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Chapter 65: The Tangled Threads of Obligation
**Aldrich’s POV**
The sheer absurdity of the situation grated on my nerves. While I understood the southern Duke’s indulgence toward his daughter, it was utterly preposterous for him to propose something so ridiculous. Did they truly believe I could be manipulated into this charade?
“Son, don’t get so worked up,” my father said in his usual calm tone. “This is just a suggestion, nothing more. Young people spending time together doesn’t hurt, does it?”
I clenched my fists, restraining my frustration. “Regardless of how you frame it, I’m not. agreeing to this. I refuse to entertain the idea of an engagement with Carolyn, and I certainly won’t meet her. Our family doesn’t need to resort to outdated noble marriage alliances to maintain its standing.”
My father’s composed demeanor faltered slightly as he leaned forward. “Why are you so adamant, Aldrich? What’s the real reason for your opposition?”
“What other reason do I need?” I retorted. “It’s inappropriate, unethical, and utterly ridiculous to entertain thoughts of romance with someone as young as Carolyn. Isn’t that enough?”
My father didn’t look convinced. His piercing gaze seemed to dissect my very soul. “I know” you too well, my son. This isn’t about ethics alone. There’s something more.”
1 froze. The image of Thelma’s radiant smile flashed in my mind. I ached to say her name aloud, to let the truth spill out, but I couldn’t. Thelma and I had made a promise–a pact to keep our growing love a secret for now.
“I’ve said all there is to say,” I muttered, my tone unconvincing even to my own ears.
A knowing smile crept across my father’s face. “Do you remember the time you sneaked moon fudge under your blanket when you were a boy? When your mother questioned you, you denied it with this exact expression. I know you’re hiding something, Aldrich.”
Cornered, I sighed heavily, saying nothing. My silence seemed to satisfy him in a way words.
couldn’t.
Ί
He placed a firm hand on my shoulder. “Whatever your reasons, I respect your decision, son. But remember this–whatever choice you make, stand by it with the integrity and responsibility of a man.”
Though his words were well–intentioned, they left a bitter taste in my mouth. I could feel the weight of expectations pressing down on me. It was clear this conversation was merely the beginning of a larger battle.
For the next few days, I avoided any interactions that could lead to more discussions about
Chapter në The Tangini Threads of Ordugation.
Carolyn. But life has a way of ignoring our wishes
Three days later, on a breezy Monday evening, I found myself training with Thelma in the palace gardens. She had been pushing herself harder than usual, her determination shining brighter than ever.
“I think I need a change in my training environment,” Thelma said, wiping sweat from her brow as she sprawled on the grass. “I feel like I’ve hit a wall, like there’s this invisible barrier I can’t break through. Maybe this is what they call a bottleneck?”
Handing her an energy drink, I nodded. “That’s exactly what it is. Honestly, I’m impressed. Most people don’t hit their bottleneck this quickly. It means you’re making exceptional progress. We’ll switch up your routines and try some new techniques to get you back on track.
Her lips curved into a soft smile as she leaned against a nearby tree, her fingers absentmindedly toying with the pendant around her neck.
“You know,” she began, holding the black opal up to catch the fading sunlight. “I always keep this close to me, even when I sleep. It makes me feel safe, almost like… you’re always here with
me.”
Her words sent a surge of warmth through me, so potent I almost forgot how to breathe..
Calm down, Aldrich, I told myself. Don’t act like a lovestruck fool.
But my restraint crumbled under the weight of her sincerity. Pulling her into a gentle embrace, I let my lips find hers in a kiss as sweet as honey. The world around us faded away, leaving only the two of us basking in the dying light of the setting sun.
The tranquility of the moment was short–lived. On our way back to the palace’s main hall, we encountered the southern Duke and Carolyn.
“Good evening, young people,” the Duke greeted us warmly. “How was the training today?”
“Quite productive, thank you,” I replied stiffly, sensing that
well.
this encounter would not end
To my dismay, the Duke invited us for a walk through the gardens. Out of courtesy, Thelma and I agreed, though every instinct told me to decline.
We strolled for a while, making polite conversation. But it wasn’t long before Carolyn spoke up, her voice tinged with excitement. “Father, aren’t you going to share the good news with Sir Aldrich?”
The Duke chuckled indulgently. “You’re always so impatient, my dear. But very well.” Turning to me, he added, “I suspect the King and Queen will discuss this with you tomorrow, but I
Chapas The Tangled Threads of Obligatu
thought it might be best to give
you a heads–up.”
A sense of foreboding settled over me. “What news?”
“Carolyn has expressed interest in returning to the south for a short visit. Naturally, a young
lady of her standing requires a proper escort. Who better than you, Aldrich, to ensure her safety?”
His words struck me like a bolt of lightning. I stood frozen, unable to mask my shock and disbelief.
“Excuse me?” 1 managed to say, my voice barely audible.
The Duke’s expression was one of utmost satisfaction, as if he’d just brokered a deal too clever for anyone to oppose.
“I trust you’ll consider it,” he said. “After all, who better than a brave warrior like yourself to accompany my daughter?”
Beside me, Thelma stiffened. I could feel her eyes on me, searching for an explanation I couldn’t give.
In that moment, I realized my world was about to become far more complicated than I had ever anticipated.
Clayre & Rift of security
