Chapter 34

　　Richard's POV. 　　"I have to go," I said, kissing Serena's forehead, but she refused to let go. 　　"Richard, I'm serious, there's danger! Don't go to war, there's still time to back out!" she begged, her eyes wild with fear. 　　As much as I wanted to listen to Serena and stay behind, I knew I had to go. I needed to prove to Ross that I wasn't a coward or some kind of spoiled brat. 　　I gently pulled away from Serena, cupping her face in my hands. 　　"Listen, we're good, okay? I'll go and come back safe. It's just superstition - dreams don't come to pass," I said, trying to reassure her. 　　But Serena's pleading eyes and trembling lips made it hard for me to think. 　　She kept begging, her words pouring out in a desperate torrent, and I felt my resolve wavering. I took a deep breath, trying to steel myself against her emotional assault. 　　The knock came again, this time with a hint of impatience. 　　"I'm coming!" I barked, before turning back to Serena. 　　I kissed her forehead, trying to reas