"Cedric." I took his hand and said seriously, "Listen to me. Since I promised to give you a chance, I won't go back on my word. As for those people like Evan or the marquis..."
I paused, then continued, "I won't like any of them. The only person I've ever liked is you. That has never changed."
His eyes lit up instantly, like two flames had been kindled. "Really?"
"Of course."
He suddenly smiled, his grin as bright as sunlight. Joy radiated from him. Then he pulled me into his arms fiercely, as if he wanted to press me into his body so we would never be apart again.
One month later, Cedric had fully recovered.
"Alice," he found me, looking a little nervous. "Caspar sent word that some matters require my personal attention back in the kingdom. Would you be willing to come back with me?"
I was silent for a moment. I felt reluctant, but ever since I agreed to give Cedric another chance, I had known this day would come. I sighed and said, "Give me one day to say goodbye to Father, Mother, and Adrian."
The corners of his mouth lifted instantly, and he looked overjoyed. "Alice, is this true? You're willing to go back with me?"
"Yes." I smiled, gently placing my hand on my slightly rounded belly. "Our child needs to return to his home too."
The next day, Father met with Cedric and me in the council hall.
"Alice, have you really decided?" Father asked, his eyes full of reluctance. "You can stay here. Let Cedric return alone. Your mother and I can't bear to part with you. We've only just got you back..."
"Father," I took his hand. "Hilphia is Cedric's kingdom, and now it's my home too. I should go back with him. But I will visit often. Once the child is born, I'll let you know right away."
Father's eyes reddened. He turned away and wiped his tears before looking at Cedric again, his tone growing serious. "Cedric."
"Please give your instructions." Cedric bowed respectfully at once.
"I am entrusting my most precious daughter to you." Father's voice was solemn. "If you ever hurt her again—even once—I will personally lead troops to Hilphia. No matter the cost, I will kill you!"
"I swear, Your Majesty." Cedric knelt on one knee, his expression grave. He lowered himself completely. "I will protect her with my life, cherish her, and love her. If I ever hurt her again, you won't need to act—I will end my own life."
"Rise." Father helped him up and patted his shoulder. "I believe you, but remember the words you spoke today."
Adrian also learned of this. He pushed the door open and walked in, his expression not looking good. He strode up to Cedric, grabbed him by the collar, and slammed him against the wall.
I cried out in alarm and stood up from my chair. "Adrian, what are you doing?"
Adrian glanced at me. "Don't worry, Alice. I just want to have a few words with your mate."
Cedric raised a hand, signaling me not to worry.
"Listen." Adrian's voice was low, his eyes flashing with danger. "My sister is soft-hearted and willing to forgive you, but I'm not."
Cedric didn't resist. He simply looked at him calmly.
"If she sheds even one more tear because of you," Adrian said through gritted teeth, "I don't care how powerful you are. I will do everything in my power to make sure you die a miserable death. Understood?"
"Understood." Cedric nodded. "But I promise you—that day will never come."
Adrian stared at him for a long time before finally letting go.
"It had better not."
He turned to leave, then stopped.
"Cedric."