Part Six: Fate
Chapter Eighteen: Allegiance to the Dark Lady
The shadows melded with the light unhappily, and she could hear the tortured cries of those caught between. The darkest shadow rushed towards her before she could even create her ice shield. She let out a strangled cry as its hopeless tendrils ensnared her. She suddenly felt so weak…
A guardian rushed out from the side of light. It forced its way into her mind, bringing her out of the darkness. Her hand reached out to grip the light and found it stable, reassuring. Together, she and the guardian stood against the shadow. Strength flowed through her.
Torrence turned her head, feeling warmth beneath her cheek. She opened her eyes and yawned.
"Glad you're okay."
She looked up into Robert's face, then blushed, realizing that her head was resting in his lap. She sat up slowly, rubbing her eyes tiredly.
"How long have I been gone?"
"Three days," he replied. He ran a hand through his hair. She stared into his sapphire eyes.
"Everyone's bugging, huh?" She chuckled.
"Why did you go?"
"What's it to you?"
She glared at him, her eyes tearing up. Why should he care? He didn't care about her.
Robert sighed and shook his head. "I do care about you, Torrence."
"No you do—How did you know what I was thinking?"
"That's why I can't get involved with you. I'm a Son of the Dark."
"Are you a Follower?"
"No," Robert sighed. "I…was once a servus in Nefandus. I pledged allegiance to the Dark Goddess. She sent me to look after you."
She raised her hand to his cheek. "Did she say that you couldn't kiss me?"
"No. It's just that…You're an important piece to the destruction of the Atrox. I didn't want to interfere with your destiny."
"Is that all?" She laughed softly.
He grabbed her hand, shaking his head softly. "I'm immortal, Torrie. I was once a knight. I was knighted by King Arthur himself! I served under him!" He exclaimed.
Torrence sucked in her breath. She touched his cheek again. King Arthur…
He drew her forward by placing his hand on her neck. She remained about an inch from him, trembling softly. She felt compelled to tell him why she left.
"I met this girl. Ariel. She told me that she was the dream maker. I was taken into the shadows, and that's all I remember."
"Why did you go with her, Tor?"
"She said that I would meet my father," she whispered sadly. "Do you know who he is?"
Robert shook his head, sympathetic. "No. I only know that the Dark Lady finds you important."
Torrence wrapped her arms around his neck tightly, pressing her cheek against his. He guided her onto his lap, kissing her softly. She kissed him back as their kisses became firmer, became more intense. She pressed up against him, leaving no space between their bodies. She curled her fingers into his hair. He let out a soft growl, letting his hands roam across her body. Tears slid down her cheeks, soaking both of their faces.
Robert pulled back. "Torrence?" He was confused by this display of emotion.
Tor sobbed softly into his chest, her body partially curled in his lap. He wrapped one arm around her back, letting his other pet her hair softly, comforting her. She snuggled into him.
"I was so afraid, Robby. So afraid you didn't like me, so afraid that I would never feel like this." Her voice, already soft and thick from her emotions and fatigue, was muffled from her mouth being pressed into his chest. He strained to understand her.
"Feel like what?"
"To feel like I'm good enough for someone."
Gently, he placed his hand under her chin, lifting her face up. He kissed her forehead. "You always were good enough, Torrence. Anyone who made you feel otherwise doesn't deserve you."
She smiled, wiping the tears off her face. "Really?"
"Really."
"Robby, are you going to not pursue a relationship with me now?" Her voice was quiet and laced with self-doubt.
He eyed her carefully, thinking over her question. "You don't want to date any guys your age?" He joked.
She chuckled, understanding what he was talking about. "Come on, Robert. You know from the first time we danced that we had a connection. Besides, for someone so old, you look pretty damn good. You also understand me."
"I can't be around forever."
"Then let me have you while you're here."
"Tor—"
She placed a finger on his lips. "I won't take no for an answer."
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Just to let you all know, there are only four chapters left of this story. Gasp
Demon Dea: Yes, the goddess was Serena. And…you'll find out who the girl is soon.
elephantsrocmysox: Lol. I know, very predictable like on Stanton's behalf. Anyways, I'm curious about what you mean when you say Auriella has good sense. Can you explain that to me?
Rubber-duckiesofdoom: Yus, it only stands to reason that if Stanton is her father, Serena must be the mother. Or is she! Dun dun dun. No, lol.
