For a great fate, the reigning king of Thebes must destroy his mate.

He paced like a caged animal. He couldn’t kill you— you were the love of his life, but— a great fate? He’s longed for something greater than him his entire life and now… the opportunity was there at the cost of your life.

A million thoughts rushed through his head at a time. How could he kill you? At the same time, how couldn’t he?

You were his everything— but the idea of a great fate? The thought of being something— someone was far too good to pass up.

The oracle: ‘For a great fate the something- something must destroy his mate.’

It was a little blurry but— it was terrible. The damn oracle was giving him two options. Having everything he’s ever desired or having everything he’s ever needed. He was starting to feel sick.

If he told you and you knew he was even considering you’d surely flee or worse– kill him. He sat down and tangled his fingers in his hair. He heard soft footsteps emerge from outside the room, there you were, beautiful as ever.

“Come to bed.” You said gently, a small smile on your face.

He smiled back, but it didn’t reach his eyes. “Coming, dear.”

He stood but his legs felt like lead. You kissed him lightly on his lips but it felt tense. Following you he noticed a small dagger on a table.

“I… should grab it– y’know? Just in case someone gets hurt.”

You nodded and you both walked to the bedroom, the dagger weighed heavy in his hand.

It had been at least an hour.

You were fast asleep and he straddled your thighs. The dagger clutched into his hands as it hovered right above your heart. The very thing he had sworn to protect until the end of his days.

He watched as your eyes fluttered open, a weak look of terror etched upon your face as you muttered a small.

I love you.