Fate be Damned

Chapter 1 Born into a world where betrothals were set upon the importance of family rituals and the continuation of the best bloodlines, there meant no exceptions to Ameira. From a young age, she accepted her fate with little resistance, but deep inside, she couldn’t help but feel empty and meaningless. When she was ten, she asked her father why she had to marry someone she didn't know or love. He simply replied, “It is your duty”. When Ameira was sixteen, she tried to sneak out to explore the world that she had been sheltered away from, but she was caught by one of the house maids and brought before her father. The look of disappointment in his eyes as she stared, but was there a hint of something else she had never seen before? The day finally came for the meeting of the betrothed, Ameira's heart was beating more than it had ever before. She kept thinking to herself “What if he is going to be old, ugly and mean, what if he didn't approve of me”? She pushed these thoughts aside and set tightly upright while some of the maids of the house continued pinning her hair into a high swirl of braids, and others blushed her face with colors of white and gold. Looking into the mirror, she didn’t recognize who sat before her. She glanced over her shoulder to see her mother; she stood as if she was a statue glaring at the sight of Ameira. The maids stepped back suddenly and bowed. “Leave us” her mother demanded, and the maids departed the room. Ameira’s mother was a slender built with flowing brown hair and silky skin, but her eyes were the most beautiful color of brown with a hint of ember flakes. She gracefully walked towards her, Ameira could feel her blood rush throughout her body as she continued to sit still not to make a sound or sudden movement. She placed a hand on her shoulder and breathed heavily as she just stood there looking at Ameira in the mirror at the stranger that sat before them. Her eyes were piercing yet gentle as she finally spoke, “You have grown into a beautiful woman, and I know you will do the right thing for this family.” And in an instant, she turned and walked out the door. As Ameira sat there staring out her bedroom window, she wondered about what her new life was going to be like, would she be able to make a new home, and would her husband accept her? These questions were always the ones that had run through her mind. She knew what her future would hold, and the thought of it scared her. The sound of the door opening made her turn around to see her brother Thomas. He was taller and broader, and his golden hair was slicked back into a tight bun. His brown eyes looked so sad. "Sister, you look beautiful, and I wanted to come here and tell you that everything will be okay," he said with a slight grin. She could feel tears welling up in her eyes and her throat becoming dry. He pulled her into a hug and whispered into her ear, "I am so sorry," and with a quick kiss on the forehead, he left the room. As the day continued to pass, she watched as the people below her window went about their daily lives, laughing, talking, and smiling. The door opened once more, and two guards entered the room. "We are to escort you downstairs now," said the guard to the left, Ameira took a deep breath and gathered her thoughts as she followed the guard's downstairs. She could feel the warmth of the sun coming through the windows and smelling the flowers outside. She smiled at the thought of being free. As they approached the entrance, Ameira's father was standing with his hands clasped behind his back and a stern look on his face. The guards stopped, and Ameira walked up to her father. He looked down and gave a slight nod. “Are you ready?” the father asked, as if she had a choice. She simply gave a nod and took her father by the arm. As the doors opened, Ameira was greeted by a group of people in the entrance hall and all were waiting to see the bride, as they began to walk down the long hallway towards the entrance, her heart was racing and her palms began to sweat. She could feel her father's grip tighten. Was he nervous? The large entrance doors were open, and the guards began to line both sides of the aisle. Ameia held her head high even with the veil she could feel the eyes glaring at her. Tension and fear rose within her, and she felt herself squeezing her father's arm a little harder than before. They were almost to the end of the aisle when her father stopped and whispered, "May you live a blessed life and make me proud." With that, he placed her hand in the outstretched hand of her husband. Ameira couldn’t help but feel helpless as the world she had known came crashing down around her. With a touch of his hand, time had stopped. Was this what it was like? Ameira didn't move. She just stood there, not looking at him. She was too afraid to. Yet she could feel his warmth, and she felt calm as if his presence was enough. He moved closer, his breath tickled her ear as he whispered, "I won't hurt you, my sweet flower." The ceremony continued without any interruptions, and soon, the two were announced as man and wife as he lifted the shroud, her eyes still looking to the floor. Slowly, she raised her eyes, stunned by his fair skinned, chiseled jawline, his pink lips that curled into a slight smile barely showing his pearly white teeth, his eyes golden brown with kindness behind them. His hand reached for her cheek while Ameira felt covered with the flames of the underworld as he leaned in for their first kiss. The crowd applauded, and the two walked back down the aisle. Everyone's eyes were on her. As they reached the entrance, the man who was her husband now spoke, "I'm sorry I don't think we have been properly introduced, I am Nicholas" he said as he bowed and took her hand and gently kissed it. After the ceremony, the two were led to the courtyard and sat down at the table of honor. Ameira sat next to her husband and across from her sat her brother. Throughout the meal, she could hear the laughter and conversations that filled the air, but the silence between the three was deafening. Nicholas cleared his throat, and Ameira jumped at the sudden sound. He looked over and smiled. "You are a very beautiful woman, you know that?" Nicolas asked. Ameira could feel her cheeks grow hot. “Thank you” she said in a shy tone. Her eyes still lowered; her hands held together nervously. Nicholas reached for her hand, gently giving it a squeeze, and smiled as if to let Ameira know everything was going to be fine. Ameira smiled sheepishly, breathing in deep to relax her senses. After the reception was over, they were sent off in a carriage to their new home. It was a short ride to their destination, but Ameira could tell Nicholas was a little tense. As the carriage came to a stop, the door opened, and the Nicholas extended his hand, and Ameira gladly accepted. "Welcome home, my lady," Nicolas said. They walked hand in hand towards the front entrance of the home. It was a large house surrounded by fragrances she hadn't smelled since she was a child. Ameira looked around in amazement as she was shown around the house and grounds. This was nothing compared to the life she had. "I hope you will like it here; this will be our new home." Ameira looked over at Nicholas with a shocked expression, but she quickly tried to hide it. "Are you okay?" He asked concerned. Ameira quickly realized it was their wedding night; how could she have forgotten so quickly. "Yes, I'm fine," She lied. Nicholas took her hand and led her to their bedroom, and the nervousness within her body came rushing back. "Would you like me to call for the maids to help you change for bed?" He asked with a soft tone. Ameira's stomach turned. "No, I think I can manage, thank you." He smiled and turned to walk away, Ameira wanted to tell him that she was terrified and had never been with anyone. Yet she didn't. She wanted to try and keep some of her dignity intact. She changed her clothes and climbed into the large bed, the warmth of the blankets and the smell of the pillows soothed her and soon sleep took over. The door opened, and Ameira's eyes shot open, Nicholas walked towards the bed and climbed in next to her. She lay perfectly still as the bed shifted. "I would never hurt you, Ameira." He said in a whisper and leaned in for a kiss, their lips met, and her heart began to race, the warmth of his lips against hers made her body ache, she shuddered under the pressure of that kiss, her body tensed and he pulled his lips away from hers. “Are you alright?” he asked in concern. "Yes, I am." Ameira said quickly, hoping he didn't notice the shaking in her voice. He looked at her, his eyes full of desire and need. He slowly moved closer, her body trembled. He kissed her again, and this time, it was softer. The feeling of his lips against hers made her dizzy. His hands started to travel across her body, and suddenly Ameira quietly murmured, "I'm not ready." his hand stopped, and he pulled away confused. "Not ready for what?" Nicholas asked, still confused. "You are my first" was all Ameira could muster, his face turned red, and he sat up, Ameira couldn't tell what he was thinking. He looked away and let out a sigh. "I'm sorry, I shouldn't have assumed I could leave the room if you would like," he said shyly, Ameira could hear the embarrassment and sincerity in his voice. "I am sorry you are disappointed in me," Ameira said sadly. He looked back at her, and his eyes were soft. "Ameira, I will never hurt you, and if you want to wait, then we will wait." He said, Ameira could tell his words were genuine, and it made her happy. She sat up and took his hands into hers. The two stayed up talking, and Ameira opened up to him about the fear of him being disappointed, her dreams, and even her childhood. Nicholas listened intently, and never once did he laugh or make her feel foolish. After a few hours, Ameira finally laid her head on his chest, and sleep took over once again. He couldn't help but stare at her face as she slept, the way her hair flowed over her cheek he wanted to touch her skin but was in fear of waking her. As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, the two were getting to know each other better. Nicholas had been nothing but kind and respectful. He listened to her fears, worries, and dreams, and he would encourage her, comfort her, and give her strength. Nicholas and Ameira's relationship had become more than a marriage. It had become a friendship. One night, Nicholas and Ameira sat together, looking out the window at the stars. "Nicholas, can I ask you something?" Ameira said, "Anything." he replied."Will you ever love me?" Nicholas' face became flushed. "I think I already do," he said softly. And with that, she reached in touching his face, moving closer and kissing him. It was like her body had a mind of its own, and all she could think about was him. The heat of his body against hers was intoxicating, the kiss became deeper, and his hands traveled the length of her body, his tongue danced along her bottom lip, and Ameira could feel her heart racing and her breathing becoming shallower, a moan escaped her lips as he caressed her face. His hands slowly pull her in closer. As their bodies touched, she felt an urge of desire, a want so deep for him. Nicholas pulled away and looked at her. "Ameira, are you sure?"I want you," she moaned. As Nicholas began to undo the buttons on her nightgown, his kisses fell upon her neck and the curve of her breast. Ameira's body ached for him. His lips moved lower, and his hands slowly slid down her hips, his breath was hot against her skin and her body shuddered as the heat from his mouth engulfed her, and she let out a soft moan. His touch sent waves of pleasure through her body. Nicholas pulled back and stared into her eyes. "My sweet flower, your body is perfect." He said softly. She smiled shyly, her cheeks reddened, and her pulse quickened, her eyes closed, and her body trembled under his touch. "Open your eyes, I want to see your beautiful face as I please you," he commanded. Slowly, her eyes opened, and she gazed at him. "That's better." Nicholas' hands began to travel lower, and his tongue circled her n****e, causing her to moan and her back to arch. "Does this please you?" he asked. "Oh yes," was all Ameira could get out. His hand traveled even further down, and he slowly inserted one finger, and she cried out in pleasure. He slowly removed his finger and brought it to his lips, and he sucked on it. "You taste divine, my sweet flower." His hands found their way between her thighs, and he gently stroked her wetness. "I can't wait to taste you." Ameira's body arched, and her hands grabbed the sheets beneath her, and she cried out in ecstasy. "You are mine, and only mine, remember that, no matter what. I will always love you, " Nicholas said, his voice low and husky. Nicholas' head dipped lower, and his tongue lapped at her wetness. "So good," he mumbled. Her moans and whimpers filled the room as he continued his assault, his tongue finding her most sensitive spot, and she screamed out his name. "Oh, God, Nicholas!" Her body adjusted to his size, and he began to move, his pace slow and deliberate. His hands found hers, and he pinned them above her head, his grip firm, but not painful. Her eyes closed, and she moaned, the pleasure washing over her. "You're mine," he growled. His pace quickened, and she could feel the heat rising inside her, his movements becoming faster and harder, and her body convulsed, and she cried out his name. "Nicolas!" He continued his assault, and she could feel her release building, her body trembling, and her back arched. "Please," she begged. He released her hands, and his grip tightened, his hips slamming against hers. "Come for me," he commanded. "Oh, Nicholas!" Her orgasm washed over her, her body shaking, and her nails dug into his shoulders. He growled and thrust his hips forward, his release spilling into her, her body quivering. "Ameira, you are mine." "I'm yours," she panted. The two lay together, their bodies spent, and their breathing heavy. "You are the most beautiful thing I have ever seen," Nicholas said. "You are so handsome," Ameira said softly. Their bodies entwined, and their love for each other evident, the two drifted off to sleep, their hearts full and their bodies sated. Ameira slowly awoke, her body sore from the night before. She sat up, her eyes adjusting to the sunlight streaming through the windows. She looked over and saw Nicholas still asleep, his body naked and glistening with sweat. She leaned down and kissed his cheek. "Good morning," she whispered. He stirred and opened his eyes, his face lighting up when he saw her. He smiled at Ameira, and she lowered her head to cover her face. A shy smile appeared as she blushed. Nicholas pulled her closer and kissed her. "Last night was amazing," he said. "It was," she replied. "I am happy that you are mine, my sweet flower." She smiled and nuzzled his neck, inhaling his scent of sandalwood and vanilla. "I am happy too." They stayed in bed for a while longer, enjoying the afterglow of their lovemaking. Eventually, they got up and began their day. They ate breakfast together and talked about their plans for the day. As the sun began to set, the couple sat in the garden. They were enjoying the cool evening air and the sounds of nature around them. Nicholas took her hand and kissed it. "This is the happiest I have ever been," he said. Ameira couldn’t help but agree. “All my life, I was sheltered from the world, groomed to be obedient, seen, and never heard,” she said. I was terrified to become someone's wife without knowing who they were. Nicholas held her close, his embrace comforting. "You don't have to worry about that anymore. You are safe here," he said. "You truly love me," Ameira stated. "I do," Nicholas replied. "Will we have children?" she asked. Nicholas' eyes lit up. "We will have a big family, a family full of laughter and love," he said. Ameira could feel the tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you for loving me," she whispered. "You are the only person I will ever love," Nicholas said. Ameira rested her head on his shoulder, content and happy. The two sat in silence, the only sounds being the chirping of the birds and the gentle breeze blowing through the trees. Ameira looked into his eyes, knowing that his words rang true. he leaned in, caressing her face, and kissed her auburn lips. "I will always love you, my sweet flower," Nicholas whispered. As the two sat holding each other, a feeling of peace came over Ameira. She knew that her life was going to be full of happiness and joy, a feeling that she never thought possible. She smiled, knowing that the future held many blessings for her and her beloved Nicholas. Little did she know her happiness was going to be interrupted with grave news of war. With the coming of the new dawn, the smell of the earth was crisp and fresh, Ameira stood at her bedroom window looking out, her mind racing with thoughts of her family. "My sweet flower," said a voice from behind her. She turned around and saw Nicholas. His smile was warm and welcoming. "What troubles you, my love?" he said. "It is my family, I am worried about them," she said. Nicholas held her close, his embrace comforting. "We will figure it out together," he said. Ameira smiled and hugged him, the two staying like that for a while, lost in each other's arms. "You know I would do anything for you," Nicholas said. She looked up at him, his brown eyes full of love and devotion. "I love you," she whispered. "And I will always love you," he replied. The two sat down on the bed, Nicholas wrapping his arms around her protectively. "Whatever happens, we will get through this together, I promise you," he said. As the morning sun shone in through the curtains, a ray of light fell upon their faces, he could tell that the news was bothering her, and nothing he could say would hinder her feeling, regardless of the show she was putting on to hide it. Ameira closed her eyes, allowing a single tear to escape down her cheek. The weight of impending loss pressed heavily on her chest. “Promise me you’ll stay safe,” she pleaded, her voice barely above a whisper. Nicholas nodded; determination etched into his features. “I promise, my flower. I will fight to come back to you.” He took a deep breath and added with unwavering conviction, “And I will carry your love with me in every battle I face.” Their hands remained intertwined, a tether connecting their souls even amidst the storm that loomed ahead. Responding to her anxiety, he spoke softly. “Think of every moment we’ve shared and all we have yet to experience together. That vision will guide me.” He could see the worry etched across her delicate face, but he also saw the flicker of strength within her eyes, a reflection of the love they nurtured. Ameira clenched his hands tighter, seeking reassurance in his touch. “Let’s make these next few days meaningful,” she suggested, a hint of resolve surfacing despite her fear. “Let us create memories that will sustain us through the uncertainty that awaits.” Nicholas smiled at her courage. “You’re right. We will fill our days with laughter and love. Each moment we steal together will be a light against the darkness.” With renewed purpose, they made plans that evening, dining under the stars, relishing each other's company, and cherishing even the smallest joys around them. As they embarked on their daily routines filled with tenderness, laughter bubbled between them like an effervescent stream of hope; they danced under the moonlight, whispered secrets in their garden, and clung to each other as if the world around them might shatter at any moment. Each embrace became an anchor against the tide of rising troubles threatening to pull them apart, but, as the day of his departure drew closer, so too did the weight of reality. In quiet moments, Ameira would find herself stealing glances toward the horizon, anxiety creeping in like shadows at dusk. She could almost feel the distance already unfurling before her with each setting sun. It was an unspoken acknowledgment of what lay ahead, a battlefield spanning far beyond mere landscape; a battlefield for hearts yearning for connection amid chaos. On the final night before he was to leave for battle, they curled up on their bed enveloped by soft candlelight, their last semblance of peace before a new dawn. Nicholas brushed strands of hair from her face and gazed deep into her eyes. “Whatever happens out there,” he murmured earnestly, “know that you are my heart’s compass.” A wave of emotion surged through Ameira as she absorbed his words their intensity, igniting a fire within her soul. As they drifted into sleep while savoring these fleeting moments together, Ameira made a silent vow: she would not let fear overshadow their love. She would remain strong for herself and for Nicholas until they could clasp hands again under brighter skies. As dawn broke, the sun spilled golden light across the land, illuminating the path that lay ahead. Ameira watched Nicholas prepare for his departure with a mix of pride and sorrow. Each cut of his sword against its scabbard resonated like a heartbeat, throbbing in rhythm with her own. She knew that every moment they had crafted in laughter and joy would soon become treasured memories fueling his resolve on the battlefield. Approaching him, she placed her hand over his heart, feeling its steady pulse beneath her palm. “Promise me you’ll remember this,” she urged, her voice firm yet tender. “This love is more powerful than any sword or shield.” Nicholas met her gaze, his expression unwavering, and nodded. “Your love is my greatest strength. In every clash that echoes around me, I will hear your voice guiding me home.” With those words hanging in the air like a sacred vow, they assembled small tokens: a silk scarf he gifted her, adorned with colors that mirrored the sky at twilight; a silver locket she clasped around his neck, holding a portrait of them both, a reminder of what awaited his return. As the time drew nearer, they gathered close, speaking softly about dreams of a future unmarred by shadows of war. Underneath the rising sun, hope burgeoned in their hearts, intertwining with their fears like the roots of an ancient tree. But even amidst blossoming optimism, reality loomed, an indelible reminder of the inevitable parting they faced. As townsfolk gathered to bid their own farewells to sons and fathers preparing for battle, Ameira felt a pain in her chest; the world outside was shifting ominously. Embracing Nicholas tightly once more, she whispered against his shoulder, “When the battles rage and darkness descends, just remember that my love is like a beacon guiding you home” He brushed his lips against her forehead gently before stepping back to survey the scene, the gathered community of allies brimming with quiet determination even as anxiety hung heavily in the air.