(Chapter 49)
That morning, when Clarisse Faeloria awoke, her mind was still filled with memories of the previous night. There was something different—an unfamiliar yet comforting warmth in her heart. Lorcan Frostborne, her husband and the Duke of the North, had shown a softer, more genuine side, one she had never seen before.
Clarisse turned her gaze to Lorcan, who was still asleep beside her. His face looked so serene, like a flawless sculpture untouched by time. Even in sleep, Lorcan exuded an air of authority that made Clarisse feel nervous. Slowly, she began to realize that her feelings for this man were starting to change.
Is it because he's my husband? she wondered. Their marriage, which once felt like a burden, was beginning to feel different. The events of last night, though simple, had somehow lessened the distance between them.
"I must be going crazy," she murmured, shaking her head.
Clarisse felt conflicted. Does this make me weak—accepting all of this? But deep down, she knew that these emotions were something she couldn't avoid. Perhaps, little by little, she was beginning to understand and accept Lorcan's presence as a part of her life.
She wanted to get out of bed and prepare for the day, but her body felt heavy, as if reluctant to leave the warmth surrounding her. However, before she could move, she realized that Lorcan was already awake. His sharp yet gentle eyes were watching her with quiet intensity.
"You're awake?" Lorcan's voice was low and soothing.
Clarisse stiffened, her cheeks turning red. "Have you been awake for long?" she asked, trying to mask her embarrassment.
Lorcan gave a small, knowing smile before brushing his fingers gently against her cheek. "Long enough to see you lost in thought."
Clarisse felt even more flustered. She tried to avert her gaze, but Lorcan didn't allow her the chance. His touch was gentle yet steady, filling her with an unexpected sense of comfort.
"You seem to be thinking about something," Lorcan observed, his gaze unwavering.
Clarisse swallowed, trying to find the right words. "I just... feel strange. Before, I rejected this marriage so strongly, but now, it feels different."
Lorcan was silent for a moment before replying, "Feelings change over time. And I'm glad if you're starting to feel more at ease."
Clarisse nodded slightly. Perhaps Lorcan was right—emotions grew gradually. She just needed to give herself time.
After a while, she whispered, "I should get ready for today."
But before she could move, Lorcan held her back gently. "There's no need to rush. We still have time."
Clarisse let out a small smile. The warmth and care she felt from Lorcan this morning made her realize that maybe—just maybe—this marriage wasn't as terrible as she had once thought.
Meanwhile, Jonathan Faeloria spoke with humility as he addressed Lorcan. He earnestly requested that his daughter, Clarisse, be treated well during her time in the North.
Lorcan simply gave a faint smile at the request. To him, Jonathan had already gained significant advantages from this alliance. Though Lorcan was known as a calculating man, he still respected Jonathan as his father-in-law.
However, deep inside, Lorcan knew that Clarisse was more than just a piece of their agreement. He had begun to see her as someone who truly mattered, and he was determined to protect their relationship, no matter what.
Without a trace of doubt, Lorcan Frostborne made a vow—he would do his best. Clarisse Faeloria would never be mistreated by him. In fact, he swore that he would never lay a harsh hand on her, let alone hurt her. No matter how cold he appeared to others, Lorcan knew he could never bring himself to do such a thing to Clarisse.
What puzzled Lorcan the most was how powerless he felt without Clarisse by his side. Every time he heard her name, his chest tightened. Was this… love? This feeling was different from anything he had experienced before. It wasn't just a desire to possess or touch her—it was something deeper. A longing to see every expression she made, to simply be near her. And somehow, just that was enough.