chapter 10 (Damien’s POV)

As I paced back and forth in my chambers, my mind raced with thoughts of Emilia. Had she remained where I left her, trapped within the confines of the shimmering shield? Or had she somehow found a way to escape?

The very idea of her slipping through my grasp filled me with a sense of unease. I had worked tirelessly to orchestrate this union, sacrificing countless hours and resources to ensure its success. Emilia's defiance was a direct challenge to my carefully laid plans, and I would not tolerate it.

I paused mid-stride and gazed out the window, my jaw set with determination. I had given her a chance to acquiesce, to accept her fate gracefully. But if she continued to resist, then I would have no choice but to employ more... persuasive measures.

A dark chuckle escaped my lips as I contemplated the various ways I could bend Emilia to my will. Perhaps a subtle reminder of the consequences her actions would have on her beloved family would do the trick. Or maybe a more overt display of power, a tangible demonstration of the futility of her struggle.

The possibilities swirled in my mind, each one more tempting than the last. After all, I was not a man accustomed to defeat. And Emilia, for all her spirit and resolve, was but a pawn in a much grander game. It was time she learned that lesson, one way or another.

With a renewed sense of purpose, I strode towards the door, intent on checking on my wayward bride-to-be. The wedding was tomorrow, and I would be damned if I let her ruin everything now, on the cusp of victory.

As I approached the courtyard, my steps quickened. The sight that greeted me only served to stoke the flames of my irritation. Emilia was still there, pounding against the shimmering barrier with all her might, her cries echoing through the air. Her defiance was admirable, but ultimately futile.

I paused for a moment, observing her struggle with a detached sense of amusement. She was like a wild animal caught in a trap, thrashing and snarling in a desperate bid for freedom. But I was the hunter, and I would not be deterred.

Clearing my throat, I stepped forward, drawing her attention. "Emilia," I said, my voice low and measured. "I see you've been busy."

She whirled around, her eyes blazing with a mixture of fear and fury. "Damien, let me go!" she demanded, her voice trembling with emotion.

I tsked and shook my head, slowly closing the distance between us. "My dear, you know I cannot do that. Not when we're so close to achieving our destiny."

"This is not my destiny!" she cried, pressing her hands against the barrier once more. "I won't be a part of your twisted games any longer."

I reached out and grasped her chin, forcing her to meet my gaze. "Oh, but you already are," I murmured, my thumb caressing her cheek. "Whether you like it or not, your fate is entwined with mine. And tomorrow, you will stand beside me as my wife."

Emilia's eyes widened in horror, and she attempted to pull away, but my grip held firm. "No, please," she begged, the first tears spilling down her cheeks. "Damien, don't do this."

I smiled, a cold, calculating expression. "It's already done, my love," I whispered. "The die has been cast, and there's no turning back now."

With that, I released her and stepped back, watching as she collapsed to her knees, her shoulders shaking with anguished sobs. Part of me wanted to reach out and comfort her, to soothe her fears and doubts. But I knew that such softness would only serve to undermine my position.

No, Emilia needed to learn that defying me had consequences. And I would ensure that she learned that lesson, even if it cost her every last shred of her pride and dignity.

Tomorrow, she would be mine. And I would make damn sure she never forgot it.