Chapter 65: He loves you deeply

Alia took a deep breath, her gaze shifting between Adrian and Elise. Her eyes carried a hint of weariness but also relief.

Ensuring no attendants were nearby, she spoke softly:

"Let me be straightforward. The two of you being together won't be easy, but I'm in support of it."

Adrian and Elise exchanged a glance, clearly unprepared for Alia's directness. Their expressions betrayed a mix of tension and unease.

But Alia pressed on, her tone unusually serious:

"Adrian, I trust your character. However, I must remind you that Elise is my 'sister'—my family. Her happiness means more to me than anything. If you truly want to be with her, you must treat her well and ensure she never suffers any harm."

Her voice was firm, slow, and carried an unspoken pressure.

"If you want to be with her, you'll need to work harder than most. Not only do you need to prove your devotion, but you'll also need the power and influence that leave others no room to object to your relationship."

She paused, her sharp gaze locked onto Adrian, as if searching for any sign of hesitation or doubt.

Elise, listening to Alia's words, felt her eyes sting. She lowered her head, pressing her lips together, her hands gripping her skirt tightly.

"Livia…" Elise called out softly, her tone full of gratitude.

She understood all too well how rare and precious Alia's support was in such a complicated environment. It wasn't just sisterly affection but also a form of respect and protection.

Though her voice trembled slightly, she tried to remain composed:

"Thank you, Livia. You've always been the person I trust the most… I…" She paused, lifting her head to meet Alia's gaze with unwavering determination. "I will treasure this relationship and never let you down."

Turning to Adrian, her eyes softened with trust and warmth:

"Adrian, you too."

Adrian, touched by Alia's frankness and Elise's gaze, stood upright, the playful expression on his face replaced by a newfound maturity and resolve.

"Livia, I understand your concerns, and thank you for your trust."

Taking a deep breath, his tone was earnest:

"From the moment I decided to pursue Elise, I knew the weight of the responsibility I carried. I won't let her suffer, and I won't let you down. I'll prove with my actions that I'm worthy of her love and your faith."

He paused briefly, gathering his thoughts before continuing:

"No matter the obstacles, I'll give it my all—for her, for us."

He turned to Elise, gently holding her hand. His tone softened, filled with affection:

"Elise, do you trust me?"

Caught off guard by his sudden declaration, Elise was momentarily stunned before smiling. She nodded gently, her voice soft but resolute:

"Of course, I trust you."

Seeing their sincerity, Alia's previously stern expression finally relaxed. She smiled faintly, her eyes carrying a mixture of relief and blessing:

"Very well. Show me your determination. Adrian, remember what I said. Elise, you must also learn to protect yourself. For now, keep things low-key until everything falls into place."

She paused, reaching out to gently tuck a stray lock of hair behind Elise's ear. Her tone softened noticeably:

"You're two people who truly love each other. I hope you'll always cherish this love."

With that, she turned away, not wanting them to see the complex emotions in her eyes. No matter how much she wished for their happiness, she understood the dangers of the world far too well. At least for now, she chose to believe in them, hoping her trust would become their strength.

The two exchanged a glance, their eyes filled with gratitude and determination, while Alia silently sighed in her heart:

"May you both find a happiness greater than mine…"

Just as Alia was preparing to rest, Elise's voice pierced through her defenses like a fine needle:

"Livia, you have Marcellus. He loves you deeply. Otherwise, why would he have stayed by your side when you were unconscious, refusing to eat, drink, or sleep? At that time, he wasn't himself at all. He completely changed. You've always been my role model, and now, you can be our example in love too."

Elise's words were gentle but laden with emotion, as if pleading Marcellus's case while trying to help Alia see the truth.

Alia's fingertips trembled slightly. Though she forced herself to remain composed, her heart was stirred by ripples she couldn't suppress.

"Does he truly love me?" she questioned herself, her gaze falling as if searching for an answer. But the moment was fleeting, and reason quickly regained control.

"He's probably just afraid that my death would disrupt his plans. Someone like him wouldn't lose his mind over me."

She admonished herself internally, yet a sliver of hope stubbornly lingered.

Finally, she spoke in a low voice:

"Elise, I'm a bit tired. I'll go rest for a while. You and Adrian… enjoy the time you have together. Don't waste this rare opportunity."

With that, Alia stood and retreated to the guest room to rest.