BRAN
Thankfully, Arya promised she won't tell their parents that they went mountain trekking and had met at Mount Alarra. At least, for now.
Bran and company had hiked down from Mt. Alarra just as some employees of Stormbreaker Telecom and his sister Arya had pitched their tents in the camping ground at Summit Six.
He didn't go directly home to Winterfell even though it was just technically below and an hour-ride from Highpoint. Partly, because he had left his car in the Aquamarine in White Harbor, but mostly, because he didn't know how to face his Dad again, considering their parting ways was kinda sour.
He arrived home on Saturday afternoon, with six boxes of pizza and a large-sized Bucket o' Fries—which Rickon had practically labeled as his, but Robb says otherwise.
Bran also didn't have a proper conversation about the whole feud thing with his Dad. But he was surprised when his Mom came to talk about it when she came into his room one night after eating dinner.
He was reading a book trying to distract himself from all the things that bothered him in the last few days when a knock from his bedroom door came.
It was his Mom, Catelyn. She then invited herself in with a plateful of food and a mug of a warm drink of some sort. Of course, Bran knew what it meant: there's going to be an important discussion.
"Bran," His Mom said. "I brought you brownies and warm milk." She then placed the things she brought on his nightstand before sitting next to him on his bed.
"I'm not hungry, Mom." He insisted.
"Your Dad told me about your last conversation," Catelyn said. "And you haven't talked since."
Bran closed his book. "He told me to stay away from the Reeds," He said. "And he never explained why. How do you even tell someone to do something and not explain why?"
"There are things in the past that we shouldn't dig up again," His Mom said. "Memories that are long forgotten and painful."
"Oh, I already know, Mom," Bran prompted. "Dad wouldn't tell me anything so I did some digging. It's Aunt Lyanna. Dad cut ties with the Reeds because he blamed them for her death. You said so yourself, it's all in the past. Meera and I—we didn't even know they're on a feud. I just think that Dad shouldn't have to drag our entire family to his battle. And the worst part, he's telling me to stay away from someone I love."
Catelyn turned to him with wide eyes, clearly surprised.
"I love Meera, Mom," He declared. "And I don't want Dad and her Dad's squabble to get between us."
His Mom gave him a sad smile and cupped his chin. "Don't worry, Brandon," She assured. "I'll talk to your Dad about it." She then cleared her throat. "Anyways, when will the reviews start?"
"Tomorrow," He replied. "Also, it's a six-month review. I honestly, didn't anticipate that it's going to be that long, but it's the shortest amount of time for a review qualified to take the board exams. So since we're already in the middle of the year, I'll have to take it in January next year."
It was true. Bran signed up in the review center while he was in White Harbor with Rickon and he thought the shortest amount of time they allowed was three months, but nope, it's actually six months.
When he told his sister Arya about it while they were trekking to the camping ground at Mount Alarra, she freaked out. WHAT?! Arya had exclaimed. Six months? What the fuck am I supposed to do in six months?!
He only reminded her that she promised their Dad that she'd be supervising the Winter Rose Foundation, a non-government organization founded by their Aunt Lyanna. It'll be something that'll keep her busy since she didn't wanna do some freelance designing.
Catelyn nodded. "Alright, then you better get some sleep." She said as she stood. "Right after you finish your food and milk. And Bran, while I talk to your Dad, please keep a low profile about it, okay?"
"Yes, Mom," He smiled. "And thank you."
Catelyn kissed him good night before heading out of his room.
. . .
Everything turned out okay, at least, in that whole six months. Bran was mostly in White Harbor and he would still see Meera more often, which would always make his day brighter. But when the fall came and Rickon's school term started, both Bran and Meera had to compromise since he still didn't completely trust his brother and there's a chance that he might expose them unintentionally.
The first three months his daily review schedule was 9am-6pm, but the schedule changed when the schools started the term. It became 8am-5pm, but Rickon doesn't know that. So basically, he had one hour with Meera before going home to the Aquamarine on the weekdays. They would mostly be in Meera's flat or eat dinner at someplace. And they would occasionally make out or do the deed.
And it was also him and Meera who discovered Jojen's secret relationship with the youngest Mormont girl. They caught them making out on the couch one afternoon. Apparently, they use Meera's flat as their meeting place.
It was on one Friday afternoon, Meera had taken a half-day leave because she was gonna be cooking for her parents' anniversary. And Bran had just wanted to get out of the review center because it had been a stressful week, so he volunteered to help her. They went grocery shopping before going to Meera's flat to prepare the food. And at that time, they didn't know that they were in for another surprise and saw something they did not expect to see.
Jojen was on the couch, making out with a girl who was sitting on his lap. And the girl was Lyanna Mormont.
Meera nearly dropped the bag of groceries when she saw them. Bran's eyes widened as both he and Meera cussed simultaneously.
"What the fuck?" She exclaimed.
"Holy shit!" He said, dumbfounded.
Jojen snapped his arms back, pulling away from Lyanna. And they both stood before them.
"I can explain," Jojen spoke up.
Meera shrugged. "Please." She said before placing the groceries on the dining table and turning back to her brother. "Because I'm compelled to tell you that this is my flat. And you brought a girl here without my permission—even though it's Lya Mormont—but still! It's not okay for you to turn my flat into your…tȇté à tȇté chamber."
"Wow," Lya said in awe. "That was some ample usage of words."
"I'm a journalist," Meera replied. "I'm required to have an extensive vocabulary."
Jojen explained that it started after they went trekking on Mount Alarra. It was Lyanna who made the first move saying she knew a fast-casual restaurant where the menu was exclusively vegetarian. And as they hung out, they figured out that have a lot in common and started going out on more dates until it became serious enough to be a relationship.
"Wow," Bran finally said, then narrowed his eyes at Jojen. "I thought you said Lya was the grumpy one among the Mormonts."
Lya turned to Jojen with an eyebrow raised. "Wait, what?"
"Uh," Jojen scratched his head and fixed his eyeglasses. "That was something I said when you told me off once when we were still in the Uni." He turned to Bran. "Also, I take back what I said about her being the grumpy one. That was before I actually got to know her." He smiled at Lya. "She's wonderful."
Lya's facial expression softened, then shrugged. "And as you know, I'm kind of attracted to nerds."
Meera slowly nodded, half-heartedly smiling. "Alright, I'm all for this. But why did you not tell us?"
Lya suddenly became uneasy, then sighed. "It's my fault. I told Jojen to keep it a secret because I can't stand my sisters teasing me, especially after the whole thing at Mt. Alarra."
Bran remembered when Summer had escaped from his leash and he went after him with Lya, Jojen, and Asher, and they ran into Stormbreaker Telecom employees, plus his sister, Arya on their team-building exercise.
Lyra had told Jorelle about Lyanna and Jojen being all sweet to each other, and according to Lyanna, the teasing never stopped to this day.
"It's just…" Lya said. "I'm looking for the right time."
Bran crossed his arms. "And when is the right time?" He asked.
Lya shrugged. "I don't know yet," She said. "But…we'll get there."
Then Meera squealed and hugged them both. "Can I just say: Finally!" She smirked. "Oh, and your secret's safe with us."
Technically, both Bran and Meera didn't have to. Because the following day after their tȇté à tȇté chamber in the flat, Lyanna's older sisters, Lyra and Jorelle caught them together when Jojen was walking Lya home from 'visiting a friend'. And well, the rest is history. Although, Bran had his suspicions that Maege Mormont was having second thoughts about one of her daughters dating a Reed boy, just because she and the Mormonts are very good friends of the Starks.
. . .
Flash forward to six months, Bran took the exam and passed with flying colors. By flying colors, it meant topping the actual board exams. And it also meant that he was whitelisted by numerous construction companies in Westeros to work for them. His e-mail was bombarded by offers of higher salaries, flexible work schedules, and even a company vehicle for transportation. But despite the generous offers, Bran had turned them all down because he was starting one with his sister, Arya.
Speaking of Arya, she seemed to be busy and enjoying her job with the Winter Rose Foundation. When she went home from the job on her first day, she cried. Like, literally cried with tears and all. Because she had just come from the slums of downtown Winterfell and did not know that a lot of people really needed help. How the fuck am I supposed to calm down when a family of twelve people is living in a house half the size of my bathroom? Arya had yelled at Sansa when she told their sister to calm down. I have to do something. And she freaked out when some of the elderly people in one of the assisted living facilities called her Lyanna.
Also, later that same year, Robb married his girlfriend, Talisa Maegyr. They met all because of Theon. At a frat party, when Robb and Theon were seniors in college, a drunken Theon was dared to do a backflip from the host frat's backyard pergola and into the pool. Robb had tried to stop him but as stubborn as Theon was, he still did it. And since he was drunk, the backflip never happened and he just fell and hit his arm hard on the pool's tanning ledge. Robb was forced to bring Theon to the nearest hospital, and that's where he met Talisa. Talisa was doing her internship before graduating from Medical school, and it was also her first nightshift.
Talisa is from a wealthy family, descended from nobles of old—just like the Starks were—, in the Free City of Volantis. She has a younger brother and she's the only doctor in their family of accountants. And after she exchanged marriage vows with Robb in the Winterfell Sept, she came to live with them in Stark Manor. So besides their house staff, six of them were regular residents: Their Mom and Dad, Robb, his wife Talisa, and their two sisters, Arya and Sansa.
Furthermore, when Bran passed the boards, that's when they started their construction company. The construction company, they named the Northern Alliance Builders, because their suppliers and Bran and Arya themselves were Northerners. Also, Robb, as CEO of Stark Industries, handed all projects under the Alpha & Luna Properties and Starkgrand Coffee branches for them to plan, design and build.
At first, their projects were exclusively in the North because they only have a small number of employees. As the business boomed, they decided to expand and hired more employees. And because they had reached their three-year goal in nine months, their Dad, Ned Stark had gifted them their own building and not just a certain space in the Stark Industries building—though it's still on the same compound.
Anyways, while working in Winterfell, Bran still lived in White Harbor so he could watch over his wild younger brother, Rickon, and made sure he's still sane. But their parents had a single condition: that they both should go home in Winterfell on the weekends. That condition alone solved two things, well, at least, according to their Dad. It prevents Rickon from partying and for Bran to keep seeing Meera.
Yes, his Dad was still not over the fact that Bran dated the daughter of his old friend, Howland Reed. Or should he say: bestfriend-turned-enemy. After Bran had read the news articles Meera had found, he had scoured information about them—he even went to Castle Black Military Base, to his Uncle Benjen since he was their only other living relative. But to no avail. It's not my place to tell you, Brandon, his Uncle Benjen had only said.
He did, however, managed to squeeze out some information from their old head housekeeper and babysitter, Old Nan. Bran had interrupted her while she was dusting furniture on the west wing of Stark Manor. At first, she hesitated. But as Bran pleaded and promised not to tell anyone, she eventually told him.
"Howland was your father's bestfriend," Old Nan said. "They met when they were in college."
Bran's eyes widened. "What?" He shrieked.
"Oh, I remember him well," Old Nan recalled. "He often came here and was very close to Ned's siblings—maybe because his girlfriend was a good friend of Lya's. He was…family. And it was him who managed to convince your grandfather, Rickard to allow your Uncle Benjen to get into Military school."
"I thought Robert Baratheon was Dad's bestfriend." He pointed out.
"No, no," Old Nan corrected. "Your Dad met Robert when he was in an internship program in the Vale, after he graduated college."
Bran couldn't believe it. How did someone, who was bestfriends with his Dad, become probably his most hated person since Aerys Targaryen? There's still a lot of things Bran didn't know.
"When did they stop talking to each other?" He asked.
Old Nan sighed. "I think you already know the answer to that, Brandon." She went back to dusting furniture. "If you need more proof, you can check the photos your Aunt Lya compiled in her photo albums your father had stashed in his study."
Well, he did. Bran had sneaked into his Dad's study for his Aunt Lyanna's photo albums. Technically, it was more defined as scrapbooks than photo albums because it was meticulously decorated with stickers and notes. And sure enough, his Dad had lots of pictures together with the family and Howland Reed. One of the scrapbooks was labeled, Mischief Escapade: A Documentation of Successful Pranks, which was a compilation of the pranks they pulled with his Aunt Lyanna documenting the whole thing. He read the whole thing and his top favorites were: Covering Brandon's Car in Plastic Wrap, Benjie's 'Surprise' Birthday Present, and Putting Fake Honeybee Holes on Ned's Hand.
But there was one which wasn't finished. It contained photos of his Aunt Lyanna while being pregnant with Jon. It also confirmed that Jon's name wasn't technically Jon, but Aegon. It was probably only changed to Jon, by his Dad. The lone proof it had was the note on one of the photos of Lyanna Stark smiling and holding her swollen belly, If it's a girl, Arya; and if it's a boy, Aegon.
Unbeknownst to his family, except Arya and maybe Rickon, Bran still kept seeing Meera. His love for her grew even stronger ever since his Dad told him to stay away from her. Clearly, his Mom's 'talk' with his Dad did not work out well, but that didn't stop Bran. There's no way in seven hells he's staying away from Meera.
Bran's 'talk' with his Dad before trekking on Mt. Alarra was not the only time he was told to stay away from Meera. But that moment was Boiling Point No. 1.
Boiling Point No. 2 was when Robb and Talisa were doing their prenup photoshoot in White Harbor and they caught him walking with Meera in the streets not far from them. Robb had casually mentioned it to their Dad once during a weekend dinner and suddenly Ned Stark lost all the energy to crack even a smile for the rest of that night. Then that same night after dinner, his Dad gave him a lecture in his study that ended in them arguing.
"Brandon," Ned took a deep breath as he sat back on his boss chair. "This is not the first time I told you this, and it won't be the last: Stay away from the Reeds."
"Why, huh?" Bran demanded. "The Reeds are good people. Even you know that."
"No, you don't." Ned snapped. "You don't know what they did."
"Actually, I do, Dad," He said. "You also failed to mention that Howland Reed was your bestfriend. And yes, I did some digging because you refused to tell me anything. Sure, you and Howland Reed had your differences, and that's between you and him. But what about his family?" He asked. "I just don't understand why you won't give them a chance."
"I already went there," Ned answered. "With the Boltons, and look where it got us? Several court trial hearings, your brothers getting shot by stray bullets, and your sister suffering emotional trauma."
Bran shook his head. "The Reeds are different, Dad." He insisted. "They are not what you think."
"I'm still not comfortable with you dating his daughter." Ned admitted.
"I love her, Dad." Bran blurted out.
"Brandon," His father started to say.
"No one has the right to dictate me about my feelings, Dad," He interjected. "Not even you. I love her and that's not gonna change."
Bran then stood and walked out of his Dad's study. He could hear his Dad calling after him, but Bran ignored it. It was then that he started to be estranged from his own father.
Now, twenty-three-year-old Bran just had to get through life's obstacles. Then came the Harvest Feast Charity Ball and all seven hells broke loose. It was also Boiling Point No 3.
The Harvest Feast is an annual event celebrated across Westeros. This tradition dated back in the Age of Heroes where lords and ladies from across the region would come to the capital and share their harvests, meats, and crops with everyone. Back in the old days, noblemen and women celebrate harvest feasts in their overlords' manor. In the North's case, yes, it's on Stark Manor with the Northern noble families and their retinues.
But when there was a change of the form of government from absolute monarchy to a democratic republic, the traditions changed. Nowadays, well, it's still celebrated on the second Friday of October, but with street parades, and family dinners with roasted pig, baked potatoes, and apple pies.
The following day on Saturday evening, a charity ball is held. It's a fundraiser event for the less fortunate. The Ball is attended by entrepreneurs and foundation heads with their families and it is always held in the Convention Center in Winterfell, right across the North Capitol.
Also, instead of the Governor hosting the event, it's decided among families from the different areas of the North, either from the Islands, Rills, Neck, Mountains, Barrowlands, the Capital, and Coasts. And in that particular year, 310 AC, the Harvest Feast was hosted by the Mormont family, which is a family from the Islands—Bear Island to be exact.
It's mostly a semi-formal attire event, so Bran could basically just wear a fitted suit and that's it. But no, his Mom insisted that he wore a tie, a damn pocket square, and cufflinks. People looked up to the Starks, so we have to look our best, his mother had said.
Bran never liked going to big parties and most of the time he's only forced to attend by his Mom. And his sister Arya of course, managed to annoy their Mom by wearing a jumpsuit to almost every formal event they attend. Almost, because she actually had to wear a dress during Robb's wedding.
So basically, his Dad, Robb, Jon, Theon, Rickon and Bran himself were in fitted suits, his Mom, Sansa, and Talisa—who was seven months pregnant, wore dresses, and Arya was in a classy jumpsuit.
Maege Mormont greeted them when they entered. "Ned, Cat!" She greeted, then gave each of them a hug.
"Hello, Maege." Cat returned the same greeting.
Bran looked around and almost every important person in the North was there, be it politicians or businessmen with their families. Even the political enemies of the Starks, the Boltons were there. Ever since Ramsay Bolton, Roose Bolton's son from his mistress and Sansa's psychotic ex-boyfriend—who is currently serving his seventy-year sentence in the Wolf's Den Prison, their families had just disregarded each other.
But when Bran saw that the Reeds were also there, he became excited and hopeful. And it's a miracle that Meera and Jojen were there as well, because his family always attended the Harvest Feast Charity Ball, but he never saw them there before. Or maybe he just wasn't paying attention to the people who attend and those who don't.
He spotted Meera, who wore a green trench coat as a dress, and was talking to Lyra and Jorelle Mormont. And when she turned to his direction, she smiled and waved at him, which had him weak by the knees. Damn, she's so beautiful, Bran thought giddily. Green is definitely her color.
Unfortunately for Bran, his Dad saw his reaction and was not happy. Ned turned to Maege Mormont and whispered loud enough, probably to make sure he'll hear. "Maege, why are the Reeds here?" Ned asked.
Meage's eyes widened in surprise then sighed. "They always come," She reminded him.
"Maybe Howland," Ned said. "But his children?"
"Oh," Maege nodded. "That would be my daughters' doing." She explained. "They're good friends with his children. And they are nice people."
Ned huffed. "I don't know about that."
Catelyn elbowed her husband. "Ned," She gritted her teeth.
"What?" Ned asked his wife.
"Listen to your wife, Eddard," Maege agreed. "Please do not cause a scene here."
Ned raised his hands in surrender. "I'm not promising anything."
Maege sighed. "Well, then," She said as she waved for ushers and usherettes to come their way. "They will escort you to your seats."
"Thank you, Maege." Catelyn said.
When they already knew where they'll be seated, they went on to socialize. Robb stayed seated next to his pregnant wife and just let people approach him.
Just as Bran tried to separate from his parents, his father placed an arm on his shoulder, gently gripping it and turned to him. "Brandon," He said in a hard, steely voice. "You'll stay with me."
"But—" He started to protest.
"Stay with me." Ned insisted.
"Ned," Catelyn spoke up. "You can't restrain your son from going anywhere," She argued. "This is a party. They're supposed to socialize."
"He is socializing," Ned insisted. "By meeting every person that I also meet."
Oh, great! Bran silently cursed. It's just his Dad's way for him not to get anywhere near Meera. Luckily for him, his sister, Arya was up to her schemes, yet again (And thank the gods for her!).
Arya rolled her eyes at their Dad's sudden strictness, then forced out a smile and approached their father. "Daddy," She said in her unusual tone—a tone she used on their Dad when she wants something, at the same time, pulling their Dad's arm. "Look, there's Wyman Manderly."
She pointed ahead and sure enough, a man thrice their father's size—he was even larger than Robert Baratheon—was walking towards them. Yep, it's Wyman Manderly, the Mayor of White Harbor.
"Ned!" Wyman greeted in his high, phlegmy voice.
Wyman Manderly was a friend and a political ally, but appearance-wise, he looked like Santa Claus in a black suit, with his white hair and beard. If his suit was red, then maybe you might mistake him as Santa Claus. He spread his arms wide and pulled Ned into a tight hug.
And as their Dad was busy chatting with Wyman Manderly, Arya hit him with the back of her hand.
"This isn't gonna last," Arya whispered. "But at least, I've bought you some time. Now, go, you're free." She motioned her head towards the Reeds' direction.
Bran smiled gratefully. "Thank you."
Arya shrugged, smirking. "Well, you know what they say, Never stand in the way of true love."
Bran took a deep breath before walking towards Meera, who was talking to two of the Mormont girls.
"Oh my gods!" Jorelle gasped. "Boyfriend alert! Watch your six, Meera."
Meera turned and was face to face with him.
"Hello, my Stardust," Bran greeted.
She smiled wide. "Branflakes!" She giggled then wrapped him in a bear hug.
"Uh," Lyra cleared her throat. "We'll leave you two, to you know, catch up." She said as she stirred Jorelle away from them.
Bran shrugged. "I didn't know you were coming,"
"I know," Meera said. "I never really come to this kind of event, only my parents do. And they don't always attend. But the Mormonts have been…persuasive, especially Lya."
"Well, I'm glad they were," He smiled. "Because my night just became extra brighter." He held out his arm. "Come on, walk with me."
Meera snorted and hooked her arm against his without hesitation. "Where are we going?" She asked.
"You'll see."
The North Convention Center has beautiful lush gardens large enough to host outdoor weddings when it's not snowing. It has several water fountains, a hedged maze, countless flower bushes and shrubs, stone walkways, path lights, and a two-storey gazebo.
The two-storey gazebo was at the edge of the garden and directly behind it is a rocky creek.
"Wow," Meera said in awe. "It's beautiful. I mean, even though it's fall and half of the plants don't have leaves anymore."
"The winter roses are still there." Bran pointed to their right. "They start to set buds in the fall and then bloom in the winter."
"Oh, remember those roses you gave me," She recalled. "Jojen took cuttings of it and replanted them. Now they're grown and he keeps them in the greenhouse so that we can have some supplies during the summer."
"Well, that's good to hear," He smiled. "Oh, by the way, the Red Comet will be seen tonight.
"Yeah, I know," Meera said. "I wrote an article about that last Friday. And it's especially a rare instance because it falls after the Harvest Feast, and it only appears once every hundred years. But I'm not sure if that can be seen by our naked eyes."
"Oh, it can be seen by our naked eyes," Bran confirmed. "It'll appear at around nine at night, which happens to be in the middle of auction…" He faltered, then an idea suddenly popped into his head.
"I know that look," She said. "That's your thinking look. What is it?"
Bran checked his wristwatch. 18:30, it read. "Okay, so the auction starts at nine and I don't really have much to do then, and I'm sure neither will you. So maybe we can see the red comet, together." He proposed, then pointed at the gazebo by the creek. "In that gazebo."
Meera smiled, then slowly nodded. "Of course, I'll meet you there."
"Great!" Bran wrapped her in a hug. "Anyways, I have to go. Arya had only stalled me a few minutes." He sighed sadly. "I'll see you later then, okay? I promise. Love you." Then he planted a kiss on her cheek before walking back to his family by their dinner table.
Of course, his Dad was furious about his sudden disappearance act. "Where have you been?" He demanded. "I told you to stay with me."
"I just…went to the bathroom, Dad." He reasoned as he took his seat. "Am I not allowed to go use the loo now?"
As they sat and ate dinner, Bran noticed that Maege Mormont had definitely taken the time to plan the table seating arrangement, and made sure to have the Reeds seated as far away from the Starks as possible.
Nonetheless, it doesn't matter, as he will meet Meera in the gazebo later in the evening. But he will have to figure out how to escape from his Dad's iron grip though.
MEERA
Meera was tired of all their family's bullshit. Well, technically, it's just her Dad and Ned Stark's squabble, but still.
The Starks are good people and she was glad that Bran's siblings hadn't treated Meera and her brother, Jojen like they were enemies when the issue of their Dads' two-decade blood feud was brought up.
Bran's sisters, Arya and Sansa were especially welcoming and treated her like their actual older sister, and his younger brother, Rickon looked up to her the same way. Even Jojen became good friends with Bran because of their geeky personality.
One time when Bran was still reviewing for the boards, he and Jojen once went to a Comic-Con in White Harbor dressed as Han Solo and Luke Skywalker respectively. They even invited her to come with them and prompted her to dress as Princess Leia with the space bun hairstyle, but she had declined because it was on a workday. Later that day, Bran and Jojen came back to her flat around the same time she got home with a buttload of limited-edition goodies. Particularly, a replica of Mace Windu's purple lightsaber, a Stormtrooper and a Rebel Pilot helmet and an R2-D2 trash bin. Bran even got her a green lightsaber nightlight as a souvenir.
Meera considered her relationship with Bran a very happy one. They had established it built on trust. She trusts him completely and he trusts her the same. Their parents, however, particularly their Dads, are a different story. Her father has never said anything against it, but he hadn't encouraged her either. He has remained neutral in all aspects as long as she's happy. Bran's Dad, on the other hand, had repeatedly expressed dismay.
Also, over the last year, she had been promoted to Feature Editor. Her workstation was upgraded from a simple cubicle partition to a separate room with a sliding door. And yes, Gwyn and Lyra often hung out there during their breaks. By the way, her friends had also taken a step up at work. Gwyn was now the Business Editor, while Lyra was Assistant Feature Editor. And since Meera and Lyra's workplaces were not too far from each other, Gwyn was the one who visits their workplace.
Then came the discussion of the Harvest Feast Charity Ball when she started to feel edgy. That year it will be hosted by the Mormont family, so of course, Lyra nearly flipped.
"What?!" Lyra shrieked. "Why are you not going?"
"Well," Meera looked up from her desk. "First of all, I'm not really a fan of fancy parties; second, we weren't invited; and third, it'll just be a recipe for disaster."
"You don't know that," Lyra countered.
"Well, I'm not betting on it." She replied. "Sorry."
"Lya's not gonna like this," Lyra said.
Meera frowned. "What does Lya have to do with the Harvest Feast Charity Ball?" She asked.
"The Mormont family is hosting the ball this year," Lyra informed. "And it would definitely mean a lot for Lya because it's the first time she's actually attending with a boyfriend."
Oh, of course, the other new thing is Jojen and Lyanna had started dating, much to everyone's surprise. But Meera didn't like the way she and Bran found out about it though. They caught them making out in her flat. Nevertheless, she's still so happy for them. Through Lya, Jojen is spending more time out of the house, his workspace and, his greenhouse, and got out and explored. And also, because of Jojen, Meera had seen a softer and different side to Lyanna Mormont that she hadn't seen before. She had presumed Lya was the odd one out of the five Mormont sisters because of her in-your-face and kind-of-a-feminist attitude, but she was wrong.
The following day, Lyanna came with her sister to their workplace and placed an invitation to the Harvest Feast Charity Ball on her desk before her.
"Hi Lya," Meera greeted, then frowned at the fancy envelope on her desk that Lya had placed. "What is this?" She asked.
"It's an official invitation to the Harvest Feast Charity Ball this Saturday," Lyanna informed, then she raised her hand. "Before you even say anything, I already convinced your parents and your brother and they have confirmed that they will be coming. And that means you have to come as well because it's on a Saturday so you can't use the it's a workday excuse."
Meera sighed. "Lya, you do know that me being there will be like a ticking time bomb waiting to explode."
"Bran will be there," Lya brought up.
"I know," She said. "His entire family will be there as well, including the governor. And I think Ned Stark will be holding a leash around Bran's neck when he sees me there."
"I already reserved a seat for you per your parents' request," Lya insisted. "And if you're not coming, that's a three months worth of relief goods away from seven unfortunate families in the slums of White Harbor."
Meera moved her hands away from her keyboard and turned to Lya. "Oh my gods, what?" She asked.
"That's right," Lya said, matter of factly. "That's how a single seat costs. You can help a lot of people."
Meera was quiet for a moment, then finally sighed. "Ugh, fine." She said. "I'll go. Godsdammit!"
Lya grinned. "Yay, great!" She went over to her side and hugged her. "Thanks, Meera. Now those families will not starve come winter." She glared at Lyra, who was standing before Meera across her desk. "That's how you do it."
"Wow," Lyra said. "Didn't know being a lawyer steps up your persuasive game. I need lessons."
That weekend was Harvest Feast Charity Ball and Meera was nervous, more nervous than she had been since she landed a job interview for her first position in The Northern Herald.
The last time she attended the charity ball was when she was still in high school. She hadn't attended since she moved to White Harbor for college and she had her job. And now, ten years later, she's back in attendance.
Meera didn't tell Bran about it because, well, she wanted it to be a surprise. Partly, because it'll give Ned Stark another reason to not let his own son go. Mostly because she wanted to show the Stark family that she's worth Bran's love and that she's not using him for his family's wealth.
At the Harvest Feast Charity Ball in Winterfell, the Stark family entered with their entourage of security. When Bran spotted her, he smiled wide. She waved in his direction, but of course, Ned Stark saw that. The governor whispered something on Maege Mormont's ear, and then it looked like she and his wife—Bran's Mom were calming him down. Ned Stark had then turned to his son and no doubt told him to not approach her. Well, she's not surprised.
But Meera was surprised when Bran approached her while she was having a chat with Lyra and Jorelle Mormont, despite his Dad's warning. He brought her outside to the gardens and promised her that they would view the Red Comet together in the two-storey gazebo by the creek.
When the auction started, Meera had to excuse herself from her family and walked outside to the gardens. She was the first one to get to their meeting place at the gazebo.
Suddenly, a pair of arms gently wrapped around her shoulders while she was staring into the moonlit waters of the creek.
"Hey, Stardust," Bran said, then planted a kiss on her cheek.
Meera gripped his arm. "I thought you're not coming."
"Why would you think that?" He asked. "I promised you, didn't I? And you do know that I never break my promises."
"So, how did you escape your Dad?" She wondered.
"Well, it wasn't easy," Bran said as he went to her side and put his arm around her shoulder. "But enough about that. Let's just wait for the Red Comet."
Bran started spouting facts about the Red Comet, that the comet's actual color isn't technically red but scarlet. But since scarlet is a shade of the red family, it became its official name. He also explained something about how many light-years it is away from Earth or something.
But honestly, Meera didn't understand most of what Bran's saying as she was too busy staring at him being nerdy.
He frowned. "What is it?"
"Nothing," She giggled as she turned to face him. "You being nerdy just turns me on."
"Aww," Bran chuckled, then kissed her on her temple. He suddenly gasped and pointed at the night sky. "Oh, hey, there it is!" He exclaimed, excitedly. "The Red Comet is here!"
Sure enough, the dark sky had a faint red light and a comet with a red tail was visible. The Red Comet was even more evident than the Northern lights, so yeah, it was a once in a lifetime spectacle and Meera was glad that she was able to experience that moment with Bran by her side.
"It's beautiful," Meera said in amazement. "And it's even brighter than the polar lights."
"Also," Bran added. "It is visible until as late as nine in the morning. And people always believed that it's either brings good fortune or a bad omen."
Meera glanced up at Bran again. He was still very much into the natural display in the night sky. His blue eyes glinted with red as he watched the comet passed. The color of his auburn hair roared intensely, so much that Meera couldn't help but run her fingers through his hair.
He looks so handsome, Meera thought.
This particular action broke Bran's trance from the comet and turned to face her with a contented smile. "I wish it could always be like this." He said, then slowly inched her face closer to hers.
As the comet smeared across the sky, their lips locked into a kiss that—she'd like to say—was out of this world.
It was a perfect moment. But of course, just as everything was perfect, it's bound to get ugly at some point. Unfortunately for them, their bad luck was immediate.
"Brandon!" They could hear a loud, angry voice—a voice that belonged to Ned Stark.
It made them broke free from each other.
"Godsdammit!" Bran hissed in frustration.
They both turned from where the voice came from and saw Ned Stark trudging towards their direction, with three of Bran's siblings, Robb, Arya, and Jon—technically he's not their brother, but since he was adopted into the family, he's considered as one.
"Daddy," Arya was running after their father. "You need to—"
"Not now, Arya," Ned interrupted. "I have to discipline your brother."
"Dad," Bran acknowledged, then put an arm protectively before Meera.
At that point, Robb and Jon had managed to restrain their father.
Ned Stark regarded her with his steel-grey eyes before turning to his son. "What did I tell you about staying away from them?"
"Dad," Bran huffed. "We're not doing anything wrong. We're just observing the Red Comet."
"That's not what I saw." Ned insisted.
"Dad—" Bran started to say.
"Um," Meera spoke up. "With all due respect, Mr. Stark, we were—"
Ned raised his hand, interrupting her. "I wasn't talking to you, girl."
"Dad, please," Robb said, pulling back their Dad before turning to her. "Meera, we're sorry for the trouble."
Ned turned to Robb. "We're not causing trouble." He insisted.
At the distance, Meera could see her father and brother walking briskly towards them. Oh, boy, She thought. This is not gonna end well.
"What's going on here?" Howland asked.
"Dad," Meera motioned her head, signaling him to stop.
Ned snorted. "That's a very good question, Howland." He said. "And now, would you please tell your daughter to stay away from my son."
"I'm not you, Ned," Howland replied. "I don't interfere with my children's decisions, I raised them to be bold enough to make their own. And as parents, it is our job to guide and support them through the obstacles of life."
Ned threw his hands in exasperation. "What is this, Parenting 101?" He asked. "You're not a child of the forest or a three-eyed raven, Howland. And I've had enough excuses from you for the past thirty years."
"Twenty-seven years," Howland corrected. "And those weren't excuses, Ned. What I told you was the truth. Nothing more, nothing less."
"And you still expect me to believe that?"
"Wait," Robb interjected, with his hand in a stop everything gesture. "It feels like you both have some deep-rooted grudge against each other."
"Bestfriends-turned-enemies, I would say." Bran blurted out.
Everyone turned to Bran after he had said that remark.
Bran crossed his arms. "I had to find that information elsewhere because neither of you insisted on telling us anything."
"Then why, Dad?" Robb asked, then turned to her father. "Mr. Reed?"
"Why?" Ned repeated. "I'll tell you why," He jabbed a finger at Howland. "This man is responsible for your Aunt Lyanna's death."
"WHAT?" Robb, Arya, Jojen, and Jon exclaimed in disbelief. Jon, especially, looked disturbed.
"Alright, we're going back to this, huh?" Howland sighed. "Then I should tell you again, Lya came to me for help." He reminded him.
At that point, Meera had stood by her father's side, and Bran by his. And that they were keeping them from killing each other.
"You call that helping?" Ned asked. "She returned home in a casket!"
"You think that's not on my conscience already?" Howland snapped. "She came to my house in the wee hours of the morning, in the middle of a snowstorm, with her sixth-month-old son and you expect me not to help her?"
"You didn't even tell me why she insisted on going to White Harbor."
"Because I don't," Howland insisted. "How many times do I have to say it?"
"Twenty-seven years later," Ned shook his head in disbelief. "And you're still lying."
"Lying?" Howland rolled his eyes in annoyance. "Why would I even keep a secret that long? And for what? I already told you the truth. You're the one who can't move on, and insisted on blaming me for your sister's decisions."
"My nephew lost his mother," Ned reminded him. "If you hadn't interfered, Lya would still be alive."
"If you hadn't done anything at all," Howland countered. "Causing her to come to me for help, she would have. Now, you're dragging my daughter into this…madness. And to think I made you her godfather? Well, my mistake."
"Wait, what?" Meera somehow found her voice.
"Don't worry," Ned said. "I've forgotten you were Robb's as well."
Howland huffed. "Look, Ned, it's me you have a problem with, right?" He raised his hands in surrender. "Then hate me alone! You don't need to drag my daughter or my entire family into this."
"I don't want my son associating with a murderer's family." Ned insisted.
"Dad, please!" Bran pleaded. "That's enough. Meera and I—we don't want any trouble."
"Associating with the Reeds is trouble, Bran." Ned argued.
"No, Dad," Bran countered. "You're wrong. Mr. Reed has never even spoken an ill word against us, and you're telling us they're trouble?" He pointed out. "Do you even hear yourself?"
"Brandon—"
"Whatever blood feud you've had with Howland Reed," Bran started. "That's between you and him. Meera and I had nothing and want no part in it. So, please."
Ned Stark shook his head. "No, I don't want to see you with that girl again." He declared, pointing at Meera.
At that point, Meera suddenly had tears in her eyes.
"What?!" Bran shrieked.
"Daddy," Arya spoke up. "You can't just—"
"I'm your father," Ned interjected. "Of course, I can."
Bran grumbled. "Dad, you can't make that decision for me. I love Meera and nothing you say will change that."
Ned Stark was probably gonna give Bran a clout or something, but his daughter, Arya stood in his way, shielding her brother then gave their father a glare like, how dare you?
Ned pointed a finger at Bran. "You're moving back to Winterfell," He said. "And you will never see her again. My decision is final."
Bran approached her and hugged her tight. Both of them have tears streaming down their cheeks.
"I love you so much, always remember that." Bran said, then his voice turned to a whisper as he was embracing her. "We're not breaking up," He declared. "I'll meet you at your place after work on Monday, I promise."
He then kissed Meera goodbye, before her father gently pulled her away from Bran.
"Come on, Meerakins," Howland said, placing an arm around her. "Let's go home."
Then her father stopped at his tracks. "For the record, Ned," He spoke up. "I actually admired Bran because he's got the balls to do what you couldn't. Also, now I understand why Lya wanted to get away, and I won't be surprised if one of your children does the same."
Her Dad and brother simply walked by her as they went back indoors to collect their Mom and then went to their car. Jojen had a brief conversation with Lyanna Mormont before they left, explaining everything that just happened and apologizing for leaving early.
The whole ride to their house in Greywater Watch, Meera cried, with her Mom holding and comforting her.
Meera also spent the following day sulking in her room, crying. She also never stepped out of her room unless she was going to the bathroom. Food was delivered to her room during mealtimes, so she hadn't starved. Jojen even made homemade strawberry ice cream to make her feel better, and it slightly did.
Bran hadn't even contacted her, which was understandable. After Ned Stark and her father's screaming match at the charity ball, Bran was probably under surveillance. If they were going to make other people think that they actually broke up, it has to be believable.
When Monday came, Meera joined her family to eat breakfast. But never talked about what happened at the charity ball, since that topic particularly was a sore spot.
She drove to White Harbor to work and was apparently too early. So she bought a solo pack ice cream from the nearest convenience store. When she came back, Lyra was already waiting for her.
"Hey," Lyra greeted. "I heard through Lya. And I'm sorry."
Meera frowned. "For what?"
"Well, if we hadn't persuaded you to come," Lyra pointed out. "You and Bran wouldn't have broken up."
"It's not your fault," She insisted.
Gwyn suddenly burst in. "Hey—oh." Her face dropped. "I heard too. I'm so sorry."
Meera sat back on her chair. "I mean, that's life," She shrugged, then open the solo pack ice cream. "Shit happens."
"Aww," Gwyn whined as she approached and hugged her. "It hurts like the seven hells, I would know, I've been there. You'll get through this, but right now, you just have to let yourself feel everything you need to feel."
Meera could feel her eyes watering.
"Yeah," Lyra walked to her other side and sat on her desk. "It's okay to feel that way. I mean, healing is something that can't be rushed, it's a step-by-step process. And time itself is the greatest healer."
"And," Gwyn added. "Always know that Lyra and I will always be here for you whenever you need us."
She managed a smile. "Thanks, guys."
"You know," Gwyn beamed. "I think I know what we should do."
"No!" Both Meera and Lyra said in unison.
Lyra huffed. "We are not going out on a Monday night."
"I agree," Meera said. "We still have work tomorrow. And besides, I haven't had proper sleep in the last two days. I feel like I'm gonna crash early tonight."
Gwyn sighed. "Alright, fine." She said. "But you won't be alone in this time of, you know. Lyra and I will help you get through this together."
Lyra gave Gwyn a high five. "That's right, Whitehill."
Despite the 'supposed' break-up with Bran, Meera was thankful for her family and friends for being there for her when she's at her lowest. But she can't help but feel guilty as well.
Well, technically, she was hurt when Ned Stark forced Bran to break up with her in front of their families. That's what everyone knows, but Meera's tears were actually from not everyone accepting them, that they can't walk the streets freely and hold hands without looking over their shoulder for anyone who might tell on them.
After work, Meera went directly to her flat. She wasn't thinking about anything else but seeing Bran again. She waited anxiously, sitting on the couch or pacing back and forth in the living room while looking.
She checked the time, 6pm…7pm. Bran still hasn't come. Meera remembered what he whispered to her that night at the charity ball, I'll meet you at your place after work on Monday, I promise.
It was turning eight in the evening and she was starting to worry. He probably isn't coming. Stop it! Her subconscious screamed. Bran promised and he never breaks his promises. Just have faith.
Suddenly, a soft knock came to the door. It gave Meera a surge of adrenaline and she ran to the flat's door.
Another set of knocks came. "Meera?" A familiar voice called.
Meera breathed out a sigh of relief and opened the door. "Branflakes!" She squealed and almost tackled him with a hug.
"Stardust." Bran returned the same tight hug, then kissed her temple.
"I thought you weren't coming." She said, tearing up.
"I promised that I'd come." Bran reminded her, then wiped her cheeks from the tears. "Stop crying, I'm here now."
"Come inside." Meera pulled his arm into her flat. "I wasn't able to cook food because, well…" She faltered.
"It's okay," Bran assured, then held up the brown paper bag he was carrying. "I brought us some food."
"You've been cooking?" She asked.
"Arya's been cooking," He corrected as he sat on the couch. "Because I'm far too depressed to do anything in the last two days." He pulled out plastic containers of baby back ribs and onion rings. "Also, I bought you ice cream, since it's your comfort food."
"Arya's here in White Harbor as well?" Meera wondered as she sat on the couch next to Bran. "And how are you here, anyway? I thought your Dad never wanted to see you with me."
"Well, I'm sent to White Harbor to pack up my stuff," Bran explained. "And Arya came with me to make sure I won't go elsewhere. But what my Dad doesn't know is that Arya's with me. She even thinks it's ridiculous."
"Your sister made you come here?"
Bran nodded. "Yes, she's stalling Rickon on some videogame tournament to distract him. And I already packed my stuff, so yeah."
"But what about Rickon?" Meera brought up. "I thought your parents let you live here so you can watch over him."
"Arya's taking my place as his roommate/babysitter." He informed. "Just another recipe for disaster, if you ask me."
They ate their food and afterwards, they cuddled on the couch, enjoying each other's company.
"I can't believe we've come to this point." She sighed. "But, I'm just glad you're here now."
"Me too," Bran assured.
There was a moment of silence before Bran spoke again and buried his head on his hands.
"Godsdammit, we can't live like this." He blurted out. "I'm tired of hiding."
"Wait," Meera's heart raced. "What—what are you saying?"
"I'm moving back to Winterfell, as the king says," Bran said sadly. He said the word king, like it's a virus. "Our chauffeur's picking my stuff tomorrow. And also, I don't know when I'll see you again."
"I know," She said. "Even our communication is scarce. But we'll pull through, I know we will."
"We will," Bran managed a smile, then placed an arm around her as they leaned back on the couch's backrest. "Also, since I haven't had proper sleep since last Saturday, I came up with something. A plan…but it's crazy."
"Please, I'm a journalist," Meera snorted. "I write about crazy stuff everyday. I'm always prepared for anything crazy."
Bran took a deep breath, then told her the plan. But as he elaborated, her frown got deeper. And when he was done, she was speechless.
"That is crazy." She said, finally.
"I know," He said as he stared at the ceiling, before turning back to her. "But it's your call. I'm not gonna force you to do anything you're not comfortable with."
"I don't know about that, Bran." Meera said. "It's just…I'm not sure about that. I can't even think straight right now."
"I know, I'm sorry," He apologized. "It's my last resort. My family…I lost hope in them ever accepting you, except some of them. My Dad rules with an iron fist at home. But I'm not pressuring you to go with it. It's just a thought."
"Honestly, it's an option." She admitted. "But at the moment, I can't give you an answer."
Suddenly, the front door opened and her brother Jojen walked into the flat, making both of them stand.
"Hey, Meera, I brought some—" Jojen started to say, but froze when he saw them. "Holy shit! What in seven hells is he doing here?"
"Jojen," Meera said. "I can explain."
"I thought you guys broke up," Jojen grumbled. "So all that stuff at the charity ball was just a stunt?"
"No, I mean, yeah, but—"
"What the fuck, Meera?!" Jojen exclaimed.
"I know, but please," She pleaded. "Just don't tell Mom and Dad, okay?"
"After all they did for you," Her brother started. "You're still gonna go astray for this guy?" He jabbed a finger at Bran.
Meera looked back and forth between them. "I thought you guys are friends." She said. "You went to Comic-Con together."
Jojen adjusted his glasses. "That was before his Dad called our Dad a murderer."
"Jojen, I understand that you're mad," Bran spoke up. "I cannot speak for my Dad. And even if I ask him to, he can't take back the words that he had said. But I'm sorry for everything that happened last Saturday."
"Maybe if you can say that to my Dad," Jojen suggested. "I'll consider it even." He placed the container of ice cream on the coffee table. "Here's your ice cream. Sorry, I disturbed your…tȇté à tȇté." He quoted his fingers in the air.
Her brother went back to the door.
"Where are you going?" She asked.
"I'm going home," Jojen replied. "You already have company. And don't worry, sis. I won't tell Mom and Dad, they will find out eventually."
Meera started running after her brother. "Jojen—"
Jojen slammed the door in her face.
She threw her hands in frustration. "Great, now I have one family member against me."
Bran's phone suddenly rang. He picked it up from his pocket and groaned before answering. "Dad," He responded. "I'm at…Starkgrand. Um, because I wanted to drink coffee…Who in seven hells cares if I'm drinking coffee at night! That's none of your business…Yes, bye." He cussed as he placed the phone back into his pocket.
"Your Dad?" She guessed.
"I feel like he's monitoring me like the three-eyed raven in the old stories." He sighed. "Anyways, I have to go. My brother will get suspicious of how long it took to get coffee."
Meera exhaled. "Of course."
"But don't worry," Bran assured. "I'll find a way for us to see each other from time to time." Then his face brightened. "Oh, by the way, I bought a new phone with a different number. And it's the number I'll use to contact you." He then punched his new number on Meera's phone. "I'll call you later."
"I'll be waiting for the call."
Bran cupped her face with both his hands and kissed her goodnight before leaving.
Meera had then changed into her pj's, laid in bed, and thought about Bran's plan. It may be a bit selfish, but she was tired of hiding as well. So that night when Bran called, she had already decided.
"Hello, Stardust," He greeted from the other line.
"Hey, you home already?"
"Uh, yeah," He replied. "I'm out in the balcony. Arya and Rickon are still at it with their videogame tournament."
"Mm-hmm," She said. "Anyways, I was thinking a lot about your plan."
"Wait," He seemed surprised. "I thought you said you're not sure about that."
"Well, I am now," Meera confirmed. "And I'm in."