Chapter fifty-six

Alpha Damon's dark penetrating eyes widen at Lana's surprising declaration. The air around them stiffens, and a moment of silence hangs between them. He tries to distance himself, but she unexpectedly wraps her arms around him.

“Alana..” Damon speaks in a low, uncertain voice the moment he feels her touch.

“I know. I shouldn't love you, but I do. You warned me against falling for you, but what can I do? I'm so hopelessly in love with you.”

Damon stiffens as he listens to her confession. He gently removes her arms around his waist, taking a step back. He hesitates, his dark eyes reluctantly meeting hers. The tears in them almost compel him to pull her into his arms once more, but he resists the urge.

“Ignore your feelings for me. I don't want you to get hurt.” He advises, a hint of concern in his voice.

Princess Lana shakes her head, her eyes filled with unshed tears and determination as she closes the distance between them. “I don't want to ignore my feelings, Damon…” She says softl