Revelation 35

I have put my last item in the bag and I saw Lucien's t-shirt. I didn't know what I was thinking I grabbed it and put it inside the bag before I could stop myself. It has been more than two hours and I have asked Ramiz to delay only an hour. Maybe they made up. The thought twist a knife into my soul. I haven't planned anything, but I have decided to move to the kitchen maid's quarters for some time till I get good accommodation. I'm only stalling to say goodbye to Lucien. So far Mina hasn't outed me yet or the guards will come to drag me away into the dungeon.

I suddenly remembered something the brooch Mina gave me. I have put it inside Lucien's cupboard for safekeeping. I went to get that. I was in the middle of my search I felt a pair of hands around my midriff. The familiar scent of Lucien calmed. I breathed him in and turned to face him. He looked genuinely happy. I knew that I was successful in setting them up. I only wished that they stay together forever. But for that, he has to stop touching me like a lover. If he continues to do it there will be no hope for us. Before I could say anything he put his hands on my lips.

"I know you are angry that we took this much time but trust it was not my fault. I told you Arya is determined enough to marry my father. Nothing could shake her will. She agreed to back out only if I agree to marry her. But I said to her no straightforward and you won't believe her she came on me. I somehow escaped with my virtue intact", he winked at me.

" Nothing happened?", I asked him a little relieved.

"Nothing except some torn buttons. She wouldn't take no. It was so embarrassing. I only thought about you on the way here. You have to understand Mara my father is not the bad guy you make him out to be. He will take care of her like Lima", he said.

" I hope he doesn't take care of Arya like Lima", I bit out. He frowned at my response.

"I don't understand you why would you want to break up my father and Arya", he asked me.

" So you and Arya can be together", I cajoled him. He looked like I slapped him. I felt guilty for throwing him under the bus but I have to do this. I must break his heart or lose mine to him.

His eyes scanned the room and stayed on my packed bag. He looked furious and realisation struck him. He read everything together, and I knew he got the general idea of my plans.

"So this was your plan? Put me and Arya together so I leave you alone. I thought you had feelings for me. I was a fool for loving you. Thanks for letting me know your heart, Mara. I wish you good luck", he said.

He turned away and walked towards the door. I wanted to call him back but couldn't get the courage. He hesitated for a moment and without turning he said, " No need to leave on my accord I will not be staying here. You can be here as long as you want. Goodnight", he said.

I felt like crying but I couldn't all my tears were dried up. I sat there cursing Igor it was because of him I had to let go of Lucien. I hope we meet again next life and stay together with no dramas because it wasn't possible this life.

I have lost two important people all on a single day. I wish I could go back but I can and I will cherish those memories as long as I live.

It was time for dinner and I went to the dining hall. I hoped to talk to Mina but I didn't think she will appreciate it. But I have to try and I'm many things but not a quitter.

When I reached the table Mina was already seated with another girl and was chatting away. I felt a juvenile jealousy pass through me. But I quickly curbed it. If she wants to stay away from me I should appreciate it. It will save her life ultimately if I never succeed in my mission.

So far no one has noticed our budding friendship so she will be safe as far as I consider. My aunt sat with me to everyone's surprise. I could feel that she was having my back even here. I could only smile at her thoughtful gesture. She asked me to meet her at the bathroom. I nodded my head in response. But I missed Mina and her lighthearted conversation. I didn't worry that she will tell everything to Ramiz. Even if she did I'm sure he will never hurt me anyway.

My aunt has suddenly taken me under her wing. She didn't bother about who all will see us together. She looked determined, not the shell of the person I met before.

"I noticed that you and Mina are not sitting together. Is everything OK?", she asked me.

"I have confessed to her about the real reason I'm here. She now knows everything about us and even about my intention of killing Igor", I breathed. She sucked a breath and looked at me unbelievably.

"Are you crazy Mara? How could you tell everything to her? What if she goes to the king? Every one of us will be killed. I could never see my child", she said angrily.

"I'm sorry but it has been killing me. I didn't want to lie to my best friend anymore ", I said bowing my head.

"She is not your friend. These girls are your enemy and competition. They will give their eyes and ears to be in your position. I have to go", she muttered and walked away. I looked at her retreating form trying remember the aunt who used to hug and kiss away my sadness and loneliness but I couldn't find her. She was lost in the world created by Igor.