Chapter 57 Writer's POV
Onyi's heart was racing a bit from Ryker's words, from the closeness of Ryker's face, and the intensity in his eyes. Onyi felt like he was being pulled into something he wasn't sure he fully understood.
"I... I don't know," Onyi said softly, his voice barely audible. He was caught between the lingering feelings for Amanda and the growing presence of Ryker in his thoughts.
Ryker's gaze didn't waver. He reached out and gently touched Onyi's hand, his touch sending a shiver through Onyi. "You don't have to know right now," Ryker whispered. "But I want you to know how I feel. I want to be close to you, Onyi."
Onyi's flush deepened at Ryker's touch, at the words. He looked down at Ryker's hand on his, feeling the warmth of Ryker's skin. It was like a spark of connection had been lit between them.
Suddenly, the sound of footsteps came from the path leading to the garden. Onyi's hand withdrew quickly from Ryker's and they both looked toward the sound. A palace guard appeared, his eyes scanning the garden before landing on them.
"Ryker," the guard said. "The king wants to see you. About tomorrow's plans for the temple of the black witches."
Ryker stood up, his expression unreadable for a moment. "I'll go," he said. He looked down at Onyi. "We'll talk more later."
With that, Ryker followed the guard out of the garden, leaving Onyi alone once more under the stars. Onyi felt a mix of relief and a lingering sense of tension from Ryker's words and touch.
He missed Amanda a lot,he missed her touch,kisses, touch. He was sure the king made sure Amanda doesn't return soon. But one thing Onyi didn't know is all of them were scapes including the king. If only he knew the plans of tomorrow would change his life forever.