Page 52 of Her Alien Owner
His confidence is infectious, and I find myself nodding. “Thank you,” I whisper.
“For what?” He leans back slightly, still holding my gaze.
“For believing in me,” I say, feeling full of gratitude.
He smiles—a rare, genuine smile that lights up his face in a way that makes my heart flutter. “It’s easy to believe in you, Ariana.”
The dinner proceeds with an ease I hadn’t expected. We talk about lighter things—his latest business ventures and my experiences adjusting to life on the estate. But beneath it all is an undercurrent of something deeper—a connection that feels both exhilarating and terrifying.
As the meal concludes, Valen stands and walks around the table to me. He extends his hand, and without hesitation, I take it.
He pulls me into an embrace, his arms wrapping around me with a protective warmth that melts away my lingering fears. “You’re safe here,” he murmurs into my hair.
“I know,” I whisper back, pressing closer to him.
We stand there for what feels like an eternity, just holding each other. In his arms, the world outside fades away—the threats, the uncertainties—they all seem distant and insignificant.
“Whatever comes next,” he says softly but firmly, “we’ll face it together.”
I nod against his chest, feeling a sense of peace settle over me. With Valen by my side, I truly believe we can face anything.
As we pull apart slightly, our eyes meet again—this time with a shared understanding and unspoken promise.
In this moment, surrounded by the quiet elegance of Valen’s private world and wrapped in his unwavering support, I feelstronger than ever before. Together, we can conquer whatever lies ahead.
The warm glow of the bedside lamp casts soft shadows across the room as I brush my hair. The day's events play through my mind, each memory vivid and clear. Kevin’s face, twisted with anger and desperation, contrasts sharply with Valen’s calm, reassuring presence. I set the brush down and take a breath, feeling a strange sense of peace wash over me.
I slip into my nightgown. The room is quiet, save for the faint hum of the estate’s security systems—an ever-present reminder of Valen’s commitment to keeping me safe. I smile to myself, thinking of his unwavering support. It’s a stark contrast to my past.
Kevin was always about control—his way or no way. Every argument ended with his voice raised, his temper flaring. The fear that gripped me then is a distant memory now, replaced by the warmth and safety I feel with Valen.
I slide under the covers, the sheets soft and inviting. The mattress cradles me in a way that feels both luxurious and comforting. As I settle in, I think back to those nights with Kevin—the arguments that left me feeling small and insignificant. There was no mutual respect, no communication—just his need to dominate every aspect of my life.
With Valen, it’s different. He listens; he respects my opinions. When we talk, there’s a balance—a give and take that makes me feel valued. Our conversations are filled with subtle flirting and genuine interest in each other’s lives. He doesn’t just hear me; he understands me.
Closing my eyes, I let out a contented sigh. For once in my life, I feel like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be—safe in the knowledge that I made the right choice.
And as sleep begins to claim me, I smile softly to myself. Here in this moment of quiet reflection and newfound peace, I knowwithout a doubt that choosing Valen was the best decision I've ever made.
CHAPTER 22
VALEN
Ifind Ariana in the garden, meticulously arranging a bed of vibrant flowers. Her focus is intense, her fingers moving deftly among the petals. I pause, watching her for a moment before stepping closer.
"Ariana," I call out, my voice low but firm. She looks up, surprise flickering in her wide brown eyes. "I need your opinion on something."
Her brow furrows. "My opinion? About what?"
"Tonight’s gala," I say, folding my arms across my chest. "A lot of important people in the mining industry will be there. I want to inspire them to think of Armstrong’s future, not just their bottom line."
She blinks, clearly taken aback. "You want my thoughts on that? I’m just a maid."
I step closer, my gaze steady on hers. "You’re more than that. You were born here. You have a stake in Armstrong’s future."
Ariana looks down at the flowers, her hands stilling. “Well... Armstrong used to be beautiful before the war,” she murmurs.
"Go on," I encourage, intrigued by the direction she’s taking.