Chapter 155
Rose tried to look down but she couldn’t because of Zayne’s hand on her chin. "This is all new to me."
"I know which is why I am being patient with you. It is why I am moving at your pace but I would love for you to show some interest. If you like me, do not be swayed by what others say. This is a matter between us alone. No one can tell you what I feel and they cannot tell me about what you feel," said Zayne.
"I know but you feel out of reach for someone like me. I have not gotten used to being a lady yet. I don’t feel like one," Rose said, Varlerie’s words still stuck in her head. "She couldn’t touch my hand like I was dirty. I don’t want you to be mocked because of me. Where I have been will come out at some point."
"While I do enjoy how much you care about me being affected by gossip, you must know that it would take a lot of gossip to bother me. I am used to many talking about me as a prince. Besides, it is quite easy for me to cut out tongues to end it," said Zayne.
Rose laughed at his joke but then her laughter died down as she thought of Zayne cutting someone’s fingers. "You are serious. You don’t need to cut out anyone’s tongue. How would that be possible?" Rose wondered, tempted to stick her tongue out.
Zayne moved his hand away from Rose’s face. "It is possible. You must promise me that you will not listen to anyone and you will give me an answer. I am not like others you have come across. I will protect you."
"I know but I have always been against being with anyone because of Graham. I know you are nothing like him but I still think of him when I am touched. I have not healed from it yet. I just need a little more time and then I will give you an answer. Whether I want to try or stick to being alone," said Rose.
Marriage or just being someone’s partner never crossed her mind. Graham had scared her out of it because of his love or whatever he felt toward her. It was strange to think of herself one day being someone’s wife.
"Zayne," Rose said softly, poking his hand as she built up the courage she needed. "There is a ball tomorrow and I need someone to practise with. I will not dance but my mother still thinks it is good to know the basics. You said you didn’t like dancing but do you mind being present to be my partner?"