Chapter 21

Elyssa's POV

Convincing Caleb to come with me to my house was not a hassle at all. He needed a place to stay for a while and I had the perfect welcoming place for him and I didn't think it was a big deal at all because this man was my mate so there was no way that he could possibly harm me. The goddess knew what she was doing when she gave him to me in the first place and that was why as soon as I discovered that he was my mate, I felt an overwhelming need to protect him. The townspeople had thrown so much at him, both figuratively and literally, and it was time for him to find solace in my home. And what better way than for us to use the opportunity to know each other better.

Upon arriving at my house, I guided him inside, helping him take off his waist coast in an attempt to brush off the remnants of the day's misfortunes. He was with me now, he was safe.

"Come in, Caleb. Let's get you cleaned up," I said gently, leading him into the living room.

Caleb followed me obediently, his eyes filled with a mix of exhaustion and gratitude I believe although his face was still set in that moody way it had been since we met.

My home was not so grand but it was warm and nice and perfect, at least in my opinion. Since it has become my duty as his mate to ensure his well-being, the first step I took was to have him wash away the stains of the cruelty of the townspeople.

"Here's the bathroom, Caleb. Take your time," I offered, gesturing towards the door. "I'll go prepare something for you to eat."

He nodded silently, entering the bathroom while I made my way to the kitchen, determined to offer him some comfort. As I busied myself with gathering ingredients, my mind wandered, thinking about everything that had happened in the space of a few hours. I was filled with joy at the way things were going to turn out.

After a few minutes, I heard the sound of running water and felt a sense of relief wash over me. Caleb was finally getting a chance to cleanse himself physically, and hopefully find some peace within. I wondered why the townspeople were attacking him the way that they were doing although I strongly believed that he must have not done anything out if sorts because I know the people of this town were just naturally mean hearted.

I decided to make him a warm bowl of chicken soup, a dish that had always brought me comfort during difficult times. As I chopped vegetables and stirred the simmering pot, I couldn't help but replay our encounter in my mind.

As I stirred the pot, a gentle voice crept into my thoughts. "Is there anything I can do to help?"

Startled, I turned around to find Caleb standing in the doorway of the kitchen, a clean towel hanging around his neck. His unkempt hair was still damp from the shower, and his eyes were filled with an emotion that I could not really pinpoint.

"Oh, Caleb! You startled me," I exclaimed, placing my hand on my chest. Making a mental note to remember that he can read my mind now that he was my mate

"You don't need to worry about helping. Allow me to take care of you." I smiled at him

"It's the least I can do Elyssa. You've already done so much for me," he insisted, a genuine warmth in his voice.

I smiled softly, touched by his consideration. "Alright, then. How about you set the table? It's just a few steps away."

He stood for a while before nodding his head, his expression brightening. "Of course. It would be my pleasure."

While he set the table, I finished preparing the soup, ladling it into a bowl and garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. As I carried the steaming bowl towards the dining area, Caleb had already set the table beautifully, folding the napkins with care and placing a vase of flowers in the center. It made me wonder where he learnt it from. His mother maybe?

"Wow, Caleb. You have quite the eye for detail," I remarked, my heart swelling with appreciation.

He smiled, his blue eyes sparkling with a newfound sense of belonging. "I guess I've learned a thing or two about making a home from the kindness of others."

As we sat down to eat, Caleb couldn't help but express his gratitude once again. "Thank you, Elyssa. Not just for the meal, but for accepting me and offering me a haven. I don't know what I would've done if I hadn't met you."

I gently reached out and placed my hand on his, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "Caleb, you don't have to thank me. It's my duty as your mate to protect and care for you. I want you to feel at home here."

He nodded, a mixture of emotions I could not really place my hands on swirling in his eyes. "Well, thanks for being incredible at your duty then."

We shared a warm smile, silently acknowledging the connection that had formed between us. In that moment, the weight of the world seemed to fade away as we focused on the simple act of nourishing our bodies and souls. I wanted to ask him about the whole thing with the townspeople but I decided against it so as not to ruin the vibe we already had going on.

As we finished our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of purpose in my role as Caleb's mate. To be able to provide a safe haven for him, a place where he could heal and find solace, gave me a profound sense of fulfillment. My home felt like a home.

"Is there anything else I can do for you, Caleb?" I asked, not wanting him to have to worry about anything else.

He shook his head, a contented smile on his lips. "No, Elyssa. Just your presence is more than enough."

I felt a rush of affection wash over me, grateful to have found someone so appreciative of the smallest gestures. With Caleb by my side, I knew that together we could face anything that lay ahead.

Little did I know, this act of welcoming Caleb into my home would mark the beginning of a nightmare for me– one filled with betrayal, lies, and tears.