---- My hands stilled for a heartbeat, my breath hitching The guards had their own twisted ways of passing time, and I'd learned long ago not to give them the satisfaction of my fear.
But this didnt feel like them.
T just knew it.
The gaze wasnt cruel or mocking.
It wasnt predatory.
Tt was...intense.
It was his.
---- eee Chapter 376 I was curled on the floor, my fingers clutching the filthy fabric of my tunic, trying to will my body to stop shaking.
Through the haze of pain and despair, I heard his footsteps, slow and deliberate, stopping just beyond the iron bars.
I didnt want to look, but my gaze flickered up, catching his for the briefest moment He was leaning against the wall, his arms crossed, the flickering lantern light casting shadows across his face.
Still breathing, he murmured, his voice low, almost...
curious and I didnt respond.noveldrama
Words felt like too much effort.
I turned away, resting my forehead against my knees.
But he didn't leave Tle kept standing there, staring at me blankly.
You don't look like the kind that gives up, and let ---- me tell you, little one.
It has come to be.....
He crouched beside me and my body involuntarily shivered as I feel his cold finger caressing my cheek.
My favourite kind.
he said after a long pause.
His tone wasnt mocking, but there was an edge to it that prickled under my skin.
My body coiled at his contact and I snap close my eyes, hugging myself more tightly What's keeping you alive, little one? Are you expecting someone to save you? My eyes snap up to meet him.
Did he know about Damien? The way he coldly stared at me gave away nothing.
I don't need...
saving, I whispered hoarsely, more to myself than him.
My voice cracked, and my throat burned from days of screaming and crying.
But he heard me.
His hand reached further down and goosebumps ---- eee = appear on my skin as I feel him tracing his knuckles all down my naked arm to my calves.
I flinched, instinctively curling tighter into myself, but he didnt pull back.
His touch was surprisingly soft, not what I expected from someone like him.
You will need it, eventually.he murmured, his voice dipping low, almost tender.
And when you do? I can be your saviour, little one.
TfT can break you? Remember I am the only one who can build you.
I didnt look at him, but his hand lingered for a moment longer before softly retreating.
When I finally glanced up, he was gone.
But something about that moment stayed with me, haunting me in the hoursor daysthat followed.
What a strange man.
Is it possible that he has some humanity left despite being a monster like others?