Enticed: An Immortal Chronicles Story Read online

  Without warning, his lips swooped down and met her own. His strong arms tightened their grip around her until she was wholly pressed against him. The pressure on her mouth continued, growing in strength with each passing moment.

  Eshe did not know how to respond. Her stomach fluttered, her skin tingled from the thrilling contact with the handsome man, but her arms still shook from fear of the being in front of her. In fact, her entire body was shaking.

  How did this happen?

  Lome broke contact for one second, leaning back to gaze at her. His face shined with admiration and wonder. It nearly blinded her. “You are my One, Eshe. The human mortal destined to be by my side for all time. I cannot believe I actually found you.”

  Before she could respond, the kissing continued. Just as before, Eshe’s mind felt muddled.

  His one?

  Lome’s right hand cupped the back of her neck and tilted her head to the side, deepening the kiss. Despite everything, Eshe’s heart and body responded to him. Thin, tan arms left her side and slid around his neck as she stood on tip-toes. She heard the pounding of her own chest in her ears.

  She had ignored it, even went so far as to deny it to Nebet, but she was attracted to Lome. He was handsome, kind, and apparently held high regard for her.

  Lome groaned and gave her one last press against her lips before tearing away. He looked to the side, pressing his cheek against her forehead. “I have wanted to do that from the first moment I saw you.”

  Eshe’s lips tingled and the reality of what just happened washed over her like a wave. How could she kiss him like that after he revealed himself as a god? Did she have a death wish? Deities were not to be played with. What would he demand from her following her wanton display? Shame hit her in the gut.

  Lome frowned. “Don’t do that.”

  She stiffened. “Do what?”

  “There is nothing to be ashamed of, Eshe. You are my soulmate, my One. Your reaction to me is destined and it is good.”

  Eshe remembered the pull she felt to him the moment she laid eyes on him in the market. She recalled the connection she attributed to nothing more than admiration of his looks and kindness. Could it have been the result of a connection between their souls? Could his words be true?

  Eshe shook her head. Impossible. She needed to take care with her following words. “I-it can’t be true. I’m not special. There is nothing extraordinary about me. I don’t deserve an eternity with a god. With you.” Flattery was always the best way to cushion a blow.

  “You are not understanding,” he said, rubbing a soothing hand up and down her shaking arm. “Our souls are weaved together. Mine led me here to Egypt. My soul knew its other half was here, and I would not rest until I found you.”

  “This is impossible. I’m nobody. Just a poor farmer’s daughter.”

  “Not for long. Not if you agree to be my bride.”

  Eshe grew still as stone. She stopped breathing. Did he just ask her to marry him?

  As if in reply, Lome removed his hold from her and took a large step back. He knelt before her, placing both hands against the left side of his chest. She watched the movement with disbelief.

  His expression and words rang with sincerity. “I know this is much for you to learn, and it seems unreal. But I am an immortal, destined to live all the days of Earth. It has been revealed to me and my brothers, we have mortal women who we are meant to find. I will spend the rest of my days on this world alone unless you agree to share eternity with me.”

  Lome bowed his head. “Will you, Eshe Akil, do me the honor of becoming my wife and making me the happiest immortal amongst us all?”

  Image after image raced across her mind. Most belonged to her ordinary life. The house she grew up in. The fields surrounding them. Her sister. Her brothers. The memory of her parents younger and more in love than any couple she had ever seen… Until the Greek man came into their lives.

  Eshe observed Lome. He was a stranger. A foreigner. And, apparently, not of this world. She couldn’t do it. She couldn’t blindly follow him into some unknown existence and leave her family behind. They meant more to her than anything.

  She readied herself to deny the request, searching for appropriate words, when Lome’s head snapped back up. Based on the look on his face, he knew she meant to reject him.

  “All your mortal troubles will be gone, Eshe. I will love and cherish you forever. I will take care of you. I will take care of your family.”

  Eshe was able to hold her resolve with every sentence, with every attempt at convincing her to choose him, except the last one. “My family?” she asked.

  Lome stood and gave her a nod. “You will marry into a wealthy family, Eshe. Your family will not want for anything if you are my bride.”

  Unreserved hope sprung up in her chest. Nebet. She could save Nebet.

  Lome took a tentative step towards her and reached out to pick up her hand. He did not move his eyes from hers as he placed a small kiss on the back of it. “I will do anything to make you happy, Eshe. All I request in return is for you to agree to be mine.”

  Eshe observed everything. His lips, his bright eyes, his handsome chin, and even his nervous swallow as he awaited her reply. She had not known him long, less than a week, but she could think of nothing which made him unsuitable.

  Nothing… except he was not human.

  But he had to be good. Eshe saw nothing but gentleness and kindness from Lome every time they met. If his display of power earlier was any indication, he could have stolen Eshe from her home and forced a marriage on her. But he didn’t. Lome seemed to genuinely care for her, and he would help prevent Nebet from giving up on a happy future.

  With all that in her mind, and Lome looking at her with nervous hope, Eshe knew what she had to do.

  11

  One month later.

  The villa in the heart of Alexandria was luxurious and unlike anything Eshe had ever seen. Sheer curtains billowed in the breeze, entering the room high above the streets. Only the sound of servants setting up in the gardens managed to reach her ears. Eshe sat on the bench by the window, doing her best to appear calm and not at all terrified on her wedding day.

  Following her acceptance of Lome’s proposal, he quickly escorted her to see her father. Despite Theshan Akil’s complete and utter surprise with the news of his youngest daughter’s suitor, he did not hesitate to give his blessing to the foreign stranger.

  Later that evening, when Eshe lied in the darkness on her bed, she wondered if her father might have objected had he known the male asking for his daughter’s hand was not mortal. Would he fear for his child even with the two bags of gold Lome offered cushioning his head that night? She doubted it.

  Eshe remembered how her father’s eyes had widened when Lome pulled the leather bags from his pockets. Her future husband claimed it was an offer of apology for taking away one daughter when the other was soon to be wed. Little did Theshan know, his youngest daughter planned to use that money and more to dissuade his support of Benipe’s suit.

  Eshe had yet to broach the subject with her father, but she felt sure he would not push for Nebet’s marriage to Benipe if a steady source of income managed to make its way to him. Eshe loved her father, would always love her father, but she believed she would never be able to forget or forgive how easily he relinquished his daughters when money was offered as compensation.

  Sensing her sweet sister’s presence, Eshe turned and watched Nebet walk into the room. Her astonishment was obvious as she followed the servant, nearly running into her escort when she was too busy admiring the painted ceiling above them. Eshe had the same reaction the previous day. Lome had insisted Eshe arrive early to the estate to settle in before the big day. Needless to say, she did not sleep well that night.

  “It’s so beautiful,” Nebet awed. Her eyes finally fell on Eshe. The older sister took in her expression and was quickly seated at her side.

  Nebet grabbed her cold hands. “What is wrong?”
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br />   Eshe didn’t know what to say–how to put her worries into words. She shrugged and looked down at their joined hands.

  “Are you... nervous?”

  That was one thing of many. Eshe nodded. Nebet tightened her grip. “It is normal to be nervous, but Lome is a good man. He will make a good husband.”

  Eshe’s throat tightened. It always did when someone referred to her betrothed as if he were normal–as if he were a man. Would they say that if they knew what he really was?

  Some days, Eshe thought about revealing the truth to Nebet, telling her the extraordinary facts surrounding Lome and why he wanted to marry her. Eshe desperately wanted someone to understand the source of her hesitation and worry. But every time she came close to confiding in her sister, she always failed.

  Would Nebet even believe her? Would she feel guilty for Eshe agreeing to marry the stranger to save her from her own unhappy marriage?

  No, Eshe could not tell Nebet the truth. The unknown consequences were too terrifying.

  Silence fell while the thoughts ran through Eshe’s mind. Nebet continued to observe her younger sister, lines of worry marring her beautiful face. “Is he unkind?” The question drew Eshe’s gaze back up. “Is he unkind when no one is around?”

  “Of course not,” Eshe felt ashamed her behavior hinted at such a thing. “Lome treats me very well.”

  In fact, Eshe often thought Lome treated her too well. Though she felt the connection Lome attributed to their status as soulmates, she still felt unsure as to how he could be so devoted when he hardly knew her.

  In the month since the proposal, the two saw each other almost every day and each encounter was the same. They would talk, go on a walk, and Lome would offer to answer any questions Eshe may have regarding his immortal existence.

  Some days, she felt brave enough to ask about it. Those days, Eshe would eagerly listen as Lome shared more fantastic and unbelievable stories surrounding his years on Earth. When he spoke, his words were filled with such wisdom and maturity that often had Eshe wondering how she did not see how different he was before.

  But on other days, Eshe could not bear the supernatural conversations. She would hardly speak, still uneasy to be keeping company with a god.

  She mentioned it once to him–how unnerving it felt to be in a god’s presence. Lome rejected the title immediately. He assured Eshe he and his siblings were not gods, merely immortals with certain gifts. She did not ask to know what those gifts were.

  “Then what is the problem?” Nebet asked. “Are you regretting your decision?”

  It was that question which kept Eshe up the previous night. As she gazed at the painted ceiling from her immense bed, Eshe wondered if she could go through with it. If she could marry a practical stranger, agree to stay by his side for eternity, all because he claimed they were destined to be together.

  After the passionate kiss by the creek, Lome was very respectful and only bestowed kisses on her hand or brow. Not once in the past month did he lose himself in his affections for her. The connection was there, as always, but Eshe wondered if it was enough to spark an actual romance between them despite Lome’s proposing words.

  Knowing Nebet would not stop her questions, Eshe offered her a bite. “I do not feel much affection from Lome. I worry our marriage will not be one of love.”

  It was not completely a lie given Lome’s distance the past weeks, but her betrothed often proclaimed his love. Eshe was just ready to feel the devotion, rather than hear about it.

  “What do you mean? Lome cannot take his eyes off of you. And he dotes on you endlessly. Surely that is enough to speak of his affection.”

  “Yes, but… there seems to be little romance.”

  “You are young,” Nebet said. “Perhaps he is wanting to respect your innocence. Rest assured, I do not believe you need to doubt his intentions or feelings. I am sure he will reveal it all on your wedding night.”

  “Nebet,” she scolded, her cheeks glowing red.

  The older sister laughed. “Do not be such a prude,” she teased. “I know you know about the intricacies of marriage.”

  Of course Eshe knew what was expected of a wife, but the thought of Lome… of his lightly tanned and sculpted body coming anywhere near her made Eshe’s skin flame and her stomach clench. It was a thought she kept herself from having until Nebet so elegantly forced it into her head.

  Nebet’s laughter continued, but she offered her sister a remorseful smile. “I am sorry for making fun. You have nothing to worry about. All will be well.”

  “Thank you,” she managed, throwing her eyes back down to the garden below. The seating was complete. Now, the servants decorated the altar underneath the flowered Grecian arch.

  The ceremony would be Greek, but an Egyptian priest would also offer up a blessing out of respect for Eshe’s heritage. Theshan Akil had insisted, and Lome graciously acquiesced to his future father-in-law’s request.

  “A part of me still cannot believe it is happening,” Nebet said, also shifting to look down at the scene beneath the window. “My little Eshe is getting married.”

  Nebet tilted her head and leaned on Eshe’s shoulder. The younger sister rested her head on Nebet’s. As the sister’s gazed at the garden, Eshe felt a peace settle over her. The imported trees were lovely. The bright flowers were stunning. Every detail was something she could have only dreamed about. Everything about the ceremony looked perfect.

  Sitting there with Nebet, enjoying their last few moments where it was just the two of them, Eshe knew she did not regret her decision. Lome was kind, and he offered her a way to save her beloved sister from an unsavory future. At the same time, he offered himself to her, everything he was, and seemed genuinely overjoyed to have Eshe in his life. What more could she ask for?

  “Yes,” Eshe murmured, watching as Lome and his brother stepped into the sunlight across the villa. “I am getting married today.”

  12

  “Is there anything I can get you before we leave?” Her new husband asked from the doorway. Behind him, Eshe could still see the few guests slowly leaving the villa.

  Her memory of the day was foggy, but Eshe recalled that her shaky knees were able to take her to the altar. She could vaguely remember the exchange of promises. Lome’s sealing kiss was really the only thing that stood out. She could see his glowing eyes and beaming smile moments before his lips touched hers.

  Though she did not feel any different, Eshe was now a married woman. The ring on her hand, the celebration dress, and the handsome man in her bedroom were the only indications a marriage actually took place. Her mind had yet to catch up with the life-changing event.

  Eshe released a sigh, but it was not one of complete relief. There was still something else she had to do.

  Well… two things.

  Eshe shook her head, ignoring the continued tightness in her stomach whenever Lome spoke to her. “No, thank you.”

  “Are you sure? Water? Wine?”

  She offered him an amused smile. Following the ceremony, Lome and Des invited everyone to continue the celebration with a meal in the villa. The food and drink were delicious. Lome grabbed her by the hand and insisted she try one of everything. Eshe had practically drooled over the fixed fruits and smoked meat and eagerly obliged her new husband’s request. Needless to say, she would not be hungry for a while.

  “I am fine.”

  Lome shifted his feet. “I am sorry there is no time to rest after the excitement, but my older brother insists we complete the ceremony tonight.”

  Eshe nodded. It was not the first time Lome apologized for their need to depart late in the night.

  After the wedding feast ended, the small number of guests were efficiently escorted out of Lome’s home. Eshe said a casual goodbye to her father and siblings prior to her “wedding trip”.

  Her family believed she and Lome would spend their wedding night at the villa and depart for Greece in the morning. Lome explained his relations were eager to meet hi
s bride, and he booked them passage on a boat sailing at dawn. Nebet sulked at the news, not wanting to forgo her sister’s company for the upcoming months. It took all of Eshe’s strength to not show how equally upset she was with the information. Lome only told her of the trip the morning before.

  Leaving her home for months with such short notice was only one source of her anxiety. The other was the knowledge of the real purpose behind the trip.

  “Do not trouble yourself,” Eshe said. “I-I will be happy when it is over.” She couldn’t help but swallow the lump in her throat. Why did she say that?

  Lome stepped towards her. He took her cold hands in his and stared deeply into her eyes. “You are safe, Eshe. This… ceremony. It is just that. Another ceremony. You have nothing to fear.”

  Her hands shook ever so slightly. It was enough that Lome noticed. A flash of remorse crossed his face. He bent down and placed a gentle kiss on the back of each hand. “I wish I could take away your unease. I feel complete joy, but all you feel is distress.”

  “That’s not true,” she murmured, watching his thumb trace gentle circles on her skin. The sensation raised goosebumps on her arms.

  Her tone drew his gaze back to hers. Whatever he saw caused his eyes to cloud. His lips parted. The expression sent a blast of heat through her. He moved forward one step. Eshe inhaled, eagerly awaiting his next move.

  They were interrupted by a slight tap on the doorframe behind them. Eshe managed a glance towards the sound. Des stood in the entrance looking uncomfortable.

  Her brother-in-law cleared his throat. “Our family is waiting, brother,” he said to Lome. Then, he turned and offered Eshe a tilt of his head.

  Lome never moved his gaze from her. “Are you ready?”

  Eshe stared into his eyes, gathering strength from their colored depths. “Yes.”

  Without another word, Lome tightened his grasp and the world around Eshe fell away. She was pulled through darkness, whipped through wind, until she found her feet planted on a marble floor. Her head snapped up and the room spun from the movement.