Betrayed, But Not Defeated novel Chapter 201

The rain poured heavily that night, as if a hole had been punched through the sky.

Thunder rumbled in the distance as Charlene curled up under the covers, which gave her a sense of security. Few would expect someone so strong-willed and decisive to have a moment like this.

She buried her face in the blanket as anxiety gnawed at her. "I wonder how he's doing over there," she murmured.

Just then, a pair of arms suddenly wrapped around her.

Charlene screamed and turned her head to see Daniel grinning at her.

"Are you afraid of thunder?" He ignored her struggle as he pulled her close.

She leaned her head against his chest and took a deep breath. The familiar scent and the sense of safety made her narrow her eyes. "With you here, I'm not," she said.

Daniel glanced down at Charlene, then let his hands wander. "It's raining heavily tonight."

"Pfft! What does the rain have to do with your hands?" she said coquettishly.

"Everything," he said with a perfectly straight face. "I need to check if you're wet."

…

The next morning, Daniel opened the door and stretched his body. The sun was shining brightly as he rolled his shoulders and moved around a bit.

After a heavy downpour, Qranross felt noticeably quieter. News of the previous night's events had already spread like wildfire, yet every renowned family involved chose to remain silent. Daniel's declaration—that Qranross would have no grandmasters—left many stunned by his audacity.

"Arrogant! Absolutely ridiculous!" William slammed his hand on the table.

Willow, sitting nearby, glanced at him. "Daniel's words weren't a suggestion—they were an order. Our family's plans might need to be put on hold for now."