13

WILLOW

"I get to have you as my bride"

The words reverberated in my ears, and my breath hitched. This had to be a nightmare, a twisted dream I couldn't escape. Yet, the strong, piercing scent of Tristan's cologne confirmed it was a horrifying reality. Tristan withdrew from my side, studying my reaction as he locked eyes with me. Shocked beyond words, I refused to display any emotion. I looked away, denying him any clue about my feelings. I wouldn't meet his gaze; I wouldn't let him see my vulnerability. Pretending as if his heavy breath hadn't brushed against my skin, I shifted my focus down to his torso.

His warm breath against my skin intensified, nearly undoing me. Slowly, I averted my eyes from his torso, locking onto his gaze. Initially oblivious, Tristan's eyes eventually met mine. Once our eyes connected, it felt sinful to look away from his deep blue eyes, as profound as the sea. I found myself ensnared in a trance, immobile, worries dissipating like mist in a safe haven. Anoth