Genesis Code: The Genetic Awakening-Chapter 112: Not Over Yet (1)

The duchess would be lying if she said she wasn’t over the moon hearing Caleb’s words. In one move, she scored herself a powerful ally and a partner.

’It might also be the fastest start of a relationship ever.’ Silvia thought with a light blush, casting a side glance at the man who walked beside her. ’Wow...’

Caleb had suggested a walk around the estate while they shared things about their lives. Silvia jumped at the opportunity without hesitation, sending a smug smile Jess’ way before the two stepped out.

The estate was huge, with four wings and a central wing that was the duchess’ principal residence. The two garnered a lot of attention from the servants and knights, but they knew not to stick their noses in the duchess’ private matters. freeweɓnovēl.coɱ

No one had ever thought the duchess would find another partner, and indeed not a mysterious man unlike anyone they had ever seen. The man projected a level of confidence and power that was almost infectious.

After getting a tour of most of the estate’s interior, Silvia guided Caleb towards the gardens. It was one of the duchess’ favourite spots on the estate.

The air was always fresh with the scent of flowers, creating an atmosphere comfortable for the duchess to think about various things or simply relax.

"I can see why you like this place." Caleb commented, taking in the colourful environment. "I don’t think I’ve ever seen something like this before."

"That’s because it takes a lot of work to create something like this," Silvia replied with a charming smile, looking up to Caleb. "Come on, let’s sit down over there."

The duchess grabbed Caleb’s hand and led him to the roll of stone seats arranged around a fountain. Silvia had no idea her behaviour made her look like a teenager in the eyes of her servants.

But in her defence, this was all very new to her. Taking a seat close to each other, the duo stared at the fountain while they gathered their thoughts.

Suddenly, Caleb placed his hand over the duchess and pulled her closer, laying her head on his shoulder. For a moment, the duchess grew stiff but quickly relaxed and enjoyed the moment.

After several minutes of silence where none of them said a word, Silvia broke the silence.

"I wasn’t always alone, you know? Once upon a time, I was married." The duchess began while Caleb rubbed her shoulders in support. "It was a political marriage. You know, for the sake of an alliance and its related stuff. There were no feelings involved.

"I was the only child of my father and his heir. He was a good man. Sadly, one of the subjugation missions he personally led brought about his death. And because of that, the very alliance the marriage was for fell apart. That was seven years ago."

Silvia looked up to see Caleb’s reaction, expecting some form of displeasure from bringing up a man long gone, but Caleb just looked at her with the same gentle smile.

"And you’ve been single since?" Caleb asked. "I find it hard to believe there weren’t any other suitors around."

"Oh, there were." Silvia chuckled. "Unfortunately for them, I wasn’t interested in any of them. There was nothing they could give me that I didn’t already have, and I didn’t like any of them."

"So I’m the only one?" Caleb raised his brows in question and Silvia nodded with a slight blush.

"Well, you’re different." The duchess replied, getting more comfortable. "Even before I met you, I knew there was something different about you. Seeing you confirmed my thoughts. And I didn’t think I would be feeling this way either."

"Different, huh." Caleb echoed, his gaze lingering on the fountain. "I’m guessing you investigated my background. Aren’t you curious about what made me change this much?"

"Of course, I am." Silvia replied honestly, closing her eyes for a moment. "But as the man I chose, I know you will eventually tell me about yourself."

"What if I told you I’m from another world."

The statement caught the duchess off guard, making her sit up to look directly into Caleb’s eyes. There was no hint of amusement in his eyes, but the duchess was sure it was some kind of play to test her conviction.

"Then I’ll say you’re the one I fell for." Silvia shrugged and got back into her comfy position. "The new Caleb is who I know."

"Fell for, huh." Caleb chuckled, liking that answer very much. "I like the sound of that." He placed a soft kiss on her silvery hair.

"I’m glad I met you, Silvia. I’ll admit, when the commander told me to meet you first, I didn’t have a lot of expectations. Now? I’m afraid you won’t be able to get rid of me."

"And I don’t intend to." The duchess replied. "Just-just don’t stay out for too long, okay?"

"Haha, you don’t have to worry about that." He assured her. "I have my ways."

"Yeah, I’m sure you do."

The new couple sat in silence once more, simply enjoying their company. From time to time, Silvia or Caleb would ask a question while the other did their best to give a reply.

"This might look stupid to some people," Silvia turned and looked into Caleb’s eyes, swallowing the lump in her throat. "But all I have is yours, Caleb. I never thought I would say or do something like this, but there’s something about you that makes me want to give my all.

"All my wealth is yours to do as you wish. This estate is yours to do as you wish, my domain is yours and my men are yours to command." Silvia wasn’t even sure where this feeling was coming from, but it was strong, and her instincts had never failed her.

Caleb could see the sincerity in her brown eyes, the trace of fear hidden in them, and the desire to do right by his side. The sight touched Caleb in ways he didn’t know was possible. It brought a smile to his face.

Cupping the duchess’ face in his hands, Caleb brought his face closer and placed a soft kiss on Silvia’s lips before pulling back.

"I’m glad you feel that way, Silvia. But none of that really matters to me." Caleb said, his voice heavy with emotions. "The trust you just put in me is all that matters, Silvia. I will be a fool to let down someone like you."

Cale drew her into a deep hug, placing several kisses on her head while Silvia shed tears, her heart filled with contentment she never thought she would find.

There was no political ploy or agenda, just pure unbridled emotions. This was the confession of a man and a woman who knew exactly what they wanted and were not afraid to claim it.