Chapter 23 - Damian Finally Admitted His Fear
One evening, Sofia found Damian alone in the garden.
He was staring at the city lights.
“You're worried.”
He didn't deny it.
“Yes.”
“About the council?”
“No.”
He turned toward her.
“About you.”
Sofia frowned.
“Why?”
“Because this world has already hurt you.”
She stepped closer.
“And?”
“I know what people like Victor can do.”
Sofia took his hand.
“I'm not afraid.”
“I am.”
She looked into his eyes.
Damian had faced armed men without hesitation.
He had stood between bullets and his family.
But now his voice was quiet.
“I can protect you from people outside this family.”
He swallowed.
“But I can't protect you from every decision you make.”
Sofia smiled gently.
“I don't want you to.”
He looked at her.
“I want a husband, Damian.”
The word stopped him.
She continued.
“Not a bodyguard.”
His expression softened.
“You're asking me to trust you.”
“No.”
She squeezed his hand.
“I'm asking you to trust me enough to let me become who I am.”
He nodded.
Then pulled her into his arms.
“I can do that.”
Sofia rested her head against his chest.
May you like
For the first time, their relationship felt less like protection and more like partnership.
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