The room began to rotate slightly; she grasped the dresser and shut her eyes until equilibrium was restored. It would be effortless for her to recline and rest for additional hours; it would be prudent for her to do so. However, the more time she spent here, the more she exposed herself to their vulnerabilities.
Molly seized the door handle and flung it open. She abruptly collided with a solid chest, and substantial hands extended to stabilise her. “It appears you have neglected to take your coat; the weather is rather frigid outside.”
Colton appeared nearly entertained by her attempts to flee. Molly swiftly extricated herself from his grasp and retreated from him. He entered and shut the door as a strong gust of wind rushed in. “I have brought you some cake; it is still warm from the oven.”
He extracted a substantial slice from his pocket, and she observed the steam as he unwrapped it. The aroma of sweet chocolate nearly elicited a groan from her; it had been a considerable duration since she had the opportunity to savour something warm and freshly made.
“Are you certain you have obtained sufficient rest prior to your departure? You are welcome to remain for as long as necessary.” Colton placed the cake on her dresser and inserted his hands into his pockets. “I can prepare a bag of food and supplies if required.”
Molly descended onto the bed and rubbed her eyes. “Would you truly permit me to leave?”
“Certainly, I would. I am a man of my word; you are at liberty to leave whenever you wish.” Colton took a seat in the chair across the room. He surveyed the desolate expanse and shrugged. “I assumed you would prefer to remain here temporarily until you recover.”
Molly surveyed her surroundings. “Here? Isolated?”
“Certainly, it is unoccupied. We possess additional rooms for travellers in need; this is one of the larger options, albeit still modest in appearance. While I would suggest personalising it to your liking, I doubt you will remain long enough for it to be significant.”
“Why are you exhibiting such kindness? I presumed the rogues were…” Molly allowed her words to fade, yet she discerned that he understood her implication.
“Permit me to share a portion of our narrative, should you be inclined to listen.”
Upon Molly’s lack of objection, Colton manoeuvred the chair closer to minimise the distance between them. Nevertheless, he ensured to maintain a respectful distance between them.
“I am aware that you have likely encountered alarming narratives regarding our pack and have endured an unspeakable ordeal; however, I aspire to facilitate your understanding of us.” Colton leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. Given her experiences, she believed it would be impossible to perceive them differently, regardless of his kindness towards her.
“Years ago, our pack successfully severed ties with Royal House Arnold and their corrupt governance. We established a life for ourselves here-“
Molly interjected, “Excuse me.” “Did you assert that Royal House Arnold has a corrupt governance? What do you imply by that?”
Colton regarded her with knitted brows. “Are you unaware of how they treat their citizens?”
Molly repositioned herself beneath his scrutiny. She was aware of her treatment at the palace, but not of that of the other citizens. “I have been employed at the palace for over five years and am prohibited from exploring the towns beyond its confines.”
Comprehension illuminated his gaze. “You are a servant of the palace, correct?”
“Indeed, I am. What alternative could I possibly be?”
“I presumed you could have been the prince; however, it is inconsequential. I will recount how they treated their own citizens.” He rose and lingered near the extinguished fireplace. “Do you object to my lighting this?”
Molly stated, “No, you can.” She observed him as he bent down to ignite the logs and heat the room. A slight sense of relief was derived from the warmth of the flames. As he turned to remove his coat, she observed his handsomeness for the first time. His jawline was pronounced, and his eyes possessed a gentle quality that rendered him youthful. He rubbed his unkempt jaw while placing his coat over the back of the chair and reseating himself.
“The kingdom has consistently ensured that citizens were aware of their sentiments. Affluent individuals received preferential treatment and respect from all. Conversely, those who were impoverished…” Colton sighed and reclined. The impoverished were subjected to egregious mistreatment. Those who slept on the streets and obstructed officials faced lethal consequences as a demonstration of authority. Children endured physical abuse, while women were assaulted and trafficked. The destitute possessed no rights, rendering survival exceedingly difficult.
They exploited us, and they continue to do so for those who remain there. Even individuals classified as alphas possessed no rights. The king derived satisfaction from his ability to manipulate those unable to afford sustenance. He possessed the fate of numerous individuals yet took no action to assist any of them. He fostered the maltreatment, if anything.” Colton rotated a golden ring on his finger. “You were also sold to the palace, correct?” During your youth?
