Sorry it's late. Work is catching up to me, winter is coming and I've been sick for the last three days. Time to turn the heaters on! My Asian butt cannot handle the coldness of Europe. -.-

Also, I'm a girl. :) Hello.

Disclaimer: I do not own Legend of Zelda.

It's a weekend and we're having breakfast. Ever since he finished shooting for Happiness, he has a lot more free time on his hands and is home almost every day. Today, he's dressed casually in a grey pullover and slacks. He's on his way to another photoshoot for Ziya.

"No boys." He tells me sternly as I laugh. He gets up to put our empty plates in the sink.

"What if… what if I see a really cute one?" I cross my legs and take a sip of my coffee.

He squints and smirks and walks toward me menacingly. I brace myself as he plants an arm on either side of me, trapping me effectively. I squeak and laugh as he nuzzles my neck repeatedly. He growls, "I'll just have to go down there and get you back." He kisses me lightly on the nose and his face is back to normal—grinning.

I slap him playfully across the arm as he takes my empty mug and puts it in the sink as well. "After your photoshoot, what's next?" I ask him.

He looks at me seriously. And I know that look.

Ever since the… incident… Articles erupted left and right about his 'rift' with Nicole. He told me about the meeting and agreed statement. He also told me how he'd be spending time with her to show off their 'friendship'.

The first thing in my mind is she's a bitch.

Yes. A bitch. I didn't get that wrong.

I know what she wants. And it's not just 'mending a friendship'. She wants Link for herself. I saw it with my own two eyes during the reading on how she clung to his arm and suggestively touched him 'casually'. But Sidon was quick to assure me. And I trust him. So far, they've gone on the Happiness party together. Her attempts at flirting with my boyfriend has been hampered by the ultimate cock block, Sidon. Pictures came out and Nicole just looked like a third-wheel between the two.

The bromance is real between those two. There was this one evening where I heard Link moaning outside in the living room when I got out of the shower. I thought he was watching porn. But I walked in on him with Sidon massaging his shoulders. I would have offered to do it myself but I ended up under his skillful fingers as well.

Anyway, the statement they've released is the one they've agreed on beforehand. That they were just friends who had a misunderstanding that was not related to Happiness at all. Of course the reporters are out for blood to know what the 'misunderstanding' is but Link took the blow and said that he wasn't prepared for the shoot that day that led to short tempers. Aside from the occasional cameo or dubbing, he doesn't have a regular schedule for it anymore.

And right now… He's looking at me with the same face he did when he told me about the results of the meeting with Nicole. I pretend to look stern and cross my arms. "What are you not telling me, Link?"

He scratches the back of his head and smiles at me sheepishly. "This photoshoot is with Nicole. I'm guessing she'll invite me to lunch or something afterwards." But he raises his hands to placate me, "daon't worry! Sidon will be there!"

I purse my lips as I see him visibly uncomfortable as he waits for my reply. I am playing with him. I trust him. "Good. But if you do something… then remember that I am… in the mall… with Mipha… and there'll be a looooot of cute boys around."

He laughs and kisses me briefly. "Yes, Ma'am."

Just then, the doorbell rings. I hop off the stool as Link goes back to the sink, rolling up his sleeves. I open the door to see Sidon who breaks into a huge smile at the sight of me. He gives me a bear hug.

"Morning, princess!" He has taken to calling me a princess since Daruk has mentioned it several times when we had dinner. I don't mind. It makes me smile anyway.

"Where you taking my man today, huh?" I ask him as he goes straight to the kitchen like he always does. I once made a joke that he should just move in since he's here all the time but he looked at me in horror saying that he trembles at the possibility of walking in on Link and I having sex.

It was a good argument.

"Ziya. Then prolly lunch with the B." He says as he opens the fridge to get some water.

Having Sidon is like having a big brother even though he's younger than me and Link. He calls Nicole the 'B'. I like that too. It's appropriate.

"How long do you have to keep this charade for?" I ask him as I hop back on my stool.

He rests his elbows on the kitchen counter and dramatically rolls his eyes. "Until Happiness series is over. For promotional shit and stuff. Can't say it's not working to our favour though."

Link is now more popular than ever since they started 'hanging out'. It's being good to his career.

"Are you sure you're not bothered by this?" Sidon asks me with squinty eyes.

I laugh. "Not really. I know you'll be there to keep watch for me." I know Link will not do anything out of line.

Sidon laughs. "She looks at me with daggers. She once tried to hold Link's hand—ended up with mine. It took her a full minute to realize it was me."

Link dries his hands on a kitchen towel and rests his elbows on the counter beside Sidon. "If we weren't at such a public place, you'd probably be dead by now."

Sidon snorts and punches him lightly. "You'd probably leave me there to die." But he looks at me expectantly. "You will dig me out, right?"

I raise an eyebrow at him as he waits for my response. "Hmmmm…" He leans forward with a big smile on his face. Link is chuckling beside him. "Fiiiine."

Sidon exclaims and glares at Link. "Ungrateful bastard." He whispers under his breath.

I giggle but Link just raises his hands in surrender. "I think it'd be better for me to go get my stuff." Sidon doesn't move but keeps on staring at him. Link backs away slowly. I cannot help but laugh at how hilarious this pair is.

Before leaving, Link stops in front of me and takes out his wallet from his pocket. With his card between his fingers, he waves it at me with a smile. "Here."

Okay. Wait. Hold up. What does he want me to do? "What's that?" He takes my hand and places it on my palm. But I balk immediately, "what's this for?"

He doesn't relent. "You're going shopping with Mipha, right?"

I nod slowly. "You do realise that this is exactly like what CEOs do in those romantic movie shit where he gives his girl his credit card so that she can buy whatever she wants?" Some girls might be offended by this. Some might be willing to go with it.

I cannot deny that I am more on the latter. Duh. An all expenses-paid shopping trip? Who doesn't want that? "Are you sure you can afford this?" I ask him challengingly.

But he chuckles and nods confidently. "Pretty much."

I take the card and trace the edge with my finger lightly. "You're not scared I'm going to bankrupt you?"

He shakes his head and laughs. But it's Sidon who answers from the door. "He's fucking loaded. Go crazy." He calls out.

Link winks at me and kisses me deeply for a minute that leaves me breathless. Running his thumb on my lower lip, he smirks. "Just go buy whatever you want. See you later, okay?"

I hear the door close behind them and I cannot help but sigh at how romantic that idiot can be. I'd prefer it if we went shopping together. But I know that's not possible. The incident that happened at the mall before has made him more cautious than before.

I have to remind myself that I am dating a celebrity. He's more famous than ever which makes it difficult for us to go outside together. Especially now that he's under heat because of the Nicole issue.

It takes time to get used to. But I'm getting there.

I step on the gas lightly and the car backs into the parking slot perfectly. I undo my seatbelt and check myself in the mirror. I stuffed my phone into my bag and hung it over my shoulder. I get out of the car and make sure it's locked before hurrying off to the entrance.

I spot Mipha outside a cafe. She's a vision in a dress. Her aviator shades are pushing her hair back as she waves at me beaming happily. "Zelda!" I give her a kiss before sitting across from her. She pushes a glass of iced coffee towards me and I sip it gratefully.

"Traffic?" She asks after a while.

But I shake my head. "Nah. I stopped by my house to get some of my stuff."

She looks at me curiously. "But I thought you and Link live together?"

I nod slowly. "Yeaah…"

"But you still have your own apartment?"

I nod again. Now it sounds wrong.

"Hmm…" She doesn't say anything but I know she's thinking of it.

"Should I let my place go?" I ask her slowly. She shrugs and crosses her legs. I know she's holding back from the expression on her face and I really want to know what she's thinking. "Tell me."

She sighs. "You and Link are a couple. Yes? What did he say about your own place?"

I shake my head. "Nothing, really."

"He asked you to move in. I think that's a sign that he's serious about you. And having your own place at the side…" She raises a perfectly sculpted eyebrow.

I exhale. "You think I should let it go?'

"What I think doesn't matter. But if I were you, I would. Moving in together is such a big step in your relationship." She looks at me quizzically. "First you date, then you get to know each other, then when things are finally getting serious, you move in." She raises a finger. "But you and Link didn't start out like that, yeah?"

I nod. "Things got serious real fast."

"Ohh I love juicy stuff. Link was determined to keep you from me the first few days. But I caught him with a hickey that one time. Tell me everything!"

Having a girl friend aside from Urbosa to tell everything to is such a nice change. And Mipha is very approachable. Since I have nothing to hide about my relationship with Link, I go on.

"We met at the bar—like I said before. Then we just ended up at each other's places. We were both eager to spend time together and since he's so busy with work, he offered that we move in together." I say as a quick summary.

"But he didn't say anything about you giving up your apartment?"

I nod.

"But will you?"

"I haven't really thought about it that much. But now… it does seem like a pain to be moving back and forth since most of my stuff is still there and half of it is at his place and…"

"Do you plan on breaking up?"

Her question stuns me. "Uhh—"

"Honestly, Zelda. I've known Link for quite a while. And he's… I can tell. Sidon and I can tell. That he's very serious about you. Serious to the point of dating you so hard he'll marry the shit out of you." She tells me confidently.

I blush. I've… never thought of that far down the road. "Uhmm…"

"You've never talked about marriage?" She looks at me with wide eyes.

I shake my head. "He's mentioned it in passing…" I remember the time when I told him about my father. And he said he'll marry me. But I don't think it was said seriously.

"In passing is better than nothing. How long have you been together?"

"A few months." My face feels hot. Mipha is not the type to back down from her questions just like Urbosa.

"That's not too long. But you guys are perfect for each other anyway." She takes another sip. "So are you going to let it go? No pressure. But if you do decide to let it go, I can take it from you. I'm kinda looking for my own place and I want to get away from Sidon."

I bite my lower lip. That's not really a bad idea. But I can't make a decision right now. "Lemme think about it, okay?"

But Mipha nods. "No pressure, silly." She beams at me. "So… ready to spend some money?"

I cannot help but contain my gasp. "Link actually gave me his credit card to use today."

Her eyes are wide as saucers. "That boy is certainly levelling up, I see." She giggles. "Better spend a lot then."

"But—but"

"No buts. Revali does the same with me. They like it. They can afford it. Link can definitely—he's fucking loaded. You worried he's buying your affection or something like that? Or that he'll think you're a gold digger?"

I don't agree. "Not really. It's just a little bit embarrassing. I have my own money. I'm not poor."

But Mipha takes my hand and squeezes it. "Neither am I. We are not charity cases. But we do have bigshots for boyfriends. Rule number one of staying rich as fuck is not to spend your own money. If he wants you to use his card, you'll use it. It's another way for him to 'take care' of you." She uncrosses her legs and leans forward.

"I just don't want him to think that I'm with him because of his money." I clarify.

"You didn't even know he was a celebrity when you started dating." She said.

I nod slowly. "Hmm… true."

"So don't worry about it. Let's just go buy lots of stuff today." Mipha leans back and finishes her drink.

I finish mine too and soon we're walking around. We're getting stares from a lot of people but Mipha walks briskly and carefree. Even when people stop to take candid pictures of her, she just takes my hand and ignores them. "I'm not as famous as Link but I do have fans here and there."

The first store we went to—I get the feeling that Mipha is taking advantage of the fact that Link has given me his card. She has me going in and out of the dressing room handing me dresses to try on. At first I am a bit shy but having a model dress you has some perks and I find myself having fun. Usually I just buy clothes online or go to stores knowing what I need and don't go around trying everything on.

"Twirl for me." She says as she peers at me over her shades. She's lounged casually on a couch as I stand in front of her wearing a white tube dress that comes down to my knees. I turn once on the spot.

Her face splits into a wide smile as she nods. "Let's take that as well."

I end up buying five articles of clothing from that store and that's just the first. Mipha leads me to a cosmetics store and she looks over the makeup counters, choosing shades and lipsticks and different coloured shadows.

The next one has me feeling a little bit embarrassed but Mipha forces me into some lingerie with sheer stockings held up by little garter straps. She whistles when I finally come out of the dressing room.

I've never worn lingerie before but this is a different kind of experience. Having Mipha around helps. She's encouraging and determined and does not take no for an answer.

"Link will drool at the sight of you." She exclaims. My butt has never felt more violated with a thin piece of string wedged between the cheeks. But when I see myself in the mirror...

I look sultry and wanton and I feel fucking sexy. I can totally imagine Link looking at me with his intense eyes and the sure possibility of him ravaging me has me bursting into redness. Mipha doesn't fail to notice this as she takes a pair for herself.

As I get out of the set, Mipha hands me another one. It's almost the same style but with thin straps crisscrossing at the back and lace all over. I've never really paid attention to my breasts but I know Link loves them. Half-cups cover my mounds with the threat of my nipples peeking out. I make sure they're tucked safely inside the cups before I get out of the dressing room.

Mipha squeals as she sees me. Before I could stop her, her hands are under my breasts weighing them and I stutter—but she just beams at me and it takes me a moment to adjust to the foreign feeling. But she goes around me and says —"with your skin… let's get this one in black."

I nod sheepishly as she sends me back inside.

I escape Agent Provocateur with more lingerie than I can wear in a year. Laden with bags, we thank the salespeople who are beaming at us. The fact that Mipha is a known model doesn't go amiss as she agrees to take some photos with them before leaving.

If shopping was in the Olympics, Mipha would be right there at the top. I follow her next into a shoe store.

I don't wear heels much since I prefer the comfort of trainers. But this shopping high that Mipha has me on makes me want killer heels.

Not to mention… the vivid image of Link fucking me in my fuck-me shoes has me wanting more. Mipha leads me to a store famous for being expensive and classy as hell. Like a woman on a mission, she surveys the racks and picks up the shoes. A salesperson follows her taking them from her hands. She dictates sizes and I don't question how she knows mine.

Another salesperson offers me a seat and I take it gratefully. I watch as Mipha fingers a rose-gold pump, comparing it with black lace stiletto. Just then my phone rings and keeping an eye on her, I take it out of my bag to see Link's name on the screen.

Smiling to myself, I answer it.

"How's shopping?" His voice is sexy at the end of the line.

"Tiring." I answer honestly.

"Most things with Mipha are." He chuckles. "I'm glad you're using it."

I know he means the card. I giggle as I answer, "Mipha almost whooped me when I tried to pay with mine."

I hear him sigh in relief and I know he's smiling. "Go crazy. I don't mind."

"At this rate, I might bankrupt you by the end of the day." I warn him.

He chuckles. "You can come home with a new car and I still wouldn't mind."

Mipha sits down next to me. She nods and leaves me be, waiting for the salesperson to come out with the correct sizes.

"Don't blame me if I come home with two."

But he just laughs and then I hear Sidon's voice at the background. "I gotta go. Photoshoot is almost over then lunch. I can pick you guys up when I'm done, yes?"

"Sure." I say with a big smile. The possibility of seeing Link earlier than usual has me excited. I end the call to the approach of the salespeople with a tower of shoeboxes and MIpha clapping excitedly beside me.

I end up with new nude pumps 'for work' even though I told Mipha that I work from home almost all the time. I also have sky-high stilettos that will likely end up with me dislocating my ankle but I didn't get much say in it because Mipha said it'll be for our next night out. I'd probably end that night in crutches. But the heels look damn sexy and the image of Link licking his lips at the sight of me gives me shivers.

Our arms are laden with bags and the straps are cutting into my skin. Mipha drags me into a cafe where we flop down on soft armchairs with sighs of relief. She crosses her legs and fans her face. "Shopping is an extreme sport."

I laugh but share the same sentiment. "Yes. I don't know if I can keep up with you. We've been at it for almost four hours."

She nods. "It's just getting me excited. Shopping with Sidon or Revali is not this fun."

"What do you want to drink?" I ask her as I put all the bags on an empty chair. She sighs and squints at the menu. "Hmmm…. A caramel macchiato. Thank you!"

I nod and go towards the counter. I check my watch. It's almost lunch time but a quick coffee break would be fine. As I stand in line and check the menu at the top of the counter, someone bumps into me and I stumble forwards.

Strong hands grasp my arms as I squeal in surprise and still myself.

"Apologies, I wasn't paying attention."

I look up to see red hair and strong-featured face with tan skin. He's not old… but he's not young either. He's very muscled—even more so than Sidon. His suit is obviously bespoke. He lets me go once I get myself upright and gives me a smile. He's wearing a dark suit and is holding on to a tablet. Usually, I am a good judge of character. And what I'm feeling from this guy is not bad but not good either. But I thank him.

"I'm really sorry that I bumped into you. Please, allow me to buy your drinks for you." He says in a deep voice.

I take a step back and shake my head. I can still feel his strong grip around my arms and I feel… wronged… Even when he didn't really touch me inappropriately. "No, it's okay. You didn't do it on purpose."

His phone rings. And I am grateful. He gives me another creepy smile. Soon enough, it was my turn and the barista beams at me. "Can I take your order?"

"Yes. One caramel macchiato please. And an iced latte. Grande for both."

She punches in some numbers. "How would you like to pay?"

I fish inside my bag for my wallet. "By card."

But when I look up, the same guy who bumped into me is beside me, pressing his own to the barista's hand. "Drinks on me as an apology."

Before I could stop the barista, she swipes it and gives it back with a smile. I look at him uneasy, "Thank you. But you didn't have to do that." I am slightly annoyed at his boldness. I take the receipt and walk towards the counter where they serve the drinks. He follows me.

"I told you I would."

"And I told you it is not necessary." I almost snap.

"I meant no offence. I just wanted to make it up to you." He is looking at me intently. And I am getting uncomfortable under his gaze. "I feel like I've seen you before. Are you a model?" He asks curiously.

But I shake my head. "Is that a pick-up line?"

He laughs aloud, waving his hands. "Oh no. Trust me, Miss, I am not trying to pick you up. That was a legitimate question."

I . Fine. Maybe I am being a bit too hostile to the stranger. But I still can't shake the sense of foreboding that he comes with. "No. I am not a model."

The next answer usually is 'you should be' or something along that line. But he just nods. "Interesting." His phone rings again and he takes it briskly. "Yes? Hmm. Still here…"

I look away just in time to see the barista handing me my orders. I take them both in each hand. The guy tries to catch my eye but I say a quick goodbye and thanks and hurry back to Mipha who is on her phone.

I settle down quickly in my chair and hand Mipha her drink. She looks at me. "Why the rush?"

I roll my eyes. "There's this guy. He bumped into me and insisted that he pays for the drinks as an apology. Even when I said no, he swoops in and literally hands the barista his card. Pushy bastard I am not that helpless."

"Fuck the patriarchy." Mipha agrees. "Which one though?"

I look over around the cafe but the red hair is nowhere to be seen. Hmmm.., "He must have left when he had a phone call."

I take my drink and sip it—still feeling slightly annoyed. But Mipha smiling and talking about the other stores we're about to hit distracts me. Soon enough I forget the guy with dark red hair and creepy smile.

We spend some more time relaxing in the cafe. Link asks where I am and I answer his text. A few minutes later though, I spot Sidon walking in with a big grin on his face.

And my Link in the perfect disguise. He's wearing a cap with glasses on. Even in a plain t-shirt and dark jeans, he still looks like walking on a runway. I get up from my seat as he smiles at me sexily, his blue eyes twinkling.

Arms around my waist, I let him kiss me and hold me. "Missed you." He whispers.

I cannot get enough of his antics. His clinginess is off the charts and we're in public. But nobody's looking and right now, frankly, I don't care. "How was lunch?"

He lets me go to give Mipha a brief hug and then sits down beside me. But its Sidon who answers, "the B had another place to be."

I nod as Link surveys the sea of bags at our feet. I blush automatically. "It's not what you think!" I say hurriedly—hyper-aware of the fact that all my purchases were made on his card—but he did say that I could fucking use it and I just did what he said and really why do I feel so fucking guilt—

"I gave a member of the female population my credit card. I'd be stupid to not expect this." He winks and grins at me. I relax considerably at the expression on his face. "I did say go crazy."

"I got you some surprises in there, Link." Mipha interrupts. Sidon raises his eyebrows, "interesting."

But Link is busy looking at the names on the bags and when he spots the lingerie one, he picks it up in his long fingers and I'm not sure if I should feel nervous or embarrassed or confident. All I know is my face feels hot and fuck—he's peeking inside.

He puts the bag down slowly and smirks at me. "Can't wait."

Mipha and Sidon burst out laughing and I hit him on the arm. He yelps comically as he grabs my wrists to try and calm me down. The heat on my face won't go away but he leans over the armrest and kisses me on the cheek repeatedly.

I relent okay. I do. He's fucking adorable.

"You two are so cute." MIpha gushes.

I cannot help but smile as Link grins and takes my hand, squeezing it. "This feels nice though. Like a date."

"I like your disguise. You look like you're actually smart." Mipha says.

Sidon grins. "Those are actually Lila's glasses. She helped with the disguise."

"Any more work today?" I ask him.

He shakes his head. "We can go on a date. I can go shopping with you guys."

Mipha claps her hands. "Great! Finally. Someone to carry our stuff."

But Sidon groans. "Link. You know this is a bad idea, right?"

Link is grinning. "Better put those biceps of yours to good use."

I am putting all the purchases in the closet. Half of it has been cleared for my stuff and some of Link's clothes that he rarely uses were now put in storage. I grow emotional at the sight of our clothes together. In the middle of the room is a glass case where his accessories are. He's cleared a few drawers for me too and I arrange my newly bought jewellery alongside his watches and cuff links.

He's done so much to make me feel welcome in his place. The previous room he showed me before is now my office. Apparently, he ordered furniture and they were set up on the day we had a fight. He also had another shelf put in the bathroom for my products.

This brings me back to the conversation I had with Mipha earlier—about letting go of my apartment. Little by little, if I pay attention, I notice the changes. And… It's not bad. I like it. I am more convinced that the decision to completely move in with him is a good idea. I'd just have to talk to him about it.

I know he'll be ecstatic about the news. Smiling to myself, I hurry up and finish putting away my stuff. The shopping trip earlier ended up with Sidon begging Mipha not to buy the whole mall. Link was not much help either as he's equally up for buying me everything that Mipha has deemed 'pretty' and 'suitable' and 'will look good on you, Zelda!'

As I pick up the lingerie from the last bag, I know I shouldn't be feeling embarrassed. But I do and I feel myself blush again. I remember the look he gave me when he peeked inside the bag and I bite my lip. The man is fucking insatiable and the lingerie will come in handy when I need it. I tuck it in a corner of my underwear drawer and straighten up with a sigh—I look around making sure that everything is in order. Gathering the tags and discarded bags, I put them in the trash and walk out of the closet to see Link walking into the bedroom with a lazy smile on his face.

He's ditched the 'disguise' that did nothing to hide his hunk-ness. He walks towards me barefoot with his arms outstretched. He hugs me close and I feel him kiss the top of my head. "You done?"

I nod as I wrap my arms around his waist. He smells of the usual cinnamon and cigarettes, a smell I've come to recognise as home. I look up at his face as he cups my cheeks. "Link."

"Hmm?" He raises his eyebrows, still smiling down at me.

"I was thinking… that I should let go of my apartment." I say hurriedly before I chicken out.

It takes him a moment but his smile gets wider and he grins at me. "I like that."

"I mean… I think it's time. I'm still paying rent on it and… there's plenty of space here—not that I assumed—but I was thinking—actually Mipha and I talked about it—"

He kisses me hard, the words are caught in my throat. His lips are warm and demanding and I can feel him smiling. I melt in his arms for as long as he kisses me and breathe hard when he pulls back.

"I've actually thought about that. But I didn't want to pressure you into a decision." He says as he pinches my cheeks.

I yelp but cannot help but smile. "So we'll stay… here? Or do we get another place?"

He looks around. "I think this is big enough for both of us. You can redecorate the place however you wish."

I look at him cheekily. "It does look like a bachelor's pad. Maybe I should add some pinks and yellows. Repaint the kitchen cabinets purple or something. Add some huge cacti in the living room and get a pet iguana."

He doesn't hesitate but nods incessantly. "Yes to everything. Bring in unicorns for all I care." He kisses me again as he lifts me off my feet and I let myself get swept away. "This is a big step that we should celebrate."

"Celebrate?!" I exclaim.

But he puts me down on the bed giggling. He smiles at me from above as he plants his hands from either side of me. Leaning forward, he starts to trail kisses from my forehead down to my lips. I kiss him feverishly as he responds to me, tasting me from within. His hand starts to tangle through my hair as he pulls ever so slightly and tilts my head back, exposing my neck.

I feel electric and tight as I feel the tip of his tongue trace the column of my throat down to my collarbones. I inhale sharply as he sucks at that spot just where my neck merges into my shoulder. "Link…" I breathe out.

He loves it when I say his name. And I know he's smiling against my skin right now as he pulls the neckline of my shirt lower, threatening to stretch it out. "I can take it off…" I whisper. But he shakes his head. "It's like unwrapping a present."

"Then I should have worn the lingerie." I tell him.

But he pulls back and presses his forehead against mine, smirking at me. "That wouldn't last. I'd rip that thing apart." As if to make his point, he presses his knee against my centre and I yelp as it comes into contact. "So responsive, hm?"

I blush under his words as he bends over and starts nipping at my neck. I hold him close, sighing and relaxing in his arms.

Just then—the doorbell rings and we both jump in surprise. He chuckles menacingly but curses under his breath. "Fucking Sidon."

I snap out of the whirlwind of emotions and pleasure I've been feeling as I sit up and giggle. He stands straight up and runs a hand through his hair—looking pissed. I cannot help but laugh at his obvious disappointment as he straightens his shirt and readjusts his pants to hide his obvious bulge.

He leaves the room in a huff to answer the door where Sidon is pressing the doorbell incessantly.

"Did I just ruin the sex for you?" I hear Sidon hollering from outside the bedroom.

I giggle as I get off the bed and fix myself up.

"Fuck you, Sidon." Link growls as I hear what suspiciously sounds like a pillow landing on Sidon's face.

"Oi! Princess, I just saved you from imminent danger!" Sidon says aloud.

Laughing to myself, I come out of the bedroom to see Sidon cowering before Link who's glaring daggers at him. They're circling the kitchen counter where I can see that Sidon has brought dinner.

"Go get a fucking girlfriend and stop living here." Link growls.

But Sidon just laughs and waves his hands to placate him. "You're the one who didn't want me to get one! Neh, Link? Maybe you like me?"

That earns him another string of curses and I laugh loudly as I enter the kitchen. They both look at me distracted as Sidon rushed over to me and attempts to hide behind me, pointedly shaking at Link. "Save me!"

But Link looks even angrier than before. "Let. Her. Go."

Sidon squeals uncharacteristically for a grown muscular man as Link advances and starts to hit him.

I politely move out of the way and duck towards the bags of food. "Play nice, you two."

Nursing an injured arm, Sidon dramatically whimpers, hobbling over to the counter where Link follows behind triumphantly. He smirks at me and kisses me briefly before opening the fridge.

"Zelda doesn't mind that I'm here that often." Sidon sulks.

I don't say anything. I'm neutral and all for this bromance.

"Besides, Mipha is away all the time. I'm practically married to my job." He points at Link who glares back. "You're practically my girlfriend now. Always fetching you, bringing you food, driving you everywhere."

I nod slowly. "Makes sense."

Sidon slams his hand down the counter in victory. "See! Even Zelda agrees!"

"As long as you don't sleep with him. Please." I say with a smile at Sidon who cringes in horror. Link does too beside me. He gags and visibly shudders.

"Let's be real here. That wouldn't be realistic." Sidon frowns.

I shake my head before I start imagining it. "Okaaaay. That I don't want in my head. But thank you for bringing dinner, Sidon."

"No problem." He says with a wink.

Link sits down beside me and we start eating.

I wake up groggily. My phone is ringing and my hand wanders over to the bedside table. Link shifts beside me, mumbling, "Zeldaa…" He whispers burying his face in my neck.

I miss a couple of times but finally, I grab hold of the phone and without looking at who it is, I press it to my ear. "Hello?" My voice cracks with sleep and I can feel Link starting to kiss me sleepily, his arousal pressed upon my thigh. "Who is it?" He asks huskily.

"Zelda."

The voice jolts me awake as I gasp silently and go rigid. Link notices as he pulls back and rubs his eyes.

"What do you want?" I say almost harshly.

I see Link's eyes go wide. I can tell that he knows who it is.

"We need to meet. This has gone on long enough."

I sigh heavily as Link holds me close, offering me comfort. Clutching his shoulder as he peppers me with kisses at my jaw and neck, I try to keep my voice steady. "What is it this time?"

"Just hear me out. Come to HyHo and let's talk like adults."

The term adults strikes a chord with me. I feel Link trying to distract me—keeping me in check. And maybe… Maybe…

I think that it's time.

"Fine. I'll be there at 2."

"Thank you."

The call ends again. I sigh heavily and put the phone back on the table. Link pulls back momentarily to lock eyes with me. He looks concerned and flushed from sleep. "Your dad?"

I nod in confirmation.

He kisses me softly. "What did he want?"

"To meet."

He doesn't say anything as his hand slips underneath my shirt—well, his shirt that I've taken to wearing at night—and his thumbs caress my nipples. I react automatically, gasping. "You going?"

I nod slightly. Very slightly.

"Want to talk about it?" He asks.

I…

"Yes."

Like a switch, he pulls his hand back and for a moment I regret it. But he smiles and pulls me close. "Tell me."

Nestled in his arms, I take a deep breath. "There's a part of me… that I hate." He continues to stroke my hair. "I run away. I'm a runner. When I get scared… or threatened… I run away. Like the thing with my father…" I sigh. "And what I did to you… It actually got me thinking… that I should stop doing that. You're my boyfriend. We're both adults. And we're in this together. I should have… come home back then and talked it out with you."

I feel his lips on my forehead. "I thought that's over between us now. I don't blame you for running."

I shake my head. "I know. I just… I wanted to say it. So… I'm decided. I will talk to my father. I have to talk to him. I can't keep running and hiding from him." I look up at him. "And I'm sorry again for walking out on you that day. I promise I will never do that again."

I see his eyes change colour if it's even possible. He smiles at me—a sad one. "I'm actually afraid of that. That night at the couch, that's when I knew that you hold me at the palm of your hand. You have the power to break me anytime you want. But I still trust you no matter what."

I… am at a loss for words. I know what I did back then is unforgettable. But… "Then I'll just have to spend the rest of my life making it up to you."

Overcome with emotions, he kisses me hard and passionately. I let him. Panting hard as we pull apart, he smiles at me again. "You are the best thing that's ever happened to me. And if you want to stop running, I'll help you."

I nod happily. "I just… I took a chance with you—being open and all. And I want to do that with other things as well."

He grins and pats my hair down. I probably look like a squid with my bed hair. "Okay. Then I'll take you to HyHo. After that I'll take you out. Sounds good?"

I bite my lip and nod. "Yes, please."

"I need a proper disguise." He winks at me before getting off the bed. I watch his muscled and toned back into the bathroom until he turns and beckons to me. "Coming?"

I knew he hasn't gotten over being aroused. Licking my lips, I nod and follow him.

We arrive at the huge building in the middle of the city that towers over everything else. I feel nervous… It's been a long time since I've been here. It's unrecognisable and familiar at the same time.

Link drops me off with several kisses and a big smile even though I know he's worried about me. He says he'll wait at the cafe across the street. I walk through the glass doors by myself.

It's a weekend so there's not much people around. I am determined to come out of this strong and confident. I will not let him bully me too much. As I walk through the lobby, I spot Numar.

Numar is my father's personal assistant. I don't hate him. But I don't like him either. When he sees me—as he's obviously waiting for me—he gives me a curt nod.

"Lady Zelda. It's been too long."

"Just Zelda." I cringe at the term 'lady'. Where are we anyway? The fucking medieval times?

"Miss Zelda." He corrects himself as he looks at me over his glasses. "The Chairman is waiting for you."

He leads the way to the private elevator and I follow him with my heart pounding. We stand side by side as we travel to the topmost floor. The silence is slightly awkward though I know Numar not to speak unless spoken to. I've known him my whole life. He's been to more family dinners and functions than my father himself.

We get off the elevator with a ping and I follow him into my father's office. Every step feels like a death sentence. I haven't laid eyes on the old man ever since I left. Even through my anger at him, I am curious as to what he looks like now.

We reach the double doors. The blood is rushing to my head but I take a deep breath and stay calm. I am not going to run away anymore. Numar opens the door for me and I step inside, the carpet muffling the sounds of my new pumps.

Keeping my head high, I walk in to see my father sitting behind his impressive mahogany desk. He looks up at me with a smile and stands, holding out his hand.

What? Do I fucking shake it? Is this how you meet your estranged daughter for the first time in a long time?

I touch it gingerly.

"Zelda… Thank you for coming." He says in that voice I know so well.

"I can't say I am pleased to be here." I sit down and look at him properly. He's aged. His hair is fully white now and he's grown this full beard that makes him look even more intimidating. He clasps his hand in front of him and I know he's studying me as well.

"You're more beautiful than ever." He says. "You look more like your Mother with every passing day."

"This would go smoother if you don't mention her." I say.

He sighs exasperatedly. I can tell he disapproves of my behaviour. I smile triumphantly inside. He waves to Numar who nods and leaves the room. I don't talk and neither does he. Numar comes back with tea.

Fuck the tea. But I drink it anyway.

"It's been a long time. When did we last… see each other?" I know he's grasping at straws at how to communicate with me. I am making it deliberately harder for him to do so

"Five years." I say. I can still remember the shock on my face when I saw him at my graduation. He had given me flowers but I flatly refused his offer of a celebratory dinner.

The silence dragged on and we're just staring each other down. Finally, I clear my throat. "What do you want?"

The harsh tone of my voice makes him flinch but he recovers quickly. He inhales deeply. "I was hoping that our meeting would be much more pleasant than this. I guess that's out of the picture."

I almost roll my eyes. "Why did you call me here then?"

"It's about the company."

"I told you, I don't want—"

"I am sick."

His statement throws me off guard. It takes a moment for it to sink—what he's saying. My voice comes out in stammers. "Wha…what?"

"I'm sick." He says again.

I feel something else in my chest. But… "What kind of sick?"

"The kind that has a deadline."

I stare at my father's eyes. He looks at me sternly. Even though I have despised him for the last ten years… I cannot help… is this sadness? Disappointment? What's this?

"I would have to go back home… to get treatment. And I need you to take over the company until I get back."

It feels like the walls I've built around myself have come crashing down. I am at a lost for words—torn between anger because I hate him, disappointment at myself because I let this cold war drag on for too long, sadness… because now I might have to lose my father too?

"How long… have you known… that you're sick?" I ask quietly.

"Five years."

The graduation… He's begged me to come to the dinner. Did he mean to tell me then? I feel tears threatening to spill out as I gulp. "What else… do you need from me?" I fear that if I say anything more than three words… I'd trip and say something I don't want to.

"The treatment… it will take a long time… a year at most. I am asking you to set aside our differences and do it for the company if not for me." He still speaks in the same emotionless tone. "Will you do it?"

Will I?

I know how much he loves this place. He's loved it more than me or my mother. And he will not entrust it to anyone just like that. That… That is the reason I am here. That… is the reason he's been trying to reconnect with me. My father and I… we haven't learned how to speak to each other. My heart is pounding even louder. I feel numb. I nod.

"Thank you. What about… your job?"

I shake my head. "I'll resign." A year would be too long for a leave of absence.

"You are very capable, Zelda. You've been trained for this." He says.

I remember all the lessons I've had when I was young. About the numerous tutors and endless hours of studying. I remember the boring meetings I was forced to attend. I remember how he has honed me for my future of taking over the company. The Management Engineering course I took in college will finally be put to good use.

"Numar will be joining me back at home. But I have an assistant for you that will help you. He will be here soon so you can meet him then." He continues.

I am still processing the news about his sickness but he's already glossed over it. I snap back to attention and focus on what he's saying. This is all going too fast.

"There are some deals with other companies that I need to wrap up. But moving forward, you will be handling everything else. Also, I am handing over my little pet project to you."

It rings a bell. "Pet project?"

"I have hired an exclusive endorser. You must have heard of him. His name is Link. All advertisements and endorsements covered by HyHo will be done by him." He looks over a piece of paper on his desk.

The mention of Link makes my heart skip a beat.

"With my absence… we need to raise the company's morale. And so far, Link is doing well." He continues.

I bow my head and allow myself a little smile. I hear shuffling papers. I look up to see him opening a folder when suddenly he coughs. I am halfway out of my seat when he raises his hand to stop me. "I'm fine." He croaks.

Numar approaches quickly and hands him a napkin and I see blood before he crumples it immediately.

It's real. I hd an inkling earlier that the sickness might be a ruse to pull me back in. But no. It's real. I feel the anger taking a seat back and sadness is dominating. But…

"There are…" He composes himself. "some things that we would need to talk about. So if you could come over tomorrow, Numar can start teaching you everything you need to know."

I nod again. I want to say something but I can't form the words stuck in my throat. Just then there was a knock on the door. Numar excuses himself to open it. I hear muffled footsteps on the carpet and I get to my feet, turn around—just to be fucking surprised.

The man I met in the cafe.

He's looking at me bewildered and I'm sure I have surprise on my face too. "You…"

"You know each other?" My father asks.

I shake my head. "No. I just… I've seen him before at a cafe."

"Yesterday, Chairman. I bumped into her." He says with a smile. The same smile that he gave me at the cafe. The one that I don't really like.

"Oh. Then. Introduce yourself." My father says.

Numar backs up and the guy extends his hand to me. I take it a little bit hesitantly. "I'm—"

"Zelda Euphegenia Fitzgerald Hyrule. I know. It is very nice to meet you." His voice is like honey—the kind that draws you in but sends shivers down your spine.

"Oh." I gasp at his sudden outburts. He grips my hand tightly. "I hope we can work together very well. I am here to serve you in any way possible."

"Yes. And what should I call you?" I ask.

He smiles at me widely. "You can call me Ganon."

—Mackenziiee