“There is little I can do to earn your trust, is there?” “ John sighs, settling back down on his chair. Your father, albeit I reluctantly concede, has consistently exhibited remarkable cunning, even in his youth. He possessed the ability to manipulate the truth so adeptly that one would never consider questioning him. He frequently extricated your uncle and me from various predicaments…
And then you killed him… Jimmy groans. Friend of the Year!
“Every narrative possesses dual perspectives.” You were aware of your father’s. “It is time for you to learn mine,” John states, gesturing towards the vacant chairs. “Kindly take a seat.” If, after listening to me, you wish to sever ties, I will depart without disturbance. “In the name of Alpha’s honour,” he proclaims, resting his hand upon his heart.
You own no honour.
I fail to comprehend his intentions towards me, nevertheless I guide my family to the dinner table, drawing Ricky’s chair nearer to my own. Melina appears anxious as she sits opposite me, her hands quivering as she struggles to compose herself. She recoils when I extend my hand towards her.
“She fears me for good reason,” John mutters. “I was a changed individual during our previous encounter.”
I glance at Melina briefly, contemplating how they might have possibly encountered one another, but John provides clarification.
“Melina was previously affiliated with Stonecold… until I entrusted her to you,” he states softly, astonishment overtaking my expression. Even Jimmy is speechless at the revelation, and I regard the woman who has cared for me for the past 20 years as though she were an unfamiliar individual.
“Like I said,” John groans tiredly. “You are only aware of one perspective of this narrative.” He abruptly straightens his posture and motions towards Josie. “Her Majesty informs me that you possess the ability to project memories.” Are you interested in uncovering the reality of this malevolent conflict?”
Jimmy murmurs that he believes it is unwise for you to perceive the psyche of a psychopath. You’re already messed up as it is.
I express my gratitude, my gaze shifting to Josie for direction.
“You are entitled to perceive the truth,” she urges. “You will gain a clearer understanding.”
“You are capable of this,” Ricky whispers, leaning her chin on my shoulder and caressing my back.
Taking in a long breath, I let down a wall, allowing John’s thoughts to seep towards me like a small stream until it starts gushing like a roaring river and I find myself practically drowning in the pit of his mind. I require a moment to compose myself till the memories are organised. In the dark black, I hear the sound of chuckling echoing off in the distance and I follow it until a sudden burst of blinding light blinds me. My eyes spring wide and like a movie projector, images take shape on the table for everyone to watch, although it appears only I can hear what is being said.
….
A youthful John shares laughter with my young uncle Cyrus, exchanging jokes in a setting populated by individuals adorned in opulent ball gowns and tuxedos. The marble floors shimmer beneath the illumination, and everyone clutches a beverage in their palms. From across the room, a lovely woman wearing a blue gown and tiara grins innocently in their direction. Her gaze is affectionate and gentle, albeit I cannot see the object of her attention. She elevates her glass towards Cyrus and John before pivoting to dance with King Arthur.
Cyrus whispers in John’s ear, “Marrying her does not designate you as the Fated Pair,” to which John responds with a hearty laugh.
“I’m fully aware,” John answers, smiling to himself. “But that doesn’t matter. I truly like her and I think we will make a decent match.”
“Are you certain about this, however?” “ Cyrus asks. “You’d be giving up your own mate for a princess who does not love you.”
“Cy, I am aware of what I am undertaking,” John responds. “I cannot articulate it, but there is an ineffable quality about Breanna that brings me joy.” I intend to marry her, not out of love, but for the benefit of the Kingdom. She requires a steadfast king to govern alongside her, and I consider myself competent to provide that support. I assured her of my capability to do so.
“I couldn’t do it,” Cyrus shakes his head. “I could not relinquish my partner for a title.”
“That is precisely why King Arthur chose me over you,” John chuckles. A genuine monarch must make sacrifices for his subjects.
“Hell of a sacrifice,” Cyrus mutters, both he and John watching Breanna dance with her father.
“I am aware.”
The ballroom and people fade away, transforming into a scene involving simply John and Cyrus walking beside a lake.
“Have you found a partner?” “ John asks, a small smile on his lips.
Cyrus shakes his head and exhales in resignation. How is married life accommodating you?.
A faint flush tints John’s cheeks as he gazes sheepishly at the water.
“Are you genuinely developing romantic feelings for the Princess?” Cyrus derides.
“And what if I am?” John confronts, while Cyrus raises his hands in capitulation.
“She is simply not your companion,” he suggests.
“But she is my wife,” John retorts, a flash of wrath in his eyes. “I am unable to elucidate it.” I informed you. It just feels good being around her, ya know? She possesses a sense of humour yet recognises when to adopt a serious demeanour. She exhibits courage and exceptional skill at the training grounds. <text”I have become acquainted with all of her idiosyncrasies, and I find them utterly captivating,” he remarked with a shrug.
