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

TBI 24: Remember

[ Chapter 24: Remember ]

Selene | Selvy

The night enveloped us with its gentle embrace as we walked away from the bustling crowd. The air was refreshingly cool, carrying a hint of salt from the nearby sea. The sound of distant laughter and music faded into the background, gradually replaced by the soothing rhythm of waves crashing against the shore.

As we strolled along the quiet streets, a sense of tranquility washed over me. It was as if we had escaped into our own private sanctuary, away from the prying eyes and judgment of the world. The weight of the formal event and the expectations that came with it lifted from my shoulders, leaving behind a feeling of liberation.

With each step, I could feel the tension melting away, replaced by a growing sense of serenity. The moon illuminated our path, casting a soft, silvery glow that danced upon the cobblestones. It painted a picture of enchantment, where the ordinary world took on a touch of magic.

I savored the quietude, relishing the freedom to simply be in the moment. The absence of noise and distractions allowed me to focus on the gentle rhythm of our footsteps, the soothing murmur of the nearby ocean, and the warmth of Valan's presence beside me.

Valan held my heels in his hand while I walked comfortably in my slippers. The night air was cool, and Valan kindly draped the outer layer of his clothes over my shoulders to keep me warm.

"I believe they have some connection to Selvyna," I mentioned, breaking the silence between us.

Valan nodded, his expression serious. "I've instructed Admiral to conduct a background check on them. If it turns out they do know you, it's likely that they are merpeople."

"That's what I was thinking," I agreed. "The man with the green hair and violet eyes, and the woman with violet hair and green eyes... They almost look like fraternal twins."

Valan's brows furrowed slightly as he processed the information. "If they are indeed merpeople and have a connection to Selvyna, we need to proceed with caution. There may be more to their presence here than meets the eye."

I shivered slightly, whether from the cool night breeze or the anticipation of unraveling the mystery, I couldn't tell. But I was determined to uncover the truth about my past and the identity of Selvyna, even if it meant delving into the depths of the merfolk world.

"Kailan mo nalaman na hindi ako ang totoong nag-ma-may-ari sa katawan na 'to?" tanong ko sa kanya habang nauuna ng ilang hakbang, dahil sa kakamuni ko sa paligid.

Valan's silence hung in the air, filling the space between us with a palpable tension. I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as I walked ahead, trying to gather my thoughts amidst the quietude. His lack of response to my question gnawed at my curiosity, leaving me with a mix of anticipation and apprehension. What was he hiding? And why couldn't he share it with me?

I forced a smile, hoping to ease the tension that lingered between us. "I hope that whatever you're keeping from me, it's something that will benefit us in the end." My voice carried a hint of optimism, masking the uncertainty that brewed within me.

Valan's gaze met mine, and for a fleeting moment, I saw a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. It was as if he knew the weight of his silence and the impact it had on me. But still, he remained tight-lipped, unable or unwilling to reveal the truth.

As I continued to walk, occasionally stealing a glance back at Valan to ensure he was still following, I found solace in the beauty of the night. The moon bathed the surroundings in a soft, ethereal glow, casting shadows that danced with the gentle breeze. The stars twinkled above, providing a comforting presence in the vast expanse of the sky.