Chapter 53

Camilla's pov The taste of the morning air was different. Perhaps it was liberty. Perhaps it was just a more endearing version of fear. I gazed down at the courtyard from the balcony's edge. The men gathered, watching to see if I would burn or break. I wrapped my fingers around the railing. My fingernails sank into the rock. I now own this. I didn't steal it. I merited it. Inside, Alejandro was still asleep. His breath was soft and calm. His chest rose as if nothing could touch him outside these walls. However, they would. They always do. I pivoted and re-entered the room. He shifted. They opened their eyes. That warm brown, which once made me melt, now makes me feel secure. "You're heading out already?" "A meeting is taking place downstairs." The sheets slipped from his body as he sat up. "This is not something you have to do alone." "I understand." However, I desired to. Leaning down, I slowly kissed his lips as if I were reclaiming some of his composure. "Take care," he muttered. I