The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke
Episode 15: Secrets and Shadows
The crackling of the fire seemed louder in the stillness of the room, the soft hiss of the flames almost mocking Evelina’s growing unease. Cassian Rutherfield’s words hung heavily in the air, his smirk never fading as he took a leisurely sip from the goblet.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*He’s playing a game. But why? And why now, of all times?
She narrowed her eyes, trying to read him—trying to see what was hidden beneath that arrogant exterior. His mention of Valerius was no coincidence. This wasn’t just about some casual meeting. The Duke was at the center of whatever plan Cassian had in mind.
She took a slow step forward, keeping her tone controlled, though her heart pounded beneath her chest.
Evelina Everhart
(coldly) If you think I’m so easily manipulated, you’ve gravely underestimated me, Lord Rutherfield.
Cassian’s emerald eyes gleamed as he leaned back in the chair, clearly amused. The firelight flickered in his gaze, giving him a more dangerous look.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(with a sly grin) Oh, Lady Evelina, I’m well aware that you’re not easily manipulated. But I’m not offering manipulation. I’m offering an alliance.
The word "alliance" settled between them like a spark in the dark, just waiting to ignite. Evelina’s posture stiffened, but she didn’t let the hint of curiosity show.
Evelina Everhart
(steadily) An alliance. With you? And what exactly do you want in return?
Cassian’s smile widened, though there was something unreadable about the way he watched her—like he knew something she didn’t.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(leaning forward) The game’s changed, Lady Evelina. Valerius Draven isn’t the only one who knows about your... talents.
Evelina’s breath hitched, but she quickly regained her composure, crossing her arms defensively. He was too close to the truth, but she couldn’t let him know that.
Evelina Everhart
(carefully) And what of it?
Cassian set the goblet down with a soft clink, his expression serious now, his usual playful demeanor stripped away.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(lowly) It means you’re in danger. You’ve been marked, Evelina. And if you think Valerius Draven is the only one who can help you… you’re gravely mistaken.
Her pulse quickened, but she kept her face impassive, her mind racing. Marked? What did he mean by that? Had someone discovered her powers? Or worse—did Valerius know about them?
Evelina Everhart
(quietly) What are you talking about?
Cassian’s eyes flickered with something like sympathy before he looked away. He seemed to gather his thoughts, weighing something unseen in the air between them.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(slowly) There are forces at play here that you don’t understand. Valerius… he’s not the only one with power. There are those who have been watching you, waiting for the right moment to strike. And if you’re not careful, they’ll take everything you’ve worked for.
Evelina’s stomach churned with a mixture of anger and fear. She hated feeling vulnerable—hated the idea that someone could have been watching her all this time without her knowing. But what bothered her most was the fact that Cassian seemed to know more about the situation than she did.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(softly) You need protection, Evelina. And I can offer that. But it will come at a price.
Evelina Everhart
(eyes narrowing) A price I’m not willing to pay.
Cassian’s lips curved into a knowing smile as he rose from his seat, his movements smooth and deliberate.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(gently) You don’t have a choice, my lady. Sometimes, the price for survival is more than you’re willing to give.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*Survival… But at what cost?
She stood tall, though doubt crept into her thoughts. Cassian was no fool—he knew the stakes, and she suspected he had his own reasons for involving her in whatever game he was playing. But what choice did she have? To ignore him now might mean playing right into the hands of those who sought to control her.
Her gaze hardened as she spoke, her voice like ice.
Evelina Everhart
(firmly) Tell me what you want, Cassian. And make it quick.
Cassian took a step toward her, his expression unreadable. He was serious now, no longer the playful nobleman she had first encountered.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(softly) I want you to trust me. And in return, I’ll help you gain control of the power you’ve barely begun to understand. But I need you to work with me, not against me. Valerius Draven is a dangerous man, Evelina. He’s not your only enemy in this world.
The weight of his words settled into her bones. Valerius had always seemed like the only threat—the only constant in her life of uncertainty. But now, Cassian was telling her that there were darker forces at work. And if she was to survive, she would need to choose her alliances carefully.
But trusting Cassian, after everything that had happened, was a decision that came with its own dangers.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*An alliance with him could bring me closer to answers… but at what cost?
Cassian was already heading for the door, as though he knew she would make her decision. His voice echoed back to her one last time.
Lord Cassian Ruthefeild
(softly) The offer stands, Lady Evelina. Think carefully. Time is running out.
The door closed softly behind him, leaving Evelina standing alone in the dim glow of the fireplace, her mind a whirlwind of possibilities and dangers.
Depressed author
don't forget to like(◕‿◕)
Depressed author
well enjoy...
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