attention to her, neither did he turn towards her as he rose to his feet and walked away. "Francis!" She roared with bulging veins, halting him on his heels but he still didn''t turn towards her. Anger coursed through her veins as she watched his back, her hands clenching into fists. "You''re being disrespectful!" She seethed, making the man scoff. She straightened herself when he turned around but he only looked at her with incredulity and disgust. His gaze at her revealed just how much he was irritated by her sight. With a brow casually cocked at her, he asked. "Disrespectful? Do you even know the meaning of that word?" Elleanor frowned at him. What sort of question was that? Was she to give an answer to that nonsense? He took few steps towards her, the anger and irritation in his eyes becoming even more vivid, pricking her heart in an indescribable way. "Do you have the slightest clue what that word means?" He asked again. "I do." She firmly replied, but he shook his head in protest. "I''m afraid you don''t. If you know what it means, I wouldn''t be here with you, and your sister wouldn''t be in a prison where you kept her, making her feel miserable and sad. You have no respect whatsoever for anybody or their feelings, so don''t you dare talk to me about disrespect!" He bawled at her, a deep fire flashing through his eyes. "Francis..." "You''re not human, Elleanor! Not a single part of you is human! Your heart is evil and your entire being reeks of selfishness. And do you want to know the truth?" He raised a brow and continued without waiting for her answer. "I will never love you and No.One.Ever.Will." He lowered his eyes to her stomach. "Do this child a great service by not being the wretched witch who plagues it''s life, because having you as it''s mother would be it''s greatest nightmare." Greatest nightmare? Elleanor stilled by all the venomous words he had spat to her. They were...hurtful. She stood in a daze as she blankly stared at him, but she snapped back when he turned around to leave. She instinctively grabbed his arm to stop him, but what she didn''t expect was for him to forcefully yank her off like she was some kind of plague he didn''t want to make contact with, making her forcefully fall over the glass framed table causing a huge impact on her lower abdomen. Elleanor wailed in pain at the impact but the man sauntered away with no care. Her stomach suddenly began to hurt like she had been stabbed by a cold sharped weapon. Sharp and hot pain searing through her abdomen and lower back, but no matter how hard she cried and called for him, he didn''t come neither did he take a look at her. Her consciousness eluded her, but when she regained it, she had woken up to the pool of her own blood. Her baby was gone and so was Francis. Elle collected herself as she maintained her gaze on the man wordlessly standing in front of her. He had once said he''d save her and bring her out of this insurmountable misery that haunted her. That he''d put an end to the void and helplessness that took over her entire being, but she hadn''t believed him at the time. But now, she wanted to. Her desperation for wholeness is enough to have her cling to whatever option was out there, even if it was believing in this man. Her pain and frustration was becoming too much for her to handle. She wanted peace, even just a tiny bit of it. She wanted to feel what others could that she couldn''t, feel what it was to love and live. She had just lost a child but she wasn''t in pain for the loss of the child, she was in pain for not feeling as she should feel. "Dal..." "What you want I can''t provide. But know this, what you think you want isn''t what you need, and knowing and loving yourself is the first step to getting it. No one will see you for what you don''t see, neither will they love you if you don''t love yourself. Deceit and contempt will only bring more sorrow than love." He said and turned away leaving her in a daze. What did he mean? Elleanor didn''t understand what he meant but before she could say a word, he was already gone. What she wants and need? Was there a difference? ..... Dale didn''t have the time or desire to enlighten her on what he meant as he already knew she was confused by his words. But her confusion had nothing to do with him. Had Nevaeh not been in danger, he''d attend to her madness and torture a soul inside of her. He teleported himself to the library where he telepathically connected to Kiel and Elyon who immediately appeared before him. "You really know how to ruin my mood." Elyon whined with a yawn as he glared at the man. He looked at Kiel who had his signatory indifferent look, the man must have been sitting by his window again pondering about God knows what. He wondered why he always did that. While Elyon seemed displeased about this abrupt disturbance, Kiel was carefully examining Engel''s countenance. The man was gloomy and was trying to keep his bloodlust. "What is wrong?" His usual cold and apathetic tone came asking. "She''s gone." "Who''s gone? Your wife?" Elyon asked. "How?" Kiel asked. "Someone took her." He curtly replied. He didn''t have the luxury of time for a question and answer session. Every second wasted was dangerous to her. Elle might have requested for her to be kept unharmed, but she was already in danger the moment she stepped out of the house with that mark on her hand. Engel turned to Elyon, "There''s someone in my room, keep her safe. Do not let her out of your sight." He ordered, but Elyon still hasn''t fully grasped what was going on. Who took his wife and who was in his room? Elyon was about to ask, but before he could do that Dale was gone. He turned to Kiel who blankly looked at him before teleporting out of sight, obviously he was going with Engel. Wait! He was going to be a baby sitter? Who the hell was he baby sitting? He''d rather return to his bed and continue sleeping than do anything else. He signed irritably. With a displeased frown he teleported upstairs to Engel''s room. Since the man brought his wife neither him or Kiel had stepped a foot inside his room, so who could be there? Elyon listened from outside the door and all he could hear was a thumping heart and faint whimpering sounds. His brows shot up. It was a woman and she was human. Why was there a woman in Engel''s room and why was he asked to babysit a human woman?! Women were troublesome, talk more of a human one! Elyon slowly knocked and opened the door, but the moment he stepped in, he was stunned by the familiar face in front of him? Wasn''t she Engel''s wife? "Who are you?" Elle asked when she saw the strange gold haired man by the door. Chapter 76 - Gone. Engel and Kiel arrived in front of a wooden cabin hidden out of sight in the middle of the woods at the south end of the city. Engel''s eyes quickly swept across the place and they instantly went dark when he heard the screaming silence surrounding the house. "There''s no one here." Kiel muttered from behind him, as his eyes gazed around the building and it''s environ. Of course, Dale could already see that, but he could also tell she had been here. Her sweet scent lingered in the air as well as something else. Blood. Dale felt his heart throb as he teleported inside the house. His already darkened eyes turned gloomy when he saw the sight of two bodies lifelessly sprawled on the ground, their body bloodily mutilated. His body involuntarily stiffed as it turned cold. Engel knew what this was and his soul left him on the spot, his heart sinking into the depth of his stomach. "Nevaeh." He subconsciously mumbled out. His hands clenching on their own accord while his body shook in horror. It was happening again, wasn''t it? He had lost her again right under his very nose. How could he lose her again? He had only just got her, and they had dared! How had he failed her again?! Kiel frowned when he saw the scene that welcomed them. Observing the damages on the humans, he knew what had caused this. Demons. They were here. And Dale knew this too. Kiel glanced at Engel who stood frozen on the spot. The man looked like he might explode on the spot and burn the world in his fury. "Engel." He called when he saw the changes in the man. He was losing himself and it was understandable. "I''ll kill them all." Dale swore. "Engel, be calm. Your anger helps no one." Not even himself. Kiel told him, but Dale couldn''t listen. He couldn''t be calm. His bones were burning with immense pain and anger. He had just got his life back, and it was already snatched away from him? His eyes turned black and dark smoke emanated from his body, changing the atmosphere of the place. The frown on Kiel''s face deepened when he saw him in this state. Nothing would get to him until she was placed before his eyes, alive. But was there even a possibility? Kiel teleported around the house, moving from one room to the other, he wasn''t hopeful but there was nothing else he could do. He paused when he arrived one of the rooms. The bathroom door seemed to have been forcefully pulled out from the wall. He stalked into the bathroom and the small opened window as well as the blood trail on the wall caught his eyes. There was blood on the broken tank and it didn''t belong to the corpse in the sitting room. "Engel." He called and brooding man appeared, his appearance was less suffocating. Engel''s dark eyes looked at the small blood on toilet tank and the small window and he could tell it was hers. Kiel looked out the window and said, "She''s in the woods." .... Nevaeh was hazy and frigid as she gradually regained her consciousness. Her head throbbed and her neck felt stiff and painful. She clenched her eyes and let out an inaudible sigh when a terrible strong wave of pain coursed through her head almost making her cry. What happened? Why was she hurting so badly? She hazily wondered. She was yet to shake off the fuzziness when faint voices echoed around her, and soon her body was suddenly carried up, mid air. Engel? Nevaeh was about to open her eyes and mumble out his name, when memories of Elle pointing a gun at her came running down through mind, and her heart skipped. That wasn''t a dream. Elleanor had actually shot her. So was she still alive, or was she... She fluttered her eyes open, and it seems she wasn''t dead, but it appears she was still in danger. She was currently across a stranger''s shoulder, her face hovering against his back and her long hair dropping at the back of her head and hindering her line of sight. Who was this? And where was he taking her? Nevaeh was about lifting her head to look around her environment when she caught sight of an approaching pair of leg behind the person carrying her. They must be partners, she thought. Was this Elleanor''s plan? She was going to get rid of her sister? Nevaeh felt her heart begin to painfully throb behind her chest. What has come over Elle? Engel must be back by now, and he would know she was missing. He''d come for her. Or would he not? He had gone to find out the truth, so what if Elleanor was truly his wife. Would he still come to save her? Or would he forget about her? What if the last time she saw him would be the last time she''d ever...no! Nevaeh''s heart clenched tightly at these terrifying thoughts and she quickly pushed those questions out of her mind. She shouldn''t be think of such things, rather her focus should be on her survival, her escaping these men and wherever they were taking her. The thought of calling out to Laila once again came to her mind, but she quickly dismissed it. These men criminals and they could be dangerous. Yes, Laila could travel through space, but she didn''t know how fast she could be, neither could she guarantee her safety. What if these men shot her? Would an angel be faster than a moving bullet? No, she couldn''t take the risk of endangering her, especially when she was yet to know the true extent of her capabilities. Nevaeh slightly closed her eyes so as not to arouse any suspicion of being awake when the person behind kept walking closer, but she furtively peeked around the environment. They seem to be walking down a narrow and spindly path. The path wasn''t an ordinary path, it has been used for quite some time, but the fresh grasses sprouting around also showed no one has visited this path recently. Where could this be? Nevaeh was at high alert as they continued down the winding trail. She looked for clues to indicate where they have brought her, but all she noticed were the interlocking trees guarding the path as if they were walking through a tunnel, and the chirping sounds of birds in the air. After a few more seconds of stealthy observation, Nevaeh realized where they were headed. Her family cabin. And as if to confirm her thoughts, they carried her inside the wooden house and flicked on the lights revealing the familiar house. She could remember the place well. Her family had always come here for the Easter holidays while they were younger. They had not missed it for years until Elle had an accident and almost drowned in the lake at the back of the cabin. "Put her there." She heard one of the men say, and she completely closed her eyes. She felt her body been placed on a cold platform making her almost shiver but she endured. "Give me the rope." One of the men said. "There''s no need. She''s unconscious." The other replied. "But..." "Look around you man, there are only woods around here. She can''t escape us. And even if she tries to, where can she go?" Cockiness clearly hinted in his voice. The other sighed and seemed to reluctantly agree with him. Nevaeh remained still on the spot with her eyes closed as she listened to their conversation. She didn''t know these men or what they would do to her. From their words and where they''ve brought her, there were no intentions of killing her, atleast not yet, and she didn''t think Elle would go that far. She didn''t even think Elle would come as far as kidnapping her. But what were they going to do to her now? Keep her here? Nevaeh felt anxious not knowing what was in store for her. She opened her eyes when she heard the clicking sound of the door. They had placed in a bathtub and locked the door. Stiffling a groan she got off the tub, her neck and head hurt so much she feared it might fall. Her eyes darted around in search of an escape route, but there was none, save the small window above the toilet seat but she didn''t think she would make it. It was too high and she feared she might not be able to squeeze through. The fear and worry in her rapidly increased. She flinched when she suddenly heard the knocking sound sound on a door but it wasn''t from the bathroom door. Had someone else come? Who could it be? She didn''t have the time to think about it, as whoever it was couldn''t be here to save her. Nevaeh gazed at the window again and contemplated the rate of successfully climbing off the window. She was still in thought when she heard a shattering sound emanating from the other side of the house, making her jolt and her heart pound heavily. But soon more rumbling and shattering sounds echoed across the house as well as painful screams for help. What''s happening? She wondered. With no care of wanting to find out she closed the toilet seat and stood on it. She hesitated placing her leg on the toilet tank as she feared it wouldn''t hold her weight. But hearing the disturbing sounds continually echo across the house, she placed her feet on the ceramic tank which slightly shook. She held her breath and stilled herself. Her eyes darted at the door when the sounds stopped, but all she could hear was heavy approaching steps making her heart thump even more violently. She didn''t know why, but there was a feeling of unease flooding her heart. It was terrifying than what she felt before. She placed both legs on the tank and she strained to reach for the window. She cussed when she couldn''t open it. She strained and stood on her toes making the tank tremble a bit more, threatening to fall, but she wasn''t giving up. A sigh rolled out her lips when she finally opened it. With no hesitation she leaned over and at that moment the tank fell, it''s sharp edges pierced her toes. She bit her lips and winced in pain. She dared not cry, atleast not now. Her heart leaped when a forceful kick was unleashed against the door, and another followed. She returned her attention to escaping and she hastened her step. With her legs she bared herself up and leaned half way over the window. She leaped over when the door was torn down, not daring to look at whoever it was or where she was jumping to. She closed her eyes for the impact of her rough landing but nothing happened. "Ms Steele." She heard someone call, and her eyes instantly opened. She was stunned when she saw that vaguely familiar face in front of her. Ariana? Chapter 77 - Home Wrapped in a web of utter disbelief was Nevaeh when she saw the familiar, small framed, brunette haired girl standing in front of her. It was Ariana, Elleanor''s secretary. She had met her once, but that face of hers was hard to forget, neither was her extremely polite attitude. Her mouth gaped to mutter her name, but a small, fair hand suddenly covered her mouth before she could splutter out the first syllable. Her eyes shot up to the girl, and the hint of danger twirling in the girl''s eyes didn''t elude her. "It can hear you." Ariana whispered. Nevaeh snapped her head towards the window she had jumped from, and the uneasiness in her stomach returned when she heard strange noises wafting out from there. The turbulence in her heart resumed and it''s erractic pace climbed higher. Who was that? Nevaeh didn''t have to ponder for long, because soon an odd looking creature suddenly manifested in front of them, making her tremble, and her heart leap as she stumbled backwards and fell to the ground. A cry of horror almost broke out her lips but it was muffled out by the small hand over her mouth. Her eyes were fully widened in horror, while her chest heaved up and down, cold sweat breaking out of every pore on her skin. Nevaeh''s heart hammered like a ferocious beating drum at the sight of the monster while her body shuddered, goosebumps crawling all over her skin. The monster was a spitting replica of the ones in her nightmares. It was huge, with slimy skin, sharp fangs piercing out of its mouth, and terrifying claws shot out if it''s hand. It''s presence was eerie and it''s ominous aura made cold fear course down her spine, chilling her to the bone. She shivered when the creature let out a low growl, and she instinctively crawled back, her body violently trembling but Ariana did let go of her mouth. Why weren''t they running?! Nevaeh screamed inwardly. She snapped her head towards the girl who was fearlessly peering at the creature with a daring fire in her eyes like she could take on the beast with her bare hands, but all the while she had her left hand stretched out like she was pressing against a wall. Nevaeh felt something was odd with Ariana''s look and stance. Any normal person would be running and screaming for their lives like hell, but she was just standing here. The girl''s word suddenly echoed through her mind. ''It can hear you.'' Her head snapped back to the grimly creature again. It was simply standing there, growling and turning it''s head from side to side as if it was in search of something, but they...they were right...here. Was it blind? She looked at the girl again. Or was she doing something? Her eyes fell on her palm which seemed like it was exerting a lot of pressure on an invisible wall. Without further ado, Nevaeh quickly held her ragged breath, afraid it might hear her, while she kept her panic eyes fixated on the creature. Heaven, knows she''d rather be on the run than just wait here to be eaten alive. She stiffened when it took a step forward like it could sense their presence. Nevaeh shot a panic look at Ariana who is in turn gave her an assuring look, as if telling her that everything would be alright. But despite the girl''s calm and reassuring gaze, Nevaeh could see the minute trace of worry hidden behind her eyes. Had Nevaeh not read and experienced a tad bit of the world''s craziness these past few days, she''d be screaming at the top of her lungs right this very moment, while her legs sprinting towards the woods behind her. She took a quick at it and considered the chances of making it there, alive. She didn''t know if she should trust Ariana''s madness, but she had no choice. She was still alive after several seconds with a horrifying creature standing in front of her. Even if she made a run for it, how far would she run before it caught up with her? She anxiously shuffled her gaze between Ariana and the scary looking monster. Ariana looked as if she was waiting for something to happen, and soon it did. Nevaeh jolted when she heard the monster roar ferociously, a glistening metal piercing through it''s heart. It staggered forward making her crawl backward, and the next second it''s head rolled off to the floor and it''s body limply fell to the ground, revealing a small figure behind it. Nevaeh felt her soul instantly leave her, but her eyes were now glued on the person standing over the creatures body with a large sword in hand. It was girl with brown braided hair, and oddly looking clothes. Her eyes breathed fire and bravery. Nevaeh shuddered when the girl''s eyes met hers. "Run!" She roared, and Ariana instantly grabbed Nevaeh by the hand and pulled off the ground, bringing her back to reality. "To the woods, Nevaeh." Ariana urgently said as she pulled her along and they both ran. Nevaeh looked back and she noticed the girl was still standing over the body with her sword. "She..." "She''ll be fine. She''ll handle the rest and join us." Ariana assured her. So, they were more? Nevaeh felt scared for her and her pace instinctively slowed, but Ariana pulled her hand and they ran even faster. Nevaeh didn''t know how far they''ve ran, but it seems they weren''t stopping and she didn''t want to stop either even though her injured toe was hurting terribly. The pain didn''t outweigh the fear in her heart or her desperation for survival. They kept running, skidding through dried leaves and twigs and jumping through fallen logs. Adrenaline pumping and overwhelming her. She was surprised when Ariana suddenly told her to stop. She looked at the girl with a questioning brow, before her eyes darted around in alert. They haven''t caught up with them, have they? Ariana sighed. "Catch you breath." She told her when she noticed how heavily she was panted and gasping. Nevaeh had walked this woods with her dad as kid when they went hunted for birds and squirrels, for fun. Other times they came for their family panic, but never had she imagined this will someday be her route of escape from unknown creatures. The unpredictability of this world was alarming. The future was always a mystery, one that could be terrifying. "Let''s walk." Ariana said, and they did. Nevaeh turned to Ariana, she was dying to ask the myriad of questions taunting her mind at the moment. Questions like, how was she there? What was that she did at the cabin? Who was she? She obviously wasn''t human like her. Nevaeh was beginning to doubt if there were still humans in this world. It seems everyone was something else hiding under the form of being human. As if Ariana had read her mind, she asked, "Ask what you want, Miss Nevaeh." Nevaeh? She knew her? Nevaeh stared at Ariana with widened eyes making the girl lightly smile. "That day at the office, I gave you tea. Your sister never drinks tea." She casually said. ''Oh.'' Nevaeh felt shocked at this revelation. Ariana knew all along, yet she played along with her. This only meant... "What are you?" "A witch." Nevaeh''s eyes slightly widened as she glanced at her face again. She was supposed to react differently to this, but she couldn''t. She shouldn''t be surprised anymore. She had seen an angel, now a witch, and that creature...was it a... Nevaeh paused making Ariana stop too. Ariana calmly looked at her when she saw the horror that flickered through her eyes. "Th... that thing. Was it a..demon?" "Yes." Ariana replied making Nevaeh stiffen. She wasn''t supposed to be affected by this, but...demons? The name alone brought fear to her. Uneasiness slowly returned to her heart. She looked behind her before returning her frightful gaze to Ariana. "Your friend?" Could she fight off those demons alone? "She''ll be fine. Three demons aren''t enough to bring the finest of the realm to her knees." ''Realm.'' She must be talking about the witches realm. So even that was true. Nevaeh felt the world has really become a stranger. Nothing was real, but everything was possible. A few days ago, her world was round revolving around the sun, now, it was full of impossibilities being possible. She was surrounded by witches, angels, and demons. Nevaeh felt she hasn''t asked the most important question, and she needed to ask. "They were after me, weren''t they?" They couldn''t have been after Ariana, because she had heard it at the door. So they must have definitely come for her. "Yes, they are." They are? "Why?" Her voice trembled with fear and horror. Why would something like be after her? Ariana sighed as she walked closer and stopped in front of her. Her gaze piercing into Nevaeh''s. "I do not have all the answers you seek as I''m only half witch and I live on this realm. But they say, your husband isn''t the only one who has been waiting for you. There is another who seeks and he''d stop at nothing till he does." A moment of awkward silence reigned as Nevaeh quietly stared at the girl, her brain trying tried to make sense of what she had just said. Another who seeks her. Nevaeh opened her lips to say something but Ariana beat her to it. "You''ll get all your answers soon, but not from me. I was only asked to bring you..." "Bring me where?" She asked with a tone of anxiety and suspicion, but she didn''t get her answer. When Ariana suddenly frowned as she looked behind them. Nevaeh looked too and when she heard the approaching foot steps. "Why are you standing? Run!" A strong voice of panic echoed from behind them. It was the girl who had saved them earlier, and she was running at full speed "Come on!!" Ariana cried and grabbed Nevaeh''s hand as they both began to run again, with the girl following behind. Nevaeh looked back and her heart skipped when she saw the monsters chasing after them from a distance. She still didn''t understand all that was happening, but she couldn''t believe all these monsters were after her. It was just like her dreams. They kept chasing after, and each time their number increased. "Put more strength on your legs, witch" The girl yelled. Nevaeh was certain she was talking to Ariana, but she also increased their pace. Nevaeh halted when the girl stretched out her hands and two blue like clouds where formed. Were they portals? She alertly looked at Ariana. "Step in!" The girl ordered but Nevaeh remained standing. Where were they taking her, and why were there two portals? "Where are you taking me?" She suspiciously asked, her eyes intently fixed on the girl who looked like someone who commanded an army. "Home." She coldly replied. Home? "I don''t know what you..." "You can no longer stay here. That stupid lord ruined it all when he married you, and he can''t keep you safe." Stupid lord. She was talking about Engel, wasn''t she? Ariana stepped forward but Nevaeh retreated. "No." She couldn''t trust them. She shouldn''t have trusted them. She should have called out to Engel all this while. She still was very much clueless about this, but he wasn''t. "Don''t bother calling him, it would be a waste of time." The girl said as if she had figured out her thoughts. She looked at the approaching demons who seemed to be enjoying this chase. "Piece of trash." She sneered at them before returning her gaze to Nevaeh. She unexpectedly grabbed Nevaeh by the hand. "Let go!" Nevaeh protested. "I''d love to, but I can''t. A thousand of my head is only the cost of your finger." She said before sternly looking at Ariana. "You should go." She said, and Ariana stepped into the portal in front of her, completely disappearing out of sight, at the same time Nevaeh was pulled into another portal. Her eyes widened in fear, and her heart pounded ferociously. She opened her mouth and screamed his name with all her strength, "Engel!!" but she was too late. The portal had closed. Chapter 78 - Home (2) "No!" Nevaeh screamed in distress when she magically appeared in an unfamiliar place and the portal closed before her eyes. She hurriedly yanked her arm away from the hand holding her and ran towards the place where the portal had been, but it was gone. She snapped her head towards the unruly girl who had brought her there. "Where did it go? Bring it back! I want to go back!" She angrily ordered, but the girl blankly looked at her as if she had said something unreasonable. Nevaeh raged when the girl remained unresponsive. Anger blazed in her eyes as she strided towards her and commanded again. "Bring it back and take me home this instant!" Was she deaf?! A bored and nonchalant look played in the eyes of the girl as she deflatedly sighed. "You''ll have to find your way back, and don''t bother calling his name, nothing gets through here except we allow it." She coolly said and turned around to leave. Hearing her words, Nevaeh didn''t want to believe her. She couldn''t be trapped here. "Engel!" She called his name with all her might, but nothing happened. "Laila!" She called again, as she frantically turned around, but nothing was happening. Why weren''t they coming? She didn''t want to be stuck here. She wanted to go home. "Please." Nevaeh said in a pleading tone when she saw her leaving. She bit her lips to hold back her slightly fidgeting body. The girl halted on her heels when she heard her. She turned towards Nevaeh whose eyes had suddenly turned misty and soft, lacking the fiery vigour that had past through them seconds ago. She listened as Nevaeh spoke again. "Engel, I can''t leave him." She said. She badly wanted to return now that she knew she was the one he has been waiting for. Nevaeh didn''t know where she was now, neither had she come to the full understanding of the things happening or the ones that had happened in the past, but her heart was suddenly feeling distant from him and it ached. She didn''t know why, but after passing through that portal, she was feeling an immeasurable distance between them in her heart. It was as if he was suddenly out of reach and even if she called he wouldn''t hear her. She feared she wouldn''t hear his deep mellifluous voice again. She wouldn''t meet his gaze that shook her to her core, leaving her mesmerized everytime he looked at her. A mysterious forlorn feeling was overshadowing her heart. She wanted to go back. The girl remained unmoved as she silently stared at Nevaeh, but her thoughts were perfectly hidden behind her eyes. Nevaeh closely watched as she opened her mouth to say something. She anticipated her reply but the girl suddenly ignored her and turned around before taking a bow. It was at this moment that Nevaeh heard the approaching foot steps. A group of people were slowly approaching them. Her eyes riffled them as they drew closer till they finally stopped in front of the girl. "Yana." She heard one of them call, and the girl bowed again. "Mother." She greeted. "You''ve done well." The woman gave the girl a gentle pat on the shoulder. Nevaeh narrowed her eyes on the woman who the girl had called ''mother''. She looked regal and graceful, and not to mention, beautiful. She had a striking beauty Nevaeh had never seen before. She wasn''t sure if was silver hair or gray eyes, but she looked magnificent. At a glance, she gave the feeling of a powerful matriarch, and her silver eyes which looked like flashes of thunder attested to it. Nevaeh scanned her gaze through the small group of men and women standing before her, although they didn''t give an equal vibe and aura as the woman who had led them, none was less enchanting and domineering than the other. Nevaeh knew she wasn''t standing before ordinary people. They weren''t mere witches, but powerful witches. Nevaeh stilled when she saw all eyes were focused on her. She took a retreating step when the woman stepped forward towards her. An easy and harmless smile split her face as she held Nevaeh''s gaze and introduced herself, "I''m Queen Herilda, and these are our people." She stretched forth her hand, but Nevaeh was too stunned to take it. Firstly she wasn''t interested in her name, she just wanted to go home, and secondly the woman''s voice was euphonic yet overpowering. Her smile broadened a bit further. "I won''t hurt you, and none of them will." Queen Herilda said assuringly as she softened her intimidating gaze. But no matter how much she did, Nevaeh was still on her toes. Nevaeh looked at the people behind her before returning her gaze to her. "I...I just want to go home." She said. That was all she desired. Herilda maintained her smile and nodded in understanding. "And you will, Nevaeh. No one dares keep you away from your husband, not even death." Death. Why does that make her feel strange? "I''m sorry if my daughter had been rude to you, she lacks her proper manners," Nevaeh looked at the girl behind her mother, she truly lacked some manners. She glanced at the woman when she resumed her speech, "But believe me we won''t keep you here longer than necessary, least Lord Engel invades my home and brings it ruin." Nevaeh raised her brows and carefully examined the queen. A hint of worry looped in her voice, but her eyes held a certain level of nonchalance in them. Two things she has come to realize was that, Engel was some superior being who shouldn''t be trifled with but for some reason they weren''t scared of him. Secondly, she was his true wife. She knew because, she had been listening to all they''ve been saying. The girl had called this her home, and in her dream Engel had called her a witch. After seeing those demons, she had realized her dreams weren''t just dreams, they were her memories which the spell was supposed to help her remember. Wait! This meant she has been one of them before, and she was probably still one? Her eyes widened on their own accord upon this realization. The world has once again changed from it''s flat state to a hexagon. Crazy things were happening right, left and center, and they were all overwhelming. She calmed herself and peered at the woman. "If you won''t hurt me tell me why you have brought me here." She demanded. Herilda smiled once again, and Nevaeh wouldn''t deny that her smile was really enchanting, but it wasn''t on par with her husband''s. No! That wasn''t the issue at hand. She waited for Herilda''s response, and soon it came. "To show you who you truly are, and tell you how to truly protect him." Who she truly was? And wait, protect Engel? The almost calm look in her eyes instantly disappeared and they became fear-filled while she frowned. "Is he in danger?" Nevaeh could already hear her heart pound. A soft sigh flowed out the woman''s lips. "He isn''t, but he might be, and only you can protect him." She said. Nevaeh maintained her gaze on Herilda as she carefully assessed her every expression. She couldn''t believe her words as they were all strangers to her, but something about the lady told her she wasn''t lying. She didn''t want to believe her words but subconsciously she already did. She had always felt the urge to protect him, but he wasn''t human, and she was just human now. If he was to be in danger how would she protect him? As if she had made up her mind, she glanced at Queen Herilda again. "Do I have some hidden powers?" She wanted to know. Her mind was open to every possibility. Nothing was impossible anymore. Every impossibility right now was screaming I''M POSSIBLE. Queen Herilda smiled and stretched out her hand and said, "Come, let''s find out." Nevaeh warily looked at the woman''s hand, she had a few more questions to ask, but she hesistantly slipped her hands into hers. She wasn''t sure but she was going to take this leap. If Engel would be in danger, then she must protect him, whether she was only human or not. "Welcome home, Nevaeh." Queen Herilda said. Home? Nevaeh wouldn''t call it that. Engel was her home, and she wanted to go back to him. She wanted to take him back from her sister at all cost. Nevaeh slowly followed the woman as they walked towards the people behind them. "Everyone, welcome Nevaeh to the realm." Nevaeh looked from one face to the other as they all nodded acknowledging her presence, half-hearted smiles directed at her. Not sure of what to say, she nodded back. They had only taken a step to leave when soft steps were heard coming directly opposite them. Nevaeh raised her gaze but her body suddenly stiffened at the sight of those emerald green eyes brightly staring at her. Her gaze fell on the cut on her forearm and she looked back at the approaching lady. It was her. The one who had spelled her. She might have forgotten that face, but she could never forget those eyes. As if being hit by as meteor, Nevaeh stood in a daze as the lady kept approaching them. She paused and looked at the girl who had brought Nevaeh and smiled, "My pretty Yana." She truffled her hair and winked before staring at the queen who was glaring at her, while the others bowed in respect to her. "What trouble have you caused now?" Queen Herilda inquired. "Just playing with a few humans and demons. No trouble at all." She casually shrugged, a playful smile curving her lips as she looked at Nevaeh who was still as stiff as a log. She looked at her hand and hissed begrudgingly.. "The spell didn''t work. How troublesome!" Chapter 79 - First Sacrifice. Engel stood in the midst of dead demons strewn around the floor, their bodies brutally cut into shreds, his eyes were an obsidian black, and black smoke emanated all around him. His face was just as dark and grim as his eyes, he looked like he would explode the next second out of his fury. Zadkiel carefully watched while he maintained a reasonable distance from him, his brows tightly furrowed into a deep frown. He looked at the havoc Engel had created and his eyes narrowed deeper. All the trees surrounding Engel had been turned to shred just like the demons around him, with their major parts shattered to dust. Kiel had heard the rumors that the hue emanating from Engel was a life force itself, as well as a destroying power, but he hadn''t experienced it, until now. He had only seen him emit it, but he had never used it before, and not in this fashion. Engel had slaughtered all the demons without lifting a finger. The black smoke surrounding him had moved and shred them to pieces like million swords had been cut through each of them, but Engel was that sword. His frown deepened again as he kept watching him. Engel clenched his fists as his shoulders trembled. He couldn''t shake off what has happened. He had heard her voice. He had heard her desperately call out to him, but he was too late, again. Engel felt immense rage pulsing through his veins, his heart was clenching and throbbing in a sporadic manner, and he felt he could die. He was furious beyond words. His furiosity wasn''t because she has been taken away, but because he has failed her again. He was currently helpless and useless, again. His eyes had caught a glimpse of the portal before it closed and disappeared, but he couldn''t save her. He clenched his hand even tighter and the black smoke coming from him tilted higher till they covered his shoulders. "Get someone who can open a portal, I''ll burn that realm to the ground." He drawled, his words were dangerously slow, and his tone was hard and chilling like a wounded beast hungry to exert it''s wicked revenge on his enemies with a sinister desire to punish them to no end. "You should let them help her." Kiel said from behind him. His eyes stayed on Engel expecting a response but there was none, so he continued. "She is just human, Engel, and humans are frail and weak. Her mind might not be able to withstand the daily revelations she might encounter. You can''t predict how far she could keep sane in the days to come, but maybe her kindred might help her. They can help her learn differently and even faster. And you can use the time to seek ways to regain your powers." They both knew where she had been taken to, and in Kiel''s opinion, it was best if she remained there for a while, atleast until Engel was able to regain his powers, and Nevaeh could truly grasp the things happening around her, and the ones yet to happen. Engel slowly turned towards the man. His face and eyes void of any brightness. There was only darkness, but under his monsterous gaze, Zadkiel didn''t flinch. His sharp and inscrutable look was perfectly maintained on his face as he stared at the brooding man. "Two days, Zadkiel." Was all Engel said. Understanding what he meant, Kiel replied. "It won''t be enough." Engel was giving him two days to find a witch who could open a portal, but that wouldn''t be easy. The witches were crafty beings. And of all creatures of the five realms, they were the craftiest. Hiding away in their realm was one thing they had perfected for years. They''ll never allow a witch powerful enough to open a portal stay outside the realm. They could be caught and used to invade their home hence why only half witches were allowed to stay on the human realm. ''Not enough.'' To Engel, two days without her was an eternity. He had not waited for millennials to lose her for a minute. The anguish which he felt in the years he waited was no where near what he has been enduring in the last half hour. He could endure not seeing her when she wasn''t here, but now that he had seen her, felt her breath, heard her voice and tasted her lips, he couldn''t stay an hour without her in his line of sight. Kiel frowned deeper when a streak of red light suddenly flashed through Engel''s eyes, briefly sparkling around his iris, but it disappeared as soon as it came. "Engel, you should stop the killing. Something''s happening to you." Though his voice was calm, there was hint of worry subtly buried behind his words. "I do not seek salvation, angel." "But you should. Do not forget who your enemy is." Zadkiel reminded him making Dale''s face change. He looked fiercer than he already did. There was no trace of calmness or rationality in him, but Kiel still challengingly stared at him. Engel was momentarily concerned about her whereabouts, but he seems to be missing the bigger picture. Whether he needed to be redeemed or not wasn''t a matter of debate. Redemption were for angels like himself who had sinned and have been stripped of their powers, and Engel wasn''t like him or Elyon. But he also needed it. He might have voluntarily given up his powers for a prize, but the rules of redemption could still be applied to him. He might not get it all, but he could get what was necessary for him. Without his powers he could lose her again, and he was already on his way to doing so, especially if he became weaker by continuously going on a killing spree. He had given up his powers to bring her back, but what more could he give if he lost her again? She''d be gone for good. Nothing! Kiel still believed it might be beneficial to them and to Nevaeh if she stayed in the witches realm, but looking at the man''s face he knew it wasn''t possible. He suddenly turned around to leave. He didn''t have the strength to deal with a stubborn creature. He had said to him more words than he has ever said in a hundred years. He stopped and glanced at Engel again. "Bringing her back is one thing, keeping her alive is another. You have brought her back, so it is your responsibility to keep her alive. Don''t forget she made the first sacrifice to protect you." He said before he vanished away. ..... WITCHES REALM Nevaeh looked at the lady before her with an indescribable gaze. Was she truly complaining about spelling her? What right did she even have to complain? She was the one who had been spelled, and she was the one who had suffered from several night mares, and sleeplessness. And she dares complain? Nevaeh combed her eyes across the people around and she noticed the amused smile on their faces as they looked at her forearm. This wasn''t supposed to be funny, so why were they laughing? Nevaeh suddenly felt wronged, but could she complain? No. These witches weren''t mentally stable. She concluded in her mind. But they were very pretty, especially the one standing by her side and the one standing in front of her. She had thought the queen was the prettiest, but this one, she was on another of level being pretty. she was an ethereal beauty. The first time they had met, she had left quite an impression on her. The queen was a gracious beauty who could make heads turn, and make men hush at her presence, but this one had a wild beauty. One that was solely coined to taunt the heart of anyone who set eyes on her. Her wild green eyes made her look a bit above the others, secretly revealing just how wild she was, and also how interesting she could be. Her brows involuntarily narrowed when the woman suddenly smiled at her and stretched out her hand. "Pardon my manners Nevaeh, my name is Araminta." Nevaeh looked at her hand not sure she should accept it. The last time she had held her hand, she went home with a spell. As if reading her mind, Araminta rupt out a round of laughter making her green eyes shine beautifully. "I won''t hurt you again, and I''m sorry I traumatized the last time. I won''t spell you again." She said as she moved her hand a little closer. Nevaeh hesitated a bit more before reluctantly receiving her hand. She gasped when the lady suddenly pulled her closer and threw her arms around her shoulder like they had been best of friends. "So tell me little one, have you seen any bad boy angel around that husband of yours, hmm?" She playfully wriggled her brows at her. Nevaeh was startled by her question. Confusion whirled around her eyes as she looked at the young lady. What bad boy angel? Araminta cocked a brow when she saw Nevaeh''s dumbfounded reaction. "You haven''t seen any?" Nevaeh wasn''t sure if she should respond to this, but she slowly shook her head. Araminta frowned in disappointment. "Damn those angels, they always hide the best stuff, but I''m sure I''ll lay my hands on a pretty one soon. Ah! the things I''ll do!" She cried out dreamily. "Araminta!" Queen Herilda chided, making Araminta flashed her an innocent smile. "I''m sorry. I was only thinking out loud." She apologized before turning back to Nevaeh who was looking at her skeptically. "By looks we are almost similar in age, so I''ll show you around with my little niece, of course. Feel free to look at the men, I''m sure one might catch your fancy. Don''t be scared to be free, what happens in the witches realms stays in the witches realm." Araminta playfully winked. Nevaeh looked at her with incredulity. Was she promiscuous or was she always like this? Infact, she doesn''t care. She was certain this witch was clearly not normal! Chapter 80 - "...Say Nothing." Nevaeh silently followed the witches as they walked down a huge hall way of a castle. The castle was like one of those she had seen in movies and magazines. It was imposing and grand. Beautifully decorated pillars with fine golden engravings lined the hallway, and huge oil painted portraits stood between each pillar, with some foreign words written beneath them. It seemed like an unknown language of some sort. The architectural work was highly commendable. Nevaeh had her eyes darting around as they led her to God knows where. Soon they were standing before a huge, double sided mahogany door, with golden handles. The door was immediately opened by the two men standing guard at the door, and they bowed to them. Nevaeh looked at the guards. They weren''t like guards at all. They seemed like the male celebrities in the human realm, they were even better. She looked at the strange clothes they had on, and she couldn''t help but look at the queen''s and the other people around. Their clothes were quite different from the ones in the human world. They weren''t wearing jeans or polos, or even short floral gowns. Their clothes looked ancient yet fashionable, and modest, and they oddly looked familiar. Like she had seen herself wear one before. But where? "Have dinner with us, Nevaeh. We made the best preparation for you." Queen Herilda said cutting through her thoughts before walking towards the head of the table. Nevaeh''s eyes widened at the grandeur of the dinner room. This was indeed a castle. The decorations superceeded that of Engel''s house. It was as if, Engel''s house was a small replica of this place. She lifted her head in awe as she looked at the gigantic chandelier hanging on the ceiling. ''How magnificent.'' She stood in awe as her glistening eyes skimmed through the entire room, till they fell on the table and her eyes gleamed even more. Queen Herilda let out an amused chuckle as she watched Nevaeh. Nevaeh coughed awkwardly when she realized she had acted poorly. "It seems you still have same interest as before." Nevaeh shot her a confused look. "The art and food." The queen said and took her seat before the others took theirs. Nevaeh looked at the available seat which she guessed was hers and she walked to it. It was adjacent to the queen, and opposite to Yana while Araminta was sitting right next to her. She looked at all the faces around the table and she still couldn''t believe everyone around her were witches. Real witches with powers. She turned to the Queen when she heard her voice. "Don''t be so stiff. Enjoy yourself, it was all prepared for you." She said. Nevaeh nodded appreciatively and thanked her before looking at the myriad of food stretched along the length of the large dinning table. But despite how hungry she was, and how enticing the food looked, she wasn''t in the mood to eat. She peeked at the queen''s seat again. This usually was Engel''s spot back at home. They''ve always ate together in the past weeks except those times when he wasn''t around. Though she had always felt uncomfortable with how his blazing gaze always settled on her while they ate, she honestly really liked it. She liked how he gazed at her, like she was his entire world. How he teased her lips and gently grazed them in pretence of wiping them. He''d feed her and possessively kiss her to torture her or make her shy. She missed him. She missed him alot. She looked at the plate in front of her and she wondered if he had eaten. It was late when Elle took her out of the house, so she wondered if he had had dinner. How was he feeling right now? She wondered if he had gotten the same answer as her. Was he looking for her right now? Nevaeh flinched when she felt a warm hand over hers under the table. She looked at Araminta who had her hand placed over hers. "It''s only for a short while." She said with eyes that said she knew her cares and worries. A short while? How short would it be? Nevaeh glanced at the queen and asked. "Can I go check on him and tell him I''m fine, that I''ll be back as soon as possible? He must be worried sick for me and I..." Her eyes slightly reddend as her throat burned. "I miss him too." She softly added. She knew she had just gotten there, but she couldn''t pretend to be strong and act like her heart was aching right now. She was scared being in the midst of these strangers, but she couldn''t act scared and weak like she used to. But the thought of not seeing Engel bothered her more than her fears. She didn''t even care she was acting this way in the presence of these strangers. She just wanted to see him and comfort him even for a short while. If he had discovered the truth that she was his wife, he would be shattered after losing her again, right? She looked at the Queen with desperately pleading eyes, while she hoped her request will be granted. The queen sighed wearily at Nevaeh''s pathetic gaze, and said. "I''m sorry Nevaeh, but you can''t." She can''t? "Why?" She asked. "You''ve seen the demons and you know they''re after you. Now they also know you''re here with us. Creating another portal would signal them, and not only would that put you in danger, but it will endanger all of us." Nevaeh silently looked at her. She didn''t know what to say or decide on at the moment. They had rescued her, and she couldn''t endanger them, and they had also offered to help her to protect Engel, even though she didn''t know what she was to protect him from. Though she''d rather have them talk to Engel about this impending danger, she was also scared she''d lure those demons to him. "I''ll send him a message for you. Write a letter and I''ll hand it over." Araminta ssid to her. Nevaeh turned to her as she silently pondered on it, and after a while she nodded her head and said, "Thank you." A letter wouldn''t be enough, but she would make do of it. She glanced at the queen again and politely asked. "How long would i stay here?" She didn''t want to stay too long. At most a day or two and she should be on her way back. Queen Herilda smiled and replied, "It all depends on you." "Depends on me, how?" "On how fast you''re willing to learn and unlock your memory. Your memory is the key to saving us all." Saving them all? Wasn''t she supposed to protect just her husband? Queen Herilda softly smiled when she saw the frown on Nevaeh''s face. She ran her smooth fingers across Nevaeh''s crease. "Don''t worry Vaeh, all will be revealed in time." Time? She doesn''t have time. She did want to stay here, but there was something stirring inside her heart since the queen mentioned Engel and danger in the same sentence. That awkward feeling she felt when she thought Engel was about to go after that thing which had choked her in her dreams, sprout up in her. But time wasn''t really on her side, she''d be happy if they told her what was expected of her so she could go back right away. She could endure the night mares till her memories returned. Nevaeh was about to say something when the door of the dinning room was flung open and a girl hurried towards the queen with a frown on her face. She bowed to the queen and whispered something into her ears. Nevaeh could guess it wasn''t good news especially when it seemed like Queen Herilda''s eyes glowed. She turned to Nevaeh and smiled but it wasn''t as soft as it used to. "Enjoy your dinner, Nevaeh. Jaiyana will accompany you and show you to your room. At dawn you shall visit the sisters for your memories. A good night rest will be beneficial to you." She said and stood up and so did everyone including Jaiyana. Nevaeh watched the exchange between the mother and daughter pair. She didn''t miss the displeased look on Jaiyana''s face. It seems the girl wasn''t happy about baby sitting her, and also Nevaeh wasn''t happy about having her around. The girl looked rude and sassy. Yes, she had saved her but the girl was too condescending, especially with the way she looked at her. For a princess, she truly lacked proper manners. Nevaeh looked at her food as they all walked away including Jaiyana who was whispering to her mother. She snapped her head to the side when she realized the person by her side was still seated. It was the promiscuous witch who had spelled her, Araminta. Though she had offered to do her a favour by helping her send a message to Engel, she till held her prejudice about her. She couldn''t be blamed for her, right? Nevaeh noticed her gaze on her, and it was quite odd. Did she have something to say? Nevaeh silently stared back at her but the lady continued to peer at her. To shake off the awkwardness, Nevaeh said, "I''ll write the letter tonight. How will I give it you?" "Yana, will bring it." Araminta replied, making Nevaeh nod. "Thank you," She said, but Araminta was still staring at her. Did she have something to say? "Do you-" Her eyes darted to her hand when she felt Araminta''s hand on hers. She looked at her. "Be careful here. All is not as it seems." She said in a hushed voice that indicated she didn''t want to be heard by the others who were already by the door. Nevaeh looked at her confusedly. She opened her mouth to ask something, but the Queen''s voice cut her off. "Araminta." Queen Herilda called. "Tomorrow, say nothing." Araminta said and rose to her feet. She revealed a sweet smile and said in an audible voice, "I''ll see you later, witch." She winked and walked away. Nevaeh watched with a perplexed look on her face as she pondered on her words. ''What did she mean?'' Was she also in danger here? Chapter 81 - Sisters Of Wisdom Nevaeh was troubled by Araminta''s words. She had heard her perfectly and she certainly understood what her words meant. She was in danger here and she had been warned to be careful, but who was she to be careful of? The Queen? Or Jaiyana? There were so many people she didn''t know, Araminta included, and Araminta could just be the enemy trying to trick her to have her trust. She didn''t know how these things worked, but she could guess. How was she to stay in a strange land where her life was in danger? Danger or not, she has to be careful of everybody and trust no one. Nevaeh had tossed and turned all night till the morning. She had a horrible night. She couldn''t close her eyes as she was too scared to sleep, and even at the wee hours of the morning when her body finally gave in to nature, she was tortured by the monster in her dream. Nevaeh sighed when she saw the faint red prints on her neck. It wasn''t as serious as the one she had experienced before, but this time was no less frightening. Her body still trembled from the horrors. And looking at her seemingly infested hand, her body trembled even more. A lot of things were happening to her and she was trying really hard to handle and accept them even if she doesn''t want to, and they were all coming to her in a rush. Her once peaceful life was no longer peaceful. Fear and worry were all that seem to daily overwhelm her, and she feared how long she might hold before she loses her sanity. The things she has seen and experienced were things any normal human shouldn''t see, and she began to wonder if she was human, or if she had ever been human. But despite all she was feeling, Nevaeh knew this wasn''t the time to be scared or unstable. She had to be strong and brave to survive, If not for herself, for Engel. The man that made her heart leap and burn like no one else could. He alone had their memories, and she wished to have them too. To see how she had loved him to have him wait for her for so many years. She wanted to see the love they''ve shared that she had brought to another lifetime. But the most important thing she sorely longed for, was to return home to his warm embrace and heart kisses. She looked into the mirror and encouraged herself. "Do not be scared, Nevaeh. Be careful and be brave." Yes, that was all she needed. Nevaeh braced herself and got herself ready. She had been summoned by the Queen. They had made clothes available for her and she wore one of the dresses. It was a Navy blue, ankle length gown, with silver ornaments around its neck and waist line, which cinched her svelte waist perfectly. It was similar to what she had seen the others wear. She had feared it wouldn''t suit her but looking at reflection, she was stunned. Now she was even more certain she had seen herself in one of these before. Was it her dreams or... The portraits! She remembered now. The portraits in Engel''s home had pictures of her dressed in these attires. She had thought there were pictures of Elleanor, but now... Oh! Engel. How he must have waited with nothing but pictures to stare at. They must have reminded him of her for those years he had waited. Poor him! That man was always making her heart swell and beat in several ways. Nevaeh looked for something to hide the marks on her neck but there was none, so she could let her hair down. It didn''t cover it up, but it was manageable. The marks were faint, and only with a close look would it be noticeable. She heaved deeply to calm herself before walking out the room. "This way." A young girl was waiting at the door. Nevaeh nodded and slowly followed her. They had barely turned a few turns when Nevaeh suddenly felt spooked. She felt someone was behind her, but when she looked around, the hall way was empty, save her and the girl walking ahead of her. She took a deep breath and calmed herself. She blamed it on Araminta''s word that had really unsettled her, but soon the feeling returned. She felt she was being watched and she stopped on her tracks, making the girl leading her stop as well. "Is something wrong, my lady?" The girl inquired. Nevaeh had her eyes skim around but there was no one. Why was she feeling watched? She turned to the girl and shook her head. "I''m fine." She said and they resumed walking. Soon they arrived a door which led them to a court yard where Nevaeh saw Queen Herilda and Araminta as well as two familiar faces from yesterday waiting. "Good morning, your highnesses." She politely greeted and nodded approvingly. Nevaeh glanced at Araminta who wasn''t as chirpy as she was yesterday, her face was straight and void of any expression. Those happy and flirty smiles were nowhere to be seen. "Let''s go." Queen Herilda said and the others led the way with the queen walking by her side and Araminta trailing behind. Nevaeh took a quick glance at her and their eyes met, but Araminta had a blank look in her eyes. Nevaeh remembered her words from yesterday. ''Tomorrow, say nothing.'' What was she to keep mute about? Was she asking her not to share the information of her memories with anyone? Because that''s where they were headed. Nevaeh looked at her again, but Araminta had her gaze fixed elsewhere. "Your highness, my letter, were you able to pass it to Engel?" Nevaeh curiously asked Araminta. She had given it Jaiyana last night so she wondered whether Engel had gotten it. Queen Herilda looked over at Araminta before glancing at Nevaeh. She replied with a convincing smile.. "She has, but I''ll take some time." Nevaeh looked at the queen and inquired, "How long?" "A day." ''A day?'' "We''re here." One of the women announced making all eyes to dart towards the front. Where were they? Nevaeh looked at the place in front of her. It was creepy looking cave under the foot of a small hill. It looked like the one in a dream where she had seen Engel, but this wasn''t it. In her dreams there were woods, and vines covered that cave. She glanced at the queen when she looked at her. "The sisters await you, Nevaeh. Araminta will lead you in." Queen Herilda said. Araminta? Nevaeh glanced at the stoically looking lady behind her. She watched as Araminta stepped forward to the front and the queen gestured for her to follow. Nevaeh glanced at the entrance of the cave and her heart began to pound ferociously. "The sisters what are they called?" She asked. "The sister''s of wisdom." One of the women replied. Queen Herilda gently patted her cheek. "Do not be worried. Araminta is soon to be one of them, so believe me they won''t hurt you." The queen assured her. Nevaeh still couldn''t help the anxiety inside of her as she slowly nodded. She looked at the entrance of the eery cave and took a deep breath before walking to Araminta. Nevaeh gently gripped the edge of her gown when the spine chilling air of the cave kissed her skin. She stiffened at the sight of the darkness and her suddenly became heavy. Her grip over her gown tightened as she took her first step with Araminta being a step ahead of her. Her heart skipped when rays of white bright light suddenly pierced her eyes. She looked at Araminta and saw a small orb of light floating right above her hand. She closed her palm and the light moved ahead on its own accord lightening up their path as they walked deeper in the cave. Their path was like a tunnel leading them to God knows where. The deeper they walked, the eerie the cave became and the more darker it seemed, but in the midst of the darkness the shined more brightly. Nevaeh couldn''t calm the uneasiness in her heart. Truth be told, she was scared out of her mind but she couldn''t show it. They walked for few more minutes, when Araminta stopped. Nevaeh''s eyes anxiously danced around. Before them was a small arch which revealed another passage. "This is as far as I can go." Araminta announced. ''Hmm?'' For the first time in the day Araminta gaze met the eyes of the girl in front of her. "Remember what I told you?" She asked, her tone sounding stern and serious. "To be careful?" "No. What happens in the witches realm must stay in the witches realm." She reminded her, and Nevaeh nodded, wondering why she was repeating that again. Araminta held her shoulder, her hands pinching her skin hardly like she wanted Nevaeh to take her next words seriously. "The sisters of Wisdom tell no tales, so what ever happens here..." "Must remain here." Nevaeh muttered in understanding. She looked at Araminta''s eyes and she shivered at the iciness seeping through them. Araminta opened her palm which revealed a black coin. She handed it Nevaeh. "Do not just seek you past, ask the right questions. Your life depends on it." ... Kindly share your thoughts on the story, and also the book needs ten reviews to have it''s rating visible. Kindly drop one today. Thanks. Chapter 82 - Answers And Past (1) Nevaeh felt uneasy by Araminta''s odd behavior and words, but she calmed herself as her contemplative eyes stared at her. Araminta seems to be helping her by warning her about a danger she didn''t know about, but Nevaeh was still skeptical about the woman''s true intentions. Was she a foe or a friend? What if this was a strategy to lower her guard and trust the enemy? Nevaeh didn''t know what to think of this. She believed there was danger lurking around her, but she still couldn''t trust anybody. Araminta glanced at the place Nevaeh was about to go through. It was a smaller tunnel, with narrower paths. "They can be a bit crazy, but they''ll do you no harm." Araminta assured her. Nevaeh looked at the dark and creepy path ahead of her before glancing at the black coin. She had no idea what to do with it, but she felt when the need for it arises, she would know. She gazed at Araminta and nodded her head. "Thank you." She told her. Araminta pointed with her chin. "Go ahead." Nevaeh turned towards the dark path ahead of her. There was no light, so she had to walk through the darkness alone. She had to do it. She clenched the hand that held the coin Araminta had given her as she took a deep breath. She took slow steps towards the path Araminta had pointed for her. Her legs felt heavy and unreluctant to go with her, but she dragged them along. She looked behind to see Araminta still waiting there. Nevaeh felt heart kept trembling and she took another long shaky breath. Nevaeh had only stepped past the arch above her, when a yellow burning flame suddenly lit up by her side, making her jolt. She was startled to see a wooden torch burning by her side. Was she supposed to pick it up? Glimpsing at the dark path ahead of her, she picked it up. Nevaeh had never felt afraid in her life as much as she felt now, but there was no turning back. She walked deeper till she saw a few stairs leading to an even darker place, but she could see a single ray of light sitting on a spot on the ground. She could tell it was a round open space. Nevaeh glanced around to ensure she was on the right course, but there was no other path around her. She looked back at the ray of light and anxiously lowered her leg to the first step. But the moment she did, the torch in her hand suddenly went off, turning the whole place dark. She jerked as her heart leaped in fear. Her mouth gaped to say something, but a chilling and eery voice suddenly floated through the room. "Step into the light, little girl." Nevaeh stiffened at the sound of the voice. It was feminine, but terrifying as if seeping out of the gates of hell. The already spooky atmosphere suddenly turned inexplicably terrifying. Nevaeh tried to calm her ragged breath, but she utterly failed. "Into the light, girl." She heard the voice say again, and she nervously lowered the torch in her hand to the floor. Her eyes scanned around the place but she could see nothing. There was only layers of gross darkness, save the spot where the ray light stood. Nevaeh fearfully walked towards the light, her heart pounding heavily and her eyes cautiously moving around as she stood directly on the ray of light. "Is it a witch?" A small sharp voice different from the first, echoed through the room. Nevaeh turned her head around when she heard the voice behind her. She snapped her head from side to side, but she saw nothing. "A scared little unknown creature, perhaps?" Another blood-curdling voice whispered behind her ears, this one different from the others, but terrifying nonetheless. They all sounded close, but no matter how she looked she saw nothing. But the atmosphere felt more spookish and strange. Nevaeh was certain she had heard three different voices, but there was no figure, or shadow, but their presence could be heavily felt. They were circling her in a taunting manner. Nevaeh trembling lips parted and she stutteringly spoke. "I.. I''m Nevaeh." She said while her eyes cautiously kept darting around. "And what do Nevaeh seek?" The horrifying first voice came again. "My...my past...and answers." Nevaeh replied. "The past can be dangerous." One of the witches said. "And sometimes, it''s better forgotten." Another added. "And the past can be very troublesome." The third one chipped. Their voice flowing one after another. "But...mine seems to be the key...to my presence." Nevaeh said. Her anxiety increased when the room suddenly turned quiet. "Are...are you..there?" Nevaeh stutteringly asked when the silence prolonged for too long. Her heart was at the verge of rupturing out of her chest. She shivered when a gush of cold wind swept past her, and three pairs of glowing green eyes appeared in front of her, making her stagger backward, but cold hands gripped her making her freeze. "Two powers of the five lords." They spoke simultaneously, like their voices were synced. Powers of the five? She has seen that before. It was inscribed on the tomb in her dream. "W...hat is that?" Nevaeh anxiously asked. Nevaeh panicked when they left her hand, but their eyes kept glowing. "Before creation, and the existence of all creatures of the five realms, a darkness roamed the world. A darkness that held immense powers. Powers that shattered and made alive. Powers that wasted and awaited to be used." One of the Witch said, her eyes glowing even brighter. Nevaeh''s eyes widened when a faint red flame suddenly lit up in the room, and images began to move through it. "The one who created all decided to utilize the powers and he made the five lords. Five lords who reigned supreme, making the universe seem like spike of dust." Nevaeh eyes keenly followed the images passing through the fire. There were five dark figures in it, four male and one female. Another witch continued, "Soon the five realms were formed and each of the masters became a lord over each realm. Guarding and protecting it. They stated the laws that be and the ones that be not. Creatures trembled at their wake, nothing stand in their way. Nothing compared to them." "They had all powers, except one." The witch paused, and the red flames disappeared, making Nevaeh curiously glance at them. "Except what?" Her small voice asked. "The power to create a life." Nevaeh was astonished by what they''ve said. She couldn''t believe there was such a history. But what has this got to do with her? Wait! Engel, he was one of the five lords, wasn''t he? Nevaeh was about to ask when one of the witch placed a hand on her head. Nevaeh felt a strange sensation from the inside of her head and her body suddenly felt heavy and darkness suddenly overtook her. ... All eyes were fixed on Kiel the moment he teleported into a room filled with female Angels, but his gaze was solely fixed on Sanaiah who was sitting in their midst chatting about female stuff. Her lips curved up into a smirk when their gaze met. "What a pleasant surprises, Zadkiel. Done paying for your sins?" Sanaiah asked in a mocking tone but Zadkiel kept quiet. She smiled as she rose up from her seat. She glanced at the ladies and said, "I must attend to the issues of this guardian before he repels the part of redemption." She jested, her eyes glancing at Keil to watch for his reaction, but there was none. She teleported out of sight and so did Kiel. They appeared in a small room which belonged to Sanaiah. She poured herself a drink and raised the glass to Kiel. "Want some?" She asked, but all she got was Kiel''s cold eyes. She sighed. "You''re still as boring as ever. I still wondered how you fell from piety." She shook her head and sat on the edge of the bed. "What do you want?" She glanced at him and asked. "Nevaeh was taken." He told her. "So I heard." She replied and took another sip from her wine. Zadkiel frowned at her nonchalant behavior. "You''re an elder." "She isn''t an angel. Let the witches handle their own problem. Don''t drag me into this." She sighed. Kiel watched her as she began to take off her robe. "Sanaiah." He drawled out her name, making her pause her movement. She turned to him and irritably rolled her eyes. "What?" "Do something." "Like what?" She raised her brows at him. They silently stared at each other before Kiel broke the silence. "Give Engel his powers back." He told her. Sanaiah looked at him with incredulity. She short derisive laugh left her lips. "Give him what? Are really stupid?" She glanced at him with incredulity. "What powers do I have to take him powers? You all are giving me too much credit." She hissed and continued off her robe, revealing the long white sleeping gown she had on. She shook her head when she saw the look in his eyes. "Matters concerning Engel should be no concern of yours. His powers are not with me, neither does anyone have it. His wife''s return would determine whether he gets them back or not." "What do you mean?" Kiel furrowed his brows at her. Sanaiah feigned a yawn as she turned towards her bed. "It means I want to sleep and I want my privacy. Thanks for dropping by Arch angel Kiel." She smiled wickedly at him. Kiel watched her before he vanished out of sight. "Tsk, what a busy body.." Sanaiah hissed. Chapter 83 - Answers And Past (2) Nevaeh wasn''t sure what was happening to her, but she was restless in her unconscious state. She wasn''t asleep, but it seemed like she was in a trance of some sort. "What do you want, little witch?" His lazy yet majestic voice filled the room. His head was tilted to the side and probed up by his hand. His eyes were halfly closed as if he was too lazy to open them to look at her. Her big round eyes fluttered at the sound of his voice, and so did her heart. "It''s Haniel, my Lord." She told him. "But whatever you call me, I''ll answer." He opened his eyes and she lowered hers, too shy and afraid to behold his gaze. His eyes were dull and empty, but she felt naked under his gaze. She slowly raised her eyes to him when she heard nothing from him. "What do you want, witch?" He asked again, this time, his gaze was fixed on her blushed face. "To know you, my lord." She said. "I''m not one to be known by a child." He told her and turned his gaze from her, as if he was bothered by her presence. Nevaeh frowned at his words. She wasn''t a child! She was almost of age!. The scene spun and changed from there. Nevaeh found herself in the woods. He stalked towards her till her back was pressed against the back of an oak tree, his body looming over hers in an predatory manner, and his eyes still held the annoyance and hostility it did every time he saw her. "Are you scared of me, my Lord?" She asked, staring straight into his colourful eyes. "Do I look scared?" He asked back and she nodded her head. "Your scurry away whenever you see me coming, and you stiffen when my hand brushes against yours. I can''t help but think you''re scared of me. Are you scared of me or are you scared of maidens, my lord?" "You''re not a maiden, yet." He outrightly told her. "But I''ll be of age in a few days." She told him. Her eyes telling him she was saying the truth. Engel silently stared at her. He took a step closer and his eyes changed. Nevaeh gulped in fear when his eyes turned black, but she calmed herself and remained still as she waited for his next action. He slightly leaned closer, but he quickly stopped himself and sighed. He stepped away from her, and with a tight voice he said, "Stay away from me, little witch. You''re too troublesome and stupid for me." Nevaeh felt her head become heavy as the scenes kept changing one after another. She wasn''t sure where she was, but her head and body seemed to be spinning continuously like a moving carousel. In each memory that came to her, she was chasing after Engel, tirelessly pursuing him till he had no way to evade her. "My lord, I''ll make you mine." She boldly declared. "You will." He wasn''t asking, he sounded like he was convinced of her capabilities. He amusedly stared at the small girl challengingly standing in front of him with sparkling eyes. His eyes had a certain fondness in them as they glowed. "Yes." She affirmed. "And when I do, you can never get rid of me not even in death." "You talk too much, little witch." "Only with you, my lord. But I heard the maids say there are other things you can do with a maiden''s mouth. My lord do you care to try?" She innocently asked, making his eyes darken as they fell on her lips. He sighed and looked away. "You''re too brazen for a child. And you should never say such things to a man." "But you''re not a man." She told him. "Then what am I?" He narrowed his eyes and asked. "You''re my Angel, my lord." Again the scene changed, and this time Nevaeh found herself lying in his arms. His gentle gaze caressing and kissing her face, while her fingers trailed every contour of his face. "You''re like an Angel, Engel. Even your name says you are. Lord Engel, the angel who stole my innocent heart." He chuckled at her words. "Your heart was never innocent, Haniela. And you troubled me too much to ignore you. You are one untamed creature, who has me in it claws." He combed his hand through her sleek black hair. A warm blush crept over her face. She was pleased with his words. "Then you''ll always be at my mercy." She smiled. He pressed a kiss on her temple. "There''s no where else I''d rather be." He tightened his arms around her and pulled her closer. "Engel, I''ll make you wings. What about a golden one?" Her brown eye''s shone like a sea of stars, showing sheer excitement in them. "You don''t have the powers for that." He told her, matter of factly. "Nonsense!" She chided him. "I might be lazy to learn grandmother'' spells, but for this present, I''ll work harder. You have to take me on a flight, and I''ll kiss you in the sky, so the whole world knows that I chased a dark lord and he helplessly fell for me. How exciting would that be!" She chirped. Engel was always speechless when he comes to her. But he still replied. "Then I''ll receive your present well, and wear your wings with pride." "You''ll always be mine Lord Engel, never forget that." Every memory after that were of them spending time together and being happy together in her grandmother''s castle. But soon all the happy events faded and troublesome images stared to fill her head. She found herself running while demons chased her. Her jet black hair moved against the breeze as she ran in the woods. Her gown was terribly torn by the blades of leaves as she has ran past, and her feets felt sore, but she kept running. Everywhere she turned there were demons, but there was no Engel to protect her. He was gone. Engel had broken his promise and left her, yet she had chased after him to another realm. Tears rolled down her eyes as they caught her and dragged her by the hair. She wailed and called his name but no matter how hard she called, he didn''t come like he used to and they teleported her away. Nevaeh''s heart slowly began to pound when more scary scenes began to follow one after another, and her body slowly began to fidget. She gasped and her eyes flew open when she felt the force that had submerged her pull away from her. Beads of sweat covered her, and her body was cold. In her last memory she had seen herself chained in a field of poppies, and Engel had returned to save her. But he was different. He seemed weak and defeated. "Why did it stop?" She asked the witches who were still hidden in the dark, but their eyes still glowed. She wanted to see and know what was wrong with Engel. She wanted to know why he had left her, where he had been and why he was like that? "Take me back!" She ordered, but the witches remained quiet. "The memories will return, little girl. Don''t be impatient." "But I..." "Patience is a virtue, little girl. You should learn to cultivate it." Nevaeh was sure she had lost all the patience that she had. There was no ounce of it in her, and now, she truly wanted to know more. Ariana had mentioned a Enemy and she had hoped she would see who the enemy was, but nothing happened. "What you requested for, you''ve gotten. Now leave." Another of the witch said. It was the one with the eeriest voice. Leave? How could she leave? They still hadn''t told her what she wanted to know. Other than Engel and her having a history, how was she truly connected to all this? Why was someone after her. "Can I ask a few more questions?" She anxiously asked. "More questions. What would you give for them?" Payment? Nevaeh''s mind went to the black coin Araminta had given her. She opened her right palm and stretched out the coin. "Would this do?" She asked. "A black coin." "You have five questions." Just Five? Nevaeh wasn''t sure she could ask all she wanted in just five questions, but she had to. She calmed herself and asked her first question. "Can I trust, Araminta?" Her question might seemed odd, but she believed it was necessary. If she was in danger here, then she''d need someone to trust and help her. Araminta seemed powerful, but could she could be a foe. But if she was a friend, then at least she''d feel a bit safe knowing there was someone to trust. But if she was a friend, then at least she''d feel a bit safe knowing there was someone to trust. Chapter 84 - "...Conquer All" Since this quest for answers began, Nevaeh had always felt overwhelmed by the answers she was provided but she had never felt satisfied with any of them. More answers always led to more questions, and this has been the circle. But after her visit to the sisters she could finally feel a breakthrough. Although some unanswered questions, and unraveled mysteries still lingered, she felt she could finally put some pieces together. Pieces of who the enemy was, why she had seen Engel in a tomb, why she was now the enemy''s target and why she had died. But most importantly, she now remembers Engel, the mighty lord whom she had saved from a self imposed prison only to imprison him in her heart and leave him behind to wait for thousands of years for her return. She had made him promise to never be separated from her and he had kept his promise while she broke hers by dying. Nevaeh felt her heart ache for his suffering. He must have been lonely while he waited for so long. Missing her everyday and looking at nothing but her portraits must have been tortuous. Nevaeh desired nothing but to go home right now. She wanted to pounce into his embrace and kiss him, and tell him she remembers him now. She wanted to tell him she was sorry for leaving him behind and letting him suffer alone and waiting for her alone. But despite all these, Nevaeh knew she couldn''t. The enemy outside this realm wasn''t the only problem she has now, but also an enemy within this realm. Nevaeh paused when she found Araminta still waiting at the spot she had left her. They shared a look and she nodded at her. "Everyone awaits." Araminta said as she began to lead the way out of the cave. Nevaeh watched Araminta carefully as she followed behind. Araminta might not know it, but her name had been more valuable than the black coin she had given her. Five questions would never have given her the answers she had gotten, but her name had done that. "Can I trust, Araminta?" She had asked. Nevaeh patiently waited for their response. She had expected the witches to give her a reply, but something strange happened. One of the witches stepped forward, her face entering into the light. Nevaeh was stunned to see she was just as young as Araminta. Her face looked flawless, and her eye features were just as Araminta''s. She gave Nevaeh a stern look and asked, "The question should be, does Araminta deserve this distrust?" A confused frown framed Nevaeh''s face. She didn''t understand her words. Why did it seem like she was taking it personal? "What do you mean?" She asked. "Araminta is the very reason why you are standing here today. Her powers to ascend the throne are the very powers used in reincarnating you. Now, answer carefully. Is Araminta deserving of your distrust?" Nevaeh was shocked by the words she had said. "What...do.." Noticing her confusion the two other sisters stepped out into the light. All their faces were just as beautiful, including the one standing in the middle who seemed a bit aged. But despite her age, her face still held a glow that made her look more than ordinary. The other two seemed similar in age, but despite the disparity in age, none was lacking in their formidable aura. And they were all dressed in black. Her fierce green eyes locked in on Nevaeh''s for a while till she finally said. "Araminta is the true heart and soul of this realm. The black coin you had given was the last heirloom of her bloodline. If anyone deserves to be trusted, it is her." Nevaeh was beyond stunned by this revelation. She couldn''t believe it. She had no idea the coin was that priceless. Why would Araminta do that? "Why did she do this?" Her small voice asked in astonishment making the aged witch scoff. "Why did she save you? Or why did she give you this?" She asked raising the coin to Nevaeh. "Both." She softly muttered. "Because Araminta knows her powers isn''t enough to restore the lost balance of the world, and as a true leader it''s her duty to restore that balance even if it means giving up her powers." "Wh...what balance?" Nevaeh asked. She was confused. They were speaking in riddles, and she didn''t understand. Her eyes peered at the witches with piqued interest. She waited till the witch gave her answer. "The balance lost when the lord of the demons started his quest for power." She said and snapped her finger, bringing back the red burning flame which had dark images in them. Nevaeh''s eyes darted towards the flame and she saw those five figures in them. "After the realms were created, the lords had gone about maintaining law and order, ensuring peace was maintained all through the realms. But soon the unexpected happened. The human lord took the witches lord for a wife. It was an unpredictable union, but a harmonious one. Under their guidance and wisdom the two realms waxed strong and expanded more than the other three. The demon lord, lord Daeryn, saw this and grew a greed. Envying what the lords created together. "Humans lived among witches, and unions stemmed from their coexistence, and soon a new generation was born. A generation of halflings. Half human and half witches. With a mixture of the immense strength unique to humans, and the creative powers of us witches, the demon lord began to fear and detest this union. Though half witches aren''t powerful as the pure breeds, but their human nature helped them reproduce more, thus increasing in numbers. Lord Daeryn feared the witches and humans would seek to take over other territories as they increased not just in number but in strength." She continued, the images in the flame changing from time to time, while Nevaeh paid rapt attention to both the flames and her words. "With Lord Dareyn''s evil scheme and lust for power, he killed the elven lord, absorbing his powers and invading the elven realm, turning the elves into vicious hound beast. With the elven lord''s power combined with his, he became more powerful." Nevaeh felt her heart race when she saw the dark demon lord in the flames. Just the images alone sent shivers and cold sweat down her spine. She stilled herself as she continued to listen. "With his new powers and two realms of demons, the demon lord sort to destroy the married lords and absorb their powers and take over their realms. But unknowingly to him, the witch lord had secretly been with child, and to protect their realms they transferred their powers to their child and ended their lives, as well as all who knew about the child''s existence, simply to protect it. Not being able to accept this defeat Lord Daeryn created choas in his wake. With just the fifth lord remaining, the realms were firmly protected, but he wasn''t a match for Lord Daeryn who had the power of two, but nevertheless, lord Engel defended the three realms with his all." "Almost at defeat, Lord Engel sort the witches and requested a binding spell be cast on him. A spell that hibernated his powers as well as those that shared the same source with him, that was his only way to defeat the enemy. He sacrifices himself for the safety of all the realms. Lord Engel was spelled, and his body kept hidden in a tomb in this realm for thousands of years until..." "I broke the spell." Nevaeh slowly muttered, finally realizing what had happened. She could have never imagined that was what that dream meant. The aged witch nodded concurringly and continued again. "Witches had died casting that spell. The powers of the five isn''t something mere creatures like us could handle, but sacrifices must be made, and we knew the cost. But with Lord Engel finally awoken, so was the demon Lord. While lord Engel dwelled here to recuperate, he fell for his mate.." "Me." Nevaeh was finally understanding the fragments of her memories now. "Lord Engel was never bound to stay here to accompany you. He had a battle to fight which he knew he was bound to fail, but with the demon lord awoken, the safety of all three realms rested on his shoulders. But what he failed to realize was that, his success in that battle wasn''t just dependent on his strength and powers, but also on someone with equal or even stronger powers. A descendant from the bloodline of the Witch and the human lord. A descendant like you." The witch said, her eyes now piercingly locked on Nevaeh''s. Nevaeh turned her gaze away from the flame and dumbfoundedly stared at the aged witch with widened eyes. Her eyes darted from one witch to another in stupefaction, but they were all similarly staring at her assuring her she had just heard the truth. Nevaeh was shocked. "M..me?" She was a direct descendant of what?! How? Nevaeh didn''t believe it. That was unreal! Okay time out! This wasn''t making sense anymore. Wasn''t she just human? At most she had suspected to had been a witch before, but now, she was what? The aged and scary witch suddenly had a frown frame her face, and that scared Nevaeh to her bones. The Witch who had first stepped into the light, assuringly spoke up. "You''re that descendant, Nevaeh. The others before you never came to know about their powers because Lord Engel had still been under the spell, so all powers sharing same source as him also slept. But with him awoken, not only does the lords'' powers return, so does yours because you share that same source." Eh? Nevaeh''s felt her head slowly began to spin and threatening to fall of. This was an infodump! They were giving her too much information. Information she didn''t want to believe and accept. But wait! If she truly had such powers, why then did she die? Why did Engel not take her with him, or did he not know? As if the witches had read her mind the third one who had been quiet for a while finally spoke. "Whether Lord Engel is aware of who you truly are can only be told by him, but it is certain, the lord Daeryn knows and that''s why he had been looking for you. If your powers are absorbed by him he''d be the most powerful being in all realms and nothing can stop him." "So you''re saying Engel might not know. But if he doesn''t, how did the other lord know?" Nevaeh didn''t see how the demon lord would know but Engel wouldn''t. "Enemies are more within than without." The aged witch said. "A person''s enemies are more members of his own household. And no outsider invades your home without an ally." "Are you saying..." Nevaeh was baffled. Sge understood what they were trying to say. There had been a traitor in their midst. "A once powerless and naive child, suddenly becoming strong enough to make wings would raise suspicions. Your grandmother might have tried her best to keep your childishness hidden but ears always moved between walls, even as they do till now." So what she was trying to say that, she might have alerted the enemies by making those golden wings for Engel, and someone from this realm must have informed the dark lord. That should mean, Engel knew what she was. He had to. And those wings in his house were given to her by him. He had said the wings were just as real as her. Oh my... Nevaeh felt her heart ache for him again. "Your childish and innocent love for Lord Engel had led to your death. You died protecting him when he failed saving you from the Lord Dareyn." She had saved Engel? Did this mean he had brought her back because he felt guilty or that he had to failed her? Wouldn''t it have been better if he had just left her? But she couldn''t say that. She would have done the same for him too. Without knowing about their history she had loved him, so how could she even say that? "But why didn''t Engel bring me back? Why had Araminta''s powers brought me?" Nevaeh was still confused about that. If Engel was as powerful as he was said to be, why didn''t he bring her back himself, allowing Araminta to sacrifice herself? "Creating a life is the only limitation of the lords. Araminta''s powers hadn''t just brought you back, but generations of her bloodline had been sacrificed for you to be reborn." Generations. And it keeps getting worse and darker. Nevaeh felt her knees almost give way. Just how many lives and powers had been sacrificed for her? Nevaeh suddenly felt a heaviness in her heart. If this was the price they had to pay, then she shouldn''t have been brought back. Nevaeh tried to calm herself when she yet realized another thing. "If the demon lord is still alive, why hasn''t anything happened even after so many years?" He was even chasing after her now, so what does this mean? The aged witch quickly answered her. "When you died, you didn''t just die, but somehow all the lord had lost their powers. We believe you have unknowingly placed a binding spell, but no one can tell, except you, but you''ll know when all your memories returns. If that is true, then only you can undo what you''ve done." Wait what? Another binding spell? Were they saying, she was responsible for Engel''s powerlessness? This was becoming too much. Nevaeh felt she might truly collapse now. "I...if this is true, then how do I unlock it?" Nevaeh inquired. How does Engel get his powers back? Nevaeh expected an answer, but the one they gave got her confused. "No one knows." They all replied simultaneously. Nevaeh retreated when their eyes suddenly began to glow again and they took a step towards her. "These things haven''t been told of us for no reason." They said. Their voices bringing back the cold and eery aura as before. Nevaeh retreated again. "Th..en why have you told me?" She stuttered. "Because you are the key to defeating the horror that looms over the realms as well as Araminta. You must protect the witch, at all cost." Protect Araminta? Were they crazy Nevaeh looked at them with shocked eyes. Though they say Araminta was powerless, but she was still more powerful than her, so how could she protect her? "How will I.." "Your key to winning is to trust Lord Engel. He is the direct source of the power you carry.. The strength of two is always more fiercer than one, but that of three can conquer all." Chapter 85 - Prisoner Without being aware of Nevaeh''s gaze on her, Araminta led Nevaeh to a courtroom where Queen Herilda and the others were obviously waiting for her. "You''re back." Queen Herilda smiled at her as she graciously gestured for her to take a seat by her side. Nevaeh obediently nodded and slowly walked towards the seat. She noticed all eyes were fixed on her, and they were all waiting for her to say something. She looked at the queen who had a calm and relaxed look on her face unlike the others who seemed quite anxious. She remembered the witches'' words. ''Enemies are more within than without.'' From what the witches had said about the demon lord knowing about her in the past, it was certain there had been traitors walking in their midst. Someone knew something about this hidden descendant which she had surprisingly come from, and might had told the demon lord. Her grandmother clearly would have known, hence why she had tried to hide all her whimsical and childish actions like making Engel a pair of wings. Nevaeh felt she might have been a hand full as a child. Shamelessly chasing after a lord thousands of years older than her simply showed how troublesome she must have been. Her gaze skimmed through all the faces surrounding her and she couldn''t help but think there might still be enemies sitting in her midst at the moment. She stealthily glanced at Araminta finally understanding her warnings. Warnings she must heed to ensure her safety. Someone here was either after her powers or was working with the demon lord. But which was it? Noticing how impatient the gazes on her grew, she glanced at the Queen and said, "The sisters helped me regain fragments of my memory." "Fragments?" Someone said amidst them. Nevaeh''s eyes looked at the man who had said it. His gaze was weirdly locked on hers. "Yes." She replied taking note of the face. She returned her gaze to the queen and continued. "The memories were horrifying. The sisters said the rest will return with time." She added. She wasn''t lying, after all the sisters had said so. The queen held her gaze for a while before slowly nodding. "It must have been troublesome for you reliving all those memories. You should take some rest." Queen Herilda said and waved her hands, and a servant approached. "Take her to her room." Queen Herilda ordered and the maid nodded. Nevaeh had something to say but she kept quiet. She didn''t want to say anything suspicious, so she simply turned around and left. In her room, Nevaeh''s heart pounded ferociously. A lot had been learned today, and all, she had to accept. She had to accept she wasn''t ordinary and that she was someone with mysterious powers. Accept that there might be immeasurable responsibilities hanging over her shoulder. She was someone who had to protect people she cared for and those who cared and sacrificed enough for her, most especially Engel. Now she understood her innate desire to always comfort and protect him. Nevaeh felt drained and overwhelmed, so she just kicked off her shoes and laid on the bed. She had to go home. She missed home by every hand of the clock that ticked. She wanted to go back to Engel, not just to be with him, but to seek his guidance. He was more knowledgeable in all this, and who best to help than the man who knew and understood her the most. Still lying on her bed, she wondered how soon she''d be able to leave here. Due to the fatigue in her bones, her eyes became heavy and droopy. She had barely slept off when faint footsteps slowly began to waft through her ears. She drowsily stirred up and her eyes moved round the room but there was no one. She sighed and slept off. In her sleep she had another dream. It was similar to what she had seen in the cave, but this time it was more organized, and more detailed. It was all her memories. Memories of her past. Nevaeh woke up feeling less overwhelmed than she had always felt. She felt a tad bit lighter from all the heaviness that has swallowed her for weeks. Heaviness brought by mysteries around her. Hurriedly she got herself ready. She wanted to see the queen and request to be sent home. She would recover the rest of memories from home while she talked to Engel about all she had discovered, and together they could look for a way to get his powers back. Nevaeh made her way out of the room and wandered down the hallway. She had no idea where she was going, but she was certain she''d see someone to ask for directions. She had barely walked a distance when that familiar feeling of being watched returned. She paused and looked around but there was no one. She took a few steps back but there was still no one there. Something was wrong. Why was she feeling spooked? Had this been weeks ago, Nevaeh would have dismissed this feeling for paranoia, but after all she has experienced she wasn''t ever going to look at the world lightly or simply dismiss any feeling she has, ever again. "I know someone''s there. If you are, please come out." She muttered out, even though her heart was slightly pounding out of rhythm. Her eyes anxiously moved around but there was still no one. She suddenly stilled when she heard a rustling sound behind her. Nevaeh snapped her head around but she saw no one. That was strange. She had clearly heard something now. She should leave. She shouldn''t be wandering around in place where she knew she wasn''t safe. She was about walking away when her eyes caught sight of a small piece of paper on the wall. That wasn''t there seconds ago, was it? She wondered. Her eyes moved around as she cautiously walked towards it. She slowly reached for it and read. ''Becareful. Araminta''s in trouble.'' Araminta? Nevaeh was shocked by what was written on the paper. Her heart quickly began to race as she looked around again, before reading those four words written to her for the second time. ''Araminta was in trouble? How? Who sent this?'' "Is everything okay?" Nevaeh stiffened when she heard a familiar voice behind her. She surreptitiously scrunched the paper away and gripped the side of her gown with her hand before turning to the source of the voice. "Your highness." She politely greeted with a bow, emulating the actions she had seen in movies. Queen Herilda observed her, her eyes looking at the hand holding the side of her gown, before looking at Nevaeh''s face. "You must be lost." The queen said and Nevaeh readily nodded. "I was about looking for you, but there''s no one to point the way for me." She explained, her hand tightly squeezing the paper in her hand. She noticed it was just the queen and a few guards who were there today. Where was Araminta? Did the queen know she was in some sort of trouble? What sort of trouble was she in? These were the questions going through her head. "Are you okay?" The queen asked, obviously sensing her distress but Nevaeh nodded. "Okay. Come I''ll show you around, then you can tell me why you were looking for me." She said to Nevaeh. Showing her around? Nevaeh felt this was an opportunity to ask about Araminta. "Do you mind if I ask where''s Araminta?" She paused and observed the queen''s countenance. If there was something she had realized was that, Queen Herilda seems to conceal her thoughts pretty well. Her face always revealed nothing. But that shouldn''t be strange as she was a queen, right? As a leader she had to be unpredictable, but still Nevaeh didn''t want to just dismiss any feeling in her. She continued when the Queen''s gentle countenance didn''t falter. "She had initially offered to show me around, and I wanted to ask her to remove the spell she had cast on me." The queen smiled at her. "I''m sorry to disappoint you, but Araminta''s not around. She''s running some errands for the kingdom. But the spell will be fully lifted when your memories are fully complete." She said, making Nevaeh take a quick look at her improving hand. The black lines were gradually fading off already. It was probably only a matters of days now. Seeing how the queen didn''t mention anything about Araminta being in trouble, she kept quiet. Other than Araminta, there was no one she could trust other than herself. This message could be a trap, or the queen could be hiding something. "So your memories are returning in bits?" The queen asked as they walked along a beautiful garden which once again reminded Nevaeh of home. "Yes." Nevaeh answered as she stealthily tucked the paper under the strap of her bra. She''d properly ponder on it later. "That''s good." She said as they continued to walk further. "I''d love to return home now. My memories will return in due time and the spell will be broken." Nevaeh told her. "But what about your husband?" The queen naturally asked making Nevaeh to look at her. ''What about Engel?'' "What about him?" She asked. "I told you he wouldn''t be able to protect you, but you can learn to protect him and yourself." "How?" Nevaeh stopped walking, her gaze fixed on the woman. The queen turned and looked at her. "We can teach you some powerful spells. Spells powerful enough to fight off your enemies, and also enough to unseal your witch powers." Spells? Nevaeh would love to learn that, but she didn''t have the time for that, and getting the hell away from this place was her sole priority. She''d think about other things later. Nevaeh sighed. "I don''t have the time to learn that. I want to go home already. When my memories are fully restored, I should remember some spells, right?" "Of course, you will. But I''ll be better if you recover your memories here. That way you''ll get the guidance you seek. And also it''s still not safe to open a portal just yet. The demons are still searching for you." Queen Herilda said making Nevaeh frown slightly. If what she had learnt were true and the memories in her head were real, then the demons wouldn''t stop looking for her. So what was she saying? "What are you saying?" Nevaeh asked, her frown not leaving her face. Queen Herilda took a step closer towards her and gently brushed her hand through her hair. "What I''m saying is, you can''t leave for now, Nevaeh. Wait a few more days, I''ll personally open a portal for you and take you home. Your safety is important to us." She said in a very convincing voice, but Nevaeh didn''t believe her. She had a new type of feeling inside her. One that really scared her. Queen Herilda was keeping her prisoner. Chapter 86 - Dungeon Nevaeh couldn''t hold back the frown on her face that failed to falter no matter how hard she tried. It could only deepen in the presence of the queen, her eyes holding a glint of anger in them. "Are you keeping me prisoner?" Nevaeh outrightly asked. This was the time to be careful with her words, but she couldn''t hold back the anger and disappointment she was feeling at the moment. She watched as the queen casually returned her glance and softly sighed. "I''m not keeping you prisoner, Nevaeh. I''m only trying to protect you." She unhurriedly said, making Nevaeh frown even more suspiciously. Queen Herilda sighed again. "Fine, I won''t deny that the thought of keeping you here with us hadn''t crossed my mind. Of course it had." She admitted. "We suspect you''re someone with an ancient source inside of you, and that makes you invaluable not just to us, but to the other realms. You''re what we need to eradicate the evil around us, and set the world on the right course again. And as my subject I must protect you for you to protect us." Nevaeh narrowed her eyes as she intently listened to her speak. Protect her to protect them? Was she implying they were going to use her? "I appreciate your concern for me and my welfare, but if you really care, you''ll send me back home and not keep me away from my husband anymore. I just want to go home, so please, send me back." Nevaeh politely told her, hoping this wouldn''t really turn out to be what she feared, but she was stunned by the queen''s next response. "I''m sorry. I can''t, Nevaeh." She coldly told her. Her smile totally disappearing away from her face, and a frigid appearance replaced the once smiling face. Queen Herilda waved her hand and a guard walked over. With her gaze intently locked on Nevaeh''s, she said, "Take our guest to her room, and make sure she''s well rested." She calmly ordered, but her intentions were made clear. The frosty look on her face faltered and a small smile crept in as she continued staring at Nevaeh. "Be good Nevaeh. I''m only protecting you." She assured her, an apologetic look plastered on her face as she said those words. They both silently stared at each other, till the guard walked to Nevaeh. Nevaeh calmed herself and said nothing as she followed the guard. There was nothing for she to say at the moment, and even if she did, nothing was going to change. Nevaeh was escorted back to her room like a glorified prisoner under the pretence of being a guest. A guard kept watch over her door. This was crazy! Everytime her view of the world seems to get broadened. Though she had had her suspicions about the queen and the people of this realm, she had still innocently wanted to convince herself that maybe things wouldn''t be as bad as she feared. But who was she kidding? She has definitely been living in a far too innocent world for too long. Now she was seeing the real one. ... Jaiyana who had been watching her mother and Nevaeh from the side stepped out and walked towards her mother after Nevaeh had left. "Is all this necessary?" She asked while she watched Nevaeh been led away. Queen Herilda glanced at her daughter. "Everything is necessary." She said and turned to leave. "What about the lords?" Jaiyana asked following behind her mother. "What can they do?" That was a simple question, but Yana understood the undermining tone beneath her mother''s words, so she simply nodded. Queen Herilda paused and turned halfway to Yana, "Where''s Araminta?" She inquired. "In the dungeon." Yana replied. Queen Herilda looked towards the direction of the dungeon and said, "Let''s pay her a visit." The path to the dungeon was cold, dark and rough, but Queen Herilda travelled there with no care whatsoever, a stoic look plastered on her face. She stopped in front of a cell and her eyes looked at the dainty figure lying on the cold floor. Araminta opened her eyes when she felt a presence around her. A small smile split her face when she saw who had come visiting. "What a pleasant surprise." She smiled. "Have you come to check how luxurious my new room is?" Araminta asked, her smile turning into a mocking one. "Why do always have to be so unruly?" Herilda asked making Araminta resignatedly sigh. She feigned a yawn and properly adjusted herself in a fetal position. "You should ask this question to that little princess of yours. She''s the unruly and mannerless one." Araminta said in a lazy voice. She showed no sign of being offended by Herilda''s word. Herilda also wasn''t angered by her words. She had not expected anything better from her, nevertheless, she still had to say what had brought her. "Have you made up your mind?" She inquired causing Araminta to cock a brow at her. "Make up my mind on what?" She innocently asked, clearly showing her intentions of toiling with Queen Herilda. The queen frowned at Araminta''s behavior. "Oh, I remember now. Is it about that stupid thing that only someone as stupid as you can think of?" "Araminta!" Queen Herilda roared in anger, but her actions only riled Araminta up as her green eyes glowed and she rose to her feet and sauntered towards the cell gate, her eyes locked on Herilda''s own. "Do not forget who you are Herilda. You''re just an opportuned occupant of my seat. Watch your tone when you call my name." She drawled under her breath. The iciness of her voice was enough to freeze the whole room. Herilda fumed at her words, but before she could say anything Araminta continued. "I thought you were sensible but apparently you''re not. You try to meddle in things you do not understand and you think you''ll succeed? The power of five isn''t something you can weaponize and the wife of Lord Engel isn''t a vessel to be used. Try the man''s patience and you''d wish you and your entire generations had been nothing but moss. If no one is bold enough to advice you to stop this madness, then I''ll do you and them a favor. Stop your foolishness. Be contented with what you have, else your greed will be the gateway to your demise." She warned. Araminta turned towards the little hound dog standing by her mother''s side. "You should be careful too. You might just be her next sacrifice." She scoffed and walked back towards the place she had been laying before she was rudely disturbed. She laid back on the floor and hissed. "You both are blocking the air, I don''t have to tell you what to do, do i?" She asked as she turned to find a comfortable position to sleep. Herilda watched her with menacing eyes. "You''ll regret this Araminta." She swore. Araminta yawned again, this time it was real. "I hope I do. But then I remember, I have nothing to feel regretful for." Herilda couldn''t keep her irritation for Araminta hidden anymore. Her face was now green with anger. "Let''s go." She said to Yana who obediently turned to leave with her. "Herilda." Araminta suddenly called, stopping them on their heels. Herilda slightly turned towards her. "Power is fleeting and so is life. Learn to live for the right purpose else you''ll become an easy prey to death while chasing for the wrong things." Araminta told her. Queen Herilda stood at a spot and stared at her before walking away with heavy steps. Araminta had really bruised her with her words but she was going to have the last laugh in all this. "Should I keep an eye on her?" Yana asked. "No. Keep an eye on the girl. She has been the key to taming Araminta. If she''s here, so will Araminta." She said. But aside this reasoning, she also knew Araminta wouldn''t be able to break the spell guarding her cell. She had made sure of that. While Queen Herilda thought she had it all figured out, she had overlooked who Araminta was. She was someone who was born to rule, hence many were still submissive to her. Araminta''s lips curved up after Herilda had left. It was only a matter of time now. .... Nevaeh paced around her room as she pondered on what Queen Herilda wanted with her as well as several ways to escape this place, but no matter how hard she thought of it, there was nothing, and there was obviously no way out for her. There were guards stationed outside the door, and Araminta was gone. She was in trouble, and she had no idea what sort of trouble it was. Nevaeh felt frustrated, scared and angry. She kept pacing and sighing. She suddenly paused when she heard light foot steps around her. Was someone coming in? Her eyes darted to the door as she anxiously waited, but few seconds passed but the door didn''t open and no one walked in. Nevaeh kept her guards up as she kept listening to the door, and soon she heard the sound again, but this time it wasn''t from the door. It...was behind her. She snapped her head around to look and her heart skipped when the sounds became more audible. It...was.. coming...from... the wall. Nevaeh''s heart instantly began a marathon as she picked up a vase and walked towards the wardrobe where is seemed the noise was coming from. She looked at the door and contemplated calling the guards at the door, but she decided not to, not sure why. She placed her hand on the wall and cautiously leaned towards it. She pressed her ear against the wall and listened, and a soft whisper entered her ear. It was her name. Someone had just called her name from behind the wall. "Who''s there? W...ho are you?" She fretfully asked, her sweaty hands firmly gripping the vase in her hand. "I''m coming in." She heard the voice say, and Nevaeh became alert. Her eyes darting everywhere as her heart heavily pounded. She flinched when soft creaking sounds came from the other side of the wardrobe, and her eyes widened as she saw part of the wall open from within. Her grip over the vase tightened as she anxiously waited for someone to step out, and soon someone did. It was a young girl with black raven hair, and chestnut eyes. "W..ho are you?" Nevaeh asked as she took a step back from where she stood, putting some distance between her and this stranger. The girl bowed to her. "I''m here to help you.." She said. Chapter 87 - Secret Passage "Help me? How?" Nevaeh suspiciously asked. She has heard these people use this word a few number of times, and she has come to realize that the word meant something entirely different to them. Queen Herilda had offered to help her, yet here she was, trapped. The girl made an attempt to walk closer but Nevaeh moved the vase in her hand and retreated once more. "Don''t come closer." She warned, her heart thumping really hard. "Shh, be soft." The girl told her, her eyes warily fixed at the door. Nevaeh took a quick glance at the door before returning her attention to the girl. She stood at alert when the girl reached out for something under her sleeves. "Don''t-" "Araminta asked me to show you this." She brought out a black coin. Nevaeh''s eyes fell on it and she instantly recognized it. It was the coin she had returned to Araminta on their way out of the cave. "Araminta?" Nevaeh muttered dazedly, while she reached for the coin. Wasn''t she in danger? She looked at the paper on she had dropped on the bed. "Did you drop that for me?" She asked. She was surprised when the girl nodded. "Araminta told me to warn you, so you would be on guard." Of course she would. "Where is she?" She asked, her eyes now peering at the girl with heightened curiousity and concern. "In the dungeon." "Dungeon?" Nevaeh was shocked. Why would Araminta be in the dungeon? Was the queen keeping her prisoner too? That must be the case. "Yes. But I have to get you to her immediately. She awaits us." The girl told her with a tone of urgency. Nevaeh was confused by what the girl was saying. Was she going to take her to the dungeon too? "My lady." The girl called when Nevaeh seemed to be in a daze. "What am I to do in the dungeon?" She inquired. She wasn''t fully trusting of the girl even though that black coin was enough to let her believe her. It was Araminta''s heirloom so it shouldn''t have been able to get, but with Araminta in the dungeon, then that changes anything. These people weren''t ordinary so somethings wouldn''t be difficult for them. Things like getting what doesn''t belong to them. "Araminta said to tell you the first day she had met you, it was it in a building filled with people and you were formally dressed. She told me this, but as for what you''re to do in the dungeon, she didn''t say." Of course, she wouldn''t. Nevaeh have realize that Araminta wasn''t trusting of people and would keep important things away. She was now convinced that Araminta had really sent her. "Can we leave now? We must hurry." The girl told as she kept looking at the door. Nevaeh hesitated a few seconds before nodding. "Then let''s go." The girl said and turned towards the secret passage in the wall she had passed through. Nevaeh picked the paper she had dropped on the bed and followed the girl. She was surprised to see the dark and narrow secret passage behind the wall. She had never imagined something like this was possible. "Closely follow." The girl told her making Nevaeh nod. The girl snapped her fingers and a small bright light illuminated their path. Nevaeh looked behind her as she anxiously followed the girl. "We must hurry before they notice you''re gone. And we can''t afford to miss the time." Nevaeh didn''t know what time she was talking about, but she hurried after the girl. Nevaeh kept looking behind her as they kept walking. She had passing through a lot of dark path recently, and it made her feel like her path to love and peace might just be a long narrow and dark path too. They walked for quite a while when the girl finally stopped and pushed open a part of the wall. Nevaeh had noticed every turn they had made through the passage as well as this point on the wall had been marked. "Who left this markings?" She couldn''t help but ask. "Queen Araminta." The girl said. ''Queen Araminta.'' Nevaeh looked at the girl and the proud and pleased look in her eyes didn''t miss her. She now realizes that there were people who wanted Araminta as their leader and were very much loyal to her. Again, she felt sad for Araminta''s situation. She was responsible for her condition. A rightful leader locked in a dungeon must be very humiliating. "This way." The girl said, cutting through her thought. Nevaeh scrunched her nose when the unpleasant smell from the place hit her nose. Her eyes darted around as they walked past several gated cells. An uneasy feeling brooded in her heart as she observed the place. Almost all the cells they had passed were empty except one where she noticed a dark figure being chained to the roof, the feet barely touching the floor. Nevaeh frowned seeing this inhumane treatment. Why would they do something like this to anybody? "Here it is." The girl announced and Nevaeh looked at the place she was pointing at. A scowl quickly framed Nevaeh''s face when she saw the familiar figure sitting on the cold floor, her back leaning against the wall as her head hung low. "Araminta?" Nevaeh softly called, a guilty pang hitting her chest. Those green eyes looked at her and she even more guilty. "You''re finally here." Araminta said as she rose to her feet. "Are you okay? I''m sorry you''re here because of me." Nevaeh sincerely apologized. "Nonsense!" Araminta chided her. "Who said I''m here because of you. It''s no fault of yours at all. I needed a break from all the pretence, and where else could a beauty like me find some beauty sleep other than the one place where I can be myself? You think too much, little wife of Engel." Araminta smiled at her. Though her voice was lively and her words were to make her feel better, Nevaeh still felt responsible for Araminta''s condition. Araminta turned to the girl who quickly bowed to her. "You did well." "Thank you, your highness." The girl bowed again. She raised her gown and brought out a small knife. "What you requested for." She stretched out. Nevaeh looked at the small knife and her heart slightly skipped, as she looked from the knife to Araminta. What did she need a knife for. Araminta didn''t reach for it, but looked to Nevaeh. Nevaeh felt uncomfortable with the gaze Araminta was giving her. What was going on? "I''ll have to bother you, Nevaeh." She said. "W.. with what?" Nevaeh anxiously asked back. "My cell is spelled and I can''t break you, but your blood can." Her blood? Nevaeh eyes dashed towards the knife. "My blood?" She gazed at Araminta, who nodded. "How?" Was it because of the mysterious powers that she was said to possess? If had to be. But she didn''t know how to do a spell. "I don''t know how to undo it." She told Araminta who already knew this too. "You don''t have to do much except drop a bit of you blood outside the cell and on the gate." "That''s all?" Nevaeh asked. "Yes." Nevaeh glanced at the knife and then at the two ladies. Her softly pounding heart began to thump loudly. She gulped as she slowly reached for the knife, but Araminta stopped her. "It''s difficult to harm oneself. Let Gwen do it." She tilted her chin to the girl. The girl nodded and picked up the knife. Nevaeh swallowed as she saw the sharp silver knife. "It''ll hurt a little. Just endure." The girl said and Nevaeh nodded. She squinted her eyes and winced as the knife pierced her skin. She looked at Araminta who gave her a proud look. Nevaeh took a step closer to the gate and let her blood drop on it as well as the front of the cell. She staggered back when a transparent wall suddenly began to glow and the next second it was gone. She still watched with widened eyes as the glowing wall disappeared and Araminta reached for the padlock outside the gate and it shattered. Nevaeh was stunned by what was happening in front of her so much that her eyes rapidly blinked. She came back to her senses when Araminta pulled the girl into a hug and gently stroke her hair. "You''ve done well, Gwen. Soon I''ll come back for you." She promised the girl who leaned her head on Araminta''s shoulder and nodded. "I''ll wait." The girl told her, while Araminta kissed her cheek. "Be safe little girl." She added. Araminta turned towards Nevaeh. "Let''s go before Herilda notices something is wrong." They were going somewhere? Where? "Where are we going?" Nevaeh asked. "To your home. I hope you''ll be a good host." She threw a teasing smile at Nevaeh whose eyes had gone round as saucers. They were going home? Like to the human realm? "Back to Engel?" Nevaeh couldn''t help but ask this way. Araminta lovingly nodded. "Yes, to him." Nevaeh felt her heart leap at those words. Those have been what she wanted to hear. She vigorously nodded her head and said, "Let''s go." She wanted to leave right away. Araminta chuckled at her happy expression. "Okay, but first we have to pick someone up." She said as she began to walk ahead, leaving Nevaeh with no choice but to follow behind. Who were she picking up? Nevaeh had her answer when Araminta stopped in front of the cell she had seen a lean figure been chained. "Who is that?" She softly asked. Araminta reached for the lock of the gate and it opened. She turned to Nevaeh and smiled. "Your husband''s demon." Chapter 88 - Return The air was portentous and formidable as everyone helplessly watched the brooding man, slaughter the demons in front of him in a fit of rage. His eyes were flaming red like a demon crawled out from the depths of hell, and his fair skin was partly black like the gross smoke coming out from him. The aura about him was far more deadly and stiffling than it has ever been. Laila teleported to the unfamiliar place she had sensed them. An abandoned estate somewhere in the outskirt of the city. "What''s happening to Engel?" She asked no in particular while she observed the gruesome scene before her eyes. She knew about Nevaeh''s adoption, and they were all worried, not just for her but for Engel. The man seemed to be losing his mind. He hasn''t slept nor done anything else other than hunt for witches and slay any demon that crossed his path on his search. He was doing anything to get his wife back, and he was slowly losing himself. Elyon had his worried gaze fixed on Engel not knowing how to respond to Laila. The man has been like this since his wife was taken. He had gone on a rampage since that night. Every second he spent without getting his wife back seems to be pushing him to an edge. Elyon looked at the mutilated demons on the ground, and the terribly tortured witch on her knees, almost at the brink of death. Someone had to stop Engel, but who would? No one dares stand before him. "What is wrong with him?!" Laila snapped when neither Elyon or Zadkiel seemed to be giving her an answer. Elyon shrugged and sighed. "We don''t know." He told her and sighed again. "He seems to be losing his soul or something, I can''t say. I have never seen him like this before, neither have I seen an angel like this." Laila darted her eyes to Engel as she looked at him with horror. "But he isn''t an angel like us." She corrected Elyon. Engel wasn''t an angel, but a lord. A lord over the angels, but Elyon tends to see him otherwise. Maybe he had been around him for too long he was beginning to see him as a mere guardian like he was. Laila turned to Kiel who for the first time had an expression on his face. A worried frown sat between his brows as he keenly watched Engel. "Kiel, what''s wrong with him?" She asked again. "Why is he like that?" "I don''t know." He truthfully replied. He had also never seen Engel like this before. The man seemed to be blind with rage, and he''s appearance seems to be changing. Laila looked extremely worried at the sight of Engel. "I''ll call Sanaiah." She said. "Do not bother. She won''t help." Kiel told her. Sanaiah had made it clear she wasn''t interested in any of this, neither was she going to help, and Kiel kept wondering why. As the authorities over their realm, shouldn''t they be concerned about whatever affair affects any one of them even someone like Engel? Why the silence? He wondered. After his conversation with Sanaiah, he was certain that there were some things going on that he didn''t know about. Things regarding, Engel''s powers might not be as simple as they''ve always thought. He had thought Engel had given them up to save his wife, but that seems not to be the case anymore, but he was certain even Engel thought the same. That he has traded his powers to save his wife, and that was the reason why he hasn''t torn down the realm in demand of it to go save his wife. He narrowed his eyes as he watched him. Elyon and Laila seemed to be on a breaking edge as they watched the man in his destructive form, but Kiel calmly watched him. He sighed as he began to approach him, ignoring Laila''s call to him. He couldn''t let Engel kill one more witch or demon. "Engel, that''s enough." He said. Engel paused for brief moment before he picked up the witch from the floor and suspended her in the air. "Open a portal." He drawled, but the little witch shook her head as she struggled to breath. "I...can''t." She stuttered out in between gasped breath. Engel''s eyes glowed red again, and the witch began to tremble, blood sipping out of her mouth. "Engel, you have to stop!" Kiel told him again, but the man simply ignored him. Kiel couldn''t let him take a soul. Engel might not be a mere angel like them, but he still of their kind, and angels were bound by rules, rules when broken, attracted punishment. Rules set by Engel himself as well as the Elders who now maintained them. Murder with no cause was a sin. Seeing Engel being unresponsive, Kiel took closer steps towards Engel, but the moment he got in close range with the hue emanating from him, his face wrenched as he clenched his jaws. He felt the power of a thousand force pulling him to his knees but he bit his lips and with great difficulty he teleported to his front, standing between him and the witch but careful enough to avoid that deadly hue coming from him. "Kiel!" Laila yelled out his name. What was he doing?! "You have to stop." Kiel told the man before him. Engel slowly glanced at him. His face was calm but there was a lethality hovering around him. His cold and lifeless eyes revealed the anger in them. "Stop?" Was all he asked. "Yes. Look at yourself, Engel. Something is happening to you, something you shouldn''t ignore." "She is the only thing I can''t ignore." Engel dourly said. "And when she returns, what would she return to? Her husband or someone more terrifying than all she''d ever seen? So be calm, Engel. We''ll find her and bring her home." "I can''t be calm!" Engel roared in a fit of anger. "She''s all I have and live for, and someone took her from me, again! So tell me how can I be calm?!" Kiel stood still and quiet not sure how to respond to him. He could see the anguish in Engel''s eyes, but there was nothing he could do. He had looked for a witch who could open a portal but he still hadn''t found one. "You''ll get her back." Were the only words he could say. Engel was about to say something, when he felt a faint familiar connection. Engel looked at the witch in front of him and quickly teleported away leaving the others confused as well as worried. Where was he going to? .... Engel''s little demon? Nevaeh was confused by Araminta''s words. She watched as she let the man lose from the chains holding his. "Come give a hand." Araminta told Nevaeh who warily walked inside the cell and offered a hand to hold the lean looking man upward. Standing by the man''s side, Nevaeh felt a weird familiar sense. She looked at his face, but the dungeon was dark so she couldn''t make out his face. Nevaeh suddenly heard a weird sound echoing around the dungeon and hurrying footsteps coming from towards them. Her heart skipped as she panickly looked at Araminta who had a mocking smile on her face. "So slow." She hissed. Nevaeh didn''t need to be told what was going on, they must have discovered either she or Araminta was gone. This was the time for Araminta to do something, but why was she smiling. Nevaeh held her breath. She sighed when Araminta stretched out her hands and opened a portal. They had only stepped in when an angry voice echoed behind them. "Stop Araminta." Herilda''s voice rang across the place. She was livid. Araminta curved her lips and blew her kiss. "You''ll have to make me, baby. Ah! Humans call adults baby, do you know that?" She raised a brow at her. "Araminta!" Queen Herilda roared and her hands moved. Nevaeh caught sight of something flying towards them, but Araminta deftly pushed her and the man into the portal causing them to fall through, as she quickly closed the portal. Nevaeh winced when she scrapped her hand on a hard surface. It was a tarred road. Her eyes quickly looked around and the first thing she saw was the familiar building in front of her. It was Engel''s house. She snapped her head to look at Araminta and that was when she saw blood dripping down her shirt. A small knife was stuck in her arm. "Araminta, yo.. you''re wounded." She stuttered. "Am I?" Araminta innocently asked as she casually pulled out the blade and scoffed. "That old hag!" She cussed. Nevaeh didn''t know what to say. Araminta was strange. She looked at the half woken man lying on the floor, she could see his face clearly. He was a young and fine man who looked very frail and worn out. There were horrible injuries all over him. "Who is this?" She asked again. Araminta didn''t give her a proper answer before, and this time she did as she replied. "Your butler." Her butler? Did she mean Engel''s butler, Mr Simon? Wasn''t Mr Simon an old man? Nevaeh froze it finally dawned on her. "Th..is is Mr Simon?" She asked with widened eyes, which grew even wider when Araminta nodded. Nevaeh was yet to respond, when she felt a presence behind her and a faint whisper of her name. "Nevaeh?" Nevaeh''s heart skipped when she heard that voice. It was him, Engel.. That was his voice. Chapter 89 - Unedited Nevaeh stilled as she watched him, her eyes carefully looking him over to see if he had been hurt or harmed in her absence. It had barely been three days of being apart, but he looked different, his shine and glamour almost gone, and there was something else about him that seemed unfamiliar. Flashes of Engel appearing on that field where she had been chained came rushing to her. He had fought with all he had to keep her safe but he had failed. He had been overpowered by the demon lord and had been brought to his knees. She couldn''t imagine how he had beared the weight of losing her. The feeling of losing a loved one was the most destabilizing feeling in the world. The hurt and pain as well as the feeling of carrying on with nothing but memories that couldn''t be relived, was heart wrenching. She couldn''t imagine all he had to endure as he waited alone, one sidely keeping a promise of being together forever, and yet again she had made him relive the pain of losing her and helplessly waiting for her one more time. Nevaeh''s heart squeezed and her eyes burned as she sprout to her heels and dashed over to him like a lightening bolt, leaping into his arms and wrapping her small arms around his neck so tightly she could squeeze him, her face buried in the crook of his neck. "Engel, I''m sorry." She whispered, her tears rolling down her cheeks and dropping on his neck. Her heart constricted more tightly as she hugged him even harder. "I''m so sorry, I left you behind. I''d never do it again." She softly cried, making Engel stiffen. His body stilled at the warmth wrapped around him and the softness of this familiar body pressed against his. He was limply transfixed as she hugged him, muttering those words into his ears. ''This wasn''t a dream, was it?'' He dazedly wondered. He had had this dream over and over again, from the moment she left, and he wondered if was beginning to hallucinate. He had felt Simon and that was why he was here. So how was she... Nevaeh left go of his neck and wrapped her hand around him, while she rested her face on his chest. "I''ll never leave you again." She muttered against his chest and held him more closely. Hearing her speak so softly, Engel felt his head slightly spin. He lowered his head and dazedly looked at her just as she lifted her face to his. His hand subconsciously reached for her face, and he felt her warm cheeks against his cold palm. "You''re real?" He mumbled out. Nevaeh''s felt a pang in her heart because of his question. Had he been dreaming about her return? Oh God! She had dreamt about him too. Dreamt about returning to him, and telling him that she remembered him, not just as Engel, but as the man she was meant to only love. She nodded at him, a small smile breaking her tearful face as she craned her neck and stood on her toes to peck his lips, an attempt to wake him from his daze. The moment their lips touched, she felt his arm gently go around her waist, bearing her up and letting her kiss him as she desired. She broke the kiss and pecked his cheek. A heart warming smile splitting her face. "This isn''t a dream Engel. I''m here and there''s no need to dream anymore." She gently stroke his face. Engel''s fingers gently travelled through her hair, and down her face like he had an always done and had longed to do these couple of days. "This is not a dream." He unconvincingly told himself. "You''re not dreaming, my love. I''m right here." She assured him. Engel felt his missing soul return to him at the gentleness of her touch and assuring words. His heart leaped as he hungrily wrapped his arms around her, holding her so tightly like merging their souls was he all desired at the moment. He buried his head on her neck, drawing in her scent that seemed to be his only calming balm in this world, while she equally drew in his musk scent of fresh earth, reminding her just how much she had missed him and being in his embrace. Nevaeh felt the spinning world had finally come to a stand still and has regained it''s lost balance. Engel was the stability she needed in all the craziness that surrounded her and this moment confirmed it. Falling for him in just a short period of time wasn''t a function of lust or weakness, but true love thriving through the test of time and trials. She broke the hug and looked at his face. "I remember you." She told him, while her small hand caressed his face. "I remember us, our life and love, and the times we spent together." Engel looked at her with surprise. "You do?" He asked and she nodded at him, another smile splitting her face. It was clear as day he was still stunned by her presence, but this made him more surprised. She gently rubbed his brows while her smile widened. "Are you surprised?" She asked, but the man remained the same. He glanced at the cut on her hand, before pulling her into another hug. Engel only raised his face and looked behind when he heard an angry voice shouting at them. "That''s enough from the both of you. I''m bleeding and he''s dying." Araminta scolded the couple who had drifted to a world of their own. Engel looked at the green eyed witch and Simon who was limply lying on the floor in his true form. He listened to his heart beat, but it was barely there. Nevaeh was once again stunned hearing the man lying on the floor was truly Mr Simon, the butler. She walked back to Araminta and Simon with Engel trailing behind. He telepathically connected to Kiel and Elyon who arrived in the next second, leaving Nevaeh shocked. She blinked at the men that had just appeared in daze, while they equally looked at her with different expressions flickering through their eyes, but most especially with relief. "Mrs Stuart." Elyon greeted with a relieved smile, while Nevaeh looked at Engel for some kind of explanation or introduction, but the man quickly picked her up into his arms and teleported inside the house, leaving Kiel and Elyon to bring in the others. Elyon opened his mouth to say something, but he quickly clamped it shut. An impatient Engel was better than berserk one. He looked at Araminta who was oogling at Zadkiel with gaped mouth. He took a quick glance at Kiel, and of course, he looked frigid and stoic as ever not noticing the weird look the witch was giving him. "I''m Elyon." He told her while she halfheartedly nodded but she quickly recomposed herself and glanced at Elyon. "Araminta, and you''re a pretty angel." She told him, before staring back at Zadkiel, "But he''s beautiful." Elyon didn''t know what response to give to that. A thank you? It was obvious this witch was a different league from the others they had seen. He looked at Simon on the floor and helped him in, leaving Araminta to Kiel. Kiel gazed at her but he barely met her eyes. "This way." He said and turned towards the gate of the mansion. He opened it and led Araminta in, while he kept walking ahead. .... Nevaeh gazed around the room when Engel brought her in. Her eyes travelled around every inch of the room, from the dressing table and to the bed. How she missed it all. But more importantly, she missed him. She turned to Engel who was closely observing her from behind. "What is it?" She asked him. "Do you really remember?" He asked. Understanding what he meant, she nodded. He covered the space between them, and placed his large palm on her cheek, causing her to lean her face into it. "What''s your name?" "Haniel." His eyes glowed with several emotion passing through them. He leaned in and kissed her again. He had kissed her before, but this was different. It was more searing and packed full with emotions that were swelled her heart. Her eyes fluttered close as Engel devouringly kissed her and set her ablaze with his lips. Nevaeh gripped his shirt and pulled herself closer to him, returning every passion he threw at her. She felt his hand go around her dress as he slowly undid her zip. "Are you hurt?" She heard him ask, and she shyly shook her head. Her face burning red for what she feared was about to come her away. "Then can I see?" He asked. She confusedly blinked at him. "See what?" She asked back. "That you''re not hurt." He replied. Nevaeh looked at his face and she saw a dark glint in it.. Why does she feel he was really going to check if she was hurt and nothing else. Chapter 90 - Never. Engel''s eyes carefully skimmed her over as he slowly let her gown slid off her shoulders, while he completely ignored the embarrassed look etched on her face. He could tell she felt conscious and shy under his scrutiny, the faint blush on her face and the anxious beating of her heart attested to it, but confirming she was fine and back in one piece was the sole priority of his heart right now. His scrutinizing eyes trailed through every corner of her skin in search of bruises or spell cuts. She had been away in the witches realm and he knew how crafty those vicious creatures could be. He turned her by the shoulders as his eyes continuously went all over her, making Nevaeh feel more conscious and mortified. "Engel." She softly called when he continuously fussed over her. He paused and peered at those eyes he had longed to see for days but were no where near him. "I''m really not hurt." She told again and he nodded finally believing her words. His eyes locked on hers which were secretly speaking to his heart. He pulled her in once more and kissed her lips hard. Pouring and venting every anger, fear and frustration he had felt in the last three days. He kissed her till they both ran out of breath and he could hear her gasp, and his heart finally began to pound normally again. Engel had felt himself at death doors when he watched her disappear out of his life again. Heaven knows the eternal torture he had endured. He had felt his soul been pulled to a bottomless pit of darkness, where all he felt was helplessness which he turned to rage. But now, for the first time in three long and miserable days, Engel finally felt air in his lungs, and life in his soul. He felt light return and shatter the darkness that had been threatening to break out of him. He leaned his head against her shoulders and his eyes began to sting and burn, while his hand wrapped her tightly. "I don''t want to ever lose you again, Nevaeh. Never." He hoarsely whispered. "Are you crying?" Nevaeh asked when she felt his tears on her naked back, but he shook his head, while his arms drew her even closer. "Oh Engel." She cried as she wrapped her arms around him too. ..... Hearing a man like Engel cry was something Nevaeh had never imagined. She knew it had been hard for him, but she could never imagine it this way, that he had to cry. When he held her so tightly, she knew he didn''t feel close enough, and she had felt the same. Their hearts longed to be intertwined with one another, closing whatever space existed between them. There had always been so much space between them at one point or another. The space of life and death, and that of realms had at different times kept them apart, so she could understood his longing. Or maybe she didn''t. She truly didn''t know how it felt like to wait for someone like he had. How to stay alone and continuously long for something you once had. Three days for her had been terrible, so she couldn''t even begin to imagine how he felt then and now. Hearing him cry and feeling the warm droplets of his tears touch her skin made her heart shatter. Her slender hand comfortingly brushed through his hair and neck. "You''ll never lose me again, Engel. Never." She promised. "I''ll be stuck to you in this lifetime and we shall face all hurdles together, I promise." She kissed his cheeks and comforted him totally forgetting her embarrassment of being naked before him. A comforting and assuring smile framed her face as she kissed his lips and wiped his tears. "I''m sorry." He apologized, clearly not out of embarrassment but of burdening her with comforting him. "For what, Lord Engel?" She raised a brow at him. "Men are allowed to cry too, especially you." She told him and kissed his lips again. "You''re allowed to cry, so I can I have the responsibility of comforting you." She smiled at him, and he slightly smiled back. "I''ll try not make it an habit." He told her making her nod. "Can I put my clothes back on?" She asked. "Why?" He raised a brow at her, but Nevaeh could see the way his eyes darkened as they moved over her, returning the conscious feeling of standing half naked before him. "We have guest, and Araminta and Mr..Simon needs to be cartered for." She told him as she tried reaching for her gown but he quickly stopped her. "Elyon and Kiel can handle it." Elyon and Kiel? "Are they angels?" She curiously inquired, and he nodded affirmatively. His long fingers slowly began to trail her the side of her neck to her collar bone. "Let them take care of the others, while I take care of you." He gently said, his eyes color changing position and glistening in that familiar way that always held Nevaeh spell bound. She knew what he was trying to do. He was luring her like he always did. She took his hand off her and avoided his gaze. "Be a good host, Engel." She told him. Engel frowned when she didn''t waver and reached for her gown instead. He snatched the gown away from her and vanished out of sight leaving Nevaeh stunned. She had seen the others teleport, and she had felt him move her through space, but she hadn''t clearly seen him do it in front of her. He returned in seconds, appearing in front of her with another dress like he hadn''t left her seconds ago. These things were too much, and it would require a lot getting used to. "Wear this." He told her, showing her the simple sundress he had in hand. He helped her into it before taking her to the sitting room where they saw the others waiting as well as an extra face. "Laila." Nevaeh called. "El.." "Nevaeh" Laila''s eyes glistened with relief and excitement on seeing Nevaeh back and in Engel''s arms. Nevaeh looked at the protective man who had his hand around her despite knowing Laila''s intention of walking over. She smiled and shrugged while Laila nodded in understanding. She took a quick glance at Engel before staring at Araminta who was still openly oogling at Kiel. Laila introduced Kiel and Elyon to Nevaeh once again, while Nevaeh introduced Araminta to everyone. "She saved me and Mr Si..mon." Nevaeh looked at the man who was slightly looking better than he had been minutes ago, but he was still bloody and wounded. "He''ll be fine soon." She turned to Engel and nodded when she heard that. Though this Simon looked different from the one she knows, she still felt the same towards him. He had been the one who spoke most to her when she first got here, and he had taught her too. Thinking about something, Nevaeh suddenly wondered why and how had he gotten to the witches realm? And if was a demon why did he look different from the others she had seen? He looked more...human. Engel glanced at Araminta and said. "Thank you for saving my wife and friend." Araminta nodded and smiled at him. "Do not thank me yet, Lord Engel. Nothing I''ve done has been without purpose." She said with a cryptic smile, making Nevaeh frown as she looked at Araminta and Engel. "What do you want?" Engel asked. Araminta looked through the window by her side before glancing at Engel. "Something is coming and I know you angels can feel it too. You need your powers back." "They are gone." Engel blankly told her. "Are you sure?" Araminta said cryptically. Nevaeh also looked at Engel as she thought about something. Did Engel not know what she was? Engel frowned at Araminta. "What do you mean?" He asked. "Have you ever wondered why her mind isn''t open to you?" She tilted her brows to Nevaeh, in making Engel glance at her too. "Maybe because she''s a witch." Araminta revealed an amused smile. "My lord, have you dwelled on the human realm for too long?" "Little witch." Elyon chided, but Araminta ignored him. "A witch''s mind is hidden from an angel, but not from you. So what if your wife is something more?" "Something like what?" The frown on Engel''s face showed his brewing impatience with this question and answer session. But despite his gaze, Araminta remained calm as she replied. "Something that I believe you''ve more than once suspected, but have chosen to ignore. Something like you." Engel looked at Nevaeh as she also looked at him giving him a slight nod. "You might have thought Lord Daeryn had gone after her to lure you, back then and now, but the truth is he has always been after her and always will be, because she also possesses the power of the five." Chapter 91 - Tensed Nevaeh silently watched Engel who was lost in thoughts, his eyes blankly staring into space as he stood by the window. She believed he was still pondering on what Araminta had said. "What are you thinking about? Are you still shocked?" She snaked her hand around him and placed her head on his broad back. He turned around and faced her, his eyes staring at her in an indescribable way. Nevaeh could see the turbulence twirling in his seemingly calm eyes. Myriad of questions were buried deep in them. "Engel?" She softly called his name when he remained quiet. She gently touched his face. "What are you thinking about?" She asked again. He sighed and replied. "A lot." "About me?" She asked as she stared at him with great intent, while he nodded. "I feel like I''ve been a fool." He said in a dull and disappointed tone, and Nevaeh could clearly see the disappointment in his eyes. She caressed his unusually tight cheek. "Why do you say that? You''re not a fool." "But I think I am." "Engel." "I don''t know if I''m supposed to be angry but I am, and I can''t help it." He said and continued while Nevaeh calmly listened to him. "Your death is all on me, and the time I waited I took as punishment for my failure. Giving my powers to bring you back was my way to redeem myself and also an attempt to take the enemy off our paths, but now I discover I still haven''t done anything for you. That I''m still failing again and again." Failing again and again? Nevaeh didn''t like the sound of that. "Don''t say that." She chided. His voice was strong but she could hear the emotions in them. It was the kind she had never heard him speak with before, and it pricked her heart. "Then what should I say? I''m supposed to know the trivia things that I currently do not know, and I wonder why. Would I still have lost you, or would i have been able to save you from the pain and death you endured If I had been a little humble or paid more attention to these things?" "Engel." Nevaeh called again to stop him. He was wallowing in self blame, and she didn''t like it. Her hands travelled round his face, trying to smoothen every crease on his face. "You don''t have to blame yourself. You didn''t fail me or anyone. Engel, you''ve made sacrifices for everyone. You hibernated yourself to stop the enemy, and you lost what you love to protect the realms...." "I should have protected you!" He snapped. Yes, he should have protected her and not the stupid realms. He should have known what she was and why Lord Daeryn had been after her. Had he known, he would have acted differently. He wouldn''t have left her in the witches realm, allowing her to come find him on her own, and falling into the hands of those demons. She could guess these were the things going on his head. But what could he do? Those were passed and she didn''t blame him for anything. He had done his best, and even someone as powerful as him is allowed to fail sometimes. Failing is a natural phenomenon of life and it isn''t exclusive to some people. Everyone experiences it and it isn''t to make them feel less of themselves, but to show them what they''ve missed to get it right the second time. Nevaeh smiled at his out burst. She could feel his anger. "But Engel, you protected me. You protected me by keeping everyone safe. Give yourself some credit." She told him. "I don''t want it." He removed her hands from his face and turned away. Nevaeh quietly observed him. She could tell there was more eating him up other than the fact that he didn''t know about the things Araminta had said. She held his arm and turned him towards her so he could look into her eyes. "What really bothers you?" She asked while she continued to observe him. Engel hissed. "Everything." "What do you mean?" "I failed, Nevaeh, in everything. And I''m failing again. I failed in protecting you and keeping you safe. I failed in knowing leaving you behind wasn''t a solution but a problem. I failed in bringing you back." In bringing her back? So this was a matter of his pride? "So you''re hurt a mere witch made a sacrifice to bring me back, while you did nothing?" She asked him, but he didn''t give her an answer. But his eyes and silence gave her the answer she wanted. "Engel this isn''t what is important right now. You should be happy that we got another chance to be together, not just to love but to protect us and the people around us." She told him, but he looked the same. She hissed. "I can''t say I know how you''re feeling, but I can try to imagine. You didn''t fail me by not doing anything for me. You''ve done alot, and if it isn''t enough, then aren''t you getting another chance to do it now? Does it truly matter who made the sacrifice? What matters is that, I''m here with you." she kissed his lips to sooth him. "Look on the bright side Lord Engel, if your powers were truly gone, how are you going to protect me from the enemy? Or didn''t you say in this lifetime you''d protect me? So why are you acting out this way, hmm?" Nevaeh glanced at his eyes which were now attentively staring at her. She hugged him and placed her face on his chest. "I still don''t know much, but let''s not make Araminta''s sacrifice go to waste." She pulled away and looked at his face again. "And shouldn''t you be all over me now? Or did you not miss me at all?" Nevaeh faked a pout at him. His frigid face finally softened. He lowered himself and kissed her. "I''m sorry." Nevaeh raised a brow at him. "Are you sure?" She asked making him nod. His face looked slightly brightened but she could still tell he wasn''t completely over it. His mind was still troubled, but they would get there later. Nevaeh eyes glistened as she looked at his angelic face. "Engel, I think I''m tensed." Engel peered at her confusedly, but his eyes suddenly darkened when he realized what she had just said. He looked at her with shocked surprise. "You just got back." His voice suddenly turned deep. "Isn''t that why I''m tensed?" She shyly and innocently blinked at him. His eyes darkened deeper, as his fingers reached for her chin and tilted it up. "Are you tempting me?" "Haven''t you always tempted me?" She firmly asked back, trying to hide the nervousness in her voice. Engel speechlessly stared at her. Nevaeh stood on her toes and softly kissed his lips, letting him know she meant the words she had said. He broke the kiss and anxiously glanced at her. "Are you sure?" He inquired and she nodded her head. ..... Engel was utterly surprised and amused by her sudden boldness. She was intiating alot of kisses today and everyone of them seem to pulling on his heart''s string. The softness of her lips pressed against his and her small hand placed on his chest was making his mind sway as he returned her kiss. His eyes closed the moment his lips moved against hers. He had a lot going on his mind, but this wife of his was making his mind foggy. Her kiss was gentle, sweet and loving, and he felt immersed in her warmth and innocence. She had just gotten back, and he felt she needed to rest, but seeing her act this way made him lose himself. His hand slowly went around her svelte waist, pulling her closer to himself as he hungrily devoured her lips. He opened his eyes and he saw how passionate she was in kissing him. She tendered to him like all she wanted was to kiss his worries away. She was comforting him when he should be doing that for her. He lifted her off the ground and placed her on the window making her eyes fly wide open when she felt where he has placed her. "Engel..." She panickly called. What was he doing? She looked behind her and her heart skipped. What if she falls? "Do you trust me?" He asked and she slowly nodded. "Then hold on tight." He husked and claimed her lips once again, his hand holding her steady by her waist while her hands went around his neck holding him firmly. Engel could hear the heavy beats of her heart slowly ease. He caressed her thighs as he kissed her neck, slowly teasing her with the tip of tongue and drawing a moan from her.. How he missed hearing those cries from whenever he touched her.