Goodbye, Saintess. Novel

The Unseen Kingdom That Followed Me Into Every Dream by Alyndra Meron Valeen 78 Summary In this chapter, the narrator is caught off guard by Claire's unexpected question about marriage, sensing something unusual yet captivating in her demeanor. As he contemplates her words, he recalls two significant women from his past: Hera, whose marriage to him was filled with dark nightmares, and Rhea, with whom he shares a complex and mysterious connection. These memories help him regain composure as he tries to explain his nuanced view of marriage.

He tells Claire that marriage isn't simply the death of love but can become a grave if two people don't truly understand or love each other deeply. He reflects on his own experience with Hera, acknowledging that the initial passion often fades, and without a strong foundation, the relationship collapses. However, if two people are soulmates, marriage can be a new beginning rather than an end. The narrator emphasizes the importance of living together before marriage to truly understand compatibility, a lesson hard learned from his failed marriage.

Claire, however, misinterprets his advice as a personal hint, revealing that they are already living together. Her reaction is shy and hopeful, suggesting she sees their cohabitation as a promising trial run for their relationship. Claire expresses a sense of excitement and belief that they are well matched, feeling a hopeful certainty about their future together. The chapter ends with her feeling a renewed intoxication-not from alcohol, but from the possibility of a genuine connection with Sebastian, who she hopes is more than just a partner but her soulmate.

Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below Chapter 78 I stood frozen, my eyes locked on Claire, utterly stunned by her question. Something about it felt strangely off, as if she were slipping into some kind of method acting. Yet beneath that oddity, her gaze was undeniably magnetic-charged with a subtle, almost hypnotic allure. I doubted any man could meet those eyes without feeling a flicker of something deep inside. Two women immediately sprang to mind. First, Hera-the woman who had shown me the darkest nightmares marriage could bring.

Then there was Rhea, someone with whom I shared a tangled, elusive bond that defied simple explanation. Thinking of them helped me steady myself. I shook my head gently. "That's not really my thing," I said, trying to sound casual. Claire's eyes suddenly sparkled with excitement. "You think marriage is the tomb of love, too?!" she exclaimed. It was clear she had finally found someone who understood her. She had long resisted her mother's persistent pressure to marry because she believed marriage could suffocate love.

Sebastian was the first man who had made her question that belief, making the idea feel less repulsive. My mind flashed back to the five years I spent married to Hera. A complicated mix of sadness and relief swirled inside me, though I couldn't quite pinpoint which emotion dominated. I replied, "It's more complicated than that, really. If two people never truly fall in love, or if they don't take the time to understand each other's flaws, then yes-marriage can become the grave of whatever love they thought they had. "But maybe it's not love that dies.

Maybe it's the passion-the honeymoon phase where everything feels fresh and intoxicating. When that fades, and there's no solid foundation beneath, the whole relationship falls apart." I exhaled softly, memories of Hera flooding back. I had believed I loved her deeply, that accepting every part of her would be enough. I thought she felt the same way. But everyone knew how that story ended. "On the other hand," I continued, "if two people truly know they're meant for each other, if they're soulmates, then marriage doesn't have to be a tomb.

It can be a new beginning-a fresh chapter." I paused, then added, "That said, finding your soulmate is incredibly difficult. Almost impossible, really." "Why do you say that?" Claire asked, her expression suddenly more serious, as if my words had sobered her. "Well," I explained, "if a couple lives together before marriage, they get to see each other's habits up close. They learn what makes the other person tick. That's the only real way to know if you're compatible when sharing the same space.

"But if you wait until after marriage to live together, you're setting yourself up for trouble." I pressed my lips together, the weight of hard-earned wisdom settling over me. If Hera and I had tried living together before saying 'I do,' we never would have lasted five years. Unfortunately, Claire misunderstood my meaning. "Sebastian!" she gasped, cheeks flushing a rosy pink. Her eyes darted away shyly, a small, teasing smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Was that... a hint?" "A hint? Of what?" I asked, intrigued.

"We're living together, aren't we?" she said softly, smiling bashfully before turning her gaze away. Who would have thought Sebastian could be so insightful about marriage? It felt like fate had finally brought her the perfect man. He had to be more than just a partner-Sebastian had to be her soulmate. Her face warmed with a sudden flush. She felt intoxicated again, but this time, the feeling had nothing to do with alcohol. "This is my first time living away from my family, and already it's with you. It feels like a trial run for us, doesn't it?

I really believe we're a great match," she whispered, her voice full of hopeful certainty. Conclusion The conversation between Sebastian and Claire delicately unraveled the complexities of love and marriage, revealing the fragile balance between passion and understanding. Sebastian's reflections on his past with Hera, coupled with his cautious hope for Claire's future, painted a poignant picture of how love can falter without a solid foundation, yet also blossom anew when two souls truly align.

Their shared vulnerability in this moment underscored the emotional weight of commitment, and the courage it takes to believe in something lasting despite past wounds. In the quiet aftermath, Claire's shy admission about living together hinted at the tentative beginnings of a deeper connection, one built on mutual discovery and the promise of something genuine. The chapter closed on a note of gentle optimism, as both characters navigated the uncertain terrain of love with honesty and hope.

As Claire's belief in their potential soulmate connection grows stronger, Sebastian's past experiences and guarded wisdom may cast a shadow over their budding relationship, hinting at challenges they must confront. Emotions are set to intensify as the characters grapple with their fears and desires, revealing vulnerabilities that could either strengthen their bond or drive a wedge between them.

The lingering memories of Sebastian's marriage to Hera and the enigmatic presence of Rhea suggest that unresolved feelings and hidden truths might surface, complicating what seemed like a promising new beginning. Readers can anticipate a rich exploration of love's fragile nature and the courage it takes to risk everything for a chance at happiness. Sara Lili Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland's breathtaking cold.