"An invitation for lunch"

A day had passed, and now William found himself sitting in the dimly lit room, lost in deep contemplation. The limited time he had left weighed heavily on his mind, casting a shadow over his thoughts. In the midst of his introspection, a soft knock on the door disrupted his solitude, announcing the arrival of the butler, tasked with serving the morning breakfast.

The butler, a picture of refined elegance in his impeccably tailored attire, entered the room with a tray filled with steaming dishes. Each movement exuded grace and poise, as he carefully arranged the tray on a nearby table. His eyes, a reflection of respect and genuine concern, locked with William's gaze. Despite William's protests about not needing any assistance, the Duke had insisted on assigning a butler to attend to his needs, unwilling to let any excuse hinder his care for William.

"Good morning, Sir William," the butler greeted in a polished tone, his voice carrying a touch of warmth.

William lifted his gaze, weariness etched on his face. "Good morning, Sir Jenkins," he responded with a grateful yet tired tone.

As Jenkins prepared to leave, he offered a gentle reminder. "The Duke has extended an invitation for lunch today, Sir."

A moment of hesitation crossed William's face, conveying his internal struggle. Sensing his discomfort, Jenkins interjected, "He understands if you're not feeling well and wouldn't mind if you choose not to attend."

However, William mustered his resolve and replied, "No, I will attend. Thank you, Jenkins, for informing me. Please convey my message to the Duke that I will be there for lunch."

Jenkins nodded, a faint smile of understanding gracing his lips. "Very well, Sir. I shall relay your message. If there is anything else you require, please don't hesitate to let me know."

With a respectful nod, Jenkins took his leave, allowing William to be immersed in his thoughts once again. The prospect of joining the Duke for lunch stirred a whirlwind of emotions within him - gratitude, thankfulness, but there was also a hint of sadness lingering in his eyes. It wasn't solely because he feared losing his life; rather, it was the unknown darkness that awaited him beyond. William had heard whispers that after death, there was only darkness. Yet, the sadness that now clouded his eyes stemmed from regret, knowing that he would never have the chance to be with the orphanage's children again.

Later, as William made his way to the grand dining hall for lunch, he was introduced to the Duke's daughter and her mother. Grace, the young girl with bright eyes and a contagious smile, greeted him with an air of excitement. Throughout the dinner, Grace would sneak glances at William, her cheeks flushing with a rosy hue, punctuated by occasional giggles that betrayed her anticipation.

After the satisfying meal, the conversation continued in a more relaxed setting. William found himself engaged in conversation with Grace, her genuine curiosity evident in her every word. Unbeknownst to her, the weight of her life rested upon his shoulders, and he listened intently, savoring every moment of their interaction.

"I'm so glad you came, William," Grace said, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I've been waiting for you and I'm so happy you're here, William. I've been looking forward to this day."

A bittersweet smile tugged at William's lips as he listened to her words. He couldn't bring himself to reveal the sacrifice he was about to make, understanding that it would only dampen her spirits. Instead, William nodded, his eyes filled with both tenderness and a touch of sorrow. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Grace. I, too, believe that our meeting was fated."

Grace continued to share her excitement, unaware of the magnitude of the impending ritual that would intertwine their lives. She spoke of her dreams and hopes for the future, expressing her heartfelt gratitude for the chance to meet William. As their conversation carried on, William couldn't help but be captivated by her innocence and warmth.

As the conversation between William and Grace flowed with ease, the opportunity arose for William to speak with Graciela Sawn, Grace's mother and the Duke's wife. The gentle ambiance of the dining hall seemed to envelope them as they found a moment alone, away from the prying eyes of others.

Graciela, a woman of grace and elegance, regarded William with a mix of gratitude and concern. She had heard of his selfless act, offering his life force to save her daughter, and it weighed heavily on her heart. She approached him with a soft smile, her eyes reflecting both appreciation and a mother's worry.

"William," she began, her voice carrying a warmth that mirrored her daughter's. "I cannot express the depth of my gratitude for what you are willing to do for my precious Grace. You have bestowed upon our family a great gift, one that words alone cannot convey."

William inclined his head, his gaze meeting Graciela's with a blend of humility and determination. "Lady Graciela, it is an honor to be of service to your family. The love a parent holds for their child is a force beyond measure, and I understand the lengths we are willing to go to protect them."

Graciela's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she reached out, gently placing her hand upon William's. "You carry an immense burden, William, and I want you to know that you are not alone in this journey. The weight of your sacrifice is shared by us all."

A fleeting moment of vulnerability crossed William's features, his voice barely above a whisper. "Your words bring comfort to my heart, Lady Graciela."

Graciela nodded, her voice filled with a mixture of admiration and concern. "I have seen the way Grace looks at you, William. The connection she feels, even without understanding the depth of it. You bring her joy and hope, and for that, I am eternally grateful."

A flicker of melancholy danced in William's eyes, but he masked it with a gentle smile. "I will do everything in my power to ensure Grace's well-being. She deserves a future filled with happiness, and if my sacrifice can provide that, then it is a choice I make willingly."

Graciela squeezed his hand, her gratitude pouring forth. "You possess a rare strength and compassion, William. Your presence has brought light into our lives, even if it may be fleeting. We will forever hold you in our hearts."

Their conversation was interrupted by the approach of other guests, signaling the end of their private moment. Graciela glanced at William, her voice filled with heartfelt sincerity. "Please, cherish this time, and know that our prayers and support accompany you on this journey."

William nodded, a mixture of determination and sadness etched upon his face. "I will, Lady Graciela."

With a final squeeze of his hand, Graciela left William, her steps carrying a mixture of gratitude and a mother's love. As William watched her retreating figure, he felt both the weight of his decision and the strength of the bond he had formed with Grace and her family