The covenant
Flashback
As Cedric pulls me away, I struggle to keep up with his quick strides. My heart races, a mix of confusion and hurt swirling within me. I glance back at Yona, whose face is lined with frustration and disbelief, and I wish I could say something to ease the tension. I know he is mad. I hope with all of me, this fight will end. But the words won't come; they're trapped behind the weight of my feelings. Feelings, I don't even understand myself.
"Where are we going?" I finally managed to ask, breaking the overwhelming silence between us. Cedric doesn't answer, his jaw clenched tight. I know he told me to stay away from the wolves. I know he's truly trying to protect me. I know he loves me, but I love Yona. I will never feel this way about Cedric.
The air around us feels thick with unspoken words and hurt emotions. "We should just talk," I say, taking a step closer to him as we move away from the confrontation.
"You don't have to be so harsh," I add.
He stops abruptly, spinning around to face me. The madness in his eyes throws me off guard. "You don't understand, Saturn. This isn't just about us; it's about them, about Yona. I warned you to stay away from the wolves. They are dangerous."
"But I didn't do anything wrong! I was scared!" My voice rises, desperation creeping in. "I was trying to make sense of everything, and then it got out of hand!"
Cedric runs a hand through his hair, frustration radiating off him. "I can't stand the idea of you being hurt, especially not by someone like Yona."
"Then why do you hate him so much?" I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.
"I just do. I don't want you to get caught up in all of this."
I slow my breathing, trying to regain control of my emotions. "Caught in what? You don't have to protect me like I'm fragile. I can handle myself."
He steps closer, his expression softening for a moment. "You're not fragile, Saturn. But the wolves aren't caring or gentle. They are always in the way, and I won't lose you to them either. I can't."
"So this is a pride thing?"
"A mix of pride and protection for you. I have feelings for you. You know this."
"I know." I rub his face gently.
"Just stay away from Yona. He loves Chhaya," he says, grabbing my hand.
I feel the water forming in my eyes. "I didn't mean to hurt her."
"I know, you wouldn't on purpose."
I nod.
"I will never hurt you, you have no competition," he tells me. I know he would genuinely do everything in his power to keep me happy.
Two weeks later.
I can feel Yona's presence. I know he is never fully present, and it drives me crazy. I want him, I need him, but I haven't seen him, and it's tearing me apart. Why does he keep an eye on me but maintain his distance? Why is he so torn between me and Chhaya?