Chereads / RISE OF THE UNFAVOURED PRINCESS / Chapter 5 - CHAPTER 5: SANCTUARY

Chapter 5 - CHAPTER 5: SANCTUARY

As they rode, the trees grew taller and the air sweeter, filled with the scent of blooming flowers. Rae felt a sense of peace wash over her, as if they were leaving the danger and uncertainty behind. Finally, they crested a hill and Rae's breath caught in her throat. Before them lay a beautiful college, its buildings made of warm stone and its gardens vibrant with color.

 "Welcome to Oakwood College, Elara said, smiling. "You'll be safe here." As they rode through the gates, Rae felt a sense of wonder. She had never seen a place so beautiful, so full of life. Cyrus helped her down from her horse, his hand touching hers as he did so. Rae felt a spark of electricity run through her body, and she couldn't help but look up at him.

 For a moment, they just stared at each other, the tension between them seemed palpable. Then, Elara broke the spell, leading them to a beautiful courtyard surrounded by towering trees and filled with vibrant flowers.

 As they walked, Rae couldn't help but notice the way Cyrus looked at her, his eye filled with warmth and kindness she had never seen before. And when they finally stopped in front of a beautiful fountain, Cyrus turned to her and took her hand.

 "Rae," he said, his voice low and husky. "I'm so glad we made it here safely. I don't know what I would have done if anything had happened to you." Rae's heart skipped a beat as she looked up at him, feeling a sense of connection she had never felt before. " Thank you for saving me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

 Cyrus smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners, I'll always save you Rae," he said. "I promise" and with that he kissed her, his lips soft and gentle on hers. Rae felt like magic had just washed over her, as if she had finally found her true home. As they pulled back, Rae smiled up at his beautiful green eyes, feeling a sense of happiness she had never known before. "I think I'm going to like it here," she said. Cyrus grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I think you will," he said, " and I'll be here to make sure you do"

 Elara smiled, her eyes shining with happiness. "I'll leave you two alone for a bit," she said, " I'm sure you have a lot to talk about." And with that, she disappeared, leaving Rae and Cyrus alone in the beautiful courtyard. They talked for hours , hands entwined, watching the stars twinkle above.