First: Sorry about the late update. I spent most of Christmas catching up on shows and just some self-care shit. Also, sorry about the confusion. Yes, the last chapter was in Ganon's POV. And as requested—this one would be in Link's. Thank you for your reviews. I loved them. Tell me what you think about this one, k?
And this is a list of scenes I owe and/or thinking about:
beach scene (I think I suggested this in one A/N)
I highlighted Link's interest in martial arts and stuff like that before. So watch out :D
I see a suggestion over there *wink wink* Another pairing hmmm. Let's see.
**Also, I just realised that I made a mistake. I named Nicole's manager as Numar. And that is also the name of Rhoam's personal assistant. Hmmm. I'd have to rename one of them. From now on, Nicole's manager would be Christian because that is the first name off of the top of my head. :D. I will have to remember to make some edits.
If you're into poetry and other stuff, catch me on Commaful! :) Username is turtling. See you there! Also, talk to me on Discord (link on my profile). I made a channel. You can tell me some suggestions you have and any direct feedback on my chapters. It'll be easier for me to reply to all of you and hound me for updates. I don't mind. I need a little push every now and then. Also, if you're interested in some collaborative work. I need people to proofread my stuff too. (I just reread everything and I can see a loot of mistakes here and there.). If you join me there, you get updates even before the chapter gets released *wink wink*
To everyone: Einen guten Rutsch ins neue Jahr!
Disclaimer: I do not own Legend of Zelda.
She's trembling with anger. I can feel her shaking as I hold her in my arms. I would be too but that wouldn't do both of us any good. Sh's on the phone with her assistant and this is the first time I've heard her say anything in a threatening voice. Honestly, even I am shaken. She's taken the situation and made it completely hers.
"Sue them. Sue them all." She said although in a broken voice that is more of anger than despair. "Sever all ties with Nicole Masaki."
The threat in her voice sends shivers down my spine and now I feel like my frustration on the whole thing is invalidated as she takes it for herself. I woke up groggily to the sound of the television—like someone just said my name calling me a damn cinnamon. I opened my eyes and came to my senses to hear that I was engaged to Nicole Masaki. That bitch. I am aware that Zelda is beside me and I turned off the TV before they could say any more lies. I grabbed her and hoped like fucking hell she knows it's a lie.
"I want her destroyed." She hangs up the call and for a moment—I am scared shitless. Do I speak? What the fuck do I say? I do not let go. She takes several deep breaths and I… tentatively, hold her by the chin to make her look at me. Her face is red and flushed.
"Are you mad at me?" I ask in a soft voice.
She looks into my eyes and I feel like I am being searched. She shakes her head. "Not at you." I lean towards her and kiss her. Her lips are cold but I warm them up and she responds. "Not at you." She repeats under her breath when I let her go.
She's stopped shaking. "I'm sorry." My apologies probably mean nothing but I say it anyway.
"Right now, you are under HyHo's care—my care. I'll handle this. Sidon must be back soon." She says after a while. She's finally calmed down a bit compared to her anger earlier. And she's gone pliant in my arms as she leans on my shoulder. "Dating a celebrity is hard."
I bite my lip. She's voicing out my concerns early on in the relationship. The Scene 82 incident… has resurfaced and again, I am afraid that she'll run away. But she stayed this time. And I cannot be even more relieved. "And?"
"And from now on, you'll have to let me take care of you." She says as she buries herself at the crook of my neck. My hand is splayed against the small of her back and I pull her closer.
"How?"
"Full security detail." She says.
In other situations… I would have rejected it. But if this is what she needs to feel secure, I am willing to let it go. And if she's the one suggesting it, then it means she's fine with the exposure it will come with, right? "Okay." I agree.
"Is that okay with you?" She asks after a moment.
I nod. "Anything you need."
She looks up at me and I give her a brief kiss. "I love you." This makes her break into a small smile. One moment she's fucking fierce. The next, she's as cute as a puppy—vulnerable.
"I knew she had her eyes on you. I knew it." She hisses indignantly.
I cannot help but laugh a bit. I knew it too. What I didn't know was that it was to this extent. "You know she's not going to get me, right?"
She rolls her eyes and I have to contain my laughter. "Won't stop her from trying though."
"You serious about… destroying her?" I ask. She shifts her weight and straddles my hips. I link my hands behind her as she cocks her head to the side. The fierceness has dissipated but only a little bit.
"That's what you get when you come after what is mine." She growls.
My chest swells as I try to stop from smiling. She's jealous and being possessive. I love it. I know she's not serious about the 'destroying' part. But I can guarantee that Nicole's bankability will plummet. If I remember correctly, her projects are mostly under HyHo… She'll lose a lot. I'm sure if Nicole knew that my girlfriend IS HyHo, she won't even think about doing this in the first place.
The door opens abruptly and we are both startled at Sidon's loud voice. "BITCH, YOU THOUGHT?!" Zelda doesn't even try to get off my lap and I hold her close as Sidon storms into the living room. He's red in the face, clutching a newspaper in his hand. He brandishes the cover at us—"does she think she can get away with this?!"
Zelda takes the newspaper as Sidon collapses on the chair beside us with a huff. "I got a call from Mipha." He explains. We both scan the front cover with a huge photo of the one that they just showed on television. It's a really nice angle—the timing is perfect. Props to the one who took it. I toss it to the coffee table as Zelda moves off from my lap but still holds on to my hand.
"What are we going to do?" Sidon sighs heavily.
"I already called Ganon. We're going to sever all ties with the B." She says as she picks up her phone.
"Good. I knew it! She was fishy when she suggested the being friends and seen together thing. Now we know what she's really after." Sidon agrees.
"Shouldn't we call her now?" I ask.
But Sidon shakes his head. "We should. But she broke our agreement. Also, I'm going to be petty as fuck. I don't want to."
"We'll get the lawyers to do it. Sue her for slander and being a bitch." Zelda mutters from beside me. I cannot wipe the smile off my face even though I know this is a serious matter. "And because she's coveting what is mine." She adds as an afterthought.
"Damn that bitch. She doesn't know what's coming, right?" Sidon fishes out his phone from his pocket. It has started to ring and he shows me the screen. Nicole's manager, Christian, is calling. He doesn't answer and we both wait for the call to end. A few seconds later, it rings again. "We all know what he's going to say, huh?"
I nod. "Probably something along the lines of 'it got out of hand' and 'let's talk about what to do next'."
"No negotiations." Zelda snaps.
Sidon nods. "Yes, boss."
This time, it's Zelda's phone that rings. She answers immediately. "Ganon." Then pushes a button to put him on speaker. "Sidon is here too."
"Sidon. Link. Hello."
"Yow." Sidon greets from beside me.
"Lady Zelda, I have already talked to our lawyers and they are drafting the claim as we speak. I will have it on your desk first thing tomorrow."
Sidon lets out a low whistle. "Thanks, Ganon." I say.
"You're welcome, Mr. Link. Then Lady Zelda, if that is all?"
"That's all. Thanks." She ends the call.
Sidon looks at both of us. "Guns out, Princess Z." He smirks. She puts the phone back down on the table and Sidon looks at us quizzically. I think I know what he wants to say. "There's an easier way to solve this, you know." He says, looking at me directly.
Zelda shifts beside me. "Hmm."
"We can counter the announcement with one of our own." He continues. "We can release the news about… you two."
I look over at her. Her lips are pursed as she looks at me too. I actually think it's a good idea. I mean, the main reason we were keeping it under wraps is that her father might find out when she's so keen on hiding herself from his radar. I don't say anything.
"All in due time." She answers. "I've thought about it too. But I want to get rid of the B first."
I try to hide my smile. Does this mean… that we would be announcing our relationship soon? But before I could say anything else, Sidon's phone rings.
"Yow, Miph. Where you at now?"
I have momentarily forgotten what we were doing here at Zelda's old apartment. The excitement of what has been happening has sent the thought of packing out of my head. I give Zelda a quick kiss on her cheek and she just smiles at me. I do not miss the look of concern in her eyes. I'm sure she's still worried and pissed off about the whole thing.
"What the fuck?" Sidon's outburst startles us both. I look at him quizzically but he's shaking his head. "What the fuck, Miph. We'll be there in a bit." With that he ends the call and he looks at both of us. I hold my breath. Judging from the look on Sidon's face, it's serious.
"What happened?" Zelda asks from beside me. She grabs my hand and I squeeze it.
"Miph crashed Revali's car. She's in the hospital."
We reach the hospital just before any of the reporters show up. Sidon leads the way while I pull my cap low over my head and let Zelda steer me in the right direction. News of Mipha's accident will not go unnoticed for too long and soon enough, this place will be crawling with paparazzi. We were all full of worry but stop in relief as we enter her room and see her sitting up in bed, being checked up on by Daruk.
"That was fast." Daruk's gruff voice greets us with a smile.
I let the breath I was holding in go. I knew she wasn't in grave danger but it was enough to get us worried—Sidon more so. We approach her bed while I nod off to Revali who was sitting beside her.
"What the fuck, Miph? What in the actual fuck were you doing?" Sidon demands, red in the face.
I look at her—she has a bandage on her forehead and a few scratches on her hands. She looks shaken but otherwise unharmed. Zelda gives her a small hug and a kiss. I do the same.
"I was driving!" Mipha whines as she tries to avoid Sidon's gaze.
"It was my fault. I let her." Revali says.
"Were you in the car as well?" I ask. He nods. "Yeah. Mipha said she was a confident driver."
"I've been practicing! I am a confident driver!" Mipha whines again as she pulls the sheet up to her chest and gives Sidon wide eyes. Sidon is not diminished and glares at her. "You are a shitty driver. Confident, my motherfucking ass. You. Crashed. Into. A. Tree."
"Confidently." Mipha says in a small voice.
Zelda giggles beside me and I can't help but join in. Sidon will calm down in a minute and we both sit in chairs.
"Are you okay, Revali?" Zelda asks.
He nods. "Yeah. Just a few bumps and bruises. I brought her here immediately to get her checked."
Daruk finishes the checkup and releases MIpha to the full blow of Sidon's wrath. He approaches us and he winks at Zelda. "Hey, Link. Hey, Princess."
"Thanks, Daruk. How is she?" I ask.
"She's fine. Some rest overnight then she'll be ready to go home tomorrow." He writes something in his clipboard and looks at us apologetically. "I need to go—I have surgery in ten minutes. I'll drop by again later when… Sidon has calmed down." He laughs aloud.
We wave him goodbye. The siblings are still arguing and based from my experience, I let them as this will take some time. "How about the car?"
Revali shrugs. "Totaled."
I grimace. "Really?"
He nods gravely. I know he drives an Audi —something he has not neglected to mention whenever he's on a binge.
"Can't fix it?" Zelda asks.
He shakes his head. "It'll be easier to buy a new one. Doesn't matter—it did its job. We're both okay."
"What's money, right?" I ask.
"Paper only." He says with a small smile as he looks fondly at Mipha. "It's just a car."
I see the way he looks at Mipha. I may hate his guts for being boastful and proud and a fucking shithead sometimes but right now, I can see the accident has him deduced to a normal and humble person. He may be a jerk and an asshole but I know he loves Mipha. I know that look in his eyes. It's the same look I have for Zelda.
"I'm hurt, Sidon! Shut up!" Mipha says aloud.
"Bullshit, Miph. Bullshit. There's a reason why I don't let you drive. And who the fuck doesn't see a tree? It's a fucking tree!"
"It came out of nowhere!"
I cannot help but laugh as Revali and Zelda join me. They're really hilarious sometimes.
"So it jumped in your lane like a fucking unicorn?" Sidon says testily.
And it goes on. I look over at Zelda and Revali, "Hungry?"
Zelda nods beside me. We never really got to eat lunch. Revali shakes his head. "Nah, I'm okay." I take her hand and we slip out the door and close it behind us.
"Wew." She smiles at me.
"A tree, really?" I cannot help but say.
She giggles. "I didn't know Mipha… is a… bad… driver."
"Sidon drives her around or Revali does. She's overconfident and adventurous. It's not a good idea to let her get behind a wheel." I say.
"Well, I'm glad they're okay."
I nod. "Yeah. Lucky." We turn right at the corner and get into an elevator to the ground floor. It's packed with nurses and I keep my head low with Zelda blocking me.
"Yeah! The model."
"Really?"
"A car accident, Nika said."
"So the guy with her is her boyfriend?"
"Maybe—"
"Which room?"
"Do you think she'll sign some autographs?"
"Ohhh and pictures!"
"She's really pretty. And the boyfriend is dreamy as well."
"But she has not announced anything about it yet."
I am looking down at Zelda who is on front of me, her hair smells like the usual vanilla and lavender and I take a huge whiff much to her glee. She smiles back at me. Soon the elevator doors open and we all get out. Hand in hand, we head out to the exit where a bunch of reporters are already converging outside. She takes my hand and we quickly swerve out of the way. They do not notice us as they were all focused on the hospital entrance where a bunch of security guards are blocking their way.
We reach a near restaurant and I sit in a corner while Zelda orders food for everybody else. I watch the streets outside. The hospital is right across the street and the reporters are already milling about. I sit there with a finger on my chin. It'll be hard to find a way to get inside. I send a text to Sidon hoping for a back entrance or something.
Zelda comes back with paper bags and I take them from her. She looks out the window as well and then at me with a worried look on her face. "They're here."
I nod but shake my head. "I already texted Sidon. He'll come up with something. Let's wait here for a bit."
She nods and sits down across from me. "But I think it'll be okay for you to be seen. I mean, you're friends with Mipha and have worked together before. You have the same manager. So it's not a surprise to see you there."
That makes sense. But that will mean I have to leave her behind. "And then what about you?"
"If you keep them busy, I'll be able to slip past them unnoticed. I'm not as famous as you." She smiles dazzlingly at me and as always, my heart stops for a while to appreciate it. "Give me your cap." I take it off and hand it over to her. I run my fingers through my hair as I watch her gather hers and try to tuck them inside the cap as much as she can. "Better?"
I nod. Even with a cap and her casual clothes, she could pass off as a model. That's how beautiful she is. I feel a sudden urge to kiss her right here but I restrain myself. I look around and I see one of the staff take second look at me. Time to go. I take the bags and hold them in both hands while Zelda gets up and straightens her cap, pulling the front low. She nods at me and I lead the way out. She falls back a few steps once we crossed the street.
Reporters are like bloodhounds. Once I get close, one of them turns around and recognises me instantly. I must be giving off some kind of scent that lets them track me. Soon, all of them are on me. Recorders, cameras and microphones are thrusted at my face and I blink at the flashing lights. I try to look over the sea of faces and catch a glimpse of Zelda, a hand on her cap, waiting for a spot to slip past in.
"Link!" My name is called out from all sides and like a wave, they press upon me. I smile and nod my way through but there are just too many. It's confusing.
"Is it true that Mipha was in an accident?"
"Was she accompanied by her boyfriend?"
Some of them are asking totally different questions. "Are you really engaged to Nicole Masaki?" "Is she coming as well to visit Mipha?" "When did you propose?" "Where did you have the ring made?" "How much did the ring cost?"
I nod politely and just keep on smiling, taking little steps as much as I can. I can still catch a glimpse of Zelda as she slips in past the hospital entrance. "Are you here to visit Mipha? Is your manager here as well?"
I have an urge to answer their probing questions and finally clear up the issue with Nicole but then, Sidon and Zelda are already going to handle that so I keep mum about it. "Yes. I am here to visit Mipha." I say. Cameras flash and I smile. "She's fine. Just a little bit shaken." I add. There is no use worrying them anyway.
"Link!" I her Sidon's voice and I look up gratefully to see him clearing a path with security guards right behind him. He takes the bags from me and we proceed cautiously. The reporters are relentless but I smile and wave. Once I get into the safety of the hospital, Sidon stays behind to issue a statement. I wait a bit for him to finish while scanning the hospital lobby for signs of Zelda. I don't see her and assume that she must have gone up already.
"Mipha is fine and will be released tomorrow after a thorough check-up. She is resting and is not gravely injured. There will be no more comments." After that, he hurries back inside with the help of the guards and joins me with a sigh.
"Zelda?" He asks.
"She took my cap and slipped past while I distracted them." I said as we hurried onto the elevator. There was no one else inside but I do get a lot of looks from the other visitors, patients and staff.
"Smart. I didn't read your text in time." He says.
"No worries. We made it though." I say.
We hurry back to Mipha's room and come inside. Zelda is already there waiting for me. Her long blonde hair flowing freely down her back as she kisses me on the cheek. I hold her by the small other back and we both take our seats. Sidon passes around the container of food and we all dig in, Revali looking thoroughly grateful.
"I'll head home for a bit to get some clothes and then come back to stay with her." He says.
I nod.
Mipha looks up over her chicken teriyaki. "Sorry about the move. How did it go?"
"Everything else is packed up in boxes. Movers will handle those." I say.
"I've cancelled your shoots for the next three days too. So you can rest." Sidon says wearily. They seem to be out of steam for arguing.
"Even the Ralph one?" She asks.
Sidon nods. "Yeah. We got shit to deal with too. The B's on a roll."
Mipha's eyes grew large as if remembering something. "Ohhh! It's all over fucking Twitter. You're trending Link." She tells me.
I shake my head. "We all know that's not true."
Mipha nods gravely. "She's in for a fucking spin when she finds out that she just pissed off the top person at HyHo."
Zelda smirks beside me. "We're slapping her with a lawsuit."
"Guns out, baby girl." Mipha lets out a low whistle. "Serves her right. She thinks she can get away with it. Idiotic."
"It was poorly thought out if I must say." Revali adds.
We all nod. It was definitely a stupid and careless move. All I have to do is refute the claims and she has nothing else. And because of that, she's going to lose a lot of projects.
"We already have the basics. We'll start dealing with that tomorrow." Sidon answers. "Can't believe Christian was that stupid. Which reminds me, I have another project for you, Link."
I look up at the mention of my name. "Yeah?"
"It's a period piece. Nolan recommended you for the movie." He says.
I flash back to the conversation I had with Nolan before. I told him about my martial arts training which will come in handy in fight and action scenes. "Cool. We talked about that before."
"He said he'll send the script tomorrow so you can have a read through it."
"Do we know what it's about?" I ask.
"He didn't say a lot. Just something about defeating evil alongside champions and a princess."
"Sounds interesting." I say. "Can't wait to start." Just then, my phone rings in my pocket and I take it out to see Simon's name flash across the screen. Simon is the elevator guy and doorman at my building. I answer it quickly. "Simon?"
"Sir Link? I'm sorry to interrupt you but I think it would be best for you to know that… there are reporters all over the place. They're camped out at the entrance and at the parking area too."
I groan inwardly only to have Zelda look at me worriedly. "What happened?" She asks in a small voice.
"They're not allowed inside but we've got already got some attempts. It might be hard for you to get back home, Sir."
"Thanks, Simon. I'll give you a heads up just in case." I put the phone back and turn to face the others. "Building is crawling with reporters. We can't get home like this."
Zelda's brow is furrowed. "I can get some security to disperse them or something."
"What about a hotel? I can set some things up." Revali offers. A hotel is fine. It wouldn't be for too long anyway since once we issue our own statement, hopefully the reporters will all back off.
"You guys can stay over at my place tonight." Sidon suggests.
I look at Zelda. "Anywhere is fine."
"It's still early and we have some time. Let's see if the crowd thins sometime tonight. Then we can decide, okay?" I suggest. She nods and links her arm with mine. "Sure."
We ended up staying over at Sidon's place. It's been a while since I last came over but as usual, it was decked out with professional photographs of me and Mipha. Sidon is a narcissistic shark sometimes but he can be really passionate about his job as our managers.
It was late when we finally managed to sneak out of the hospital thanks to Daruk. Reporters were still on the prowl and Simon says they haven't even thinned out back at home. Once we got to Sidon's place, we were all too tired and weary to do anything else. Zelda was yawning incessantly with teary eyes and I tucked her in some borrowed pyjamas from Sidon. Luckily, there are some promotional clothes from shoots meant for me so I had some to change into.
The next morning, Ganon sent over some stuff for Zelda and we all went to HyHo together. Seeing her in full CEO mode is refreshing and I cannot even be more prouder than I already am. Ganon looks grim but greets us with a smile. I don't remember when it was I noticed it exactly but he seems to have an overly attached affection for my girlfriend—something beyond his responsibilities as her executive assistant. But Zelda seems to have warmed up to him. And even if he does, I don't blame him. She's fucking captivating. As long as he keeps his hands off her, that's fine with me.
I am in one of HyHo's conference rooms. We will be releasing the statement regarding the scandal in an hour. Sidon is out to get some coffee while I wait alone. Christian, Nicole's manager, is in another room with Ganon, being served the claim.
In my hands is the script that Director Nolan has sent that morning. It's working title is 'Legend' and I've just been offered the leading role.
Scene 1: Ezra is at home preparing lunch when a knock on the door disturbs his thoughts. Tomorrow, he leaves for the tournament in the castle.
I've read through the first few scenes and it's already very interesting. Even though I'm pretty sure I have no history of being a warrior or whatever, this feels… like this role is created for me.I remember some conversation I've had with Zelda before that I dreamt of being in a battle with a sword and everything. This is just like a fucking dream come true.
Not to mention that Sidon mentioned to me as well that he's had the same dream with me wearing a blue shirt and having a sword. It must be some sort of premonition or déjà vu thing but it's turning out exactly as we have discussed before. The lead, Ezra, is the knight for the kingdom's princess. On the quest to defeat evil, he is the other half of a duo and is the only person able to wield the sword that seals the darkness. The Princess is a reincarnation of the Holy Goddess and holds the power to seal the entity. There are a few other main characters as well, four other 'champions' that represent each race that drive these Divine Beasts—huge mechanical contraptions that will help the 'hero' defeat evil.
I remember the recurring dream I've had since childhood. The one where I am a knight for the royal family and I have a sword with a blue shirt and a symbol on my chest. Psychic. Fucking spot on. I get chills and shivers up and down my spine when I dwell on it. It's elaborate and complex but simply brilliant. I look at the writer's name but see none. It's a masterpiece and I really wanted to thank whoever wrote this out. It'll just have to be one of my questions to Nolan when we meet.
As of now as well, I am the only confirmed cast. There has been no announcements yet but I am glad to get the lead. I can really see myself playing this out and I cannot wait to get started. I wonder who will play the role of the Princess. Funnily enough, reading her description, she bears a high resemblance to Zelda. The long hair and expressive eyes—although the script did not mention anything about the colours. If she was an actress, she'd be my first pick. But now that I've imagined her into the role, I cannot see anyone else playing it.
I snap out of my reverie when the door opens. Sidon comes in and hands me coffee. I take it eagerly. "Thanks."
"How's the script?" He asks as he sits beside me.
I flip some pages and I nod appreciatively. "It's all very familiar. I've had dreams about this before and never expected to see them in writing like this."
"Maybe you're psychic or something."
"Or just plain weird."
"But did you like it?"
"I like it. Can't wait to do it. Have you read it?"
Sidon shakes his head. "Not all of it. I don't know why this is a movie though. We can maybe stretch it out into a series or something. It's a masterpiece." He voices out my own thoughts.
I put the script down—still feeling a little bit weirded out by the exactness and similarity of it to all our dreams combined. Must be fate or something. "When will the reporters arrive?"
"They're all being gathered in the auditorium. This is a formal press conference so get ready to answer some questions." He reminds me. "I left Ganon to deal with Christian. The B didn't even bother showing up today."
"Anymore statements released?" I ask.
The news this morning was a recap of yesterday's announcements by other stations. But HyHo and my agency has already issued a ban to the news outlets not to air it anymore. They have stopped in the meantime.
"Ganon will fetch us when it's time."
"Will Zelda be there too?" I ask.
But Sidon shakes his head. "She said she'll try. But she has a meeting with some Chinese investors so we'll see."
I nod and take a sip of coffee. We've talked about it this morning on the way here. If ever they ask as to whom I am really dating, I can finally reveal Zelda. This will take the fact that I work for HyHo as a private endorser into more light. But there's no use in hiding it anymore.
Soon enough, there is a knock on the door and Ganon comes inside. We shake hands as he greets both Sidon and me. "Good morning again."
"Morning." I say.
"How was the thing with Christian?" Sidon asks.
Ganon smirks. "As expected, he did not take it lightly. He insisted that we must sue the news outlet instead. But I told him that we're doing that as well."
"Good." Sidon and I say in unison as Ganon leads the way to the auditorium. It's the same place where we had the workers' council meeting that I attended before. It does not take long but Ganon opens the doors and we step inside.
Instantly, cameras flash but Sidon leads me to a table with the microphones already set up. There are three chairs and I assume that the other seat is for Zelda just in case she arrives. Sidon and I take the first two while Ganon takes the other seat in her place. He speaks into the mic as soon as we are settled. "I am Ganon, executive secretary for Hyrule Holdings. We have here in our presence Link, private endorser for HyHo and model-actor. We are joined by his manager and owner of Zora agency, Sidon. This is a press conference for Link to speak about the engagement rumours. As we do not have all day, we request that one question is to be asked per person only."
As soon as he finishes, hands shoot up. He points to a middle-aged man in the first row. "Yes, Sir." I keep my face solemn as I listen to the question. He heads to the middle of the aisle where a mic is mounted on a stand.
"Good morning, Mr. Link and Mr. Sidon. Thank you for being here today. I am Choi Suk from NJK. Please confirm if the news about you being engaged to the actress, Nicole Masaki, is true."
I lean forward. "First of all, thank you for attending the press conference. I am glad that I am given the opportunity to clear up what has been reported. As for the question, there is no truth whatsoever in the engagement rumours."
Sidon takes a sip of water beside me. Another person comes up to the mic stand as I watch the reporters scribble hurriedly or type away in their laptops. Cameras are still flashing and sometimes blind me.
"But is it true that you are currently dating Nicole Masaki?"
I shake my head. "We are not dating."
"Then the ring that was on the photo, was not given by you?"
"I have seen her wearing a ring but have no idea as to where it came from. I can confirm that it is not from me."
As expected, the next question is about the series of 'outings' we have been spotted going to the lunches and spending time together. I clear these up immediately and tell them that these occurrences are merely between friends and colleagues.
"But the news has been confirmed by Miss Masaki herself, saying that you two are engaged."
This is a piece of news that we didn't know. As of now, Sidon and I are clueless as to where the reports came from. We do have a hunch but to openly admit it—that's just digging your own grave. I look over at Sidon who answers for me.
"We have no clues as to where the news actually came from. If they are from Miss Masaki herself, we apologise if there has been some form of misunderstanding and are stressing on the fact that these are just rumours and are completely false."
As questions about Nicole and I run out, I knew that the 'dating' question is right around the corner. Sure enough, "Reports say that you have confirmed in a workers' council meeting that you are currently dating someone who is not part of the same industry. Can you reveal as to who it is?'
I take a deep breath and almost hear the pounding of my heart in my ears. I give Ganon and Sidon a quick glance. They both nod at me. "Yes. I am currently in a relationship with CEO and Chairwoman of Hyrule Holdings, Zelda Hyrule."
The bomb has dropped and cameras are flashing incessantly. I can see the headlines now and I feel strangely elated and proud. Finally, the world knows. That she is mine and I am hers and we are together. The reporters are now speaking all at the same time while Ganon speaks into the microphone, calling for order.
When they have settled down, I can see their hungry faces looking at me. I am now expecting a whole new round of questions to be thrown at me. But we're already deviating from the original purpose of the press conference and Ganon signals for me to wrap it up. "We have a few more minutes before the press conference ends. If there are any more questions, please come to the mic stand."
They scramble forward and a middle-aged woman reaches it first. "Is the appointment of your being HyHo's private endorser a suggestion from Miss Hyrule?"
I shake my head. "They are not related at all."
Another person comes up. "If that is so, how and when did you two meet? Also, how long have you been dating?"
I smile involuntarily at the memory of meeting her back then at a bar. I can't really say that. "We met at a restaurant. It's only been a few months since."
Another person comes up. "Previously, you were caught in the mall having dinner with someone. Your agency said it was a friend. Were you on an actual date?"
I remember that incident at the mall. She was completely hidden successfully that time and Sidon did release a statement. I nod. "Yes. That was her. We were reluctant to announce our relationship as it was in the early stages so we strived to keep her out of the spotlight."
"Miss Hyrule was not known to the public before her appointment as current Chairwoman of HyHo. Was she being kept out of the spotlight by the company as well?"
I shake my head. "I cannot answer that question for her."
Ganon speaks into the mic. "Last question please."
A younger-looking reporter steps in front of the mic stand. "Previously, there was a scandal wherein Nicole Masaki walked out of a scene while you're shooting Happiness. It was confirmed that this scene was a romantic scene between the two of you. Is it somehow related to Miss Hyrule?"
The question surprises me and I feel Sidon flinch a little bit beside me. If I say no, that might be the end of it. But they could dig in and someone in the crew might say something about me calling out her name in the middle of the scene. There are too many witnesses. It was already a blessing that she wasn't mentioned at all when the scandal broke out.
But if I say yes, they'll ask more questions. I look over at Sidon who nods. I know what he's saying.
"Miss Hyrule was currently on the set visiting me that day. As she is not part of the movie industry, she is not… prepared as we all would have liked. There were some misunderstandings that we could not have anticipated between Miss Masaki and I."
Before Ganon could end the press conference. The reporter speaks up again. "Then is it safe to say that Miss Hyrule was the reason for Miss Masaki's walking out that day?"
I shake my head. "No. I take full responsibility for that incident and it was caused by poor judgment on my part."
"We will end the press conference here today." Ganon speaks up immediately. The reporters speak up in unison and attempt to ask more questions but Sidon takes my arm and I stand up to give them a bow. I wave and thank them before following Sidon out the door.
The news about Zelda and I are now out there. I cannot even be more happier than I could be right now.
The news about Zelda and I dating has been the headlines for the whole week. Reporters are prowling more than ever but I now have my own security team, led by Badek, my main bodyguard. He is not the typical muscular guard that you would expect but he is very smart and skilled. He also comes highly recommended—having worked for the previous Chairman before. I like him—he's fun to talk to.
Sidon and Zelda also ganged up on me. Due to the number of reporters that are constantly hounding me—now that they've found out the make and model of Zelda's car which I usually drive—they both got me my own van and driver. The security team of four people follows us in a separate car. I have half a mind to reduce them to at least two but since the paparazzi won't let up, I have to keep them. Also because I promised Zelda that I'll do anything she wants and a security team is part of the deal.
It is… inconvenient at times. But after photoshoots—I begrudgingly agree that it is more relaxing to just sit back and be driven around. This will come in handy once shooting for Legend has started as it is a location shoot and most of them would be far out into the country. Also this way, Sidon does not have to chauffeur me around.
Right now, I am seated comfortably in my van as Sidon posts some promotional stuff on my social media account. There has been some requests for interviews about the whole dating thing but Sidon declined them all as Zelda is not part of the agency at all. Also, she's far too busy to be answering tabloid questions. What we do know, as Ganon has confirmed, is that reporters are trying to dig into her past. They're more actively doing it as to when she was first appointed because she's linked to me. But HyHo has hidden everything important.
So far, all they know is she graduated from university with a degree in Management Engineering. Her previous work as an Application Developer has also been revealed but everybody is declining interview requests. They are now unable to gather any more information.
Having a huge corporation back you up sometimes helps too. Under the spotlight, they're also digging into my past for any and every information they could get their hands on. I don't really have anything to hide but I'm still not keen on my private life being broadcasted. My family is in Europe and geographically too far away.
Sidon and I are on our way to meet Director Nolan. We're going to talk about Legend. I am still the only confirmed actor. I showed Zelda the script when I got it and she's devoured the whole thing—reading it in one night. She came back to me with a huge smile on her face and commented on how similar it was to how we had our dreams previously. I mentioned to her how she would be perfect for the role of the Princess but she shook her head and laughed at how she could not do any acting to save her life.
We arrive at the cafe near the studio where Nolan already has drinks waiting for us. We shake hands. "Link. Sidon." He says with a smile. We take our seats and I look around. The cafe is small and quiet. I can see why Nolan chose the place. There's not a lot of prying eyes and it's quiet.
"So. How was it?"
"A masterpiece. I would like to know who wrote it?" I ask. "I feel like I have to go thank them."
Nolan chuckles. "I wrote it."
I sat there a little bit dumbstruck and in shock. "You did?"
"Yeah. I just woke up one day and it just all came to me. I sat there for 17 hours straight and submitted it to the producers the next day." He said sheepishly.
I am in awe. "Well, kudos. It's fucking brilliant."
He smiles at me widely. "Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. I wish we could start with the shoot soon."
"Do you have any idea about the other characters?" Sidon asks.
At this, Nolan shakes his head. "I've been looking at profiles ever since I gave you a script. But…" His voice trails off as I look at him over my cup.
"But what?"
"I can't find anybody to fit into the role."
I nod slowly. I know what he means. The top names in the industry and I cannot imagine them into any of the roles. I mean, I'm basically a model—not even a fully-fledged actor. And I got this part. The fact that Nolan has come to me first—it speaks volumes as to how hard a time he's having at getting actors.
I watch as he sighs heavily but his eyes twinkle. "What?" I ask.
"I do have an idea as to who should play the Princess. I doubt she'll agree." He grins.
"Zelda, yeah?" Sidon speaks up.
Nolan nods vigorously as I chuckle. "I asked her. She wouldn't say yes." He looks at me with disappointment. "If you can't convince her, then there's no chance for me."
I shrug. "I can try asking again. We can't start filming without a whole cast."
Nolan nods. "Yeah. That's my assignment. I'll get that done by end of this week. We don't want any big names in the cast so we're holding auditions. Then we can proceed with filming by the end of the month once we get it finalised." He looks over at Sidon. "I know your sister doesn't want to join this particular industry but I kind of see her as one of the champions." He takes a copy of the script from his bag. "She might be interested if she reads it."
Sidon nods and takes it from him. "Will do."
"Once we get the main parts—about two weeks from now—we can do an official reading to check the chemistry and everything. Since you're the lead, you have a say in it too. I value your opinion."
"Thanks, Nolan. Gotta start training now." I say with a smile.
"I already found someone for you. Tomorrow, you're starting the grind." Sidon smirks at me.
That means no more hamburgers and pizza and ice cream. I groan but half-heartedly. I haven't been to the gym in a long time and I'm looking forward to going back. "Fine."
"Let's work closely regarding the schedule. So when filming starts, there'll be no overlaps." Nolan says.
Sidon relaxes in his chair. "Are we doing a press release about it?"
"Most probably when we have a few more confirmed roles. We'll be very busy in the coming months." Nolan adds.
A thought occurs to me. As the lead, I'll be busier than anybody. There'll be less time to spend with Zelda. But it doesn't sound as bad as it should be. Our announcement regarding our relationship still leaves me giddy with happiness. The whole world knows I am hers and she is mine.
As soon as we finish meeting with Nolan, I drop Sidon off at Mipha's place—Zelda's old apartment—to drop off the script. Badek is serious and tight-lipped as he watches the familiar roads outside the window. It is sunset and the sky is a wonderful shade of orange mixing with blue.
I sit back on my comfortable chair and take out my phone. I type out a message. *Are you done with work? I'll pick you up?* It takes some time for her to answer as the new usual. She's probably in a meeting. So I am a bit surprised when my phone chimes. I take it out to see her reply: *I have another meeting in ten minutes but I don't think it will take too long.*
I purse my lips the same time my stomach grumbles. Then I have an idea, *Can I bring over some dinner, then?* I'm sure it's just this past week but I miss having dinner with her as we used to: with me cooking, and her doing the dishes after.
*Yes please. Love you.*
I am instantly excited. Training starts tomorrow and I am suddenly craving chicken nuggets. This will probably one of the last times I get to eat them. The trainer that Sidon mentioned earlier must be none other than Brian. He's a beast and can smell hamburgers from five days ago. He's going to have me beat when we start. I smile as I look over at Badek who is sitting in front of me. "Hey. Let's stop by McDonald's first then to HyHo, please."
"Yes, Sir." Badek answers.
"And don't call me Sir."
"Yes… Si—Link." He stammers.
I cannot help but laugh. I see him go red around the ears but I do not comment any longer. He relays the instructions to the driver and I lean back. *Chicken nuggets? Want a milkshake too?*
*As long as it's not taro or green tea.*
The secretary outside her door smiles at me when I step out of the elevator. I know that she's the one who likes me. Zelda caught her and her friends talking about me in the bathroom. "Is she in?" She nods enthusiastically. "Yes. Please go ahead."
I thank her. Ganon is not at his desk. I knock twice and wait for her "Come in" before I do. I push open the door to see her behind her desk. It still awes me at the sight of my woman on top—pun intended. Her hands are poised over her laptop but she stops at the sight of me and closes the lid. She puts it back inside her drawer. Her eyes wander to the McDonald's in my hand and her face splits into a wide smile.
"I come bearing gifts for the queen." I say aloud, walking into the room and putting the food down on the nearest couch. The door clicks close behind me and I open my arms for her.
She giggles as she gets up and comes over to me. Her arms are thrown around my neck and I kiss her as I pull her close against my chest. Her lips are warm and she sighs into my mouth as I slant mine over hers. I taste her tongue slowly, sucking lightly. She tastes of coffee and caramel. I can hear her exhaustion in her sighs but she smiles against my lips.
"Hmm." She whimpers as I feel the familiar stirring in my groin. I am getting carried away.
"Zel—?" I whisper in between kisses.
Her hands fist against my chest as my kisses grow more intense. The last time I kissed her was this morning and that's already a lifetime ago. I don't know. Is it the looming threat of us not going to be able to spend as much time together as we want once I start shooting? Or is it just because she's fucking delicious and always turns me on?
But I remember that we're standing in the middle of her office. And she's at work. So I—with a huge amount of self-control, pull back as I breath heavily. I press my forehead against hers and she's panting, her eyes search mine.
"Miss Zelda?" A voice rings throughout the room. I ignore it—too busy staring into her eyes. She ignores it too. A few seconds, "Is there anything else you need before I go?"
The silence is deafening as is the intensity of our stares. I gulp. "Maybe you should answer."
Her finger traces the line of my jaw and it sends thrills up and down my spine. I'm fully hard now and fuck—Zelda. Not here. Not now. I cannot tear myself away from her gaze but I am painfully aware of the carpet underneath my feet, the leather couches littering the room, her huge mahogany desk.
In a split second, I let myself imagine fucking her over it. Her legs high up in the air with her skirt bunched up around her waist. I'd rip her tights open. She can keep her goddamn heels but her blouse will have split seams and empty buttonholes by the time I start having my way with her. And her hair…. Her long blonde hair will be disheveled. I want my name tumbling out of her lips and I want it now.
I twitch in anticipation as I struggle with self-control. Any minute—someone can and might knock on the door. We're at work goddammit, I scold myself. But still. Vanilla and lavender is flooding my sense of smell and I take a huge whiff.
"I'll be going now, Miss Zelda. See you tomorrow." The voice says again—breaking the silence.
Time seems to be frozen between us two. Her breathing is heavy just like mine. "She left." I say in a low voice.
"Yes." She answers.
"Ganon?" I ask.
She shakes her head. I take it that he left as well. My hand traces the curve of her waist and she inhales sharply. My hand on the small of her back does not loosen. Instead, I pull her closer against me. She gasps at the obvious bulge that is pressed against her stomach.
I don't know what the fuck both of us are waiting for. The moment is pregnant with promises. But doing it in her workplace… As my thoughts ran wildly, she takes a step back in my hesitation. I see a flicker of embarrassment in her eyes and I gulp. My insides are throbbing and her coming at me as soon as I open the door put thoughts in my head that I cannot let go right now.
Before she can move farther away from me, I reach for her waist and pull her back to my chest, capturing her lips once more. There is no hesitation now. My tongue slips past her open lips and I taste as much as I could. "Fuck." I gasp as I press open-mouthed kisses and trace the line of her jaw down to her neck and collar bone.
Her secretaries are gone. And it's just the two of us now. Nobody will dare to come inside without knocking. I will take her here. Right here. Right now. Even if they do—I won't give a fuck except the only one I'm going to dish out to my girlfriend in front of me. I feel her go weak at the knees as I suck at a spot where her neck meets her shoulders. She sighs heavily, her hands around my neck. "Link—"
"Tell me if you want to stop." I whisper almost harshly. I give her a second but she answers with a moan as my fingers find the buttons of her blouse and start to undo them. Her voice pulls me in and without another beat, I lift her off her feet and carry her back to her desk. Her lips are on my jaw and her tongue leaves a wet trail against the column of my neck. I shudder in anticipation. I balance her weight on one arm as I push some files and folders aside. Once the desk was clear, I put her down on it and she wraps her legs around my waist. My hands slip past the hem of her skirt and push it upwards, revealing creamy thighs. Nope—she's not wearing tights. It's just creaminess after creaminess. My arousal is evident and pressed against her panties. She moans deliciously against my ear as I pull back and look at the sight in front of me.
Her blouse is open halfway—her black bra is a contrast against her skin. She's flushed, her chest rising up and down in time with her rapid breathing. "Is this okay?" I ask—plead. She looks into my eyes and nods slowly. I don't waste anymore time and kiss her on her exposed shoulder. My hand tugs her panties down and I stuff them on the back pocket of my jeans. I touch her. Finally.
She's wet and warm and her legs go back to tightening around my waist. She whimpers softly—just under her breath. It pulls me back to her lips and I bite her almost harshly. "Link—" she breathes. Her fingers are absent-mindedly pulling on my sweatshirt—her hands instantly on my abdomen. I flinch in a good way as she rakes her nails against my skin.
"I'm going to take you." I whisper in her ears. To emphasise, I slip two digits past her folds, my thumb already searching for her clit. Her heels dig into my back and she clings to me with her arms around my neck. I press my forehead against hers. She looks up at me intensely. She knows what's coming and I see excitement in her eyes.
There's my girl. Feisty.
As always, I coax her into an orgasm, my fingers working on her furiously. It doesn't take long as she writhes under my watchful gaze. My erection is throbbing as it hits the fly of my jeans and it hurt. Her head is thrown back, the column of her neck exposed. I trace my tongue against it and she shivers.
She moans aloud, biting her lower lip and clamping down on my fingers. I pump into her slowly—riding the wave out. She pants heavily and I watch her every move. "Link—ngg" She whimpers as I pull out my fingers and lick them clean. I know she likes it when I do this. Salty and sweet. Not breaking eye contact, I start to unbutton my jeans and push them down to my thighs. I don't have time to take them all off. I need to be inside her now. My erection springs free and her gaze goes down to look at it.
I bite my lower lip in anticipation as I stroke myself a few times. Thank God this desk is sturdy as fuck. With the desire coursing through my veins—I'm afraid it won't handle what I'm about to do. I direct the tip to her entrance and let myself bask in her wetness. Not yet. Not yet. Her hips are moving on their own accord as she thrusts forward to meet me. I pull back, a smirk on my face. A flash of annoyance in her eyes and she's whimpering. "Link—what?"
"Want it?" I tease. I do. But seeing the CEO of HyHo, reduced to a puddle of lust and desire and love for me and me alone—makes me feel like the most powerful man on earth. I feel a little bit cruel at this but I am in awe. She has tens of thousands of employees at her beck and call. But I am the only one who gets to see her flushed face. It is my name that she utters when I bring her pleasure. It is my face she sees when I make her see stars.
She nods frantically. "Yes. Please." She whispers.
It seems as if the room around us has vanished. We are no longer in her office at the topmost floor of the tallest building in the city. We are just in our room in our apartment on our bed making love over and over again.
"How much do you want it?" My voice is thick with self-control. It takes an immense amount to keep myself from thrusting hard into her. She looks at me, her mouth open slightly. I can feel her arms getting tired from holding on to my neck. But she holds on, slightly trembling. "A lot."
"I love you." The words are out of my mouth before I could even think. She looks so beautifully disheveled right now. And all this… Is because of me.
"I love you too." Her eyes soften but the desire in them do not diminish. She gasps aloud as the tip of my manhood slips in just so. I pull back and she whines. "Tease."
"You're so wet." I almost groan. I don't think I can hold out much longer. But I can't go back on my word.
"Link—please." She says exasperatedly. Her arms around my neck pulls me in and she kisses me hard. "As your boss—" she starts in between kisses. "I order you to—" She bites my lower lip and sucks on it. "Fuck me." She brushes her lips along my jaw as one hand drops and clasps over my own. "Now." She grips me hard and sheaths me inside her.
I groan—a low rumble in my throat as I sink into her. It's warm and hot and slick and wet. I cup her ass as she hooks her legs over my elbows. I pull her close to me, sinking deeper to the hilt. She lets out a strained moan—as if she's keeping her voice in check. I cannot. I cannot hold back any longer. I pull out and thrust back in. Her moans are delicious in my ears as I grit my teeth and hold her closer to me. I grind into her deep and I can't help but smirk as she throws her head back in pure ecstasy. Relentless—hard—immediate—deep. "Hold tight." I warn her like always.
I always tell myself not to get rough lest I hurt her but she never complains. And I see this mischievous glint in her eyes that seems to challenge me into making her submit. I move. I groan as I move in the exquisite feel of her around me. I pull her upright and her chest is pressed upon my own as my hips pounded into hers. Her arms are tight around my neck as I rain kisses on her face. "Link—" she gasps over and over.
Sweat beaded her forehead as I know mine has too. Our breathing is heavy as I feel her tightening around me. I know she's close and I am a few steps behind her. Her arms are slackening around me but I hold her tight against my chest. Her fingernails are digging into my shoulders but I do not slow down. She tightens around me and her orgasm sparks my own as I still inside her—buried to the hilt. "Zel—" I hiss low under my breath as I release. Her face is buried in my neck and I can feel her rapid breathing slowing down.
It takes a moment or two to catch our breaths. "Fuck." I whisper.
She gives off a weak laugh—giggling at me. I let her legs go and they dangle off the edge of the desk. I cup her cheeks in my hands and will her to look at me. She does—exhaustedly. "I didn't expect to be fucked in my own office."
Her eyes are twinkling and I cannot help but laugh. "Do you want me to apologise?"
She shakes her head. "Bathroom is over there." She points to a door at the far left of the room. With a grunt, I lift her without pulling out. If I do—then evidence of our deed will spot the carpet. Walking cautiously, my jeans and boxers still held up around my thighs—I open the door with one hand and step inside. I put her down on the marble tabletop where she yelps at the cold surface coming into contact with her bare ass. She leans her forehead on my chest as I reach and grab for the roll of tissue then I begin to clean us up.
I help her back into her panties as she hops off the counter and buttons up her blouse while I put my boxers and jeans on. There's a small smile on her face as we stare at each other in the mirror. I help her tame her hair as she stands in front of me. I rest my chin on her shoulder and grin at our reflections.
"You look so thoroughly pleased with yourself."
I raise my eyebrows and nod. "I did tell you that I have some ideas."
"You should have warned me that your ideas involved sex in the office." She tries to tell me off but I am too happy to care.
"Don't tell me you didn't like it." I say cheerfully.
She hesitates and redness explodes on her face. "That's not the point! What if—"
"You gave me kiss-me eyes." I tell her. "And you didn't say no."
"How could I when you're practically stripping me naked already." She scoffs.
I wrap my arms around her waist and she leans back into my embrace. "I couldn't help it." I say in some sort of apology even though we both know I'm not sorry.
She ruffles my bangs with her hand and giggles. "You're insatiable."
I smirk and give her a playful bite on her shoulder. "So you say."
I let her take my hand as she leads us out of the bathroom. "No more sex in the office, then?" I ask playfully.
She giggles and I swear—I cannot even fathom the depth of my love for this woman in front of me. "Only when everybody else is gone." She looks back at me and winks.
—Mackenziiee