Ch. 35
RPOV
Songs: Slow Hands by Niall Horan, You Know What I Mean by Cults, Somewhere Only We Know by Lily Allen
I laid on my bed surrounded by a mass of tangled sheets with one hand resting on my stomach, my remaining limbs sprawled like a starfish. My erratic breathing was finally slowing down and I was completely blissed out of my mind. After our impromptu food fight and much-needed shower, Dimitri made good on his promise...and oh man, did he. Flashes of Dimitri and I entwined around one another scorched my senses. His teeth roughly grazing my neck, the feel of his hips between my thighs, my legs wrapped around him to hold on for dear life. He took me every which way, showing me things and making me feel pleasure in ways I never thought possible.
It's true what they said about him. He was a god! Starting right away I decided I was converting to a new religion. It would be called: Dimitrism.
"We are definitely doing that again," I let out between pants. My eyes were squeezed shut and I was starting to wonder if my toes would ever unscrunch.
A low rumble that sounded similar to a laugh reverberated through my springy mattress. "Vy mozhete rasschityvat' na eto," his deep voice purred. A couple more Russian murmurs spilled from his lips, their foreignness and melodic sound soothing me into pure satiation.
Just when I could feel my body starting to come down from its euphoric high, his fingertips brushed along my bare skin from the top of my thigh and up my side until they rested just below my left breast. His fingers started to make small circles causing my entire body to light up again. I let out an amorous moan in response and instinctively arched my body into his hand.
He turned on his side and ran his nose along the spot just below my ear as his feather-light kisses fluttered against my neck. "Mmm Roza, you have no idea what that sound does to me."
A cheeky smile inched up my face as he leaned in closer. "I think I can take a guess, Comrade," I said as I looked down to the growing evidence pressed against my leg. An amused puff of air escaped through his glorious smile and I about smothered it as I lunged forward with my mouth. I flipped him onto his back as I ravaged his already swollen lips and gripped his perfectly sculpted pecs.
"Roza," he huffed as he leaned back. "If you keep kissing me like that, we'll never leave this bedroom again."
I hummed against his lips as I considered his words. "I could be very into that."
His rough hands glided up and down my back so lightly that if I couldn't see the tiniest flex of his biceps, I would've thought I had been imagining his touch. It still astounded me how those hands that could wield such inhuman strength and force with the ability to destroy anything that dare stand in their way, could also caress and soothe as if that were what they were truly made for. He laid his head back, giving us a bit of space but I could still see lust burning behind his hooded eyes. I knew it would only take one sultry maneuver from me for him to cave.
I loosened my hold on his chest and began sliding one of my hands across his carved abs. I pressed my fingers into each one as I moved further down causing his bottom lip to snake in between his teeth. He looked so incredibly sexy as he laid there beneath me, his hair disheveled from our earlier entanglement and his body completely under my mercy. God, the things I wanted to do to him.
I inched my fingers between us, painstakingly slow as I reached for my grand prize. But before I could grasp it, a loud beeping sound halted my ministrations. We both looked to the door, trying to snap out of our lust-filled haze and realign our thoughts.
"The black bread," Dimitri clarified. "It would be a shame to ruin two loaves."
I looked back towards him and conceded, partially because he had worked so diligently on it and partly because our earlier activities had left me ravenous. "Saved by the bell." I gave him a quick peck on the lips and hopped off to allow him to get up. He stood up from the bed to grab his boxer briefs off the floor and in an attempt to hold on to some of that rebelliousness—after sneaking a peak of that phenomenal ass, of course—I snatched his black t-shirt and threw it on over my head. If he wasn't going to give in to my desires at that very moment, then I would at least force him to walk around my place shirtless. Besides, there was no point in covering up such perfection.
He gave me a small smirk as he pulled up a pair of sweats and let them hang low on his waist to show off his muscled "V" that I had just been tracing. "To be continued."
I put on a quick pair of boy shorts and raced him to the kitchen. My apartment was filled with the heavenly scent of black bread and I was suddenly transported into Olena's home. It was strange how much I missed Dimitri's family. I had only been around them for a short time, but their warmness and acceptance of me had me longing to see them again. I grabbed a kitchen towel from one of the drawers and splashed some water on it as Dimitri deftly walked around the spills on the floor. I began wiping down the countertops so he would have space to put the bread down and could hear him opening the oven behind me. As I swiped away the grime I continued reminiscing about the Belikova's and our time in their home.
"Have you told your family about us," I blurted out.
"About us," he repeated back, probably wondering on what scale I was referring to. Me and him as a couple, me bailing him out of jail, or us and everyone else bringing Lissa back from the damned and simultaneously causing the Royal Court to go into a complete tailspin.
After the arrest of the Moroi involved with particular Mână factions, things had quickly gotten out of control. The Queen and Guardian Croft had done their best to keep things quiet, but when several high-ranking royals, including a couple of council members, were on the list of people incarcerated it became impossible to appease the uproar. A public announcement about why they were arrested went out and that night all went to hell. They were only given the basics, that those Moroi were involved in schemes to plot against us and with the Strigoi.
The details of what they did and who exactly they worked with weren't privy to anyone yet, but enough information had arisen to stir up trouble with the accused's families. However, it wasn't the Moroi reaction that did the most damage. It was the Dhampir and Guardian community that hit harder.
"Yeah, well my mother and father," the word still felt a little foreign on my tongue, "have known about us for a while, and as far as I can tell are cool with us being together. Not that their opinion would keep me from being with you," I added for reassurance. "But your family…you're much closer to them."
I could feel him walk up behind me as I finished wiping down the counter, the warmth from his body and the freshly baked bread wrapping around me. Now that I had that warmth in my life almost every day, I wasn't sure how long I could go without it when he left with Abe. "What if…" I hesitated. "What if they don't like me? I mean, don't like me for you. Last time we were there, I was kind of a mess." That was a massive understatement.
"Is the Rose Hathaway worried about what someone else might think of her," he teased as he dropped the pan on the counter.
I placed a hand on my hip and leaned my other side against the counter to face him. "Not just someone, Comrade. Your family. I know how important they are to you."
As much as I enjoyed his lighter side, I really wanted a serious answer out of him. Our relationship was still relatively new, and I was feeling slightly vulnerable.
He gave me a sidelong glance as he continued moving the bread out of the pan, his face wearing an irritatingly knowing look. His long, dramatic pause earned a jab into his shoulder from me and after a small chuckle, he finally conceded. "My family has known that I am in love with you for quite some time. Apparently, I am not as good at hiding things from them as I am the rest of the world. Karo and Mama are especially good at sifting information out of me," he sheepishly admitted.
"Really? Well, I'll have to snag a few pointers from them then," I noted.
His brows slightly furrowed as he began slicing the bread and I thought he might be about to protest that idea but instead, he said, "Roza, you know me better than anyone I've ever met." I could feel my cheeks start to turn pink under his admission. "There's nothing about me they could tell you that you don't already know."
"Except for more embarrassing stories about your horrible taste in music. What was the band Sonya mentioned, again? Air Supply!" Dimitri let out a groan and mumbled something in Russian under his breath.
"Don't worry, Comrade," I tucked myself under his arm and wrapped my body around his waist. "Your secret's safe with me. Now, Eddie on the other hand. He's a blabbermouth, he can't keep a secret to save his life." A total lie. Hell, Eddie had kept his feelings for Mason from me for years. But it was still fun seeing Dimitri squirm a little.
"Anyways," he attempted to change the subject. "My family is happy that I'm happy, and they think the world of you. But if you'd like, we can call them together and you can see for yourself."
Hearing Dimitri say that instantly soothed me and completely squashed any insecurities I had been unnecessarily holding onto. As I watched him meticulously work on the fresh loaf, carefully making sure each piece was sliced the same as the next, it was easy to see the similarities between him and Olena. The same concentrated line across their brow, the ease of movements with their hands, and the warm smile leisurely placed across their mouths as they worked. I suddenly missed her terribly.
"Maybe after things have settled down we could visit them? I do miss Baia."
His eyes lit up and looked at me with such adoration at the mention of visiting his family. He brushed back my hair and leaned down to give me a sweet kiss, then said, "I'd love that, Roza."
I was about to suggest that he take me back to my bedroom and show me how much he'd love it when another voice popped into my head.
Rose, you there?
I sent some acknowledging feelings through the bond to let her know I was listening and took a small step away from Dimitri. Thankfully, the charm Adrian had made for her allowed her to tap into it when she wanted—to avoid being forcibly pulled into it like I was in the beginning. The last thing I wanted to think about when Dimitri and I were in bed together was whether or not Lissa was watching us do the deed.
I'm sorry, I know it's your time with Dimitri, but I need to talk. Can you come by?
Sure, Liss. I'll be right over.
Bring Dimitri too.
"Everything alright with Vasilisa," Dimitri asked. He had become an expert on being able to read when we visited each other through the bond.
"Yeah, she just needs to talk," I clarified. I reached for a slice of bread that Dimitri had laid out and shoved it into my mouth. It was damn good. "Can we take this to-go?"
/
Up in Lissa's room, I sat in silence as she finished speaking. I knew what she had to tell me was probably important or she wouldn't have insisted I come over right away, but a trip through Ginger-infested backwoods to hang with Eva's screwed up family was the absolute last thing I would have expected.
"It's been a few days since she made her offer and I'm leaning towards yes. But I want to know what you all think." Lissa had called all of us in to tell us the news, well all except Eva. She was apparently with Abe for the time being so Lissa thought it would be an opportune time to discuss it with us alone.
"I think you should stay," Christian announced. "You'll be better protected here at Court."
Normally, Chris would be right. The Royal Court was typically the safest place for any high-ranking royal, what with the mass amounts of wards and Guardians to keep out any sign of a threat, but since Tatiana took action against the traitors, that impenetrable safety net was fractured.
Although it was the right thing to do, it had caused a disturbance in Court far greater than any of us imagined. Tatiana stripped all the traitors of their titles and they were now sitting in jail until the Councils could figure out what to do with them, but that hadn't appeased the masses. Just like Eddie and I had been at the Dragomir estate and the ball, many Dhampir and Guardians were outraged that this many Moroi would even consider betraying their kind and ours. There were even rumors of discord between the Guardian and Moroi Councils after a few of the latter's members were counted amongst the accused.
"Not necessarily," I quietly spoke. "Court was already almost infiltrated once and it could easily happen again." Everyone's heads turned to me, shocked to see me argue the other side. It was no secret that Eva and I weren't the best of friends and even though she had played a huge part in bringing Lissa back, I still wasn't sure if I trusted her. She was consistently keeping secrets from us, and in our world, secrets could get you killed. If I couldn't even trust her now, how could I trust her out on our own and with my best friend's life?
But I couldn't just think about me and let my opinion of Eva cloud my judgment. For some reason, Lissa trusted her and I had to take that into consideration. "But Liss, I don't want you to think you have to go just because you feel like you owe Eva something. We'll find another way to keep you safe, no matter what it takes."
"That's not what it's about," Lissa defended. Her tone was sharper than she intended, but I didn't take any offense. She gave me an apologetic look and her voice softened. "Many of the people I...turned are still there, working with the Order. They're there because of me, so it's only right that I be the one to bring them back." We all sat there in silence again, unsure how to delve into the subject she was breaching.
"Eva says there are people in her community that can help me control my powers. Use them for something good. Adrian," his face perked up from the corner of the room, "don't you want to know more about what we can do? To finally understand this power within us and how to harness it without constantly worrying about it driving us mad?"
He held a sense of wonder at her words, obviously peaked by the prospect of cultivating his magic. The two of them shared this desire back at the academy and only had each other to learn from. Now Eva was offering a whole community of people that they could gain insight from.
"Yes," Adrian breathed out, enamor still filling his expression. "I mean, it would be nice not wanting to constantly rip my hair out around all of your unstable auras," he shifted into a more relaxed position. "This perfection can only withstand temptation for so long."
Lissa smiled at him and turned to Christian next. "Didn't you say you were considering advocating offensive magic at Court with Tasha?"
"Yes," Christian nervously scratched the back of his neck. "But now that's probably gone to shit with everything that's going on right now."
Lissa gently brought his hand down from his neck and placed it on her lap. "There are other Moroi in the community that use their specializations in defensive tactics. They can provide us with techniques that we can bring back to Court when everything has settled down and they are ready to listen."
"And Rose, Eva said that they could use fighters like you and Eddie to help improve their skills. You wouldn't be protecting ungrateful Moroi that hide behind you at the first sign of danger, we would be fighting alongside you."
Eddie's expression was immovable as he carefully listened to Lissa's words, but I knew what she was saying was more than tempting to any Dhampir like us; especially after what we had witnessed over the past couple of months. Taking on Strigoi offensively was extremely risky, there was a reason most of us stayed protected behind wards and perfected our defensive tactics. But we would be risking our lives for a far greater purpose. Not to mention our future here was completely unknown. If we would even be accepted back into the community after becoming renegade, who knows where Eddie would end up or who he would end up with.
There was no doubt in my mind that I would follow Lissa wherever she decided to go. I would protect her for the rest of my life, not because of my duty, but because of my love for her. "And I appreciate that Rose," she interrupted my wandering thoughts. "But this is a choice. I want nothing more than to have you with me. You're my family." I smiled under her loving gaze and instantly forgave her for reading my thoughts through the bond. "However, I want you to choose this for yourself. Not for me. No more of this 'they come first'. Not anymore. We'll do this together, or not at all."
I had heard Lissa speak like that once before. As a Strigoi she had used my low-ranking position against me to try and convince me to join her. It had sounded wrong and tainted then, but now it almost sounded...right. Lissa was no longer that dark being that only wanted me for power, she wanted to fight against that evil and with us by her side—not under her.
I wasn't sure if that old mantra that had been ingrained in me for years would ever really leave me but hearing Lissa say that she felt otherwise chipped away at it the tiniest bit. She was giving me a choice on how to live my life, a farfetched concept for someone like me, something I hadn't ever really taken the time to consider.
I looked to the other side of the room at Eddie, trying to gauge his thoughts on what Lissa was offering. "Castile, what do you think?"
He stepped forward a little and spoke to everyone in the room. "Yesterday, in the gym I heard a few Guardians talking," he looked a little hesitant to continue and looked up at Dimitri, sharing that same look they did in Baia like they had some sort of secret between them. Dimitri gave him an encouraging nod and Eddie continued. "There have been some rumors of Guardians abandoning their charges. As of now, I heard it's only been a few from families directly related to some of the accused traitors, but the whispers are growing."
"It's true," Adrian solemnly interjected. "My Aunt told me after Croft interrogated some of the Mână's Guardians they found out that many of them had been compelled into complying with them, which is only adding to the Dhampirs' fury and distrust." Adrian's words answered so many questions that I had, had back at the Dragomir estate and I couldn't help the rage that was slowly starting to rumble in my chest.
"The Guardians in the gym said they would have done the same, and how could they continue protecting and trusting those families after what happened," Eddie looked a little disgusted at the fact that Guardians would talk this way, but could we really blame them? "My point is, what if it goes as far as Court Guardians no longer trusting in the system as well?"
My mind was racing, trying to grasp what he was suggesting.
"It wouldn't be safe for Lissa here anymore and if something like that were to really happen, we'd need to be prepared to face the worst. I think working with this Salvatori and going after the enemy before they can take us down at our weakest moment is our best shot."
He was right. I had been no stranger to wanting to fight them first. Chris and I popped that cherry back at the academy during our first attack, but I'd also learned since then about the other kinds of monsters out there we could be facing. I just had to believe that we would be strong enough to succeed. All of us, together.
I looked to Dimitri then to Lissa, both patiently waiting for my response. "Well, if no one has any objections it looks like we're heading off to Red's creepy family compound. Wherever that is."
Lissa jumped up from her seat and launched herself into my arms. "Thank you, Rose," she whispered into my hair. "I know we can make things right." I squeezed back, basking in her sweet embrace. It was crazy to think that just a few short weeks ago she was too shaken to even let me come near her, and now things almost felt like the way they were before. She had beaten past the guilt and depression long enough to find a solution to the damage she had inadvertently caused. My best friend was a fighter, and I was proud to fight alongside her. When she pulled back the others gave out their own agreed acknowledgments, only adding to her pure joy.
"We won't be leaving for a few days so there's time to check in with your parents and gather up anything we might need. But before any of that, there's one more thing I need from you two," Lissa looked over to me and Eddie, a huge grin climbing up her mischievous face. Great, what now?
DPOV:
Songs: Full Moon Song by Peter Bradley Adams, I Won't Share You by The Smiths, Second Chances by Gregory Alan Isakov, Someday in the Future by Bad Sports
After the discussion in Vasilisa's room, she escorted us to a meeting with the Queen, to Rose's dismay. She and Queen Tatiana seemed to be on much better terms than Rose had described in the past, but she still wasn't eager to stand on ceremony. I guess that rebellious side of her would always leave her feeling weary under authority, but she was quickly becoming accustomed to hiding it.
Vasilisa and Adrian laid out all the details of their plans to the Queen, just as she had done with us. Her argument was admirable and infallible. The combination of logic and emotional appeal that she had used back in her room captivated me as well as the others, and I couldn't help but think that she would make a great leader one day if she chose to. I wasn't sure why she had asked Rose to bring me along since we all knew that I would be within Abe's control as soon as he decided to leave Court, but I appreciated her wanting to include me in their decision all the same.
Tatiana was more hesitant than the others to agree, understandably, but eventually, she had to come to terms that the decision could ultimately benefit the dilemma she was having with reeling in her subjects. The Moroi desperately needed to win back the support of the Dhampirs before too much damage was done. Without us, they were defenseless. Vasilisa brought up the point that if the Queen eventually decided to try an initiative to support offensive magic, it would prove the Moroi's dedication and loyalty to their Dhampir brethren. And what better way to do so than with a group of high-ranking Moroi that had developed the training they would need.
There was also the unspoken fact that Tatiana probably wouldn't be able to keep them from going anyways. Yes, she was the Queen and could easily order them to stay put, but as past events had proven, they could just as easily run away. It would be better to know where they were and stay in touch than to try and control them. Besides, with Rose on their side, there was no doubt in my mind that they would find a way out of here—even with all of the Royal Court Guardians blocking her way—and the way the Queen continually glanced at her I could tell she recognized the same ability within her.
After she finally conceded and insisted on constant communication and updates, it looked like things were settled. Her unrelenting trust in Adrian spoke legions and it made me see him in a whole other light. Tatiana didn't become Queen on being easily charmed and persuaded by smooth-talkers such as Ivashkov and if she believed in him enough to go off on his own with the last Dragomir Princess and a secret community of Spirit users, then there had to be much more to him that we didn't know.
When I thought the conversation was coming to an end, Tatiana raised another topic. "Miss Hathaway, Mr. Castile," they moved forward and politely bowed their heads under her recognition. "That won't be necessary, please come sit."
They gave each other a curious look but followed direction as asked. Lissa peered over at me, wearing that mischievous expression she had adorned back in her room. I wasn't sure what was going on, but I suddenly got the feeling that she had asked me to come with Rose for more than one reason.
"It seems that the two of you have been away from St. Vladimir's Academy long enough to miss your trials, ultimately prohibiting you from graduating. I understand why you weren't there, but unfortunately, we cannot have two Novices protecting Moroi, little less the last of the Dragomir line." Rose's face dropped, disappointment slowly taking over her features. I knew she was confident in her ability to protect Vasilisa, but hearing the Queen say otherwise would be a sting to anyone's ego. My fists balled at my sides my jaw started to twitch. I could feel my objections rising up my throat. How dare she judge Rose based solely on her title. She had no idea what this brave, loyal, extraordinary woman was capable of. I opened my mouth to tell her just that, but before even a sound escaped me the Queen continued.
"Which is why I have decided to amend our current situation." Rose and Eddie's wide eyes simultaneously shot up to full attention. I looked over to Lissa again, her smile growing by the second. "I have spoken with Guardian Croft and he agrees that your action in the field goes beyond what many experienced Guardians could achieve, little less the school's trials. It is with our great pleasure to grant you as sanctioned Guardians from this day forth. Your records will reflect the highest marks achieved through a top-secret mission set out by Guardian Croft and me, and since you will be unable to attend your graduation ceremony we have decided to conduct the official proceedings here." The Queen stood from her seat and motioned to one of her guards at the far side of the room. "If the Moroi would please leave the room, we will get things started."
Rose looked over to her retreating friends, her eyes landing on Lissa, and by the change in her expression, I could only assume they were having another silent conversation. A small tear escaped from the Princess' eye, her proud smile still glued to her face. Christian placed an arm around her waist and escorted her out, followed by Adrian. As they left the room, another figure entered—Rose's mother. She stood at attention on the other side of the room as a Guardian with a tattoo machine began setting up and gave me a short nod in recognition. I returned it and we both moved our gazes back over to the two young Dhampir quietly waiting to receive their promise marks.
Normally, these ceremonies left me feeling a bit melancholy. Seeing a group of adolescents walking up to join the ranks, knowing that at least half of them probably wouldn't last their first year in the field. It was a disheartening realization that unfortunately, they could only learn from experience. But on that day in the Queen's quarters, the only emotion that filled me was pride. Rose had endured the impossible and come out the other side more accomplished than most people would have ever expected of her.
She'd spent her life being either looked down upon for her unwarranted reputation or underestimated for her lack of discipline and rebelliousness, but I'd known since that first night meeting her that she was stronger than anyone I'd ever met. I'd mistakenly underestimated her for a split second, and she proved me wrong with just one fearless look. I told myself I'd never make that mistake again and did everything in my power to help her make others see that in her too. Once she had the tools and harnessed that burning drive to perfect them, she had become invincible.
As she walked up to the Guardian administering the tattoos, she turned back to glance at me. The look on her face caused my heart to swell. Even though there were some Guardians out there that no longer considered the promise we wore on the backs of our necks as a part of who they were, I could see that this was still everything to Rose. I should have remained professional and serious in that moment—turned on my former mentor guise and remained impassive—but I couldn't help but smile at her, letting her know how proud I was to see her achieve everything she had worked so hard for before her life was turned upside down.
When the process was complete, she and Eddie embraced, and I could see the smallest hint of sadness reflected in one another's eyes. It seemed I wasn't the only one thinking about how there were those of us who lost their lives at a young age; one in particular who didn't even make it past his years of being a novice. They shared a silent moment for their fallen friend but didn't let his memory diminish their achievement that day.
Guardian Hathaway explained that Abe was hosting a congratulatory dinner for the both of them in one of the main halls and that arrangements had been made for them back in their rooms. I was still having a difficult time wrapping my head around the news that he was Rose's father—not to mention the fact that Rose and I had been together intimately within the confines of his hotel. I was shocked he didn't pay off the guards outside my prison cell to put a bullet in my head and throw my body into the Pymatuning Lake. Instead, he had persuaded the Queen to release me. Abe insisted there were no strings attached to that favor, but I knew firsthand that when it came to dealing with Zmey, there was always a catch. I'd just have to wait and find out what.
The two newly accredited Guardians said a quick goodbye and expressed their thanks to the Queen before excitedly walking out. After Eddie and Janine had parted ways I decided to walk Rose back to her place before going to my own. A permanent smile was plastered on her face and there was a bounce to her step that I hadn't seen in some time. Her hand reached behind her to adjust the bandage on her neck.
"Don't worry, it will only itch for a couple of hours. It will be healed before you know it," I assured her.
She moved her hand to her glorious mane and began twisting her ponytail through her fingers. "So, what do you think, Comrade? I'm officially your equal now." Her tone was light and flirtatious, but for some reason, my response couldn't match it.
"You've always been my equal, Roza." My seriousness caught us both off guard a little, but I guess there would always be a part of me that was propelled to defend her, even from herself. She turned to me, studying my face the way she did sometimes as if she was looking through me instead of at me and a shy smile crawled up the side of her mouth. Her hand found its way between us and wrapped itself around mine as we continued walking in comfortable silence.
When we were only a couple of blocks away from her place, she asked, "Dimitri, you knew about the other Guardians leaving their charges. Didn't you?"
I let out a small sigh before responding, still holding on to her warm hand. "Yes. Eddie and I heard them talking after our workout. I planned on telling you after we made the bread, but we were...distracted," I put delicately.
She hummed quietly, no doubt reminiscing over the hours we had spent in her bedroom. The sultry look she wore now made me want to throw her over my shoulder and charge back into that room. But as her hand came up to her neck again, I could tell something else was still on her mind.
"I can't believe that they would do that. Leave their Moroi completely unprotected. It's not right."
Earlier, when Eddie first brought it up, she didn't seem to have much of a reaction. But maybe now that she had officially declared her promise to protect the Moroi, her thoughts had slightly altered. I couldn't say that I disagreed. I would have never expected that from a sanctioned Guardian who had dedicated his life to protect others. But I'm also not sure I would be able to trust those same people that could turn on you just as fast as their father, brother, or wife did. "It's not for us to put ourselves in their position. We just have to continue doing what we think is right and hope others will eventually do the same."
A short laugh fluttered out of Rose and she leaned her head on my arm. "Leave it to the Zen Master to come up with a reasonable response." I kissed the top of her head, indulging in the feel of her silky hair against my lips.
Now that our time together had a set expiration date, I was trying to soak up every moment I had with her. We knew this day would come sooner rather than later but had been avoiding talking about it. We both agreed that we should spend this precious time together being happy while we could, rather than dwelling on the fact we would be separated soon. I held her against me, memorizing every little detail of this moment.
"Hey, Comrade?"
"Yes, Roza."
"I was wondering," she started, an unfamiliar nervousness in her tone. "With this celebration dinner, or whatever it is tonight." She lifted her head off my arm and paused.
"What is it," I asked, gently pressing her forward.
"Well, I was wondering if you'd be my date. More or less."
It was such a simple thing to ask on the grander scale of everything else going on around us, but I realized that we had never really had an official date before. We were constantly surrounded by a turmoil of events or recovering from the brink of battle. I looked down to see her nervously playing with the hem of her shirt as she waited for my response. I couldn't help but think how adorable she looked in that moment and took another mental picture to keep me company while on the road with Abe, but I also knew she would surely kick my ass if I ever called her that. I licked my lips and fought back the growing amusement to answer her sincerely. "Nothing would please me more."
Her head popped up, flashing me a full-fledged grin. "Great! Pick me up in an hour," she winked and skipped over to her front door. Her ponytail whipped around her collar as she turned to give me one more enchanting smile then disappeared into her apartment. I swear, that girl could send me into cardiac arrest with just a look.
/
When we arrived, several of the other guests were already present. There were a few familiar faces that I spotted, including Tasha Ozera and Alberta Petrov. Abe had rented out a sizeable room that would easily house fifty plus people, but so far it was just some of Rose and Eddie's close friends and family.
Rose clung to my arm and took in the sights of the room. As I looked around as well I caught the glimpse of a pale pink blur flash by then plummet towards Rose.
"Liss. You're suffocating me," Rose squeezed out as the Princess gripped her friend to her.
"Sorry, Rose. I'm just so happy for you." Vasilisa pulled back a little, holding on to Rose's shoulders as they smiled at one another.
"I take it you had something to do with this," Rose gestured to her body, running the back of her hand down her side to her waist.
"Guilty," Lissa beamed. "You like it though, right? Christian's been insisting I try out things I used to like doing to—I don't know—get me feeling more comfortable with things here. So, he suggested we go shopping to get you a dress." As if manifested by the Princess' explanation, Christian walked up behind her and placed a cautious hand on her shoulder.
"So, fireball, I hear I have you to thank for my ensemble tonight. Who knew you were such a fashionista," Rose teased.
Christian rolled his eyes and let out an aggravated response. "I didn't pick it out or anything. Just accompanied Lissa, that's all."
"I don't know Sparky, first baking and now dress shopping. Before we know it you'll be joining the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants."
"Oh, you two hush, you're deviating from the point. Dimitri," Lissa turned to me, pushing back from Rose just a little bit more. "Doesn't Rose look beautiful?"
There was no looking at Rose tonight. All I could do was stare at the magnificent creature that I had somehow become lucky enough to escort. Her dark waves spilled down her back, just barely touching the edges of her open back dress. It was a deep blue that reminded me of the sky just as the sun had finally set when it still clung to the last bits of reflected waves before fading into blackness. It was adorned with thin, gold filigree designs threaded along the edges and across the neckline, accentuating her tanned, bare arms and back. I could spend all night tracing those threads with my fingertips.
"She's the most radiant thing I've ever seen," I finally responded to Lissa, my eyes still fixed on Rose. Her grip on the sleeve of my suit jacket tightened under my gaze and I could feel her body pulling towards mine like a magnet. Her eyes flicked to my lips and I wanted nothing more than to oblige in her silent request and ravage her smooth, pink mouth.
"Well, you can say that again," Adrian's voice pulled us out of our momentary trance and we turned our attention to him. "But I must say, the bell of the ball might be Belikov. I can always appreciate a man who knows how to wear a suit." Lissa and Rose giggled and I stood there silent, unsure how to respond.
"And what am I? Chopped liver," Eddie jumped in, saving me from looking like a mute idiot. "I'll have you know I make this suit look damn good." He was wearing a dark maroon, fitted suit and a forest green paisley tie.
"Eddie! You look so handsome," Lissa gushed. "By the way, has anyone seen Eva yet?" Rose and Eddie shook their heads and sifted their sights through the crowd. I turned behind me and saw a flash of red hair sneak back behind the entrance of the room.
"Rose, why don't you and Eddie go say hello to Guardian Petrov? I'll be right behind you." Rose nodded and latched onto Eddie as they headed over to greet their former teacher. I moved over to the front door and walked into the hall. Just as I expected, there was Eva standing with her arms nervously crossed over her torso and her bottom lip worrying between her teeth.
"Good evening, Eva," I politely greeted.
"Hi," she nervously breathed out.
"You look lovely tonight," it was true. Her hair was no longer a tangled, unruly mess and had been combed straight. She was wearing a yellow sundress that actually fit her, unlike the clothes she normally wore which always seemed to be a tad too long, and I had to admit she looked quite nice.
"I hate dresses," she curtly responded.
"Then why did you wear one?" She let out an aggravated sigh and dropped her arms to her side.
"Because Lissa asked me."
It seemed Rose wasn't the only one the Princess had decided to play dress up with this evening. I held back an amused grin, knowing it would only irritate the feisty Moroi more. "I'm not a fan of dressing up either," I admitted. "Suits aren't really my thing."
"Really?" She looked me up and down with a speculative look on her face. "Could've fooled me."
I'm not sure if it was a compliment or not, but I shrugged it off nonetheless. "You know, the others are asking about you. Rather than stay out here miserable in your fancy clothes by yourself, we could go in and be miserable together." I extended my arm to her and gave her a small, reassuring smile.
Eva stood still for a moment, weighing her options, before finally conceding and taking my arm in hers. Her demeanor softened as we slowly made our way into the room.
"We both know you're not miserable," she leaned over and murmured to me. "I don't have to be a Spirit user to know that being around Rose makes you the happiest guy in the room." She wasn't wrong. I would wear or do anything Rose asked just to make her smile.
"Just so you know," she continued. "I'm glad you two found your way back to each other. With all the ugliness in the world, it's nice to see…" she paused as she looked across the room at Rose, then back to me. "It's just nice to see."
Despite the austere front Eva put up, there was this part of her that was truly genuine and caring. It didn't come out often, but when it did I couldn't help but think how alike she and Rose could be.
"Thank you, Eva."
"Hey, glad you finally made it," Christian voiced as he casually strode over.
"Here I am," Eva sarcastically responded, her earlier lightness slipping back behind her steely wall.
"I've actually been wanting to talk to you about something. Mind if I steal you away for a sec?" Eva looked up to me for an instant, and I wondered what caused her hesitation. For a time, she and Christian had become relatively close and she normally had no problem sharing time with him. But before I could ask, she let out a small sigh and agreed to his request.
"Yeah sure. Catch you later, Belikov. Don't miss me too much," Eva shot me a quick wave and walked off with Christian.
I watched them for a moment to make sure she was comfortable enough now that she was already inside and set off to find Rose again. She was engaged in a conversation with Tasha and Abe. I paused for a moment, trying to decide if I wanted to approach them or not. Tasha and I hadn't spoken much since I turned down her offer to guard her, but to my knowledge, we had left things on relatively good terms. Abe, on the other hand, was an entirely different story.
I had been encouraging Rose to get to know him more, she had gone her entire life without knowing her father and it would be better if she could form her own opinion of him without other influences in the way. But that didn't mean I was jumping at the gun to talk to him as well. The last time we were alone was in the library at his hotel where he had made it very clear that our arrangement hadn't been forgotten and he basically held my situation with the Court Guardians over my head. Lately, most of our communication was through Pavel, who would seek me out with cryptic messages here and there from the illusive Zmey. Mostly just him telling me that they would be staying here for a little longer, but I would be leaving with them as soon as Abe saw fit. I guess I should have been used to being under someone's finger after an entire life of succumbing to outdated laws and hierarchies that probably wouldn't have even known my name if it weren't for my involvement with the Dragomir Princess, but I hated that my fate was dangling even further from me now.
I decided that eventually Rose and I would have to be around him together, even though it would probably stir up some unwanted feelings within her as well. It just meant I'd have to try extra hard to play nice and keep the peace. I sucked in a deep breath and made my way over to them.
"Can't you keep your hands to yourself for one—"
"Dimka," Tasha's excited voice interrupted Rose's reprimanding. Abe was looking at his daughter smugly and I could only assume he had been using his infamous "charms" on Tasha before I approached them.
"It's so good to see you."
"You as well Tasha. How have you been?" I stood next to Rose but didn't make contact with her yet out of respect for our present company.
"Much better now that Christian is back. He gave me quite the scare for a bit, but when he finally called me and told me he was with you I felt more at ease." I could feel Rose shift uncomfortably next to me as Tasha spoke.
"Yeah, well Dimitri's the best. Anyone would feel safer knowing their loved ones were with him," Rose voiced. Her tone wasn't necessarily rude, but I could tell she had lost some of that spiritedness she usually held. I was in a precarious situation. I wanted to squash any insecurities she had about Tasha being around but also wanted to remain respectful to her father. However, I eventually decided that reassuring my love of my feelings for her was far more important than pissing off Abe. I reached down and slipped her hand into mine, pulling her close against me. I could feel her relax the tiniest bit at the gesture, at the same time causing Tasha's face to fall.
She had known when I turned down her offer that my heart was somewhere else, but it was one thing hearing it and entirely another seeing it. I half expected Tasha to admonish me, or at least pull me aside to talk without Rose around, but to my surprise, her expression softened, and she moved her attention from our clasped hands to Rose.
"You know, I never got to thank you, Rose."
Rose looked at her curiously and remained quiet as Tasha continued. "Christian has learned so much from you. I admire what the two of you did at St. Vladimir's during the school attack. Not many skilled Dhampir would trust a Moroi to have their backs like that. He's definitely gained an entirely new perspective because of it and you two are truly an example of what our way of life should be like."
Rose nodded along, no doubt as confounded by Tasha's response as me. "He's also told me about all of your decision to learn more about using his magic offensively with one of your new friends. I'll admit, I was a little hesitant to see him go so soon after just getting him back, but I know with you by his side you two can accomplish the impossible."
"Wow," Rose let out, her expression still baffled. "Thank you, Tasha. It's not very often we hear Moroi speak like that. It's...refreshing."
Tasha smiled and gave her a small nod in response. "Well, if you will excuse me I would very much like to catch up with Vasilisa. Promise me you'll come find me before you leave town, Rose? You've become a very important person in my nephew's life and I think it's time we got to know one another better."
"Of course," Rose agreed and the two of them shared a short embrace.
"It's also become apparent that you've managed to make the surly Dimitri Belikov very happy, not an easy feat, and I commend you for it." Tasha took a step back from Rose and placed a hand on my shoulder. "I'm truly happy for the both of you and wish you all the best." There was the tiniest sense of sadness in her pale blue eyes, but there was no doubt in my mind the sincerity of her words.
"Thank you, Tasha." I wanted to say more about how much her acceptance meant. There was a time where her friendship was a huge support in my life and she had helped me through some of my lowest times after I lost Ivan. I gave her a small smile, hoping that she would see my deep appreciation of her gesture, and she flashed me a quick wink before dropping her arm and heading off to speak with the Princess.
"Well, that was...unexpected," Rose turned to watch Tasha walk away with a pleased look adorning her face.
"Mhmm yes, well I was planning to wait until after dinner but since I have the two of you here now, there's really no reason to wait," Abe's voice pulled our attention back to him and Rose's expression slightly hardened. I squeezed her hand a little tighter to hopefully alleviate her rising tension, but Abe's serious demeanor only made it that much more difficult.
"Belikov, I think it's time we discuss our next move."
Rose's hand gripped around mine protectively and her eyes narrowed. Her mouth opened, and she took in a breath in preparation for what would most likely be a long rant, assailing her father. But before she could say anything she might end up regretting, I intercepted.
"Sir, don't you think we should talk about this in private."
Abe's chin rose slightly over my unintentional slight, but it was hard to look down on someone at my towering height.
"Actually," Rose jumped in. "I'd like to hear this."
Abe's face remained in line with mine, but I could see his eyes flick to her for an instant and a snaky smile inch up his face.
"Excellent," his tone and expression lightened, and his hands moved to clasp behind his back. "I've recently had one of my business associates volunteer for an extremely risky, yet necessary mission. She's stationed remotely for the time being but will be putting herself in much more danger than I would like by agreeing to head this operation." I stood there impassive as Abe continued to outline his plans for my future.
"I fear that she and her sister will need protection not only outside of their confines but inside as well. I've done my best to provide that safety over the years, but now that their plans are expanding, it will likely cause some disturbance in their community." He let out a small sigh and I could see the smallest hint of responsibility he felt for this woman he spoke of. I wasn't sure what their relationship was, but I could clearly see in that instant, that this wasn't just purely business...it was personal.
And yet, he was trusting it with me.
"The young woman's name is Josette Gallagher. She is quickly becoming one of the major influencers of her community and I need to make sure she remains safe."
"Wait, Gallagher. I know that name," Rose interrupted. Her eyes darted along the floor as her mind searched for answers. I looked down at her, wondering how she could possibly know another one of Abe's associates. It was too coincidental. Eventually, her eyes widened, and her head slowly turned to the other side of the room. I followed her gaze to see it landing directly on Eva.
"Josette Gallagher. That's Eva's sister." Rose's quiet words caused my gaze to immediately shoot back to Abe. He didn't speak a word, but his silence was enough to confirm Rose's declaration.
"But that would mean—" My heart was actively trying to leap out of my chest. Not only would I not have to leave Rose for God knows how long, but I could also help her and the others take down the monsters that started all of this chaos in the first place.
"If you believe you are up for the task, your service will clear you of any debt you owe me. However," I should have known there would be a catch. Rose's face finally turned back to our conversation, her expression falling somewhere between worry and hope. "I need to make it very clear that there will be no outside communication with anyone other than me while you are there. I have to make sure that everything that happens between Josette and the other's remains completely confidential. This includes your family." It was then I finally understood what he was asking. "Your mother has been more than helpful to me in the past, and it's because of this I won't force her only son to exile himself from her for the foreseeable future, so I am giving you a choice to take on this mission with the Salvatori or come with me and work off your debt in other ways while still remaining in contact with our community."
I was no stranger to being away from my family for extended periods of time. Since I had started my position at the academy I hadn't been to see my family in over two years. But not seeing them in person, and not communicating with them at all were in no way the same thing. I thought about Karo and the kids, Sonya who was getting ready to pop any day now, and Vika who would soon be graduating and joining the ranks of the Guardians herself. In many ways, they still needed me—almost as much as I needed them.
I could see Rose's face shift to the floor. It was strange to think she had brought up my family only just hours before. She knew firsthand how much they meant to me, and actively choosing to stay away from them was a lot to ask. Her hand carefully slipped out of mine and moved to wrap around her torso. She was giving me space. Space to think about the weight of this decision without her influencing me one way or another. But that small amount of space left me feeling emptier than any distance between me and my family ever would.
"I'll do it."
Rose's face shot up to me, her wavy hair rippling along her back and complete shock adorning her beautiful features.
"Are you sure Dimitri," Abe asked. "I'm not sure when the next time you can go home will be."
As much as the thought of leaving my family behind pained me, it was in that moment I realized sometimes home isn't a place. It's two eyes and a heartbeat. I turned to Rose and looked deep into her dark, questioning eyes as I responded, "I am home."
End.
.
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Translations:
"Vy mozhete rasschityvat' na eto." "You can count on it."
A/N: Yes, you read that right….unfortunately, our time here is over. There will be one more Epilogue chapter, but after that, Dark Hearts will have come to an end.
I know I sound like a broken record, but thank you so much to everyone out there who read this story. Your support throughout this experience has truly meant the world. To those of you who have been with me since the very beginning, how I managed not to scare you guys off is beyond me, but y'all seriously ROCK!
Being the last official chapter and all (and since I'm a huge sucker for reminiscing), I would love to hear anyone's thoughts on it; particularly any parts or scenes that stood out to you. I know I have my favorites, but I'm always curious what moments were most memorable to others out there!
As sad as I am to see this go I won't be staying away for too long. I have a new story in the works that I'm really excited about, but I want to get a good chunk of it written before I start posting so I can keep this schedule thing going strong. If you have any questions about it feel free to message me, otherwise (if you're not already) you can follow my author page for updates on posting.
Lastly, I have to give one final shout out to the DH Godmother; the wonderfully talented and extraordinarily fabulous Gaya. Without her, this story would have just been an idea I wrote down on my laptop that never became anything because I would have been way too chicken to even try. Her amazing encouragement, constant pestering for more (whether it be angst, fluff, or gore) ;P, and amazing poetry that found its way in from time to time gave this story life! Not to mention the playlists! Thanks for everything Gaya and I hope DH did you proud.