The Barter Novel Sierra and Xavier

---- Chapter 497 Princess, get up.

What are you Zariyans fingers brushed the edge of his knee, tracing the bandages with reverence.noveldrama

Then, before anyone could stop her, she leaned down and pressed a soft kiss against the injury.

Damiens breath hitched Even Adrian's usually stoic expression faltered, his brows furrowing in shock.

It all happened because of me.

Zariyan murmured, her voice breaking.

She clawed at the dirt beneath her, her fingers trembling.

I could see it happening, but I couldn't do anything.

I'm so sorry, Dam.

If only Thad done something! Her fists clenched the soil, mud caking her nails as she pounded her fists against the ground Those bastards! I'll make them pay for everything! I swear! ---- Chapter 497 She struck the ground again, her knuckles reddening with each impact.

Stop.

Damien said softly, his voice steady.

He grabbed her fists, holding them tightly.

Slowly, he raised them to his lips and kissed her knuckles Shh, Princess.

It wasn't your fault.

I'm fine.

I swear.

Her teary eyes met his, doubt flickering within them.

Tt doesnt hurt anymore, he added, his tone firm yet gentle.

Are you sure? You shouldn't put too much pressure on Damien silenced her with a finger pressed to her lips Enough about me.

I want to know everything that happened to you.

Did they hurt you? What did that bastard Vince do you...

are you really pregnant with his child? Did he force you? Are you hurt anywhere.

Calm down Dam.

No Princess.

I fucked up...

I should have taken you along.

Just tell me.

[ want to know every time you ---- needed me and I wasn't there...

Her trembling hand reached for his, guiding it to her chest.

She placed his palm over her heart, her voice a whisper.

You were right here.

Her eyes softened, guilt and love warring within them.

They're right.

People dont value what they have until its gone...

I never realised it...

Dad...

Damien I am really sorry- Adrian softly smiles at his daughter and places a hand on her head.

It's alright Mumchkin.

All that matters is that you are fine.

Let's continue this conversation inside.

We have a lot to catch up to.

What about some hot chocolate along with ? Both Damien and Zariyan nodded, smiles light up their faces an Damien's fingers stay interlocked with hers.

They allows the king to steer them toward the nearest tent ---- Wait, Damien said suddenly, his gaze darting around.

Zariyan, I want you to meet someone.

Alex But when he turned, Alexia was gone.

He hadn't even noticed when she'd slipped away.

Never mind, he muttered, shaking his head.

You can meet later.

The three walked toward the tent, but Zariyan cast one last glance over her shoulder.

Her sharp brown eyes caught a shadow lingering behind the trees.

Alexia.

She stood there, hidden, watching them retreat.

Her hazel eyes were filled with tears and her palms clench her chests.

The heaviness...

it was something she never felt.

It was like her heart was sinking and there was no one to offer a hand She knew she could never be her.

He loved her while he barely cared for her.