Elaria’s POV As we walked out of the hall, I still held my heart in my palms. Yes, Alaric had defended me, but I was still yet to know him. His hand molded itself around mine as we moved even further. His grip wasn't scary, but it was tight. Firm. I should have been scared. I should have been worried, but rather I felt some sort of comfort by his side. “Do you always stare at people, or am I the chosen one?” He asked, I quickly averted my gaze, looking at the floor. A low chuckle erupted from his throat. “There's nothing to be shy about,” he whispered, My cheek blushed pink. Why did every sentence, touch, and breath from this man make my insides mix? Everything about him was intoxicating. He led me into our carriage, and the ride was silent. I looked through the windows in silence

