The afternoon sun was tickling on her nose through the leaves of the willow. Vanessa put her book aside and closed her eyes, enjoying the warmth.
No wonder Acier Silva loved this place. Well, willows were favourite trees and water lilies her favourite, but it was such a calm spot, away from troubles and burdens royalty gave you when you were a responsible Head of House. A bit like a bubble of calm happiness and joy.
It became one of Vanessas favourite places as well. Along with the Black Bulls hideout, the café and Nozels bedroom in the Silva palace.
Thinking about this bedroom made her think about the owner. And thinking of Nozel filled Vanessa with immense joy. She closed her eyes as she remembered their first time… perfect in every way for her. He was such a wonderful lover, caring so much for her pleasure that he maybe would have neglected his own if she hadn't make sure he would be satisfied as well.
Their first night together had felt like souls coming together. Vanessa never knew that before. Even more, each of her past few flings and partners paled and disappeared in comparison to each second spent in Nozels arms. Especially since it wasn't a one-time moment. Their embrace the very next morning and their second night in each other's arms had been just as wonderful as the first time.
Who would have thought that their very first interaction in Spade would lead to them becoming lovers?
Vanessa certainly hadn't expected that and neither did Nozel, certainly. Their talk in Spade had been six months ago. It seemed to have happened longer ago and at the same time, it was like it just happened yesterday, as Vanessa remembered it so well.
Even better, all their talks from the last months didn't suddenly became awkward just because they were now sleeping together. On the contrary, if anything, their talks and their time spend together when not having sex seems to have deepened, to have become more precious. Only the strange tension they shared for the last two months changed, not really disappeared, but they had found the most wonderful way to calm it down.
Yesterday morning especially was one of the memories with Nozel Vanessa cherished the most. Waking up next to him and spending the whole morning with him… She wanted that again for the rest of her life. Just cuddling, kissing, talking about any kind of subject, like their favourite animals or the story behind Nozels braid, making love again… Everything had felt like a dream that became reality.
Vanessa sighed at the memory. Nozel had kept his word and did order breakfast for them, which had been brought to his room. The servants didn't came in and left the tray just before the door. Apparently it was normal for Nozel and Vanessa suspected that it was not really to keep the secret, but more because for him, it had been like this every time he took meals in his room, another proof of how lonely he had been for years.
Honestly, Vanessa wasn't upset that the servants didn't see her. Their relationship was after still young and still a secret. Vanessa would love to be in the open with Nozel and she felt that Nozel would love that too. But they were both concious of the situation outside of their romantic bubble.
To be honest, Vanessa would like to prefer their young relationship to still be a secret for now. She knew that neither Nozel or herself would know peace if nobility would learn abruptly about them. And even more when if their respective family would learn. The Black Bulls might be in shock for very long when they learn who her secret lover was and Vanessa had no idea how to feel especially about Yamis reaction, given how he and Nozel respectfully kinda disliked each other. As for Nozels family, Mimosa Vermillion might be happy and supportive, but she didn't know the rest of his Vermillion relatives well to have an idea of their reaction. As for his siblings… Solid certainly won't be happy and even though Nebra was nicer now and might have developed a crush on Zora, who knows if she would be open enough for her older brother being with a witch.
As for Noelle…
Vanessa hold back a burst of laughter. Oh, sweet Noelle. She was close to both Nozel, as her brother, and Vanessa, as her squadmate, so the shock might be double for her and probably long lasting. And given that Vanessa told her squadmates yesterday that her lover is a god in bed, how would Noelle react when she learned that said god is her own brother?
Yes, for now, it was probably better to keep it a secret. The Bulls already know that she has a lover, they don't need to know his identity yet. Besides, Vanessa enjoyed what she had with Nozel right now and for the moment, it was more than enough for her. She was happy and she would onto it.
Closing her eyes again, Vanessa focused back on the memory of yesterday morning. A happy smile formed on her lips. Since they ended up making love again, they had breakfast rather late, almost at lunch time. So, that meal ended up being a brunch. Funnily enough, Nozel didn't know the term and Vanessa had a lot of fun of explaining it to him. Her poor eagle sweetheart had been more than confused about mixing breakfast and lunch into one. But in the end, he wasn't against it.
Their brunch had been delicious. Nozel even asked what she would like and especially ordered the food she wanted, even though Vanessa had to push him a bit so that he would order something for himself as well. But she had to admit, the Silva cooks were amazing, their food was very good contender to Charmys cooking.
Vanessa smiled. As proud as she was on her cooking skills, Charmy had the absolute respect for the work of other chefs and could get angry if their cooking was denied by the Bulls. Magna had to take that lesson at heart once, as he said he refused to eat in a restaurant on a mission, because Charmys food would obviously be better. Charmy had asked if he tried the food and when Magna denied, he was unable to escape Charmys wrath. The Black Bull chef said many things, some didn't make any sense, but others did. Charmy even said that it was also disrespecting her own cooking by disrespecting other food and end of the story, the Bulls had to try other food before they say if it was just as good as Charmys or not.
Vanessa told that story to Nozel and even got a chuckle out of him. She always loved telling him stories about the Black Bulls and he was a good listener. Especially that he would even listen to her when she was ranting for hours and catch on every word. Vanessa was always surprised about how much he remembered.
And she loved him even more for that.
But well, she couldn't tell him everything. Like the party to celebrate Lucks and captain Charlottes newfound sibling bond, as she wasn't there.
Usually, Vanessa would have been beyond pissed to have missed a party. But not this time. The night with Nozel had just been worth it, she would never regret it just for a missed party. Besides, it didn't stop her for being happy for Luck and Charlotte. They deserved that and she was certain that the Blue Roses would adore Luck. The Blue Rose party was this evening and if she hadn't decided to spent another night with Nozel already, Vanessa might have sneaked in just for the wine and for seeing Charlotte as a big sister to Luck.
The captain of the Blue Roses was surely an amazing sister. The Black Bulls came to love her a lot when she came to visit, practically accepting her as one of their own. Vanessa thought that she was indeed, alone by being Lucks older sister. They would also accept her as Yamis girlfriend, once those two will finally get together.
Will the Black Bulls also accept Nozel as her boyfriend, once they would be out of secrecy? It might be more difficult than with Charlotte, but Vanessa still hoped that her squadmate would end up being open to it. And it wasn't like she would give them a choice even. Vanessa loved Nozel deeply and she refused to let anyone try to talk her out of this relationship, not even the Black Bulls.
Vanessa opened her eyes again, continuing to read her book. Well actually it was Nozels book and she just borrowed it. Last morning, she noticed the two pile of books on his night table and ask him about it. So, she learned that Nozel had a secret weakness for romance novels, which made him blush while admitting. But Vanessa found it really adorable. The only other man she knew to like romance novels was Finral, but given how much the other Black Bull boys and especially Yami made fun of those kind of stories, poor Finral never dared to talk about them. Maybe Nozel and Finral could bond upon their literature preferences one day and the fact that most men had such little opinion about romance novels? Vanessa would honestly love for her best friend and her lover to get along.
She asked Nozel which ones were his favourites and if she could borrow them. He accepted, obviously happy to share something he loved with her. The three books Vanessa ended up borrowing were all from the same author and she was more eager to read them once she learned that it was Acier Silvas favourite author.
Vanessa was always curious to learn more about Acier Silva and even though Nozel always had that sad and nostalgic glimmer in his eyes when the discussion was about his mother, it was so obvious that it did him more than good to talk about her. So, Vanessa always asked and always hugged him when she felt that he was close to cry.
One thing to say, Nozel must got his love for romance novels from his mother and Vanessa had to say, Acier Silva had an excellent taste in this genre of literature. She still need to read Sense and Sensibility and Persuasion yet, but Pride and Prejudice alone was a true romantic gem. Magic wasn't the focus at all in this story, more like the emotions and the bonds between the characters.
Vanessa especially liked the male protagonist, his aloofness reminded her of Nozel. Cold at first sight, but kind-hearted and very caring once you get to know him more. And his deep affection for his sister, of course.
"Which one are you reading?"
"Honey, you're here! Not much of work today for the busy captain of the Silver Eagles?"
Nozel blushed, of course. He always blushed when she teased him, tried to flirt and even when she gave him a compliment.
But he still smiled and honestly, his smile was the most soft, gorgeous smile she ever saw. What a shame that it had been such a rare sight before. Nozel only started to smile more often when they started to spend time together and since they slept together, his always smiled so brightly every time he saw her.
Did she really had such an effect on this man?
Nozel knelt next to her on the grass and gave her soft kiss on the lips.
"There was, but… not anything I had to deal urgently with. Besides… there is something… Well, I'd rather-"
"Spending time with me than dealing with stupid knights who don't even do their job at all?"
"I… yes…"
"No need to be embarrassed. You deserve some breaks from work and you clearly need to relax more often. Like the hero of this story, actually."
Nozel took a look at the book and Vanessa felt her heart filled up with glee as she saw the excitement in his eyes.
"Pride and Prejudice? It's an excellent story."
"I know right? I understand why it's one of your favourites. Seriously, I understand even less that people make fun of romance novels or call them stupid when gems like that exist! Okay, I know some really bad romance novels, but there are bad books within every genre, so why make such a fuss about it."
"Where exactly are you within your reading?"
"At the part when Lizzie is visiting Pemberley with her uncle and her aunt, and she stumbles upon Darcy."
"I see. It's a key point for both of them."
"I suspected that. Her opinion about him his shifting already and he tries so much to show here that he's a good man. Which he is, honestly."
"You're right."
"You must know this story by heart today. Um, actually, I want to ask you something. I just wondered while reading."
"Go ahead."
"Is it normal for royals and nobles that their residences have names?"
"Only for nobles. Royals never named their residences, be it main or secondary. But I have no idea what kind of etiquette the nobles have to follow to name their residences."
"Secondary residences? You mean, you royals have other castles than the three in the capital?"
Vanessa burst into laughter and thankfully, Nozel didn't seem very offended as he chuckled.
"It is rather ridiculous, I know. Especially that our secondary residences are only occupied for some vacations and are empty most of the time. Those are not quite palaces like in the capital, more like manors or very big villas. You can call them smaller castles still."
"Due the Silvas have some too?"
"Of course. But not as much as the other two royal families. I honestly have no idea what to do with most of them. I don't think I ever visited each of them? Except one and since it was my mother's favourite, I want to keep it."
"Hm, I bet it's a beautiful small castle then."
"It is, yes. It's also the only one that also has a flower garden, like the Silva palace. It's in the countryside, a beautiful place, as far as I can remember. My mother went there after she gave birth to Noelle, to rest. I was with her. That was the last time I was at this estate."
"Oh, why did you never go back there?"
"It's… too many horrible memories. It… happened at this place…"
Oh. Vanessa understood immediately what he meant. Vanica. Megicula. The whole thing with the curses. His mother's curse. His own curse.
Vanessa put her book aside and hugged Nozel as tightly as she could. He hugged her back, practically clinging on her. For someone who seemed so cold and stern to many people, he was craving a lot for affection.
"I couldn't go back there after what happened. But my mother loved that estate, so I always make sure it would be taken care of still. But… I never went back to it."
"Do you want to go back one day? To give this place new memories, happier ones?"
"I would love to, one day. But… I don't think I'm ready. I'm not there yet."
"And that's okay, Nozel. That's okay."
It really was. Given that he only recently started to move on from his trauma, it was totally understandable that there were still things he would need time to get ready for.
Like going back to the place where his life was destroyed by devils and he started to lose his mother to a curse.
Vanessa still hoped that one day, he would go back to this small castle. Despite everything that happened there, it was so obvious that Nozel still loved his mother's favourite estate, in the way he talked about it.
"I want to show it to you one day."
"When you're ready Nozel, I would love to."
She really wanted. She wanted to see many of the places he loved, she wanted to know more about his world. Not only the parts of royal duties and dealing with nobility. She wanted know him even more.
Maybe one day, she would be ready to tell her about her past and the cage. But like him with going back to his mother's estate, she wasn't there yet. Not that she didn't trust him yet, on the contrary, she trusted him like she trusted any Black Bull today. But the memory still hurt and after she ignored it for so long, no wonder she wasn't ready yet.
But Vanessa promised herself that one day, she will tell him. Nozel was clearly interested about her roots, as he listened to her closely when she talked about the Witches Forest and when he asked her a few things from time to time.
Vanessa knew that his interest into the culture of witches was mostly due to her and his feelings for her, but she didn't care. It was another proof that he was interested in her, in who she was. That was so much more that Vanessa ever dared to ask for in a partner.
She gave a small peck on his cheek to settle him, but it seems not enough for Nozel. He moved his head to put his lips on hers, pulling Vanessa into a deep and slow kiss.
She hummed happily against his lips. Vanessa adored when Nozel kissed her or when she was kissing him. Be it slow or full of passion, his kisses always left a fire in her. Not to mention that spending time with him gave her so much happiness, no matter what they were doing.
Gosh, she really was somehow addicted to Nozel, now. Vanessa didn't spent the last two nights in her own bedroom back at the hideout. Instead, she was in his arms, in his bed, in his bedroom.
Well, what she said to her squadmates was true. He was a god in bed, but not only that. She loved even the most simple things with him, like just talking about everything or lying in each other's arms in a comfortable silence.
They continued to make out, slowly lying down on the grass. Vanessa wished she could stop time altogether, just for this moment to be longer than it should be. It was perfect in her books, even more than perfect.
Nozels tongue brushed her lips, then her own tongue, teasingly and longingly. Why did she ever thought that he was cold? Why did anyone ever think that he was cold? He was so warm right now, his breath, his touches… he was anything but cold.
Slowly, his hands wandered down her legs, while she let her fingers dancing on his back, descending them gently towards a very specific part on his body.
But just before her fingers could reach their goal, both of them suddenly remembered where they were in this very moment. Surely, the leaves of the willow covered them mostly and this area of the parc in the royal capital never got many visitors. But still, this was a public place and even if they couldn't be saw, they could always be heard still, especially if their sounds of pleasure ended up being loud.
Nozel and Vanessa quickly let go of each other, both beet red and still feeling the lingering passion. Then, Vanessa burst into laughter.
"Holy witch hat, we're both hopelessly addicted to each other."
Nozel didn't answered, just looking with high focus at the pond with the water lilies, blushing down to his shoulders. He still didn't get as red as Noelle when she was embarrassed about something, but damn, blushing fast must be a Silva trait. Nebra and Solid probably had it as well.
Vanessa get close to him again and hugged him from behind. "No need to be that ashamed of, just a bit embarrassed. Even if it's not the place, I feel very flattered that you find me this irresistible. Right back at you, by the way."
"It's… not proper."
"You're a royal and I'm a witch, this is already not proper from the start."
"No, that's not what I meant!" Nozel protested, blushing even more. Gosh, he was so cute when he was embarrassed. "I mean, it's not proper… to… to take you in a public space, like a… fling with no consequences. You… deserve better."
That was what he was worried about? That he didn't treat her respectfully? Vanessa blushed, but joy filled her heart. Why were gentlemen so rare these days and why were they considered boring?
"Honey, I'm a witch and a Black Bull. I'm used to not get treated properly by most people."
"Well, you shouldn't. I care a lot about you and I refuse to… to treat you unproperly. I… You deserve better than that. You deserve to be treated like a true lady."
Nozel still blushed, but his firm voice was enough proof about how convinced he was about his words.
How could she not love this man?
Vanessa hugged him tighter, blowing a soft kiss behind his neck to settle him. "It's okay, honey. You're a true gentleman and even if it's not considered proper, I know that you would never treat me badly. Never on purpose and if it would happen by accident, you would most certainly already apologize before I would have time to even get mad. I know how very kind-hearted you are, Nozel."
Nozel huffed. He probably still didn't believed that himself, with all of his issues. But he was already opening up a bit more and one day, he might finally love himself. Vanessa would make sure of that.
"By the way, since we're so addicted to each other, seems that I have no other choice than to come over at your place again for the night."
"As much as I love having you with me, wouldn't you miss your own bedroom after a while? And what would the Black Bulls say?"
"Meh, I'm already more often at the Hideout than vice-captain Nacht and it wouldn't be new that I'm not there overnight. Only that this time I'm spending time with my lover instead of getting overly drunk in a bar, which would cause Noelle and Finral honestly less headache. Besides, I only use my bedroom at the Hideout to sleep and since I sleep with you, I realized that my mattress is a bit too soft. No wonder I not always slept good in that bed. And most importantly, I don't wanna sleep alone now that I have you."
Even though Vanessa said all this in a teasing tone, she meant every word of it. Even more so as she hugged Nozel tighter during the last sentence.
Nozel must have realized it, as he chuckled – seriously, what a lovely sound – and put his hands on her arms.
How peaceful it was. This place, the willow, the leaves in the soft breeze, the pond with the water lilies and him…
Vanessa wondered if the future could have moments like that. Her future or his… Their future.
How ironic. For someone who didn't like change that much, who always lived in the present and practically never thought much about the future, she started to have fleeting thoughts about it.
Maybe it was still too soon to talk about it, to plan it even. But it gave such nice daydreams in the meantime.
Was this like when you were in a relationship? Vanessa couldn't remember that it had been like this with her past experience. But to be fair, those never felt really serious back then.
However, this was serious.
She honestly loved this kind of silence. But Vanessa wouldn't be the Black Bull witch if she just stood quiet forever.
"Actually, did I ever told you that Luck is a noble's bastard?"
"No, you haven't. Would explain his immense magic power for a commoner. Uh, I didn't meant that in offense."
"None taken, darling, so don't start to panic. Well, it is actually a very recent discovery."
"What does recent mean in your vocabulary?"
"Was that teasing? How cute! Well, anyways, it means we Black Bulls only learned it two days ago. That means, the other Black Bulls, I only learned it yesterday. Since I was a bit… preoccupied that night and the next morning. Which made me missed the whole party for the occasion, by the way."
"Oh, I'm sorry."
"Don't need to be, it was more than worth it. Besides, I couldn't leave you alone. And to be fair, I didn't lost anything."
She swiftly run her hand on his butt and laughed when Nozel flinched heavily. He was probably blushing right now. Maybe she needed to distract him before he started to overthink again.
"Oh, and we also learned that Luck has an older half-sister through his father. A sister that actually accepted Luck as her brother without any judgement and all."
"That's good to hear. I'm glad for him. Too many nobles would have tried to ignore their illegitimate siblings in the best case or would try to get rid of them or to humiliate them at any occasion."
Nozel probably thought about Grenadine while saying this. The noble bastard daughter he chose as a Silver Eagle. From the few things he told her, Vanessa assumed that Grenadine hasn't been as lucky as Luck on the sibling matter. Poor girl.
"Wanna take a guess who the sister is?"
"I can sense that you're dying to tell me, so why taking a detour?"
"Oh, come on, it's just for the fun of teasing. Take a guess, please?"
"Well then, can you at least give me a hint?"
"Let's see. Concerning their features, they have the same shade of blue for their eyes and the same shade of blonde for their hair. When you see them side by side you can tell their siblings and you feel awkward for never have seen it before when you know both of them at least a bit."
Nozel didn't answered immediately, probably thinking about any possibility. It didn't take long before she sensed him flinch and break out of the hug to face her, his metallic purple eyes wide with surprise.
"Charlotte Roselei?"
"You got it right! I don't know the whole story on how and why and when and all those details, but from what I gathered, captain Charlottes father had once an affair with Lucks mother before he chased her away with her baby boy. Luck thinks that she got a hatred for nobles because of that."
"I can't blame that poor woman, she must have been in a very difficult and somehow humiliating position, being the only loser in this whole affair. How does she feel about this new knowledge?"
"We can't ask her, she died years ago, sadly."
"Oh."
The sad glimmer again in his eyes. Each time they talked about Acier Silva…
"Don't feel so terrible, honey. Luck and Charlotte are actually delighted to be siblings. Charlotte quickly embraced her role as big sister and Luck is already so overprotective of her."
"Who does know about their blood relation?"
"Except you, only the Black Bulls and the Blue Roses. The Blue Rose is actually throwing a party for Luck this evening, to welcome him or to celebrate the new found little brother of their captain, something like that. Actually, we won't scream this news in the worlds for now. Not that it matter to us, but Charlotte, Finral and also Noelle remembered us that such a thing could involve a big scandal and we don't to spoil the sibling's happiness with offences from nobles. Maybe one day, but it's not urgent anyways."
"And still, you just told me."
"Of course, because I trust you."
There was no teasing in her voice. Why even would she tease him? It was the truth, she trusted him. She didn't know when she started, though, if it was because she loved him now or if it started even before she lost her heart to him, whenever that happened.
But Vanessa trusted Nozel and that was all she needed to know.
He looked at her, surprised, touched, grateful, she couldn't tell, but her last sentence definitely moved something in him. He leaned forward and put his lips on hers, pulling her into a soft kiss.
It tasted like paradise.
When they broke from the kiss, Vanessa took Nozels face between her hands and gently, lead him so that he lied down, his head on her lap. Now, this was perfect.
"Would you read to me?" she asked him, handing him Pride and Prejudice with happy smile.
"Weren't you reading it already?" Nozel asked while raising a brow. But he still took the book.
"Well, yeah, but no one ever read stories to me and I would love to have that once. The Witch Queen never did, of course, and the Bulls, as much as I love them, don't understand why it would be fun. Besides, I love the sound of your voice."
She felt Nozel shifting a bit on her lap, looking at her. While he looked stunned, there was also some nostalgia in his eyes.
"Mother would read to us in the evening, when she had time. She hadn't much of it, as captain of the Silver Eagles and Head of house Silva. But when she could, mother came to read us good-night stories. I think she already did this to me before she became head of house, but I was a toddler back then, so I can't quite remember."
Vanessa smiled. She always loved it when Nozel was telling her some anecdotes and memories about his beloved mother. What tragedy that she was dead. Acier Silva obviously loved her children and Vanessa would have loved to meet her.
Sadly, it wasn't possible anymore.
"So, can I take this as a yes?"
Nozel just smiled, before taking the book and starting to read out loud, with such a soft voice it made her heart race. It was obvious that he loved this story, Vanessa even suspected he might knew the whole novel by heart.
His soft voice, the willow and it's leaves slowly dancing in the breeze, the late afternoon sun, the pond and the water lilies, and the two of them… Vanessa closed her eyes, enjoying the moment.
She didn't know what the future awaited for them, but one thing was certain now. Whatever would happen, Vanessa wanted to spend the rest of her life with Nozel, at his side. And she might be even ready to fight for it.
"Oh, he's so cute, so adorable," Wainsley squeaked, rubbing Lucks hair, who looked maybe a bit lost, but completely happy.
"Now that I see him, it's so obvious he's your little brother, captain Charlotte," Galgaria said with awe, totally fussing over Luck. "That's the same eye colour as yours and that shade of blonde is more than similar, it's practically the same!"
"Not to mention he's strong, just like our captain," Selena added. "It would be even more difficult to win against captain Charlotte if she teams up with her little brother. But imagine what such a training would do to make us stronger!"
"Training? Stronger?" Luck asked with excitement, suddenly jumping up and down. "Does that mean that I can fight you too? Please, please, please?"
"Well, of course, captain's brother."
"Well, not yet, Selena," Aimée laughed nervously, trying to calm down the excitement. "We're here to party, not to fight."
"But soon, then, we can fight? Can we? Can we? Can we?"
"Of course we will," Églantine laughed, obviously having fun. "Aw, you're really cute. It's the first time I realize that going berserk could also be cute."
"Well, he is called the Cheery Berserker for a reason," Puli exclaimed, putting a huge plate in front of their honour guest. "Here, little Luck, have some of Love Angel Puli's special grilled cheese sandwiches, enjoy~"
"They're so good! Need to get the recipe for Charmy!" Luck exclaimed, already eating his third grilled cheese sandwich, before he got a closer look at Puli. "Hey, I know you! We were a team with the four-eyes from the Golden Dawn during the Royal Knight fights!"
"Exactly, glad you recognize me, little fella. Gosh, I had no idea I was on a team with my captain's own little brother! What a small world."
"Can we fight together again?"
"Well, of course! Ah, if captain Charlotte would allow us to have common training with the Black Bulls, we can even have proper matches."
Charlotte chuckled. "I'll talk with Yami about it, but I'm sure it could be done. Would be happy about it, Luck?"
"Yep! Even better if I could also team up with you, big sister, or with one of the Blue Roses! That would be cool, I never beat up Magna with someone from another squad!"
"Well… I guess I can survive to team up with a man to fight the dumb glasses punk, if that man is my sister's little brother."
"Sol, call me captain."
"Yes, sister."
Charlotte sighed. Some things might really never change. But at least, it looked like even Sol took Luck in her heart, which was honestly very nice to see. Him being her captain's younger brother probably helped with this predicament.
All in all, this party to present her little brother to her own squad has been a big success. Each one of the Blue Roses loved him immediately, even Sol who still tried to let it show too much. Seeing Luck getting along with her girls and talking with them as if they were already old friends truly warmed her heart. Even better, the Blue Roses could benefit from the training with someone as strong as Luck and now, she had another excuse for a common training with the Black Bulls than Yami.
Thinking of him made Charlotte sighed quietly, unheard from the rest of the party. Yami… Her hopeless love for him was still a problem for her. The both of them got closer during their investigation to find her sibling, yes. But there was still a tension between them, stronger than ever before. Not a hatred tension, but more like… awaiting, anxious and it was driving her nuts.
If anything, her love for Yami only deepened and got stronger during their time together for the investigation. Which actually didn't made things easier between them. In fact, maybe it made the whole situation even more difficult. Because each minute she spend apart from Yami became almost unbearable and the longing grew so strong that she lost sleep during the nights due to some fantasies no noble woman and no Magic Knight captain should have. But could it really be this bad to dream about Yami naked and doing blush worthy things to her? Well, it wasn't like she never had that kind of fantasies before, of course. Puli told her once that it was pretty normal when you were deeply in love.
But those fantasies today weren't fleeting anymore. They were constant and she couldn't get rid of them.
Charlotte ignored the fact that she wasn't really trying to get rid of those fantasies in the first place.
At least, Luck knew about her love for his captain and apparently even got overprotective over her because of that. Even though Charlotte told him that it wasn't necessary, she was still touched about how he wanted help her. Even though his help consisted mostly of trying to attack Yami and fight him in order to either make him realize Charlottes feelings for him or to punish him for having been so dense for over a decade.
The Blue Roses learned about it as well and it just made them adore Luck even more. How many of her girls came to her with congratulations to have such a protective and caring little brother?
With him now in the secret, many of the Blue Roses were certain that they were one step closer to finally get Charlotte together with Yami. Finral and Gordon thought as well that having now Luck on board, her own brother, would be some good help.
Charlotte hoped that they were right and she could only trust them, as her own thoughts weren't appeasing to her at all.
And still…
Charlotte put a hand in her pocket, holding the small piece of paper as if it was the only thing holding her alive. She got that message today in the afternoon and immediately recognized Yamis terrible handwriting.
Prickly Queen, meet me this evening alone in your yard, I have something to finish and I can't do that without you.
What was he referring to? Why did he still need to be this ominous? Charlotte was ready to bet that Yami genuinely thought he was pretty straightforward with his words, but well, he wasn't to her.
Charlotte forced herself to not have too much hope. This was Yami, after all, pretty dense to feelings despite his Ki reading ability. But at the same time, he could also be smart, seeing potential in people no one else would see and was loyal to both the Clover kingdom and his own beliefs and morals, without ever feeling torn apart between the two. Which was a huge success in her eyes, not many would have been able to do that.
And still, she had no idea how to feel about it.
His Ki reading didn't seem to work with her specifically and she was the only one he ever told to not surpass her limits and to rely more on others.
Now that she thought about it, Yami always treated her differently than anyone else, even the Black Bulls. Of course, he teased her too, because why would Yami Sukehiro not tease and make fun of anyone? Even the Wizard King wasn't exempted from it.
But it was the little things that made the biggest differences. Charlotte couldn't really pin point them out, but she knew they were here and that was more than enough for her.
The Blue Roses were all now focusing on Luck, who laughed and ask for fights and occasionally, showed them some tricks with his magic.
Charlotte left the party discreetly. She felt a bit bad to not say anything, but every one of them seemed to have so much fun right now, even Sol, and she didn't want to take it away from them. Besides, whatever Yami needed to finish with her, Charlotte preferred to be alone with him, with no witnesses, even if it was her little brother and her own knights.
When she entered the garden of the Blue Roses Headquarters, Yami was already there. Of course, he had a cigarette in his mouth, but he also look very tense and maybe a bit nervous. This was so unlike him, given how nonchalant he could be most of the time.
Charlotte was even more worried about the love of her life. What was bothering him this much?
"Sounds like they're havin' fun in there," Yami commented, lazily pointing at the manor that was the Headquarters. Indeed, laughter was heard even here where it was calmer.
Almost too calm maybe.
"Yes. Each one of my knights immediately took Luck into their hearts. They all find him adorable."
"Adorable? Geez, the Bulls would be shocked to know that a whole squad finds their berserker adorable. Only Gordon and Vanessa would agree."
"They adore him and honestly, it's enough for me."
"Enough for yet as well?"
"Yes. Honestly, for now it's better to not tell more people about it. I will need to face my family on that matter and most of them won't be happy that I took my half-brother under my wing."
Especially not her father, but Charlotte didn't thought that after what he'd done, he had any right to be offended. As for her mother… Well, they still haven't talked since Charlotte stood up to her and honestly, the sad and guilty eyes lady Orchidea had for those past few weeks started to make her suspicious.
Especially she saw her mother caress an old and dirty shirt lately, a shirt that would more belong to a peasant than a noble lady… Orchidea didn't saw her, probably thought she was alone, heck why she took the shirt out of his hidden place. But Charlotte saw her cry silently over this piece of clothing and she wondered what kind of tragic secrets her mother was maybe burdened with.
"Well, at least you stand up for your lil' bro and that's probably more than any noble half-sibling would do for bastards bros and sis'."
"You're not wrong. I know that my decision is a rare occurrence, but I don't regret it. Maybe others might find their voice and stand up for their illegitimate siblings. I know that at least Églantine would be more than happy to do it."
"One of your girlies? She has a bastard half-sibling too?"
"Églantine Évantail, yes. Her father had a bastard daughter with someone from the Forsaken Realm and house Évantail refuse to have anything to do with her. We already met this girl not so long ago after Spade. Do you remember that fan magic user from the Special Selection Exam?"
"That one? She's related to one of your thorny girls? Geez, what a small world… Course I remember her. She would have been an excellent fit for the Black Bulls, but Bird Braid got his eagle claws on her instead."
"You were there, many squads raised their hands for her. Which mean that she had to choose and she decided to become a knight of the Silver Eagles. Besides, from what I gathered, she blossomed within the Silver Eagles. You have to admit that Nozel was right to give her a chance and we both know he certainly doesn't regret it."
Yami just shrugged with a pouting face, which meant that he agreed, even though he didn't want to admit it.
Silence settled between them and even though it wasn't awkward or even tense, Charlotte didn't like it. As if she needed something first before she could enjoy comfortable silence with Yami.
"Yami please, just let it out."
"Letting what out?"
"Whatever was so urgent to tell me today. I don't what it is, but it certainly seems to weigh on you. And it weighs on me, by some strange coincidence. So, please, let it out, I don't think I can handle this any longer."
What was this actually? Nothing. Everything. Anything even, because there was so much between them. More than he knew and probably even more than she knew herself.
Yami looked at her, stunned. But then, the look in his dark eyes changed, shining with a determination she never seen before within him.
"Well, I was thinking about the two us and what is somehow between us. Your Ki had always been special, yer the only one I can't really understand despite the Ki."
What was he talking about? Something within Charlotte yelled at her that she actually already knew, she just didn't want to realize it yet. How could she even, after ten years of longing and loving in silence, she was just unable to imagine that-
Wait…
Was he actually trying to confess to her?
Would that mean… that he loved her back?
Charlotte felt her heart racing faster than Lucks lightning and she was grateful that it was already dark, the night hiding more or less how much she was blushing right now. She was even unable to even think calmly.
She shouldn't get her hopes that high, but Charlotte couldn't help it, couldn't fight it. It was so overwhelming, she had no other choice than to go through all this strong emotions.
Maybe she should just stop overthinking and panicking like she used to around Yami and for once, letting it come to her.
"You're obviously special to me, I just never… Well, let's just say that I was stupid and dense when it comes to you."
Did he just called himself stupid and dense? What was going on? Who was this man and what did he do to Yami Sukehiro?
"Well, what I want to say is… Argh fuck it, why is it so damn difficult to put in fricking words!"
Yami turned around, walked up and down in front of her, throwing his hands above him in frustration. Charlotte would have laughed at the sight if she hadn't been a nervous and emotionally unstable wreck right now.
This was just too much. If she wouldn't say something quickly, she might run away again in panic and she would regret it for the rest of her life.
"Yami!"
"Yes!"
"If it's too difficult to put it in words, then just… just show me, okay? Show me what you want to say, but please, don't torture me with waiting any longer!"
She didn't wanted to yell at him, but this sudden overwhelming tension was killing her to a point she just wanted it to be over already. It was like all the tension she had around Yami for over a decade started to burden her all at once.
By the three leaves of the Clover, why did she waited for so long with Yami? Now it was coming back at her, practically killing her and stealing away every inch of sense she still had left.
Yami looked at her, completely dumbfounded, before the fierce determination came back into his dark grey eyes. But just as he was about to make a step towards her, he stopped again.
Charlotte almost groaned in frustration. What was now holding him back? She really couldn't take it anymore!
"Prickly Queen, before I show you anything… Just promise me that you won't punch me or run away or something like that."
"I won't, I promise! Now, what-"
Charlotte couldn't finish her sentence, as Yami let his mouth crash against hers.
She didn't had the time to be surprised, to be shocked, to be… anything, really. Her mind didn't react anymore as she just followed her instinct and gave in to the deep and wild kiss.
Everything felt so fast, she was overwhelmed. But at the same time, it felt like it didn't matter still. Charlotte had been in love with Yami for ten long years already. Why would she care if it was now going forward in a fast way?
They broke the kiss after a while, because they still needed to breathe, only to give in for another one.
And another one.
And another one.
Charlotte felt that she wouldn't be able to stop. Why would she even stop? Stopping to kiss the love of her life should be considered a crime.
Yamis lips were rough, she hadn't expected it otherwise, but there was a subtle softness still behind all that roughness. He tasted like cigarettes, of course, but Charlotte would let him pass for it this time. There was also booze, but this wasn't what made her feel like she was drunk. His kisses were enough for that.
Gosh, she had dreamed of her first kiss with Yami so many nights. But all of her fantasies disappeared with this reality. It was real this time and so much better than what she ever dreamed of.
If this was love, why did she never gave in before? Why hadn't she be brave enough to confess way earlier to Yami? And why was it considered as sill and stupid within nobility? Those arranged marriages made even less sense now for Charlotte.
Yami suddenly brushed her lips with his tongue, trying to get in between. Charlotte couldn't help but let out a sound at his gesture. Was it a moan or a yelp? She couldn't tell at all.
But whatever it was, it made Yami break the kiss, much to her disappointment. Thankfully, he didn't fully let go of her. Otherwise, she might would have punched him for that.
Heavens' what was she even thinking?
"Well, yeah…" Yami said while rubbing his neck, looking away. Why was he so flustered all of a sudden. "That is what I wanted to put in words. Didn't know that showing it to ya was easier than sayin' it."
Goodness, was it new to him as well? Charlotte wasn't sure why, but it didn't surprise her. She couldn't help but put a hand on his chest. She blushed when she felt his heart racing under her palm.
"Yami…"
"Well, you might punch me for that…"
"For kissing me? No, why would I? Have you any idea how many times I dreamed of-"
"You dreamed many times that I kiss you?"
Yami looked directly at her and his confusion was clearly showing. Charlotte blushed as she realized what she just blurted out. Well, to be fair, it wasn't like she would have keep it as a secret anyway, but she didn't want to have said it like that!
Does it really matter?
Yami slowly lift up his hand to caress her cheek. His hand was big and rough, but the gesture so soft. She leaned into the touch. Who would have thought that Yami Sukehiro could be this soft in his touches? Well, Charlotte Roselei definitely believed it now.
"So, the Purple Moustache Grandpa was right…"
"What was Kaiser right about? What has he to do with this?"
"Well, I ask for advice… for well, this. And honestly, he gave me the best advices I could get on this matter."
Yami Sukehiro, asking for advice? For romantic advice? And he asked a fellow captain for them? If Charlotte hadn't been involved, maybe she would have chuckled at least.
But she was involved, so she couldn't laugh about it. And despite her surprise of this revelation, she couldn't help but to be touched as well.
Charlotte knew Yami, she knew his pride. Of course it must have took a lot from him to let go of it eventually and to even ask advice. He didn't even ask for some advice to some of his closest friend, like William, Jack or lord Julius. But Kaiser was indeed not a bad choice. Maybe one of the best Yami could get advice from.
Kaiser was the most calm and probably normal within the nine Magic Knight captains, he was very open-minded for a noble and unusual for nobility, he married out of love and was openly happy with his wife, lady Isabelle. On that topic, he was probably the best to guide Yami and to advise him.
"I'm proud of you."
"What for, Prickly Queen?"
"That you push past your limits and forgot your pride to ask someone for advice. I know that it must have been very difficult for you. But I always known that you were strong and not only in battles."
Charlotte blushed. It felt so natural as the words came over her lips, but she still couldn't stop the blood rushing towards her face. She wanted to look down, overwhelmed by her emotion, but Yami stopped her from doing that by delicately holding her chin.
Never had she seen such a softness in his eyes, but it didn't felt wrong. On the contrary, it was actually another side of Yami Sukehiro, captain of the Black Bulls. A side he didn't show that easily and only rarely. And it was for her…
Yami kissed her again, so much softer than all the previous kisses they just had shared. This kiss was delicately perfect.
As a soft and yet still passionate kiss, it lasted for a long time. To be fair, Charlotte lost all notion of time and she could somehow felt it was the same for Yami. How she could tell, that she had no idea. Maybe it was just because she could feel his heart beating at the same fast tempo as her own.
Vaguely, Charlotte noticed that they somehow moved, but she didn't care. She wasn't even able to focus on it, her mind was just so full of Yami, his lips on hers, his muscular body against hers, his hands on her, her own hands in his hair, on his cheeks, on his shoulders, she couldn't tell and didn't want anyway. That would be a waste of time.
The kiss and the ones after were soft, but slowly, their lips were dancing faster and with more passion against each other. Charlotte could now even feel Yamis lips not only on her own, but also on her jawline, her pulse, her neck… Everywhere he touched her, it was like a fire burning on her skin, more powerful than the magic of Mereoleona Vermillion.
Slowly, her own hand descended along his back and she felt his fingers almost playing with her own clothes.
A loud sudden laughter took them out of their bubble and they break apart in a jump.
Only then Charlotte realized where they were and what their position was…
Oh, by the three leaves of the Clover! She was lying on her squads lawn, Yami over her in a very specific position and if someone would have left the party as well, they would have been seen making out like there's no tomorrow.
What would have happen if that loud laugh wouldn't have broken their bubble? Would they have continue to make out, to kiss as if it was their last day? Would it have been just kisses or would they more probably having gone farther in their passion?
Like… having sex on the lawn?
Charlotte hid her blushing face behind her hands, unable now to even look at Yami now that she had that thought. Goodness, she never made love with anyone before and she didn't even thought twice about it, her mind full Yami and his lips and her overwhelming feelings for him.
And… she didn't even regretted it! Even now, with the realization and the embarrassment, she didn't have one ounce of regret about what almost happened. Between all her blurry thoughts, this one at least was clear.
"Well… that wasn't planned," Yami muttered, sitting up. Charlotte was surprisingly very disappointed that he wasn't over her anymore.
"Did you plan all that? Since when are you of all people sticking to a plan?"
"No need to be so harsh, Prickly Queen, you break my delicate little heart of glass, here. I was actually pretty spontaneous, but all I had in mind was to tell you… show you… you know the deal. But taking you directly in your own lawn, that I haven't thought about it, sorry."
"I… I don't mind it."
"What, to fuck on the lawn?"
"No, that's not what I meant! I mean… you taking me… I don't mind."
That was very bold of her and Charlotte knew that. Years ago, even months ago, she wouldn't have even considered that idea. But people could change their minds and that was what she did.
She was honestly done with her noble status, her image as noble lady, as perfect party on the marital market. She was also done to hesitate with Yami, to let her cold pride hold her back and to get all embarrassed at the whole idea of being right next to him.
It was bold, yes. But she wanted to jump into the Unknown. Who knows when her usual embarrassment around Yami would come back. She wanted to act before getting all flustered again and run away from him, only to regret her reaction one more time.
Yami looked at her, clearly surprised by her new boldness.
But there was another glimmer in his dark grey eyes. A glimmer that only made her lose more reason and let her getting bolder.
"You sure, Prickly Queen? It might be fast in your books. I don't want…"
"It's okay, Yami. I'm certain of it."
"Are you drunk or something? I've never seen you this bold."
"Yami, for Heaven's sake, would you please stop holding back? If you want it too, then I can't take it anymore!"
She was getting bolder by the minute! Even though it was possible she would get all flustered about it in a few hours, Charlotte had to admit that she liked this new side of her.
Yami as well it seemed, as he helped her up while giving her a wild grin. Charlotte couldn't but smile back, even though she was still very nervous.
It would be her… first time and…
Gosh, it was still so difficult to think about it so clearly. If she would, Charlotte knew she will be all flustered and starting to hesitate and overthink like she always did.
But she didn't want to hesitate and if for that she has to not think clearly, then so be it.
Taking the lead, which seemed to be appealing for Yami, she took his hand and went straight back to the Blue Roses headquarters.
Back in there, the party was still going on. Charlotte took a quick look in the room. A lot of Blue Roses were dancing or jumping around, imitating Luck who had such a good time and even cheering the jumpers on. While asking for a fight, of course.
"Geez, Luck seems to have become an honorary Blue Rose, good for him."
Charlotte only hummed, agreeing with Yami. Then she pulled him behind her again, practically running up the stairs and all the way to her room.
She slept most of the time at her squad's basement, even though it would have been more usual to go back to her bedroom at the Roselei Estate. But Charlotte preferred to sleep in her captains chamber. The Blue Roses were loving her and accepting her for who she was, which she wouldn't get back at her family's manor, where she was just another chess piece for some selfish games, especially for arranged marriages.
Once they reached her bedroom and closed the door, Yami went for her lips again, putting all the passion in it he was capable of. And knowing captain Yami Sukehiro of the Black Bulls, he had a lot of passion to put in a kiss.
Charlotte kissed him back, finally letting her mind rest, finally giving in fully. She barely noticed how they fell on the canopy bed, how they get rid of their clothes, almost ripping them off in their impatience, how Yamis face disappeared between her legs for a moment, how they tried to kiss every inch of each other.
She just let him go as well as herself. When they became one, it just their bodies coming together, but also their souls and their hearts finally finding each other…