Chapter 66: A Stroll Among Secrets
The garden glowed in the morning sun, light streaming through the trees, leaving dappled spots of light on the garden's stone path. A gentle breeze carried the scent of blooming flowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of freshly turned soil. She paused at the edge of the garden, taking in the peaceful view. Beside her, Hera lingered, ever-watchful and ready to assist.
"I think I'd like to take a walk," Raelynn said gently. She touched her belly lightly, a small gesture that had become second nature. "I need some fresh air. It might be good for me—and for the baby."
Hera smiled warmly, her gaze full of warmth. "Of course. Let me walk with you."
Before she could take a step, Elion's voice cut through the silence. "That won't be necessary."
Both women turned as Elion walked over. His eyes flickered briefly to Hera before settling on Raelynn. "I'll go with her," he said in a way that made it clear he wasn't asking. "For security reasons, of course."
Hera hesitated, glancing between them. She knew better than to challenge Elion's decisions, especially when it came to Raelynn. Besides, the faint tension in his posture and the subtle softness in his gaze told her this wasn't just about security. Hera's lips curved into a knowing smile as she stepped back. "I'll leave her in your capable hands, then," she said, bowing slightly before retreating into the house.
Raelynn raised an eyebrow, watching Hera disappear through the doorway. "Was that really necessary?" she asked, turning back to Elion. There was a faint teasing note in her voice, though her expression remained neutral.
"Absolutely," Elion replied without hesitation. "Your safety isn't something I take lightly."
They began walking along the garden path, the sound of gravel beneath their feet mixed with the soft rustle of leaves. Raelynn tilted her face toward the sun, her eyes closing briefly as she savored the warmth. "Sunlight feels so good," she murmured. "It's like… it soaks into your skin and fills you with energy."
Elion glanced at her, his face relaxing slightly. "I wouldn't know."
Her eyes opened, a small smile tugging at her lips. "I guess not. But it's good for me—and the baby. A little sunbathing now and then might do wonders."
"You should be careful not to overdo it," Elion said. "Too much sunlight can be dangerous."
"Always so serious," Raelynn teased, her laughter light and melodic. She turned her attention to the garden around them, her gaze lingering on the vibrant flowers and lush greenery. "It's beautiful out here. Peaceful."
As they walked, Elion's eyes remained on her more than on their surroundings. He noticed the faint flush of her cheeks, the delicate way her fingers brushed against the petals of a flower as they passed. She walked carefully, though a small wobble in her steps betrayed her delicate state.
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When Raelynn stumbled slightly on an uneven patch of the path, Elion was beside her in an instant. His hand shot out, steadying her by the arm. His touch was firm yet gentle, and he didn't let go even after she regained her balance. "Careful," he said, his voice softer now, almost a whisper.
"Thank you," Raelynn said, her cheeks warming under his gaze. She noticed the way his hand lingered on hers, the subtle way his thumb brushed against her skin before he finally released her. There was a tenderness in his actions, a quiet protectiveness that spoke louder than words, but she chose not to comment. Instead, she continued walking, her steps more cautious now.
They turned a corner and entered a part of the garden Raelynn hadn't explored before. The atmosphere seemed different—it felt heavy, almost suffocating, as though the plants themselves were holding their breath. A strange plant stood in the middle of the small clearing, its dark green leaves curling at the edges and its flowers a deep crimson that seemed to pulse faintly in the light.
Raelynn stopped, her gaze fixed on the plant. "That's odd," she remarked, tilting her head with interest. "I'm sure I've never seen that plant before, but… it looks familiar somehow."
Raelynn's curiosity burned as she stepped closer to the strange plant. There was something hypnotic about the way its crimson flowers seemed to pulse, almost like they were alive. Her fingers twitched at her sides, the urge to reach out and touch it overwhelming.
"Don't," Elion's calm but firm voice broke through her thoughts.
She hesitated for a moment, glancing back at him before curiosity won over caution. Slowly, she extended her hand toward one of the flowers, its soft glow drawing her in.
Before she could make contact, Elion's hand shot out, wrapping firmly around her wrist and pulling it back. The suddenness of his action made her gasp softly.
"Elion!" she exclaimed, startled, as she turned to face him. Her gaze fell to where his hand still held hers, strong and steady.
His eyes darted to hers, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. Elion's grip loosened, and he pulled his hand away, almost too quickly, as though her touch burned him.
Raelynn blinked, feeling the absence of his touch keenly. "Sorry," she muttered, looking away to hide her embarrassment.
"You shouldn't get too close," he warned.
Raelynn glanced at him, frowning slightly. "Why? It's just a plant."
"Just a plant," Elion echoed, his eyes narrowing. "Things aren't always what they seem."
Despite his warning, Raelynn took a small step closer. A strange sensation prickled at the back of her mind—a mix of unease and déjà vu. The plant seemed to hum softly, its presence both alluring and unsettling. She shook her head, trying to dispel the feeling.
Elion moved to her side, his stance protective. His gaze lingered on the plant, his jaw tightening. "We should move on."
Raelynn hesitated, her unease growing, but she nodded. "Alright," she said quietly, allowing him to guide her back to the main path.
They walked in silence for a while, though something about the atmosphere felt different. Raelynn stole a glance at Elion, noticing the tension in his posture and the way his eyes seemed to scan their surroundings more carefully. She wanted to ask what he was thinking, but the words just wouldn't come out.