章 45: Peaceful slumber

After enduring two more weeks of confinement under the watchful eye of the old woman, I was finally released. All I wanted was to collapse into a deep slumber with Selene by my side, wrapped in her comforting embrace. As we made our way back to the House of Shadows castle, exhaustion weighed heavily upon us, our steps sluggish and minds clouded with fatigue.

However, our return was met with a sight both unexpected and exhilarating. The castle grounds were ablaze with festivity, the air alive with the sound of laughter and music. Confusion flickered across Selene's face, mirroring my own bewilderment. What could possibly be the cause of such grand celebration?

Before we could even begin to comprehend the situation, our arrival was met with thunderous applause and cheers. Voices rang out, hailing us as the stars of the show, and we found ourselves swept up in a whirlwind of excitement and jubilation. It seemed that my recent exploits had brought a considerable amount of honor and prestige to the House of Shadows, and our fellow students were eager to celebrate our achievements.

Amidst the revelry, Selene and I exchanged puzzled glances, still trying to make sense of the situation.

We cast resigned gazes at each other, silently acknowledging our shared weariness as we reluctantly allowed ourselves to be swept into the midst of the festivities. Despite the heavy weight of exhaustion bearing down upon us, there was a sense of obligation to participate, to embrace the celebration that had been orchestrated in our honor.

As we moved through the throngs of revelers, the music and laughter seemed to echo hollowly in our ears, a stark contrast to the weariness that weighed upon our spirits. Each step felt like a choreographed dance of obligation, our movements sluggish and our expressions tinged with fatigue.

Amidst the chaos of music, dancing, and the clinking of glasses, I find solace in a secluded corner, away from the pulsating energy of the celebration. From my vantage point, I observe Selene effortlessly navigating the crowd, her graceful movements a testament to her innate ability to command attention and respect.

Despite her outward confidence, I can sense the underlying weariness in her gaze, a reflection of the toll that the relentless festivities have taken on her. A small chuckle escapes my lips as I watch her, knowing all too well her disdain for such ostentatious gatherings. It's a rare sight to witness Selene in her "hostess" form, effectively speaking and maneuvering through the throngs of people with practiced ease.

As if sensing my thoughts, Selene's gaze finds mine, her emerald eyes momentarily meeting mine with a mixture of exhaustion and suspicion. I offer a playful wink in response, a silent acknowledgment of our shared understanding. However, instead of reciprocating, she merely turns away with a flip of her hair, a subtle gesture that speaks volumes of her inner turmoil.

Determined to rescue my beloved from the relentless whirlwind of the celebration, I make my way through the crowd with purpose. As I approach Selene, I gently place my hand on the small of her back, a subtle yet reassuring gesture meant to convey my presence and support.

"I'm feeling a bit exhausted, my love," I murmur softly, offering her an apologetic smile. "Perhaps it's time we retreat for the night."

Selene's weary gaze meets mine, and for a moment, I can see the faint glimmer of gratitude flickering in her emerald eyes. Without waiting for her response, I take her hand in mine and guide her away from the bustling festivities, eager to whisk her away.

After escaping the chaos of the celebration, Selene and I finally find ourselves in the sanctuary of our room. With a sense of relief washing over us, we quickly freshen up, shedding the weight of the day's events with each passing moment. Selene's tired eyes meet mine, mirroring the exhaustion I feel deep within my bones.

As we settle into the comfort of our bed, I pull her close, craving the warmth of her embrace. Our bodies mold together seamlessly, as if they were meant to fit perfectly, like two pieces of a puzzle coming together at last. Wrapped in each other's arms, we surrender to the embrace of sleep, the world outside fading into darkness as we drift into a peaceful slumber.