✓ | The Borrowed Identity (Fate's Transgression Series, #4)

TBI 22: Maybe

[ Chapter 22: Maybe ]

Selene | Selvy

Gazing at my reflection in the shimmering water, I saw a face that was not my own. The scorching sun beat down upon me, intensifying the feeling of being out of place. I stood before a massive stone, my eyes fixated on the foreign visage staring back at me. It was a disconcerting sensation, for I knew deep within that this was not my true form. I was merely inhabiting the borrowed identity of Selvyna.

A wave of unfamiliarity washed over me, as if I were an imposter in my own skin. The weight of Selvyna's existence settled upon my shoulders, reminding me that her path and purpose now intertwined with my own. This realization brought forth a mix of emotions - uncertainty, trepidation, and a sense of duty.

I took a moment to steady myself, acknowledging that although I was assuming Selvyna's persona, I still possessed my own essence, my own strengths, and weaknesses. This borrowed identity was a vessel through which I could navigate the challenges that awaited me, but it did not diminish the essence of who I truly was.

Drawing a deep breath, I made peace with the notion that I had embarked on a journey that would blur the lines between Selene and Selvyna. While I may have assumed her form, my actions, decisions, and the path I chose to follow would ultimately shape my destiny.

I will embrace the notion of assuming Selvyna's identity as an opportunity rather than a burden. It was a chance to uncover truths, face challenges, and carve a path that would lead to a deeper understanding of my own purpose. The mysteries that awaited me as Selvyna beckoned, and I was ready to embrace them with unwavering resolve.

"Sel!" Valan's voice pierced through my thoughts, causing me to blink and turn towards him. Without hesitation, he enveloped me in a tight embrace. The familiar scent of him washed over me, instantly calming my racing heart. I could feel the worry emanating from his pounding chest.

"Valan," I whispered, my voice filled with relief. "Did I worry you?"

"Yeah, don't ever do that again," he replied, his voice tinged with a mix of concern and admonishment.

In the distance, I noticed Admiral and Lutch watching us, their faces adorned with teasing expressions. But their banter was muted to my ears, drowned out by the intensity of the moment. Valan released me from his grasp, and an awkward silence settled between us. He attempted to regain his composure, while I fought against the shyness that threatened to consume me.

"I... I missed the water," I explained softly, breaking the silence.

Valan's expression hardened, his voice carrying a tinge of anger, though his aura remained unchanged. "But you could have asked either of them to accompany you," he said, his frustration evident.

"I'm sorry," I replied, my voice laced with genuine remorse. The realization of the worry I had caused him weighed heavily upon me. "I didn't mean to worry you. It's just... I needed to be near the water. It called to me."

Valan's features softened slightly as he looked into my eyes, his anger dissipating. "Just promise me you won't disappear like that again without telling someone," he pleaded, his voice filled with a mix of vulnerability and concern.

I nodded, understanding the gravity of his words. "I promise, Valan. I won't go off on my own without informing you or the others. Hindi na ito mangyayari pa muli."

"Good," he said, his voice filled with relief. "Did you transform?"

Umiling ako. "I didn't, but I actually understand why."

Napakunot ang kanyang noo habang nakatingin sa akin. His eyes showed a curious expression as if he was anticipating the continuation of my sentence. I took a deep sigh and diverted my attention to the sea.