Episodio 10

The house of the Count of Devonshire was cloaked in silence. The tall windows allowed the soft rays of the moon to illuminate the dark hallways with a pale glow. Tabitha sat in her room by the window, gazing at the distant stars. Despite the security of the house, her mind remained restless. There were so many unanswered questions, so many conflicting emotions that she couldn’t ignore.

A faint knock on the window startled her. She turned quickly, and her eyes met Ethan’s figure, standing on the balcony outside. He was dressed discreetly, but his presence radiated the same silent confidence as always.

“Ethan?” she whispered, standing up suddenly.

He gestured for her to open the window. Reluctantly, but curious, Tabitha unlocked it, allowing him to enter.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, closing the window again. “What if someone sees you or my grandfather finds out?”

Ethan gave a small smile as he walked further into the room. “I needed to speak with you. I didn’t think I’d have another chance... and this couldn’t wait.”

Tabitha crossed her arms, trying to hide her nervousness. “Speak about what? Tomorrow we’ll be together again. I don’t understand why you’re risking this.”

Ethan moved closer to her, his eyes fixed on hers. “There are things that need to be said without prying eyes, Tabitha. I want you to know exactly where we stand... where I stand, before we take any further steps.”

She furrowed her brow, confused and intrigued. “I don’t understand. What do you mean?”

Ethan took a deep breath, briefly looking away before returning his gaze to her. “From the day we first met, I saw something in you. A strength you didn’t even know you had. During these days on the island, and after what happened between us, that became even clearer.” He paused, his voice softening. “And it was then I realized... I can’t imagine my life without you. I love you.”

Tabitha remained silent, her heart racing. She knew there was something between them, but hearing those words made everything feel more real, more intense. “Ethan...” she began hesitantly. “I can’t deny that I love you too, but this is so... complicated. My grandfather expects a lot from me. He already has plans, alliances... and besides, you were his ward. I don’t know if he’d accept it.”

Ethan stepped closer, his expression firm. “I’m not asking for your grandfather’s permission, Tabitha. I’m asking you to believe in me, to trust that together, we can face whatever comes.”

She looked away, struggling with the emotions threatening to overwhelm her. “It’s hard, Ethan. I’ve never had the chance to choose.”

He raised his hand, gently touching her chin, making her look at him. “Then choose now. Not for your grandfather, not for anyone else. For you.”

For a moment, the room was silent. Tabitha felt her heart race, each of his words echoing in her mind. Then, without thinking, she stepped forward, and their lips met. The kiss was soft, but filled with emotion, as if they were both pouring everything they’d felt but never said into it. When they finally pulled apart, Ethan smiled lightly and raised his hand, touching her face delicately. His touch was warm, and Tabitha closed her eyes, feeling her heart race.

“I shouldn’t want this...” she whispered, but didn’t pull away.

“But you do,” he replied, moving closer. “Just like I do.”

The words faded as Ethan leaned in, and their lips met again. Tabitha felt his hands slide to her waist, pulling her gently closer. She responded, her fingers intertwining in his hair. When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless. Ethan looked into her eyes, his breath heavy. She didn’t respond with words, but by pulling him into another kiss, making it clear that her decision had already been made.

Ethan gently guided her to the bed, his movements careful, as if afraid of scaring her. He paused for a moment, looking at her with intensity. Ethan kissed her again, his hands exploring her body with almost sacred reverence. The barrier of their clothes slowly disappeared, each piece removed with care and respect.

Tabitha felt vulnerable, but also powerful under Ethan’s gaze, who admired her as if she were the most precious thing he had ever touched. The heat between them grew with every touch, every caress. Ethan was gentle, attentive to each of her reactions, as if every sigh was a melody he longed to know. Tabitha, in turn, let go of her fears, surrendering completely to the moment.

When they finally united, it was more than physical. It was a fusion of souls, a silent declaration of their deep connection. Their bodies moved in perfect harmony, as if they were destined for this moment. The silence returned to the room, now punctuated only by the sound of their soft breaths. Ethan held Tabitha in his arms, both enveloped in a profound sense of fulfillment.

“This changes everything,” she said softly.

“It doesn’t have to change anything you don’t want it to,” he replied, kissing her forehead. “But know that I’m by your side, no matter what happens.”

She nestled closer to him, feeling safer than she ever had before. “Thank you for letting me choose,” she whispered before falling asleep.

Ethan stayed awake for a while, watching her as she slept, determined to protect her from anything that might come. When the day began to rise, Ethan got up and dressed, not wanting to compromise her, though he had already decided to make her his wife.