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It was summer—the air warm and golden. Riven rose from his grand bed and leaned in to kiss my cheek gently.
"Good morning, sweetie," he said, his voice calm and warm.
*Sweetie?* I blinked, startled. The devil's son had never called any of his wives by endearing names. I didn't know what to say.
"Good morning, my lord," I finally replied with a soft smile, my heart racing.
"Hope you slept well," he added kindly.
I paused, unsure of how to respond. Why was he being so gentle? I'd heard stories—how cold and harsh he was to his other wives. But here he was, smiling at me like I was someone special.
"Yes, my lord. I slept well. Thank you," I murmured, worried that saying too much might make him turn away.
After he left the room, I took a deep breath and slowly rose from the large bed. A maid rushed in and gently urged me to stay in bed. "Let me handle everything, my lady," she said. I tried to insist I could do it myself, but she shook her head. "If the young master sees you lifting a finger, we'll all be punished."
Reluctantly, I let her prepare my dress and jewelry. I stood still, feeling helpless and uneasy.
Later, I stepped outside, and the sunlight flashed across my face—a warm, strange light that didn't quite chase away the chill in my heart. There he was, Riven, standing by the lake, waiting for me. When I reached him, he took my hand and kissed it softly before dismissing the maid.
"Having a wonderful day, my princess?" he asked with a rare smile.
"Yes, my lord," I said, trying to keep my voice steady.
We walked together around the palace grounds. He showed me hidden places—sacred spots only devil sons were allowed to enter. His tone was softer than I had ever imagined. He spoke gently, almost like a man rather than a demon.
Then he told me something that made my blood run cold—his brother Michael, the 2nd devil son, was coming the next day to discuss the annual ritual.
September 1st. The day all seven devil sons offer a sacrifice to their father in hell.
Tomorrow was September 1st.
My heart sank. Who would they choose this year? Would it be me? The thought clawed at my chest. I wanted to believe Riven loved me. I wanted to believe he'd protect me… but fear whispered cruel things into my ear.
As we walked, the sun burned gently above us, but inside I felt cold, like I was already standing in hell. I squeezed Riven's hand tightly, silently praying that love could defeat the darkness.
But doubt clouded my mind.
*Will Riven let them choose me for the ritual?*
*Is this love real, or just another illusion in this cursed place?*
Tears welled in my eyes, though I held them back.
Riven just kept smiling at me, as if he didn't notice the storm breaking inside me.
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