Chapter 36
Inside the presidential study, President Alvada stood near the window, his hands clasped behind his back as he stared out at the gardens below. The weight of the recent attack on his daughter pressed heavily on his shoulders.
Seated across the room, Celestina watched her father silently. Though her face was calm, the faint tremor in her hands betrayed her lingering fear. The hospital attack had rattled her more than she cared to admit.
“We need to increase your security,” her father said, his voice breaking the silence.
“It’s already suffocating,” Celestina replied, her tone sharper than intended. “I can barely move without someone hovering over me.”
“And yet, someone still managed to get close enough to hurt you,” Alvada countered, his voice firm. “This isn’t up for debate, Celestina. You’re my daughter, and I won’t lose you.”
Before she could respond, the door to the study opened, and Kael stepped inside. His presence drew both their gazes. He was dressed in a sharp black suit, his expression serious yet determined.
“Mr. President,” Kael said, nodding respectfully before turning to Celestina. “Lady Celestina.”
“What are you doing here, Kael?” she asked, her tone laced with exhaustion.
Kael took a deep breath. “I came to volunteer as your head bodyguard.”
President Alvada raised an eyebrow, skepticism evident in his expression. “You? A bodyguard? You must understand how ridiculous that sounds, Veridan.”
Kael stood firm, his hands at his sides. “I understand your doubts, sir. But I know Celestina better than anyone here. I know how she thinks, how she moves, and I know how to protect her.”
Celestina scoffed, crossing her arms. “You didn’t protect me when it mattered most. What makes you think you can do it now?”
Kael’s gaze softened as he looked at her. “Because I’ve learned from my mistakes, Zorina.”
“Don’t call me that,” she snapped, the old name cutting into her like a knife.
“I’m sorry,” he said quietly. “Celestina. I mean it—I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep you safe, even if it means standing between you and whoever wants to hurt you.”
Alvada studied him closely. “This isn’t a game, Veridan. My daughter’s life is at stake. If I allow this, and you fail—”
“I won’t fail,” Kael interrupted, his voice firm. “I’ve already failed her once. I won’t let it happen again.”
The president narrowed his eyes. “Let’s not forget your history, Kael. You treated my daughter with indifference for years. Why should I believe that you’ve changed?”
Kael’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t falter. “Because I have changed. I can’t undo the past, but I can make amends now. I’m not asking for forgiveness. I’m asking for a chance to prove I’m not the man I used to be.”
Celestina looked away, her emotions a storm of anger, hurt, and confusion. She couldn’t deny that Kael seemed genuine, but his words were a stark contrast to the memories of their failed marriage.
“Father,” she said finally, her voice measured. “I appreciate what Kael is saying, but I’m not sure I can trust him with my life.”
Kael turned to her, his expression earnest. “I know I don’t deserve your trust, Celestina. But give me this chance to earn it. Let me protect you.”
President Alvada sighed heavily, his gaze shifting between the two. Finally, he turned to Kael. “You’re asking for a great deal, Veridan. If I agree to this, you’ll answer directly to me. If I see even the slightest indication that you’re unfit for the job, you’ll be removed immediately. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir,” Kael said, his tone resolute.
“And Celestina,” Alvada added, his voice softening as he addressed his daughter. “This is your life we’re talking about. Are you comfortable with this arrangement?”
Celestina hesitated, her mind racing. Finally, she nodded. “I don’t like it, but if it means keeping me alive… I’ll agree.”
Kael’s shoulders relaxed slightly, though his expression remained serious. “Thank you, Celestina. I won’t let you down.”
The following days saw a complete overhaul of Celestina’s security. Kael worked tirelessly with her father’s team, reviewing protocols, updating plans, and ensuring every detail of her protection was accounted for.
“You seem to be taking this seriously,” Celestina said one afternoon as she watched him review a map of the palace grounds.
Kael glanced up, his eyes meeting hers. “I am. Your life is worth it.”
She frowned, her tone cautious. “Why now, Kael? Why are you so determined to make things right?”
He hesitated, his hand resting on the table. “Because losing you, even from a distance, made me realize how much you mean to me. I can’t change what I’ve done, but I can fight to be better for you.”
Celestina’s chest tightened, conflicting emotions swirling within her. “You don’t have to do this for me.”
“I’m not just doing it for you,” he said quietly. “I’m doing it because it’s the right thing to do.”
