Chapter SIXTY-TWO

Luisa The shift in King Dane was so sudden, and surprising, that it left me drowning in confusion. A moment ago, he had been stiff, his face unreadable, his body rigid with emotions I couldn’t quite place. But now, as his dark eyes softened upon meeting mine, it was as if something inside him had snapped back into place—calm, composed, caring. It made me confused. I couldn't tell what was happening when he walked towards me. My heart was thumping hard against my chest and I feared that he was going to hurt me. But he didn’t. But instead, he scooped me into his arms. I was surprised that I didn’t resist when he stepped toward me, scooping me into his arms as though I weighed nothing. His grip was firm yet careful, his warmth enveloping me as he carried me effortlessly. “Dane, I—” “Shh,” he murmured, his voice low and commanding, as if he needed me to let him take control. And I did. Because I didn’t know what else to do. Because, despite everything, it felt good to be in his arms. He ca