Chapter 42

Eleanor’s POV 

As I ran through the dark forest, my heartbeat pounded in my ears, fueling my determination to escape. The bitter memories of my parents' murder flooded my mind as if mocking my decision to flee the palace that had once been my sanctuary. King Derek, my supposed love, had turned out to be who I hadn’t expected.

Every step I took further into the unknown was a step away from the life I had once known. The moonlight trickled through the thick canopy of trees, casting eerie shadows on my path. I could feel King Derek's relentless and I know he will try all means to find me, but I can’t let that happen. 

The whispered echoes of my parents' voices urged me to keep going, their memory giving me strength. They had always taught me to be brave, to stand up for myself, to know when to stay and when to run away. 

Tripping over a twig, tears welled in my eyes, my hand instinctively resting on my stomach. The weight of carrying the child of the man