Chapter 54

Leo remains silent, the crackling of the fire in the fireplace the only noise in the house as we stare at one another. "We both took vows." Leo looks out the window as I repeat my words again. Taking a step forward, I reach out my hand to him, placing it on his chest as I feel his heartbeat. "We swore to protect this kingdom until our souls leave for the afterlife and our bodies are buried." He knows I am right. Leo knows what I speak is truth and we cannot just ignore the kingdom we swore the rest of our lives to protecting. "Let us protect this kingdom once more." A hand is placed upon my cheek, brushing against my skin as his touch is soft. Leaning forward, Leo places a soft kiss upon my lips. "You must remain by my side the entire time," he states, less of an option. "I will try, I promise." My body feels tense all over, every muscle on edge as I can no longer force myself to relax. My knees are weak, my legs turned to jelly as I