Chapter 26

Nathaniel

I hold Megra tightly as she falls asleep, her soft breaths brushing against my chest. Her red locks are plastered to my skin, a vivid contrast to my olive complexion. The warmth of our passionate love is still in the air, but it is overshadowed by the cold wave of guilt that crashes over me. I watch her, picturing her smile, her voice, her strength, and guilt gnawing at my insides, realizing Ive fallen for her. Despite the contract, despite me trying with all my might, she has barrowed her way into my heart. I love her.

How did it come to this? I wonder about tracing a finger along a strand of hair. I feel trapped by the secret that I now have to protect. If she ever finds out what I have done, it will destroy her. My stomach churns with regret. I am happy with our union, and I am happy with the smile that overcomes me whenever I think of her. The events of my earlier mistake hang over me like a dark cloud.

Sleep gives me a brief respite from my turmoil until my phone starts