For the first time in twenty-five years, I remembered my dreams.
Now I understood why I hadn't remembered them before: I had dreamed of a tree of light, crystals that absorbed my energy, and a male figure wrapped in radiance saying, "You're finally home." It was a scene beyond fantastic; it felt almost prophetic. I was there, in that forest, with that figure. I wanted to go with him, but something wouldn't let me.
I shook my head with a disbelieving smile. This salty air was clearly getting to me. Energy crystals... seriously. I must've lost my mind.
The day was pretty routine: breakfast, bath, wandering around the house. But I couldn't focus on anything. Not after yesterday. I felt like someone was watching me. I couldn't see them, but I could feel them—a constant presence, as if the house itself was breathing with me.
Then Mrs. M appeared, as if she had heard my thoughts.
—Miss Sereniah, may I get you anything?
—Not right now, Mrs. M. Well... —I changed my mind quickly— Where's the lord of this house? We have a conversation pending.
She sighed.
—Milord left early this morning for the village. His schedule is quite full. I doubt he'll return before nightfall.
—Great. Another wasted day —I muttered. I was sure he had given instructions to keep me under watch.
—Is there anything to do nearby? —I asked. If he wasn't going to give me answers, I'd find them myself.
—The village is about twenty minutes away on horseback. Walking takes longer.
—And the closest thing?
—The spring. But I don't recommend going there alone.
—Why?
—Because you're a lady. A lady shouldn't be wandering around by herself.
—Is it dangerous?
—Not particularly. But we must maintain decorum.
—Then show me the way. I'd rather go out than stay trapped in here "maintaining decorum."
She sighed again, as if arguing with me was pointless. She handed me a simple drawing with directions.
—Be back before nightfall. The island is safe, but the jungle can be confusing at night.
—I'll be back before dinner.
...
I followed the map until I reached the spring, and I was not prepared for what I found.
The water shone like liquid silver. A light blue so unreal it almost glowed. Tiny waterfalls cascaded over rocks covered in white flowers. It looked like something pulled straight from a dream. I sat on a rock and let the peace wash over me, breathing in the calm.
I scanned the surroundings. No one appeared. Time slipped by unnoticed; hours must have passed. But there was no way I'd miss the chance to go in. In a corner of the spring, there was a small cave framed by two large rocks. I decided to undress and step into the water in my undergarments.
Warmth wrapped around me. The temperature was perfect—nothing else could compare to that sensation. For a moment, I felt like someone was watching again; I checked, but no one was there. I let myself float, losing track of time in that heavenly water. It was fresh, enveloping. Perfect.
A sudden crack snapped me out of my trance. Birds shot up from deep in the forest. The sound was sharp, like a distant explosion.
I'd better get out, I thought. I swam toward the edge. Then I heard it.
A buzzing. Then a shadow. Bats. Hundreds of them. They burst from a crack in the rock, hitting me as they flew past, scratching my arms. I screamed and fell back half into the water.
—Help! Someone!
I covered my face, using my hands to shield my eyes; the water here was shallow, leaving most of me exposed. A body lunged toward me and wrapped me in a heavy cloak. I felt the protective embrace. Thank God, I thought.
It was him.
Declan.
He covered me with the cloak, shielding me. His face was tense. He didn't speak. His eyes scanned me in silence. I was shaking.
Seconds later, it was over. My savior pulled the cloak tighter around me and lifted me out of the water in a single motion.
How had he gotten there so fast? What the hell?
His amber eyes roamed over me. I blushed; I was nearly naked. But he seemed more concerned with my injuries than my appearance. No words were exchanged. He stayed focused; I was still in shock. Bats? Seriously?
I covered myself as best I could with my hands, lowering my face in shame. His expression softened for a heartbeat. He lifted my chin gently, examining my face. I could feel the burn on my left cheek. I also noticed a scratch over his brow. That would take a little to heal.
Finally, he spoke:
—Are you all right?
His eyes had turned calm, almost warm. I nodded. I couldn't speak. For an instant, a spark of light flickered in his eyes, like stardust. Did I imagine it?
He noticed. His gaze dropped. His expression hardened again.
—Get dressed. I don't want anyone seeing you like this and causing more trouble.
Rage boiled up inside me.
—Who do you think you are? My father?
He sighed.
—I imagine you have women lined up to marry you with that personality —I mocked.
—Are you going to get yourself into a new mess every day? I have more important things to do.
—Excuse me, Your Majesty. I'll try to behave like a proper lady.
—Sereniah, please. Don't make this harder.
A howl split the air. Wolves.
Declan tensed. His gaze darted to the jungle.
—Damn it. We'll have to spend the night here —he ran a hand through his hair, frustrated.
—What? Where!?
—In the cave.
—WHAT? After those bats came out of it? I'm not going in there, over my dead body-...
—It's the safest place. Stay behind me. —He interrupted me.
—No, no, no...
—Would you rather stay out here at the mercy of the wolves? —he teased; a small smile touched his lips, but it didn't reach his eyes.
—Fine! I'll follow you, but if I die because of some animal, it's on your conscience.
—Trust me, we are going to be fine. Follow me.
I crossed my arms. He looked at me but said nothing. I started walking behind him.