As the night breeze gently swirled around them, Alexander's determination to understand Elysia grew stronger. Escorting her back to the inn, he found himself drawn to the enigmatic princess, his curiosity piqued by the complexity he sensed within her.Though reluctant, Elysia acquiesced to having late supper with him in his room, their earlier clash of words still lingering in the air between them. As they entered the dimly lit chamber, Alexander felt a mix of emotions—fascination, intrigue, and a trace of uncertainty.Sitting across from her at the small table, he studied Elysia's features, finding her different from any other woman he had encountered. There was a fire in her eyes that hinted at a depth of character beyond what he had witnessed in others. He couldn't help but wonder what secrets she held hidden beneath her composed exterior."Elysia," he began, his voice gentle yet curious, "You are not like any other woman I've met. There's something mysterious about you that I can't quite decipher. What drives you? What lies beneath the surface of your intentions?"I look at him, my gaze steady and unreadable. "My motivations are my own," I replied, my tone guarded. "I seek to protect both realms and ensure harmony between humans and monsters."But Alexander could sense that there was more to her story, a deeper layer that she was hesitant to reveal. "You have a way of commanding attention, of challenging the status quo," he continued. "I want to understand you, to know the truth behind the walls you've built."A flicker of vulnerability passed over my face, but it was quickly masked. "There are parts of myself I'd rather keep hidden," I admitted, my voice soft. "But I assure you, my actions are guided by the greater good."Alexander nodded, understanding that there was much more to Elysia than met the eye. He knew that earning her trust would require patience and time.At that moment, Alexander realized that he was drawn to Elysia not just out of curiosity but of a genuine desire to know the woman beneath the crown.What am I thinking answering his questions with such demeanor, confidence, arrogance, and all? The truth is I'm hiding my true self behind a facade. Harmony between humans and monsters? I almost itch out loud, scrutinizing my own words. Well... it's not exactly my words. It's definitely Elysia's.How long do I need to pretend to be her, which I am not? I'm in her body. Sometimes her subconscious mind mingled with mine, making me more confused. Harder for me to distinguish which was my desire and which was hers. Clearly, Elysia would want to stop Alexander from killing all monsters. As an Astorian royalty, 'she' upholds the unity of all species. Alexander is 'her' opposite axis. He even dared to abduct 'her' for his own ambitions.But Alexander was not a normal abductor. Abduction is only in names. He allowed me to have my own free will. I can do anything I want except return home and escape."What were you thinking?" Alexander has been studying Elysia since their conversations stopped. He found that the princess was showing different emotions. She looked more alive than minutes ago. Before, her face seemed collected. Then suddenly, as if there were waves of emotions crashing on her face.My mind was scattered beyond the place when I heard Alexander speak. I took a deep breath and composed myself. Clearly, just now, he has been observing me. I am sure he has witnessed the turbulence of emotion on my face."I was thinking about your intention." Maybe if I tried to reason with him, he would set me free. It's not wrong to try my luck."I'm intrigue." Alexander smiles crookedly. A smile that is asymmetrical or uneven, with one side of the mouth higher than the other. His handsome face displays playfulness and mischief or maybe uncertainty."You're abducting me but not abducting me." I lean forward and put both of my fingers laced under my chin, throwing a challenge.The smile on Alexander's lips broadens, showing a dimple on his right cheek. Adding to the handsomeness that was already there. Dear heart, please do not falter to this womanizer. Apparently, sitting in front of this man was a dangerous game in itself.In return, my own lips have drawn a skeptical smile as if to counter his smugness."My, my, princess. I never thought you were the playful type." Alexander seems pleased and somewhat entertained."I can be many things, Xander." I put on a poker face. It's time to get serious. "I've come out with a proposal."There were lines of uncertainly on Alexander's forehead. Maybe he was confused by my sudden change of demeanor. At first, my intention was to be playful. But when I saw how his reaction had an unforeseen impact on me, it would be wise to switch strategy. My heart is not that strong to encounter this man's charm."What can it be?" Alexander leans forward, copying me, making our faces only a few inches apart. I have thrown a challenge, and he plays along. How schemingly dangerous.No wonder he is such a womanizer. When women are seducing him, he plays along by giving false hope. I shouldn't prolong this cat-and-mouse game. So I lean back onto my chair with both hands on my lap."Instead of pretending to abduct me, why don't we strike a deal?" I asked with a straight face.Alexander leans onto his chair. His attitude also changed. "Who said that I'm pretending to abduct you?"My throat feels dry. Why do I sense that I have poked a bear from slumbering?"I am simply extending my hospitality. I respected you as a princess of a neighboring kingdom. So I act civilized. It has never crossed my mind to treat you like a prisoner. But it seems I failed to humor your expectation." Swiftly Alexander approached me.Before he could come near, I pushed the chair backward and retreated until my back was on the wall. Shoot! This is not what I have in mind. I turn my head to the side, calculating the distance. If I were to sprint now, I would've escaped from this room.But before I can even make the move, Alexander has his body pinning me to the wall. He leered at me. His stare shows lust and desire while his eyes narrow, and his tongue licks his lips.I have dug my own grave!