018.

RAYLA

My lips parted as I tried to deny the words I knew deep down were true. But how could I not think that way when everyone around us sees us that way? It was the reality of things, no matter what we feel for each other, no matter how strong and real it felt, in the real world, it is frowned upon.

However, I didn't get to deny or defend it because we were interrupted by a knock on the door. My eyes widened and I jumped away from him as reality finally checked in.

I darted a nervous look at the door and back at Damien, who appeared unaffected by it. Ignoring him, I hurried towards the door, I tried to assure myself that nothing will happen as long as I don't let them come into my room.

When I opened the door, I was expecting to see Mom there but to my relief, it was a servant. "Is there anything I can help you with?" I looked past her at the two familiar girls, standing some step away.

"Fiona? Kath?" Another round of panic started again. "You may leave us, I'll take it fro