The Devil's Betrothed novel Chapter 464

Chapter 464: Ready To Sacrifice

Arlan’s Perspective

That unfortunate day in the village of Wimark, the day when Arlan discovered Oriana was Philip’s granddaughter, a shockwave coursed through him, leaving his senses momentarily paralyzed. As he observed her hurried and fearful approach to her injured grandfather, it felt as if his entire world had crumbled in an instant.

How could this be? How much more his destiny could be in ruins?

This young woman had been his solace, a source of relief from the silent pains he bore. However, now she seemed destined to become the catalyst for a new ordeal. Yet, that wasn’t his primary concern. In that critical moment, all he could focus on was Oriana’s impending danger.

Helplessly witnessing her tend to her grandfather’s injuries, his mind raced with thoughts on how to shield Oriana from the imminent threat that could jeopardize her life. The looming danger took shape in the form of a witch eagerly anticipating her arrival at the palace.

’I cannot allow her entry into the palace. My father, relentless in his pursuits, will stop at nothing. I must prevent Oriana from returning. Once that witch identifies my betrothed, the blood of Verner within the palace, she will stop at nothing to claim Oriana. I cannot let her inflict harm upon Oriana, my mate; I cannot let her perish.’

He studied her intently, aware that he needed to adopt a stern demeanor and distance her, or else Oriana would never willingly leave. Clarifying the situation was not an option; the less she knew, the safer she would be. Besides, he harbored too much suffering to share, and he firmly believed that no one could alleviate his burden. Oriana’s persistent nature only added to the complexity; knowledge of the danger would likely drive her to recklessness.

Employing a facade of hatred and threats of harm became the only viable strategy to compel her departure. The incident with her grandfather, a regrettable moment now irreversible, provided him with leverage. This became his tool to distance her, ensuring she left even before his father could reclaim her for the palace.

He never planned to kill her. The mere thought of hurting her was unbearable. Instead, he considered sacrificing himself in her stead. All he wanted was to send her away safely somewhere far and she would never return to the palace, even it means to never being able to see her ever again.

With the help of his men, he created opportunities for her to run away. He hoped she would independently choose to depart before reaching the palace, understanding that only her own will could drive her actions. Forceful coercion would never sway her, he knew.