Disclaimer: I do not own Legend of Zelda.

I park my bike at the location and double-check the address my manager gave me. It's a photoshoot for clothes today and I need more coffee. I just got back late last night from another shoot and I lack sleep. I get off and take off my helmet and hung it on the handlebars. I stick a cigarette between my lips and light it.

Pulling out my phone, I send a text to Sidon telling him I'm already here. I count ten seconds before I hear his voice. Right on time.

"Link!"

Sidon is my manager. He has red flaming hair and a big built. He was once a model too but preferred to do the managerial stuff instead. He comes up to me with a cup of coffee and I take it gratefully. "Thanks."

"You're early." Sidon said. He lights up beside me as he eyes my bike. I see him wince internally. He doesn't like it but he can't get rid of it. "And can't you get a car like the normal guys. You can afford it anyway."

He's right on that part. Modeling was something I stumbled on to. It's not my first choice for a job but damn it pays the bills all right. I was at a cafe and I just quit my job at this advertising firm I was working at. There I was minding my own business when Sidon spotted me and sat down on my table uninvited.

He was joined later by a beautiful girl who had the same flaming red hair as him. Sidon introduced his sister, Mipha and told both spent the better part of an hour trying to convince me that I'm handsome as fuck.

I smile at the memory. I snorted in my coffee when he said that as he proceeded to tell me how captivating I was. I mean—I've seen myself in the mirror and I know I don't look that bad. But modeling? Really?

His offer was tempting. So I took it. I figured, a few months of this just so I can get back on track and look for another job. But the photoshoots started piling up and then I got small onscreen roles… and before I knew it—I was actually enjoying myself. To top it all off, I was good at it. Soon enough, Mipha and Sidon became my closest friends.

"You know the answer to that." I answer Sidon.

And he sighs dramatically. "Fine. But next time I'll pick you up. You driving that thing is making me worry and my nerves can't take any more stress."

I chuckle and puff on my cigarette for the last time. Sidon leads the way and I follow. "Mipha is with you today but she's just an extra. The clothes we're modelling are from Ziya."

I nods. Ziya has booked me a couple of times before in the past three years since I started. It was a famous clothing brand for men that caters to the upperclass. Their suits cost thousands of dollars at least—not to mention their accessories: ties, watches, shoes, belts and even cufflinks.

We go inside the warehouse and it's already buzzing with people. Sidon takes me to makeup and I get a chair beside Mipha who was already getting ready. "Hey, you."

"Hey." I nod in her direction and take a sip of my coffee. The stylist is already attacking my hair with a blowdryer.

"Sidon is being extra as fuck today." Mipha sighed as she angled her head so the makeup artist can powder her neck.

"What did he do this time?" I asked amusedly. I know all too well how extra Sidon can get.

Mipha is very shy usually but Sidon can pretty much drive her up the wall when he gets into his 'manager mode'. "He woke me up at five in the morning."

I check my watch. It was 9am. "So early?"

"He did it just for fun." Mipha was scowling.

I know exactly what she was talking about. When we had a photoshoot that one time in Switzerland, Sidon woke me up in the middle of the night 'just because'. Ever since then, I always lock my door when it was time for bed. It was Sidon's way of 'keeping me on my toes'.

She yawned beside me and I watch her take a sip from a similar cup of coffee like mine. "You have nine costume changes today." She teased—looking at me through the mirror in front,

I nod absent-mindedly. Nine costume changes are a lot and will probable take most of the day. But I don't mind. I have nothing else planned.

"I was going to go on a date with Revali but of course, Sidon just had to fuck that all up."

Revali is Mipha's boyfriend. He's the grandson of the CEO of this telecommunications company that I keep forgetting the name of. I don't like him much. To be honest, he's a pompous bastard. But he makes Mipha happy and is actually sweet and kind to her. So I don't say anything bad about him. Well, in front of Mipha anyway. Sidon hates the guy too.

"I give this shoot until 5pm, tops." I assure her.

And she lights up. "Really? Sidon told me we might have to stay until past seven."

"Bullshit. We can wrap this up earlier than that. Then you can go on your date." I scoff. I take out my phone as I feel a comb through my hair. The gentle tugs on my scalp was making me a little bit sleepy as always but the coffee helps.

"Did you take the acting gig for Happiness?" She's referring to this local television series where I've been offered a role. It's not as small as the other ones I did before. There's more exposure and I get to be in at least five episodes. I shake my head.

"Not yet. Sidon is still negotiating." I say as I spot a magazine on the counter before me. I take it and flip through the pages uninterestingly.

"But you want to do it?" She presses.

I shrug. "It's fine."

"Jeez, Link. Tone down the enthusiasm, why don't you?"

I shrug again. "It'll be something new." The role was about a boyfriend who is infatuated with this girl during their college days. I would be playing the part of her first boyfriend but then we would break up after I catch her cheating on me. "It's interesting, I guess." I add. Besides... the cheating part, that I could act out flawlessly.

To this date, the roles I am offered is mostly a foreigner in passing and I am required to speak in different languages. Mostly because of my blond hair and blue eyes—I don't look like the typical young man in the streets and I could pass it off.

"If Sidon is still negotiating, it just means they're not paying you enough. He'll get you a better deal."

I nod as I spot myself on one of the magazine pages. Here I am lounging beside a beach, a beer bottle in my hand. I try not to look at photos of myself too much but Sidon says I should—so I can take notes on what to improve on. My face, for example or body posture.

"We spend so much time toning our bodies and for what? I can't even eat pizza without having to spend the entire day in the gym." Mipha growled. "Fuck, I want pizza." Sidon has her on a strict diet. He once threw a fit when he caught Mipha sneaking in chocolates one time. It was gruesome.

"And bacon. And a large strawberry milk shake." Mipha smacked her lips.

"Still on that diet, huh?"

"I need to lose three more pounds." She sighs heavily and leans back.

I can never get women and dieting. I look over at Mipha and she looks perfect to me. No need to lose weight anyway. But I know better than to comment. Sidon comes up from behind us and looks at the progress—bringing my makeup artist, Lila, with him.

"Hey, Lila." I greet her. She nods and greets back, putting her bag of tools on the table and she gets started on my face. Moisturizer first—at least that's what I think it is—and she tames my eyebrows and applies a very thin layer of tint to my lips. The harsh lights at the set washes me out—or so Sidon says.

Lila hovers over me with a small brush in her hand, looking for any spots to conceal. I let her do her job.

I continue flipping through the pages of the magazine but soon get bored. Mipha is almost dozing off in her chair. I look at myself in the mirror as the stylist brushes my hair back until it's sleek and shiny and I look like a fucking CEO. I practice my smile as I wait for the call.

Sidon comes up to me and massages my shoulder. We've been at it for three hours already and it's already lunch time. Mipha is dozing off on the couch beside me and I wince as he hits a spot.

"Should I schedule you a massage tonight?" He asks.

I shake my head. I just spent the entire night before sleeping on it and now it's a bit sore. "No need."

"At this rate, we might be done in a few more hours." He says as kneads his knuckles and I sigh in relief. It feels good.

"I did tell Mipha that we'll finish soon. She says she has a date." I close my eyes and let Sidon finish off the tension in my shoulder.

"Yeah right." Sidon says. His voice is clipped and I am amused. If he can drive Revali away he would have done so. But they've been dating for the past two years and are stronger than ever.

"He makes her happy." I remind him.

He rolls his eyes but smiles at me. When he was done, he let me go and clap his hands on my shoulder. "We need to talk about 'Happiness'." He hands me a container of food and utensils.

I balance it on my lap and started to eat. The noodles are slightly cold but I don't mind—much. He sits across from me and I wait for him to say something. "They're offering you more money this time with more onscreen opportunities."

I purse my lips. "How may episodes?" The last time—it was five. And exposure is everything.

Sidon grins. "I got you ten."

And I smile—psyched and actually excited about it. I like acting. It gives me a chance to be… someone else. Not that I'm uncomfortable with myself. It's just—refreshing to step into someone else's shoes from time to time. Sidon thinks it's funny. I'm normally shy and I don't say much but when I act—he says it's like I'm a whole new person.

I take it as a compliment.

"When does shooting start?" I ask as I take another bite—chewing carefully.

Sidon takes out his tablet and scrolls through it. "I need to speak with the director and get a schedule out of him. I have photoshoots lined up for you until the end of next week still." I nod. Trust Sidon to handle all that stuff and actually enjoy it.

I finish off the food and Sidon tries to take the empty container from me but I bring it to trash myself. I go back to my seat, slouch and yawn widely. He hands me a blanket.

"Take a nap. I'll wake you up when we're starting again." He says and leaves the room.

I nod gratefully.

Damn, I'm tired.

We've just packed up and I take a seat—exhaling loudly in relief as Sidon hands me a bottle of water. It's been almost the whole day and I am exhausted. Ziya has generously given me the clothes I modelled today and they're in bags at my feet.

"Want me to take these home for you?" Sidon asks.

"Yes, please." I say as I down the entire bottle. My back hurts and my feet too from all the standing. But it's the good kind of exhaustion. I enjoyed the shoot today and the photographer was someone I've worked with before. He knows all my angles and I know what he wants from me. Mipha—as usual—is a delight to pose with. We know each other so well, there was no awkwardness between us.

Mipha has left a few minutes ago previously. Revali came by and said a quick goodbye before hurrying off to their date.

"Do I have anything else for today?" I ask him as I loosen the white shirt I was wearing and roll them up to my elbows. Sidon winces at this but doesn't say anything. Instead, he checks his tablet and shakes his head.

"You're all free until… tomorrow at 10am."

I raise my eyebrows. "But it's Sunday?" Not that I'm complaining but I've been working weekends nonstop for the past few weeks. I wanted to sleep in. I haven't fully recovered from last night's shoot.

It was for an energy drink. I'm pretty fit myself but I was rolling around on the ground and running uphill and rappelling down from buildings all day yesterday and my body hurts.

I see Sidon smiling at me. And I realize what he's so happy about. He's always been complaining how I overwork myself. I go to every shoot, every location—no matter how far. I rarely get sick, even Mipha is saying I should take some time off.

I was hoping that I didn't have anything to do tomorrow so I can sleep in—maybe catch some shows on that ginormous TV Sidon made me buy but am yet to use.

"I can probably move that to Monday. But I'll call you tomorrow so be ready just in case." He says and I nod.

I help him haul the bags to his car and he gives me a fierce hug before letting me go. He eyes my motorbike warily and I laugh. "Go on. I'll be fine."

He drives away and I wave goodbye to the remaining crew who are still packing up. I bow to them gratefully and I swing one leg over the bike as I put on my helmet. It roars to life.

Soon—I was out of there.

My apartment was quiet close to the city. Sidon was the one who scouted it for me. I didn't want to move at first since I'll be leaving the apartment I stayed at since I was in high school. It was far though and I didn't have a bike then. Sidon had to drive far just to get to me and I was convinced to take up on his offer. I didn't want to become a burden.

At least I managed to get it decorated the way I want it to. Granite countertops with black marble and cabinets. I had my living room done in the same theme. Except the couch. It's sparkling white.

I got home and took a quick shower. As I rub my hair dry with a towel—I pad around the apartment barefoot. The heaters are kicking in and the floor is warm. I throw open the fridge door to see it full.

Thanks, Sidon. I mutter to myself with a smile.

Usually, I get off work late. On my way home, I was thinking of getting into bed after my bath but now… I'm wide awake. And I don't know what to do.

I need a drink. But as I open cabinets—all I see are bags of flour and rice and condiments and no beer or liquor. I stood there in the middle of my quiet apartment and I think hard as I look around.

I see the television mounted on my wall. I am reflected against its black surface. I stare at myself… but look away instantly. Not good. I like that work has been piling up. It keeps me busy. It keeps me from thinking about… things. I shake my head and walk back towards my room to get dressed.

I enter my room and see my phone on the bed, lighting up noiselessly. I pick it up and check the caller ID. But I grimace in disgust and throw it back down on the bed. Bitch.

Decided, my walk-in closet is full of clothes that are too… fashionable. I fish out a simple white button-down, similar to the one I wore for the shoot earlier and rolled them up at the sleeves. I put on my jeans and grabbed my jacket and keys on my way out the door.

I drive around the city until it got dark. I didn't mind where I was going but the feel of the wind on my face was enough to keep me preoccupied. I stopped by a fast-food chain and got something to eat when I got hungry. But I got back on my bike and drove again as soon as I was done.

People are starting to recognise me now. And I've taken to wearing shades when I'm out in public. Being famous had its perks. I do not regret my choice to become a model and actor and I certainly enjoy it. But the damn paparazzi just won't leave me the fuck alone sometimes. But when I'm on my bike, I feel free. No one can catch me.

I know it's late. So I stop by a station to fill up on gas when I see a bar across the street. Beer and liquor were being advertised in flashing neon lights. Well, at least there's alcohol here.

I park my bike beside a bench and after making sure it was secured, I go inside. It's a bar slash dance club thing. I don't really get the concept. But I don't really care. I head to the counter and order scotch on the rocks. The bartender gives a double-take but doesn't ask questions. A free stool has opened up and I take it. I remove my jacket and put it on my lap. But to my unfortunate luck, or maybe fate just wants to play with me today, the woman on my left recognizes me instantly.

And she's drunk out of her seat.

"Link!" She squeals as she grabs on to my arm. I flinch but Sidon says I have to be nicer to fans. So I smile at her, "Can you not shout it out like that?" I ask her in a tone I am hoping is considered nice.

Her long fingernails are digging into my bicep but thankfully she lets go and claps a hand to her mouth. "Sorry!" She tries to whisper but gives me this cloying look. "I can keep a secret if you…" She takes her fingers and make a half-assed attempt to 'seduce' me as she walks them up my forearm. "Buy me a drink."

Be nice to fans. Sidon has etched this onto my brain. Be a fucking gentleman. I remind myself. So I hold her wrist gingerly and set it down on the countertop. "I think you've had enough already." I say. I hold my glass and take a sip.

But this lady is not giving up. She's rubbing her self on me and I wince internally. The bartender then catches my eye and he grins. To my relief, he comes over and holds on to the woman. "Hey, Ms. Crystal. You're drunk again, aren't you?"

"You know her?" I ask.

The bartender nods but the lady called Crystal is not cooperating even when the bartender holds up her arms and pulls her away from me from across the counter.

"But Ronn. Ronnnn—look!" She slurs and points at me. "That's Link!"

I raise my eyebrows. But the bartender laughs it off. "That's not him! Link is much more handsome than that guy!"

But Crystal shakes her head. "But earlier he said I shouldn't shout out his name?!"

Ronn looks at her and laughs again. "Well, because you're going to cause a commotion when you have clearly the wrong guy. Trust me, Ms. Crystal. You wouldn't find Link in a bar like this."

Seemingly convinced, she hops off her stool and glares daggers at me. "Shame on you for pretending to be Link."

And I try not to laugh but incline my head. "Sorry about that."

With a huff, she hobbles away in her heels. "Thanks, man." I tell Ronn when she leaves. "I owe you one."

"Don't sweat it." He says as he wipes a glass and fills it up with beer, handing it to a customer. He leaves me alone to go to the other end of the counter.

A few minutes pass and there is a small commotion on the recently vacated seat beside me. A flash of long blonde hair and emerald-green eyes. There is a small furrow in her forehead as she waves at Ronn trying to catch his attention.

I catch a whiff of lavender and vanilla as she flips her hair. And I am intrigued. Is that… her shampoo or is that her perfume? Damn, I want to smell—I stop myself. I watch her out of the corner of my eye as she reaches over the counter and shouts into Ronn's ear. Something about… a charger? She holds up a dead phone and I get what she needs.

Ronn takes it and plugs it into a socket. She looks grateful and orders a beer.

I shift my head to see her better. She's wearing a dress with thin straps at the shoulders. I know this brand only because I've seen Mipha wear it before. Her hair is cascading sunshine but her face… her face is now hiding behind the curtain of gold and I am transfixed.

I tell myself I'm not interested. But I know I am fooling myself. I am curious—definitely curious about her. The fuck is she doing in this bar? I look around but it seems that she's not with any one. At least, no one is paying attention to her. Someone this beautiful should not be left alone. She twists in her seat, looking around. That's my cue to get back to my drink.

She turns back in her seat and drinks the rest of her beer down. She slams it back down on the counter and for a second I feel like she's angry at me. Did she catch me looking at her? Fuck.

"You mad or something?" I ask, looking at her.

And she looks back at me and fuck—I've been hit in the face. Her eyes are wide and searching and I could get lost in them for hours. Her mouth was slightly open in shock and the second thing I notice about her are her lips.

I want to taste them.

But I give myself a mental slap and fix my face. She has not said anything, surprised most probably. "You okay?" I ask her.

And she nods frantically. And all I can think is she's adorable but shut up, Link, stop it.

She doesn't recognise me. She doesn't know me. But she… She looks familiar. Come to think of it… Was she the model I did that hair shoot a few years ago—or what wait no. If she was… I would remember. I would definitely remember. I rack my brains thinking who she could be. I return to my drink and manage to ignore her for a whole three minutes before she distracts me again. Something she says catches me off guard.

"Fucker. Suck her face right off why don't you."

And I freeze in disbelief. Did she just?—What? "Excuse me?" I ask her.

She claps a hand over her mouth and I am amused. "Sorry, I wasn't referring to you!"

I raise an eyebrow and study her closely. But I couldn't help but laugh a bit. I shrugged and went back to my drink.

"I'm really sorry." She says again.

"Okay." I say. But now she's really got my attention. Like really. And I want to know who is the fucker. "What did you see that made you so mad?" I ask.

There is no point in ignoring her. She's here right beside me. Might as well enjoy it and talk to her. She answers with sigh and I can see her blushing.

"My ex."

Now that got me curious. Explains a lot of things, really: why she is alone in this bar, why I can have her for myself—whoah there, buddy. Calm yourself.

I turn in my stool and rest my elbows on the counter as I survey the crowd. "Where?"

She points and I follow the line of her finger. I see a kissing couple. "Kissing?"

She nods.

"Oh." I turn back towards the bar. There was nothing else to say. Her ex was… normal-looking, I guess. Definitely not up to her standards. The fuck, didn't he even realize how much of a catch she is?

"Oh?" She asks.

And I rest my cheek on my hand and look at her. "Yes. Oh."

"Just 'Oh'?"

Her eyes are squinting and I bite the inside of my cheek to keep from smiling. "Just 'Oh'." I confirm.

She looks fierce as she takes another drink and she's facing towards me now and I can't take my eyes off of her. "Tell me what you really think."

Oh, babe. If you knew what I am thinking you'd be running out of that door by now.

But of course, I can't say that. So I settle for, "It's a good thing he's an ex."

"Because I'm too boring for him?"

Bullshit. Says who?! But I manage to stay calm. "Because you're too good for him."

I can take a good look at her now. And she definitely does not look boring or plain. The dress fits her better than Mipha does. Her hair is awesome. She curses more than me and though it is a surprise to hear them coming out from her—I am attracted to her sheer honesty and confidence. I try not to cuss too much. Sidon frowns at it. But her… This girl… She's beautiful.

I try not to look at her chest. Or her lips too much. But I am failing miserably.

But as I look at her, her face falls. "That's not what he said when he broke up with me earlier."

"Earlier?" I ask in confusion.

"Yes."

I am even more confused. "Like this morning?"

She shakes her head and drinks again. She takes a deep breath. "Try… an hour ago or so." She looks away.

"Asshole." Just one. Just give me one. And there it is. A hint of a smile on those perfect goddamn lips. "Tell me more." I say.

Just don't stop talking.

And she doesn't. She tells me how they met and how lately he'd been ignoring her. And I am hypnotized by her mouth. She is so animated and she's pulling me in and I listen to every word. She curses like a redneck and I love it.

"—I wasn't allowed to fucking curse! Well, fuck you, Mr. Ex! I can curse anytime anywhere I damn want!" This one had me smlining.

Somewhere along the way, I ordered shots. She took a sip of my drink and I think she likes it but nope, babe. Not whiskey. It'll knock you right out and I want to spend more time with you.

"Don't do that." she says suddenly.

And I look at her amusedly. "Do what?" I take another shot flawlessly. Okay fine… I'm trying to look cool but that shot burned the back of my throat.

"Smile at me." She says.

Automatically, I do. I can't help it! I didn't realize that I've been smiling the whole damn time! "And why not?" I ask her.

She waves her hands in front of my face squealing, "no no no!"

And I grab hold of her wrists. "I am not smiling at you." I say with the straightest face I could manage. There is something about this girl… And I can no longer deny it. I am waaaay beyond fucking interested.

But she's looking down and muttering and I lean in to hear what she is saying. "Delicious way —I wonder how they would feel against my skin. Fuck. How good is he at kissing? I can only fucking imagine. He looks like he's damn good. Damn, he looks like he could kiss me out of my fucking mind. Shit. I want his kisses. I want them everywhere—all over my body. And damn i want them between my—"

"Legs?" I interjected. I am stunned. I am several levels of fucking stunned. But yes. Yes to all your questions. I want my lips on your skin too. I think… I'm pretty good at kissing. You don't have to imagine. I will kiss you out of your fucking mind. And yes, I want to kiss you there too. My heart is racing at her confession but wait…

She nods absent-mindedly and it hits me. She does not realize that she's saying what's on her mind.

Fuck. So fucking cute.

"Oh my fucking God. That's a fucking killer. It's a trap. It's a fucking trap." She's looking at my mouth and I realize I am smiling.

I clamp my mouth shut. I need to calm down. And I need her to calm down too. I lean in closer. "Do you know that you think aloud?" I ask her.

"What?" She asks, confused.

"You. Think. Aloud." I say amusedly. It takes a humongous amount of effort for me to straighten up. I signal to Ronn to bring us another round.

"What do you mean I think aloud?" She asks.

And I chew my inner cheek to keep from laughing. But I am giddy. She wants me. And I want her too. The shots arrive and I hand her one.

"You were wondering how my lips would feel against your skin, if I am a great kisser. And how you want them kisses between your legs." I say.

And I watch her squirm in her seat and get flustered. Her ears are red and she's so fucking adorable.

"Damn. I'm a real piece of work, huh?" She looks ready to get swallowed up by a natural disaster or something and I try to lighten the mood.

With a finger, I direct her shot to her mouth. "Drink up."

She takes it, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand. "You must think I'm a fucking weirdo. I'm sorry I didn't mean to—"

"Think about me like that?" I ask her out of the blue. She's so cute when she gets flustered.

"I told you not to do that!" She throws her hands in the air and I keep myself from laughing.

"Smile at you?" I ask.

And she prods me at my arm and I can't help but laugh. "Yes. It's your fault I am so into you right now. Stop smiling at me."

You have no idea how into you, I am too. "I don't mind."

She tells me more. She tells me so much about herself I am beyond amazed. She tells me how she spent hours and hours in the fields behind their house. She told me how she fucking liked reading. READING, FOR GOD'S SAKE! And she likes her coffee black. I lick my lips at this. She tells me she likes pancakes and bacon and how she can spend weekends devouring books continuously.

And when she tells me she likes the rain, her eyes mist and she's so beautiful and fuck I want to take care her home. Not to fuck her. I just want to… keep her in my pocket and never let her go. But I have to concentrate on what she's saying. I have to listen as she continues to tell me about how her feet are always cold and how she has several stuffed animals. She tells me she has a weighted blanket because she likes being hugged and having her hair stroked.

She tells me everything.

Well, not everything.

But I get the gist of it.

She's complex and amusing and a paradox. She's shy on second then fierce the next. She's makes me want to protect her but I know that she doesn't need protection. I can tell that she's strong and I am endlessly fascinated.

As I order another round—the ex approaches her.

And I see her flinch. But I don't intervene—not yet anyway. But I am listening intently.

"This is a surprise. We break up a few hours ago and you're already at a bar."

Oh, fuck off, asshole. She can do whatever she wants.

"Oh, fuck off." She says taking my own words. That's my girl.

They are arguing and I am listening—ready just in case she needs me. But the guy seems relentless and all I could think of is he's full of bullshit to be acting like this when they've already broken up.

He attempts to turn her back around but I grab his arm—angry. "She asked you to fuck off, Eric." I said. He tries to twist his arm out of my grasp but he fails. "Who the fuck are you?! That's my girlfriend and I can—"

I shove him away. "I thought you said you already broke up."

He staggers backwards and I stand my ground, protective of her. He glares daggers at us. "Found such a quick replacement for me, huh? You whore. Finally showing off your true fucking colours."

"Fuck off, Eric. Don't pretend like I didn't see you sucking off a girl's face earlier." She spat behind me.

I ball my fists in anger. But he leaves with one last look.

And I… take one deep breath. Then another. Then another. And I calm myself down. Slowly, I take my seat back and she has her head bowed.

I gave her a shot. He called her 'Zel'. Is that her name? What's the rest of it?

"Sorry." She blurts out.

"He's an asshole." I say, looking at her. But she has a sad look on her face and I want her smiling and animated again. "Don't let him get to you." I add. I poke her cheek but instantly pulled away. It's soft. She's soft.

Then she straightens up with determination. "Ask me something." She says quickly.

"Like what?"

"Anything. Anything else that can distract me."

I think about it. What else did she not tell me something about. Oh… her job. "What do you do for a living?"

She grabs some peanuts and offered me some. I take one. "Guess." She says with a curious look other face.

"Modeling?" I say. And she laughs. She laughs loud and unlike those pesky phony girls who are too busy trying to look good than actually have fun. "I guess not. Because if you are, I would have seen you before." I say absent-mindedly.

"What do you mean 'before'?"

I shake my head. If she still has not figured out who I am by now… Or is she pretending not to know? I didn't want to tell her. Somehow, I feel like if I do… The magic will be gone. She'll start treating me differently.

People do. When there's someone famous around them. I don't think she's that kind of girl. But I don't really want to risk it. "Nevermind. Tell me. What do you do?"

She tells me she's a developer and I am surprised. She tells me about her job. Looking at her… I can't imagine her cooped up in an office. She should be out in the sunshine—glowing.

But the way she says it, it really does look like she's having fun at her job. I can see the passion in her eyes and I admire it.

"I can tell that you really like what you are doing." She nods vigorously but brings her ex back up again. That asshole crushing her dreams. "He doesn't matter anymore." I say. Look only at me. Focus on me.

She's looking at me like she's about to say something and I know she is. So I wait.

"Do you think I'm too plain? Too boring?"

I turn in my chair and I can't help it. I lean closer. So close. So close I can smell lavender and vanilla again. I stare at her lips and I want to kiss her.

No, she is not boring. She is not plain. She is several layers of complexities that a lifetime is not enough to solve all her mysteries. She is interesting and amazing and kind and gentle and fierce and strong and all of it. All of it. All of those pieces do not fit together but she makes it seem effortless.

"I don't think you are." I stare into her eyes.

"Why?" I can tell she's breathless.

"I sense passion in you." I say. This might be a corny line but it's true. She's passionate about what she does—no matter how little. And she has this innocent view of the world and yet… she knows how bad it can get.

How did fucking Eric not see this? How?

"Passion?"

She doesn't even know.

"He's kept you under his thumb this whole time, you don't even realize how amazing you are." I say softly. "It's sad that he's so threatened by you…he's managed to suppress your shine." Her hair has fallen from her shoulder. And I reach out to touch it—silk. "You cuss like no other but it's because you're just so… honest."

"You're making me blush." She says.

And I smile deliberately this time. "I doubt that you do that very often."

Her face is flushed as she says, "I don't… I am drunk."

I let go of her hair and hold her chin, keeping her in place. This would be the time to kiss her.

"You're too close." She whispers. But she doesn't move away.

"Do you mind?"

"No." She says hurriedly.

I caress her skin with my thumb and there's this smouldering fire in her eyes that I know what I t means. She licks her lips and it sends a jolt through my body. "You have 'kiss me' eyes." I say. I look at her lips, parted slightly.

"I'm sorry." I know she's not. "Will you?"

This time she licks her bottom lip slowly. Seducing me. And I am holding back. I am holding back as I dig my nails on my knee. "Do you want me to?" The air is thick with tension and something is happening between us. Something is definitely happening between us.

She wants it. I know it. But I know that she's also drunk as well. It is unlike me to take advantage of someone who has had a lot to drink.

But she did basically ask me to kiss her.

But still.

"Yes." She says.

"Why?" I ask to pass the time as I deliberate in my head. Should I or should I not? I feel like if I do… I'd be crossing a line.

"I feel like I've been trapped for the last seven years. I'm coming up for a breath of fresh air for the first time." She says honestly.

"I am not a distraction." I say. But I know she's not treating me like one. I trace her lower lip with my thumb and how I wish I am kissing her instead.

"What—who are you?"

I frown a bit. "You really don't know?" And I see in her eyes that she's not lying. She's not pretending. She really doesn't know who I am. "You don't know me. Do you still want me to kiss you?" I ask.

Because normally girls do not kiss random strangers.

"Yes." She breathes.

Fuck. I groan internally.

But before I could move—there was a flash of doubt in her eyes and she blurts out, "You think I'm pathetic?!"

No—wait! Before she could move away, I held her by the back of her neck and press my lips against hers.

Stars.

Fireworks.

Every bit as I imagined it—only better.

I kissed her with gusto—with need. I did not hold back. She tasted sweet and she tasted of alcohol and fuck—yes. I kiss her over and over again, biting her quite harshly on her lips—my fault I couldn't resist—she's a tease and I am kissing her and kissing her and I couldn't breathe.

I pulled away—reluctantly. I press my forehead against hers.

"That was…"

"Intense." I finished for her. I stare straight into her endless eyes.

But Ronn had to ruin the moment. He puts down our next round with a small smile at me and I take it quickly. She does too. Ronn comes back with her phone. "All charged up!"

She says thanks. And I see her turn it on and check her messages. But she sighs and puts the phone in her bag.

"Time to go?" I ask.

My lips are missing hers and I want us to kiss again. I don't want her to go.

"I don't have a ride." She says.

And I take that as my cue.

I take her out to the bench beside my bike. She's wobbly on her heels and there was this amusing moment where she thought out loud again and commented on how tall I was when we left the bar. I half-carried her out after paying for our drinks and now…I have my arm around her. She's soft and flushed against my side.

"Usually, I feel uncomfortable with strangers touching me." She says aloud.

"Hmm?"

"Back in high school, I was invited to a prom by this guy who obviously liked me. But I didn't like him that way. And he… held my hand for the pictures. I could tell he was nervous. But I flinched. It was so awkward, and I feel so guilty because I couldn't bring myself to dance with him and have his hands on me."

I purse my lips and touch her arm. She doesn't flinch. I feel just a little bit proud at this. "But this is okay?" I ask.

She nods and looks up at me. "I don't know why but there's something about you…"

"Something about me?"

She nods again.

"Explain."

She shifts in her seat. "There is something about your eyes in this moment. That makes me think… I am safe with you."

I cup her face and she leans into it. And I smile. "Are you always this trusting?" I ask her.

She shakes her head.

"You shouldn't be." I tell her.

She shakes her head again. "I feel like I can trust you."

Funny. I feel the same way. "Thank you."

"Are you a bad person?"

It takes me a while to answer. The world is not split into good and bad people. "We've all done bad things, but that doesn't make us bad people." I say.

She leans back into my side, tucking herself in. I take out a cigarette from my pocket and light up. I'm careful not to blow in her direction. I catch her looking at me. "Do you mind?"

She shakes her head.

And we stay like this until I feel her shiver. And feeling like a fucking gentleman, I help her into my jacket. She doesn't protest. I see her smell it with a fond smile on her face. I feel like I'm back in high school with a crush.

"Are you still up for driving?"

I nod. I feel fine. I might have had a lot to drink but it takes more than that to knock me out. "I'm alright."

Is she asking me to take her home right now? But I don't want her to go. I want her to stay. I don't even know her name yet. "Do you really want to go home?" I ask. Hoping, hoping and hoping like fuck that she says no.

"Where will you take me?"

And I feel grand and I smile at her and I get excited. "It's a secret."

I stand up and offer her my hand. She takes it. She takes it and I feel her warmth and she's beaming. I lead her to my bike and I see her glance at me nervously. I take the helmet and put it on her. "I only have one. You have it."

She doesn't say anything. Too trusting. "Scared?"

She shakes her head. And I see excitement in her eyes. She's still grinning. I doubt she knows she is.

I get on the bike and balance it between my legs. I turn it on and she squeaks. She fucking squeaks and I chuckle but she doesn't see it. I want her in front of me… so I scoot backwards and make space for her. "I don't think you'll be able to hold on from behind. Do you mind being in front?"

But she stops for a bit. "Is this a good time to tell you that I have not been on a motorbike before?" She says hurriedly. I can tell she's a bit nervous. But she's got this. I know it.

I can't wipe the stupid smile off my face as I offer her my hand again. "Noted." She takes it. And she climbs up on it. And I pull her close to me.

The helmet is in the way. I want to bury my face in her hair but it's necessary. Her hands are flapping uselessly—"Where do I—?"

I take them in mine—ignoring the thrills it sends throughout my body. I put them on the handlebars. "You can hold from here. But do not steer."

She nods.

And I take off. And it's glorious and I feel her excitement. She's not the least bit scared of the speed as I go faster. She leans back against my chest and I welcome it. She lifts her hands up in the air, squealing with enthusiasm and excitement and exhilaration—whatever it is.

The place I'm taking her to is my secret spot. Even Sidon doesn't know I have one. But before that, I have to get her some water. She's drunk too much and she might fall asleep any moment. And I need her awake. I need her alive and alert and talking and smiling at me.

I steer towards a convenience store and park the bike. She looks at me questioningly as I hand her the keys. "Five minutes."

And she nods. Too trusting.

I hurry into the store and grab some water—some chocolate and a six-pack of beer. There was a short line and I sneak glances at her out the window. She's tapping the tank of the bike with her fingers. She has my helmet on and she's looking around.

I present my items to the cashier and start to pay but he double-takes and takes a second look at me.

"Hey! Sorry, are you Link? The model?" He asks excitedly.

I nod and smile automatically. I know fan service is important but I am in such a hurry. I don't want her out there for a long time. "Yes."

He takes my items and scans them one by one. "Listen, can you sign something for me? For my sister? She loves you."

At least he's ringing them up. I nod and he hands me a piece of paper. "What's your sister's name?"

"Hana." He says excitedly as he puts my purchases in a bag.

I do a quick scrawl. "To Hana, best of luck to you. Link." I say with my tongue between my teeth. I hand it to him and he bows in thanks. I wave goodbye and take the bag. "No problem."

I leave and she's safe. She watches me come up to her. "Sorry."

But she shakes her head with another smile. "Not even five minutes."

I tie the bag to one of the handlebars and I take the keys from her. We ride again—we're already near the spot. She's slacking off against my chest and I know she's feeling sleepy. We ride uphill and finally—finally. I turn left towards a clearing and slow down.

She gasps in awe.

I park the bike and help her off. I remove her helmet but she's looking at the view. Her hair is now squashed and I run my fingers through it—loosening the strands. She blushes. "You don't have to do that."

I shake my head as I catch another whiff of lavender and vanilla. "I like your hair."

I untie the bag and she walks a little bit. "That is perfect."

I lead her to a spot in the grass—thankfully it is dry. Taking the bottle of water out the bag, I uncap it and hand it to her. "Drink up." When she's done, I take it back. And I hand her chocolates instead. They're dark ones—i prefer dark ones. I don't know if she likes them. But she takes them without protest and pops a square in her mouth.

I open a can of beer and drink. "Do you want one?"

She thinks about it… then nods. I get her one and open it for her.

Then we're quiet. It was a comfortable silence. I didn't mind.

"Up here… problems seem minute. Up here… I feel invincible—untouchable." She whispers.

Exactly. That is exactly why I love this place. "Yeah, me too."

She looks at me, smiling again. "I really need to stop thinking out loud."

No. Go on. Just do you.

"Thank you for bringing me here." She whispers as she hugs her knees. The wind was blowing and I know she's cold. She's wearing a skirt after all. And I didn't even think about it twice. I just moved on my own accord. I positioned myself behind her, my legs on either side of her. She freezes. "You're cold." I say.

Her back is stiff—unlike the way she leaned onto me when we were at the bench or when she was on the bike with me. She smells heavenly and I can't take it anymore. I can't keep on holding back. I rest my chin on her shoulder. "There's something about you… that's pulling me towards you."

She doesn't say anything. Nor does she pull away.

"What's your name?" All I have is 'Zel'. I want to know the rest.

But she shakes her head. "If I tell you, you have to tell me yours."

And I hesitate. Because she might know the name. And I don't want to end the magic yet… "Let's keep the mystery a little longer."

If I can't know her name… I want her close. Slowly, I curl my arm around her waist—giving her every opportunity to move away. But her eyes are on me and she lets me do it. I pull her close. "You can lean on me, you know." I say.

Please.

And she finally relaxes. And I tuck her under my chin. And she moulds herself against my chest—I hope she can't feel my heart beating out of my chest.

"Why are you being so nice to me?" She asks. She feeds me a chocolate square and I take it in my mouth.

"I don't know yet."

Because you feel right.

"When you do, you will tell me, right?" She asks cheekily.

And I chuckle. "Promise."

We spend the rest of the night—finishing off the beers. But her voice was getting softer and she's getting heavier and soon enough… she's fast asleep on my chest. And I don't move. I don't move because she might wake up and I don't want her to wake up. She looks fucking angelic and I wish I didn't forget my phone so I can take her picture.

Then I realize, I don't have her address.

Do I dare?

I can wake her up.

Or do I take her home with me?

I hold her in her arm and try to wake her. But she doesn't budge and just curls up some more.

Fuck. She's so fucking cute.

I gather our mess and put them back in the bag. And I carry her—she's lightweight. I put her on the bike and lean her against me as I take off her purse and put it into the bag too. But I feel it vibrate it in my hand.

Sighing—I take out her phone. It's flashing and 'Eric' is calling. I debate whether to answer it. But before I do—the call ends. And it starts to vibrate again.

This guy is really fucking annoying.

And I answer it. The first thing I hear is "Zelda?"

He talks some more but I don't give two shits. I end the call.

Zelda.

That's her name.

Zelda.

Zelda.

Zelda.

I take her home with me. I manage to park the bike at the basement and head off to the elevators where Simon—the elevator guy—beams at me as he sees me with Zelda in my arms. She's tucked safely under my chin.

"Morning, Sir." He's professional enough not to comment.

"Hi, Simon. Sorry, but what time is it?" I ask.

"Its almost two in the morning." Simon says as he presses the button for the top floor where I live. We ride in silence—interrupted only by Zelda stirring in my arms and whimpering so softly—like a cat. I hold her closer.

We reach my floor and I say goodbye to Simon.

I walk towards my door and her eyes flutter open. "Hey… hey…" I whisper as she panics slightly and I put her down on the ground. She rubs her eyes like a little child. "You awake?"

She nods and looks up at me—her eyes wide open. I take out my keys and open the door, leading her inside. She follows me and I slip off my shoes at the entrance. She does the same and I walk inside, flipping light switches.

Really, I am trying to act cool but she's in my apartment and my heat is pounding and I want her so bad and Zelda—Zelda—Zelda—the name is rolling around in my head.

"You didn't get to tell me your address, so I took you home." I apologised. I give her a quick tour. "That's the bathroom. That's the living room. You can take a shower first—I can lend you some clothes. Here is—"

I stop in my tracks when I realize that she's not following me.

I look back. She's still at the entrance.

And my heat stops at the sight of her. "You okay?" I ask. She's biting her lip and it hits me just right and I feel myself reacting.

She shrugs of my jacket and it falls to the floor. I am witnessing perfection in from of me and I remember how I kissed her back at the bar. I remember how good she felt against me. I remember her scent. I remember the feel of her hair on my fingers.

"Kiss me."

And I snap. I snap and I don't give a fuck anymore and she meets me and I lift her off her feet. I kiss her. I kiss her hard with her legs wrapped around my waist. I bring her to the countertop on the kitchen and I thread my fingers through her hair and I have to remind myself not to hurt her—don't be rough—don't hurt her.

She kisses me back fiercely and damn she tastes sweet. I explore every inch of that mouth with my tongue and my hands are gripping her tight as she fumbles with the buttons of my shirt.

I want this. I want this too. I want this bad.

I kiss her down to her jaw and suck at a spot on her neck and she pulls me closer to him with her legs. My arousal was hitting the fly of my jeans and it hurts but fuck I'm pressed against her and it's glorious.

She finally gets the buttons undone and rips the shirt from my torso. I help her—I want out of these clothes. I want to feel her skin against mine so I pull the straps of her dress down to her arms and her skin is so milky—inviting—I couldn't resist I bite her hard but stop because I don't want to hurt her.

She's moaning against my ear and it fuels me more and I want to tell her to stop because then I won't be able to stop—but no keep it going. I unzip her dress and unclasp her bra and remove them—flinging them out of the way. Her dress falls apart and pools at her waist and I force myself to take a step back.

Admire the view.

The view is perfect.

She's perfect—a goddess. I bite my lower lip because if I don't I might bite her instead and I don't want to hurt her. I want to make her feel good. Her fingers touch my bare chest and I groan at the contact—low rumbling in my throat. I inhale sharply as she traces the contours of my abs and I look into her eyes. She wants me.

I don't mind.

I want her too.

"Hey?" She whispers.

"You're beautiful." I tell her as I close the distance between us again. I crush her lips against mine and keep on kissing her—I feel her fingers reach the waistband of my jeans and I don't stop her. I help her take them off, kicking them off to the corner.

"Boxers." She mumbles against my lips and I smile against hers. I travel down to her neck and I realize it's not just her hair. She smells of lavender and vanilla everywhere and it reels me giddy at the thought of kissing her.

But first—first, I need to make sure. I need to make sure she wants this. Not that her participation is not consent enough. But I need to hear it. I need her to say it.

Panting, I press my forehead against hers as my hands gather her skirt and my fingers caress her thighs. I reach the hem of her panties. "Are you sure about this?" I groan.

Please say yes. Please say yes.

She nods. Not enough. "Say it." I kiss her again. Please say yes.

"I want you." She whispers in my ear.

And that does it. I tug her panties down and I throw it across the room. I don't give a fuck where it lands. She's here and she pulls me in for another kiss. I touch her. I touch her finally.

And she's warm and soft and so wet. And I tell her. I want her to know how fucking amazing she feels and she moans into my ear. I coax her into an orgasm. And she's so fucking responsive and she's writhing in pleasure. Her nails are digging and scratching at my back and I groan at the delicious pain.

I kiss her down her shoulders to her breasts and I take a nipple in my mouth greedily. She whispers 'yes' over and over again and I twirl my tongue in time with my fingers. She's flushed pink and her chest is heaving upwards into my face. I look at her. "Come for me."

And she shudders against my hand and I feel her. She clamps down hard on my fingers but I keep thrusting slowly, coaxing everything out of her. She pants as I kiss her. I kiss her slowly. "Ready?" I murmur against her lips.

I withdrew my fingers and lick them clean. She watches me do this. She's sweet and salty and I want her now.

"Please." She whispers.

I let her pull my boxers down and she holds me and it takes all of my self-control—everything I have—not to release right away. My arousal sprang free and she strokes it. It's so fucking sensitive. I groan and grit my teeth. I reach for her and pull her closer to the edge of the counter—slanting her beneath me.

I look into her eyes as I cover her fingers with mine and join her stroking. She gasps. I am so hard and so sensitive—it hurt almost. The desire rips me apart and I am on fire.

I line myself up at her entrance and just the tip—fucking fireworks. I manage not to thrust hard into her. She has no idea how much I want— need her right now. The promise of her heat and warmth and tightness makes me grit my teeth in anticipation.

"What's your name?" She asks suddenly.

"Why?" I ask almost harshly.

"So I know what to say when I moan."

I touch her with my manhood. And she gasps. She gasps loudly and she links her hands at my nape. Good. I rub myself on her wetness and fuck—yes. I stare into her eyes—breathing hard. She stares back. Unwavering. "Tell me," she pleads.

And I give in. I want her to say my name in that voice that sets me on edge. Say my name.

"It's Link."

And I bury myself in her. She opens up to me deliciously and I hold her gaze. Look at me. Focus on me.

"Link…" she whispers.

I almost come at the way she breathes my name out. I stay still but I'm throbbing with need. "Zelda…" I say as I try to calm myself. But I'm shuddering and I need to move and—"I can't." I blurt out. I pull out and sink into her folds again. Exquisite. I look into her eyes and I hope she forgives me for what I am about to do.

I can't.

I can't hold back any longer.

"Hold on." I warn her. And my name was on her lips again as she held on to me tighter.

That's right. Don't let go.

And I move. I thrust into her hard—relentlessly. I can't get enough of her as I gasp and groan in the exquisite agony of her—the feel of her around me. I hold her close. I hold her so close as I pound into her. I feel her bite me but it only makes me want more.

"Zelda," I groan out her name. She's flushed against me as I thrust into her deep—immediate—long strokes. I keep my pace. I want to go faster but any more will finish me off and no no no—not yet—not yet.

I want to feel her more. I want her writhing under me. I want her to beg for release. I want her to say my name again and again.

I feel her slipping and fuck this—I need more. I wrap an arm around her waist and lift her up. I press her against the wall and this is a whole new level of fucking sexy as she gasps and my name comes out of her mouth like a prayer.

I grind into her deep—she gasps and I smirk. Yes. That's all me. This is never-ending. I am insatiable. My breathing is heavy and I kiss every part of her I could reach. And I feel her tighten—her insides are clenching around me. She's so responsive. I know she's almost there. I press my forehead against hers as she clings on to me for dear life.

This is rough I know. But fuck there is no other way to get this over with. It's a need and a thirst that I'm not even sure if this is enough to quench it. Fuck, Zelda. Fuck.

She's going slack in my arms and I bring her back to the countertop. Her skirt is all bunched up around her waist and no—I want to see myself disappear inside her. I want to see how she takes all of me.

"I want to see all of you." I say and pull her dress up over her head. I kick my boxers off.

She nods and I see she's exhausted. Just wait a little bit more.

I pick her up and walk to my room. I set her on my bed and she whimpers when I accidentally get pulled out. And I know the feeling. I follow soon after on my knees and she takes me in again. "Don't go." I tease—whispering against her ear.

The bed was certainly more comfortable but that doesn't stop me. I started my pace again—deep and fast strokes. I don't think I can hold out for much longer. But one more. One more for her—then I can. I'm thrusting into her so hard her breasts are bouncing and I take one into my mouth.

"Link!" She cries out and it breaks me.

My fingers find her clit and I coax her gently—borderline rough. She's clutching the sheets beneath her as she thrashes around on the bed. "Again." I say. Please, Zelda. So I can come after you. She nods at me and I nod back. "Again."

And she does. She falls apart in front of me and that's it—that's it. I grabbed her thighs and thrusted into her fiercely and mercilessly—I taste blood in my mouth as I bite my lower lip in sheer and utter pleasure of it all. "Zelda!" I gasped and shuddered—emptying myself inside her—deep inside her.

Her legs go slack against my arms and I lower them to the bed. My forehead hits her shoulder as I plant a kiss on top of her breast.

"Link." She whispers.

"Zelda." I whisper back. I feel myself twitch and I remember the mess. I inhale and reach backwards to get some tissue from the bedside table. I clean myself up.

And I feel her eyes on me. And she looks deliriously sexy in the middle of my bed—thoroughly fucked. After me, I clean her up, wiping her down. Done, I pull back the covers and she slips in between them. I follow soon after.

Her warmth is missing from my skin and I pull her close, our noses almost touching. She's smiling at me. "Too rough?" I ask. I hope I didn't hurt her.

"No."

Her honesty continues to amaze me. Her lips are swollen from my kisses. I brush mine against hers softly this time.

"Link." She whispers.

"Hmm?" I grunt.

"Link…"

I get the feeling she's teasing me. "Yes?"

"Link…"

"Do you like my name that much?" I smile at her. She's damn adorable and cheeky.

"Maybe." Her eyelids are fluttering closed and she breathes deeply.

"You look exhausted." I don't blame her though. I kiss her forehead down to her eyes. I pull her closer.

"I want more." She whispers.

And that makes me laugh. I want more too. But—"Maybe when you're awake to enjoy it."

She nods sleepily and I tuck her under my chin. I stroke her hair. I remember she likes this. I remember she likes to be hugged.

"You remembered." She whispers.

"I remember everything." And I wait for her to fall asleep. This night has been wonderful. This girl in my arms… is wonderful. Her steady breathing lulled me to sleep. And everything is perfect. I do not want this moment to end.

Hmmm? -Mackenziiee