Brandon's POV:
"Hey, Lily?"
"Yes, Brandon?" My friend's dark locks flutter in the wind as the soft scent of cherry blossoms tickles my nostrils. Oh, come on! What is wrong with me?
I gulp clutching the banister of the balcony staring at her sparkling purple eyes. My face heats up as I shake my head and clear my throat. I can't have these thoughts about her. She is married.
"Ahem, are you okay?" My friend turns to me with a head tilt. "You know, them kissing." I clarify as she sighs softly.
"To tell you the truth, not really." Her head turns to meet my gaze. "I mean, who on earth would like to see their husband kiss another person, right? However, I can also understand that she did that for a reason."
"Yeah," A sigh escapes my lips. "I had no clue that happened. And to think that she didn't tell us…"
"Anwir," My friend sighs clutching her head. "Why are there people like you?" Indeed. Why are there people like you in this world?
"I don't know…" I glance at her and take hold of her hand. Her eyes widen and turn towards me.
"Cheer up. It's not like he views her that way."
"I know he doesn't but… it was a kiss…" True…
"So? Friends can kiss, right? I mean, we kissed and absolutely nothing happened."
"I guess…" She responds after a moment of silence biting her lips. "But…"
I place my hands on her shoulders. "You worry too much. Your husband said that he doesn't see her that way what's the most basic component in a relationship? It's trust."
She nods. "You're right," Her lips curve upwards as she hugs me. "Thanks, Brandon. You're the best, you know that?"
A chuckle escapes my lips as I pat her back. "Am I really the best?"
"Well, second to my husband of course." She giggles pecking my cheek. Of course.
Maria's POV:
My eyes flutter open as I yawn blinking a bit. What happened yesterday?
(Flash):
"I-I d-don't want to remember." I sniffle and cough violently. "I feel so tired and cold, Astral."
"I'm tired. So… tired right now."
"Then rest." He rubs my back steadying my breath. "Rest, until you feel less tired."
"You won't l-leave me will you?" I cough into my elbow choking back a strangled cry as my friend pulls me closer. "I-I don't want you to leave me."
"I won't be leaving anytime soon, Maria."
"P-Promise?"
"I promise. Just rest. I will be here when you wake up."
(Flash)
Oh… so that wasn't a dream… My eyes drift next to me. A hand grips mine loosely. Astral… I touch his soft hair as he stirs from his peaceful slumber. His eyes widen as he bolts up rubbing the side of his neck.
"Ow… that's what I get for sleeping like that." My friend hisses.
"You actually stayed?"
He looks at me with a head tilt. "Of course, I stayed. Why wouldn't I?"
"You know that you could've left after I fell asleep, right? Also, it was your wedding night."
He shakes his head and sits on the bed next to me. "Yes, I realized that it was my wedding night but how do you expect me to leave you like that?"
"But your wife-"
"She's not an irrational person. She'll understand why I did what I did." His gaze softens as he places one hand on my shoulder. "Now, how are you faring?"
A sigh escapes my lips. "Well, I feel better than yesterday that's for sure." A pregnant pause surrounds the room as I think about what to say next.
"If and this is a hypothetical situation but, if he was to apologize sincerely. What would you do?"
If he were to apologize sincerely? Him? Sincerely? Hahahaha! "What are you talking about?" I let out a giggle. "You expect him to apologize sincerely?"
"I said if didn't I?"
"I mean, if he were to apologize, judging by yesterday's events, wouldn't you know how I'd react?"
A sigh escapes his lips. "Yea. Not everything can be resolved by those two words but Maria," His hands' grip mine. "This can't go on."
"I know." My legs walk towards the balcony as the light breeze makes my hair flutter. "What do you expect me to do? I can't forget him no matter how hard I try. I can't forgive him for what he's done-"
"You can forgive." My friend stands next to me. "You just don't want to." What?
My hazel eyes stare at him in disbelief. "Astral, you… you want me to forgive him after all he's done to me?"
"He cheated on me with my friend. He slapped me until I bled crimson. He deliberately stabbed me in the back and shattered my heart." I gulp clutching the banister tightly. "Tell me, how on earth am I supposed to forgive him after all he's done?"
"I'm not saying that he deserves your forgiveness."
"Then why-"
"Forgiveness is a two-way streak. He doesn't deserve to be forgiven but you do." Gold and silver eyes meet mine. What?
"I… don't understand…"
"Forgiveness does not change the past but it does enlarge the future. You can't keep clinging onto the past like this." He exclaims softly. "Ever since he broke up with you, you've been living as a shadow of yourself. Self-blaming, criticizing, it's not healthy."
"But what else can I do?" My breathing labors as my knuckles turn white. "There's nothing I can-"
"There's always a choice but you don't want to take it."
"You mean…"
He nods. "Yes. The ability to forgive is a powerful thing. It's your way out of this cycle."
"But why? Why should I forgive that man?
"As I said, you're not forgiving him. You're forgiving yourself." He replies calmly. "Don't you think it's time to put this to an end? By forgiving you can move on and find someone new. Someone who will love you with all of their heart."
I blink the tears away rapidly. "Teach me how. I… how can I forgive?"
His hand touches mine. "By opening your heart again." My eyes widen. "Yesterday, you did just that. You made your feelings known to the people around you. Tell me, how did it feel when you confronted him?"
How did I feel? "I guess somewhat relieved yet afraid of what he might do."
"Ok, how do you feel now?"
Now? "Lighter… like my chest isn't hurting as much anymore."
His lips curve upwards into a minuscule smile. "Forgiveness is not about condoning another's actions. When forgiving another, we are not absolving them of restitution. Forgiveness isn't even about the other person. The choice to forgive is always a gift we give ourselves."
"So why not let go of him. Let go of the past to create a brighter future." My friend explains gently. "I'm not saying that he deserves forgiveness nor forcing you to forgive but, I don't want you to torture yourself like this anymore. If the events from yesterday didn't happen, we would have never known about this. Knowing you, you would've kept this to yourself, right?"
"Yea," I reply looking at him. "I would've kept it to myself.
My friend sighs. "That's why you're trapped in this vicious cycle." I lower my head. That's right…
"This is your choice. You can choose to forgive or not but all I can say is, if you do choose forgiveness, it will make your life much brighter." It will make my life much brighter?
"I… I don't…"
"You don't have to let me know. Take all the time you need, Maria." He offers me a smile. "Once you've made your decision, I will know."
"How?"
"I just do."
Forgiveness is self-liberation. It will help me not be tethered to the past. To him. But… how can I forgive when I can't forget?
"There is such thing as forgiving but don't forget." The guy standing next to me chimes in after a few minutes. "The memories of what he did will be there but your feelings will change. By self-liberating yourself of the blame, you create a future." Can he read my mind?
"Forgiving doesn't mean forgetting, it just means letting go of the anger and allowing ourselves to find peace even with those who disappoint us. In other words, if you can't do it for them, do it for yourself." Interesting.
Astrana's POV:
…
…
…
What?
"I'm sorry, Derek," I rub my eyes, blinking slightly. "I must've misheard. Can you repeat that?"
"He's being serious, you three."
…
My brown-haired friend snaps from her shock. "Zachary, Derek, are you telling us that Brandon likes Liliana?"
They nod as I take a long sip of my tea. What on earth has this come to? "You mean my sister-in-law? He likes my brother's wife?!"
"Yea, it's unbelievable but he said it himself."
My white-haired friend sputters. "But she's married! How can he-"
"That's the problem. I don't understand how it could've happened either." He sighs clutching his head. "All I know is since that kiss, he's been acting peculiar."
(Flash):
"If your mind doesn't remember, then maybe your body will."
(Flash)
I still can't believe he kissed her. "Do you think the kiss triggered his feelings for her?"
"Perhaps…"
"That's the only thing that makes sense."
"Hold it, let's not jump to conclusions. Maybe he's acting. After all, he's playing the role of her ex."
"Estrella, I wish that was the case but we know him longer than you do. He's not acting this time."
"He referred to her as cute."
"It's normal to compliment friends like that right?"
"We were there when he said that and his face was red."
"There could be a possibility that he's embarrassed," I said with a shrug. "Tons of guys get embarrassed when complimenting girls."
My friend groans. "Do you not believe us?"
"It's not that we don't believe you,"
"She's married, Zach. How could he fall for her?"
"Yea. I need more evidence."
"I ask myself that question every day." He said as we walk out of my room shutting the door with a click.
"It doesn't make any sense."
"Oh, where's…"
"Grandpa," A tiny voice calls out as my mom carries her in her arms. "Why do you have different colored eyes?"
He smiles. "It all comes down to a thing called genetics."
My niece blinks with a head tilt. "Genetics?"
"Mhm. It's like how your hair is blue like your father's and your eyes are purple like your mother's."
"Ah, so they gave me my hair and eye color?"
"Exactly."
She furrows her brows with a confused look. "But how are they able to give me my hair and eye color?" Through something called intercourse.
My parents glance at each other. "Well… there's this process called-"
"Mother, Father," My brother approaches us with my friend beside him. "She doesn't need the talk yet."
"Daddy!" She lets her down as my niece hugs his legs tightly. "I missed you."
"I missed you as well." He pats her head with a smile.
"Maria, are you alright?" I ask we look at her in concern.
"No need to worry," She shoots us a smile. "I'm fine." Really?
"Dada, why did you kiss Maria yesterday?" It was the other way around but a kiss is a kiss.
Their eyes widen as they glance at each other. "A-Astral…" My friend stutters avoiding his gaze with a tint of red on her cheeks. "I… um… about that kiss…"
"It was an innocent lip press. Don't worry about it."
She tilts her head with hands clasped behind her back leaning forward a bit. "Are you sure you didn't feel anything when we kissed?"
He blinks at her eyes with a mischievous smirk. "What if I did? What would you do?"
Oh boy. I facepalm with a sigh as my friends groan softly.
"What if I tell you," Her eyes twinkle with something that I can't make out as she leans closer. "I like you more than a friend?" She whispers as our eyes widen. Is this a confession or is this a joke of some sort?
My brother chuckles pushing her forehead back ever so gently. "I wouldn't be surprised. After all, I'm pretty good-looking."
She rolls her eyes with a scoff. "Yes, but cocky much?"
He chuckles with a smirk. "I know right? I'm the most handsome guy in this world!"
A hand pokes his cheek. "Tone it down, dear."
"I'm saying the truth, Mia." Mia?
Her eyes widen. "Did you just call me Mia?"
My brother stays silent for a few minutes staring at her. "I believe so…"
Mia… is that her nickname? "Do you remember anything else besides that name?"
He shakes his head. "Unfortunately no."
"Really? That happened?" A feminine voice rings across the hallway with giggles.
"I'm telling the truth and get this," He leans closer to whisper in her ear as her eyes widen.
"No way," She swerves her head to meet his eyes as their faces are inches apart. Uh-oh…
My eyes drift towards my older brother as he calmly blinks at their interaction with one another. Seriously? Is he a block of wood or something? His wife's face is inches apart from another guy's. Wait a minute… are they acting or is this an accident?
My friend's face has a tiny blush growing as she blinks and tilts her head. "Are you okay?" A hand touches his forehead as his face grows crimson. "Your face is red."
"(Cough) I'm fine." He looks away as she leans back with a confused expression. She's married. How can she not realize that he's blushing? Perhaps, she doesn't view him that way so she didn't anticipate him to blush?
"Ahem," My brother finally clears his throat as those two looks at him. "It seems like an enjoyable conversation you got going on there."
Astral's POV:
Their faces were so close to each other. The tightness in my chest intensifies as I saw her hand touch his forehead with a concerned look. Does she not realize that he's blushing?
"Ahem," I clear my throat as the two looks at me. "It seems like an enjoyable conversation you got going on there."
"Eh? When did you get here?"
Seriously? They were so absorbed in their conversation that they didn't even realize?! "We've always been here."
"Uppie, Mommy!" My daughter spreads her arms as she smiles and lifts her into her arms. "What were you laughing about?"
Her hand ruffles her hair gently. "Oh, just some things that you don't need to know for your age."
Some things? Now they're going so far as to keep secrets from me? Did she forget that I'm her husband?
"Maria," Her amethyst eyes look at the woman next to me in concern. "Are you feeling alright?"
She nods. "Don't worry. I'm all better now."
"I'm glad. To think that you didn't tell us about that situation…"
"My bad." She giggles nervously as my wife's lips curve upwards.
"No. Don't apologize. It was your personal relationship so if you didn't want to tell us, we'll understand, right guys?"
"Right." My friends and sister respond simultaneously.
"About that kiss yesterday…" She bites her lip. "I'm so sorry, Liliana. I-"
"I know why you did it. No need to apologize."
She blinks blankly. "You… do…?"
"Yea. So no need to apologize, Maria."
"But I ruined your wedding-"
"You didn't ruin it. I still got married, didn't I?"
"But-"
"Listen to me," My wife walks up to her placing one hand on her shoulder. "You didn't ruin anything. You were hurt and you needed someone by your side and that person is my husband."
"She's right," My sister chimes in. "I still can't believe that he did that to you. Who was that friend who betrayed you? I swear, I will hunt her down." Her fists clench with a blazing fire in her eyes.
The woman standing next to me giggles. "No need to go that far, Astrana. I'm fine."
"You sure?"
"I'm positive, Estrella."
My daughter wiggles from her grasp as my wife let her down. "I don't want you to be sad." She wraps her tiny arms around her legs as my lip curve upwards. This child…
She kneels to her level patting her on the head. "How can I be sad when I have you to cheer me up?"
My daughter giggles and hug her tightly. I glance toward my wife who meets my gaze with a soft smile. How strange… usually she would be more affectionate towards me. You know, like holding my arm, kissing my cheek, calling me by pet names but for some reason, she's not doing any of that.
Her eyes leave mine and focus on my parents. "Greetings, Your Majesties."
My mother lets out a sigh and helps her up. "I told you, you don't have to curtsy anymore. Plus, you're our daughter-in-law, don't be so formal with us."
She nods. "Yes, Mother."
Nighttime:
My wife trails behind me as I shut the door with a sigh.
(Flash):
"But I wanna sleep with Mommy and Daddy!"
"Listen to me," My sister said carrying her in her arms. "Tonight is a special night for them. You can sleep in my room, okay?"
"But why?"
"You know how they are. They need some privacy."
"Privacy? Privacy for what?" My daughter tilts her head innocently as she gulps.
"Um…"
"They're going to be engaged in an adult conversation." He chimes in as I choke on my water.
"An adult conversation?"
"Yes," My sister nods rapidly. "Look, we can stay up all night watching movies as long as you don't interrupt them."
Her eyes light up. "Really? I can stay up all night?"
"You sure can." My sister walks upstairs to her room. "If you want, we can also…"
"Good luck," He swings an arm around my shoulder with a wink.
"Derek, you talk too much." An adult conversation? Really?
(Flash)
Why these people are something. My wife and I sit next to each other on the bed in silence. Why is it so awkward? Is it because we're alone in this room? Wait a minute… My eyes widen. Is she expecting me to…!
(Knock)(Knock)
The door opens as two women walk in pushing a cart. "Your Highnesses, pardon the intrusion,"
"You are forgiven." I look at them and then at the cart. "May I know why you're here?"
One of the women pours a red liquid into a wine glass. "Your Highness, I'm sure you are aware of the tradition that has been passed down on one's wedding night, right?"
Tradition? She hands me the glass as I sniff it. Red wine? "Am I supposed to drink this?"
She nods. "Mhm. It was supposed to be drunken yesterday but you know what happened. So, we're doing it today."
Oh… I gulp down the glass and hand it to her. Their lips curve upwards. "We wish you a wonderful night, Your Highnesses!"
The door shuts as all is silent once again. Is she angry or something? My eyes drift towards her figure as she meets my gaze. "Is something on my face?"
"Of course not." A chuckle escapes my lips as I rise clearing my throat. How should I approach this?
"You can rest here. I'll rest in the guest room."
Her lips curve downwards. "Honey, do you know what today is?"
"Of course."
"If you know what today is," A hand grips mine gently as my body stiffens. "Then why are you leaving?" My wife asks softly as I bite the inside of my cheek.
"I…" This is our wedding night… technically, it was supposed to be yesterday but regardless, is it too cruel to leave her all alone in this room?
"Do you dislike me that much that you can't stand being in the same room as me?" Her voice cracks as she sniffles.
"It's not that I dislike you." At least, I don't think so. "You're my wife so I'll bear this responsibility but," My fingers gently remove her fingers from my hand. "We don't need this."
"You're my husband." Her radiant eyes stare into mine as I sigh deeply.
"Yes, but you know that I don't remember anything about us."
"I understand… and I get that you don't remember our connection." My wife's eyes drift down as her slender frame hugs my chest. "But, can you stay here? Just for tonight?"
Stay in this room? Is this a trap? I eye her critically as she tightens her arms around my chest leaning into my chest. Regardless, I should be weary.
"I swear, I won't do anything out of line." She whispers. "If I'm being honest, I'm not expecting anything from you tonight." Her melodic voice rings out illuminating the room. "No need to feel pressured."
What? "Really?"
She nods. "Yes, I did say that I wouldn't force anything upon you, didn't I?"
Unbelievable… to think that she doesn't expect anything of her husband in our wedding night…
"Thank you, Liliana." My lips curve into a smile as she returns it.
"No problem, my love." A yawn escapes her lips as she unwraps her hands and lays on a pillow. "If you want, you can lay next to me."
There it is. I knew it wasn't going to be that easy.
"Actually," My eyes drift towards my usual resting spot. "I was thinking that we should keep our distance."
Her smiling and happy demeanor changes as she bites her lips with tears glistening. "Is sharing a bed with me that bad for you?"
My chest tightens as an overwhelming sense of guilt penetrates my being. Great. Good going, Astral. "That's not what I meant."
What to say now? "Are you… sure you want us to share a bed?" I ask as she looks at me with a confused expression. "I mean, the last time I got kicked off the bed." I mutter as she giggles. Ah good. She's laughing again.
My lips curve upwards. How cute. Her laugh sounds so- My eye sockets widen. Woah, what on earth? Did I just think that her laugh is… cute?
"I swear, it won't happen again and besides, I can't let my beloved husband sleep on the couch now, can I?"
True… I'm getting sick of laying on the couch all the time. I plop myself down beside her with a sigh. Maybe this time will be different.
(Flash):
"This is a part of the shoot." She winks as the camera clicks. "So, about that kiss…"
"I-I um… I didn't mean to."
"You seemed absorbed during that kiss, my dear husband."
"T-That was because… uh…"
She leans closer with a smile as my heart rate increases. "Because of what, my love?"
(Flash)
Oh god… why did I think of that? My hand covers my face. Why did I kiss her yesterday? But… her lips. If Rubia's lips are soft, her lips are even softer. Not to mention the way she kissed me… it's different than Rubia's kiss. Ack! Why am I thinking about this?! I must be ill or something.
The woman next to me shifts closer to my body lifting herself onto her arms and staring at me lovingly. What is up with her expression? She brushes a thumb across my lips as I shudder. "What are you doing?"
"Are you… blushing?" My wife leans closer until our noses touch. The scent of floral fills my nostrils as her hands stroke my chest. Uh-oh…
"Or… perhaps you were thinking of that kiss?" My heart accelerates as she smiles. What is wrong with my heart these days? Is my illness spreading?
"I knew it."
"Watch it with your hand, Liliana."
Her lips curve downwards. "Can't I show affection to my beloved husband?"
"Yes, but not like this."
"Like what, my love?" Her eyelashes flutter innocently.
I gulp as my heart hammers in my chest. Her mesmerizing amethyst eyes, porcelain skin, long midnight locks, petite figure. What is the matter with me today? "You know, if you want, I can kiss you again, my dear husband."
My face flushes as she leans closer. Why am I not moving? Do I want her to kiss me again? Come on hand move! Or at least say something! No… I cannot succumb to her seduction tactics.
But her lips… "If you say no, I will retreat, my beloved." Her eyes lock onto mine as her breath tickles my nose. Ok, all I need to say is no.
A hand caresses my cheek. "I can tell that you are conflicted." I don't know what to think anymore!
"May I?" A finger lifts my chin to meet her eyes. My breathing speeds up exponentially as I zero into her luminous gaze. I… why am I like this? What on earth is this woman doing to me?
"Yes," I whisper as her lips curve upwards.
My wife leans closer closing her eyes as a pair of soft lips brushes against mine. Time and space cease to exist as my heart thumps faster. My mind goes blank as my lip part slightly letting her enter. Her soft lips, warm tongue, and sweet scent intoxicate me leaving me utterly helpless succumbing to my instincts.
My arm pulls her closer tasting her divine lips, sucking them as a soft moan escapes her lips fueling my desire even more. Her head tilts a bit cupping my face gently nibbling as I growl softly in her mouth. Her body shivers as I pin her down on the bed pressing my body close to hers not ever once breaking the passionate kiss between us.
"Mmm~"
We part laying our foreheads against each other's breathing labored. Wait… what on earth am I…? Did I just kiss her?! And how did I end up on top?!
"L-Liliana," How should I explain this? "I-I'm sorry… I… my body moved by itself and-"
A finger touches my lip as she smiles. "Don't think, my love." Her breath tickles my nose as she wraps her arms around my neck pulling me closer. "Feel and succumb to your instincts." My instincts?
"Can I do such a thing?"
The woman beneath me nods. "The problem with you is that you think too much. Sometimes, you have to let your emotions run the show, and instincts take over."
Liliana's POV:
Yes! I kissed him again! Oh, how I missed his lips. My heart beats rapidly in my chest as I stare at my beloved husband on top of me sporting a blush. "I won't force you into this if you don't want to."
"It's not that I don't…" He bites his lip as a conflicted expression shines in his eyes. Is he unsure whether this is love or lust? "I'm not sure if I…"
My hands cup his face. "No need to explain. I get what you're implying."
"I-It's not that I don't like you or anything-"
I cut him off with a lingering kiss. "Astral, I said you don't have to explain, my love."
His hands cup my cheek. My husband's eyes twinkle with an emotion that I haven't seen in a long, long time. That… look… My heart speeds up as his lips connect with my forehead.
"I'm grateful that you are my wife, Liliana." He said…
"I'm grateful that you're my husband as well, Astral," I whisper as I hold him closer to my body. My husband.
My beloved's lips linger on my forehead for a few more seconds then lean back with a smile. "You haven't kissed my forehead in such a long time." I sniffle as he shifts off me.
He chuckles and ruffles my hair lightly. "How are you feeling? Is our child giving you any trouble?"
I snuggle against his chest as he stiffens. Looks like I crossed the line. "Sorry."
"Don't be." His hand intertwines with mine. "You're my wife." Eh? He doesn't mind physical contact now?
"I thought that you didn't like physical contact."
"As I said, you're my wife. Also, I'm slowly getting around the no physical contact rule."
My eyes light up as I lay on his chest staring at his eyes. "Does that mean I can kiss and hug you whenever I feel like it?"
My love blinks with a laugh. "I would say no for the time being." My lips draw into a pout. Darn it. "But I don't mind it as much as before."
I swiftly peck his lips as his eyes widen. "Are you comfortable with me doing that?"
"S-Sure."
"Aw," A hand pokes his cheek. "You're so cute, you know that?"
His face grows bright red as a giggle escapes my lips. "I am not cute."
My hand covers my mouth to stifle a laugh. "Ah, my mistake, I meant incredibly adorable."
My beloved's eyes narrow as he pins me to the bed staring into my eyes. What is he…? "This is what you get for calling me adorable, my dear wife."
Uh-oh… that look means trouble. "What are you-Hahahahahahahahaha!"
"Hahahahahahahaha!" I burst into a laughing fit as he tickles me gently.
My heart pounds as I try to stabilize myself but am quite unsuccessful for he keeps tickling my armpits with a minuscule smile.
"Oh my god, my stomach… hahahahaha!"
I shift under him flailing my arms and legs in numerous directions as he keeps tickling me more and more. If this keeps up…
I gasp for air as laughter fills the room. Tears leak from the corners of my eyes as my stomach feels as if it will burst. "Hahahahaha… please, I… surrender!"
"Hahaha! Have mercy on me!"
"Astralllll!" I squeal as more tears and laughter escapes my lips. "I give… I give!"
I let out a labored breath as he stops tickling me. Oh, thank goodness! "That's what you get for calling me adorable."
My lips curve downwards. "But honey, it was a compliment."
A chuckle escapes his lips as he gets off me. "I know. I just wanted to see if you're ticklish or not."
I position myself laying on his chest listening to his steady heartbeat. "Why would you be curious about such a thing?"
"Now that I know your weakness," His lips form into a smirk as a thought clicks in my mind. Oh darn!
"Don't you dare," My eyes narrow as he chuckles patting my cheek.
"No promises, my love."
I roll my eyes nuzzling closer to his chest. "Anyway," He said after a moment of silence. "Is our child causing you any trouble?"
"Well, if by trouble you mean dizzy spells, nausea, and a loss of appetite then yes."
A pair of arms wrap around my shoulders pulling me closer. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be. These things are to be expected when a person is pregnant."
A hand gently touches my stomach with a slight smile. "I still can't believe that I'm going to be a father." He whispers as I look at him placing a hand on his cheek.
"You better believe it, my darling. After all, I'm pretty sure our little sunshine is going to appreciate having a brother or sister."
"Knowing her, that might very well be the case."
"Mhm."
"You're getting attached, aren't you?" He asks after a few minutes as I nod with a sigh.
"I know what I promised but…" I gulp. How do you expect me to not get attached? "I know it sounds strange but since I met her a few days ago, I-"
"You see her as a daughter, right?"
My eyes widen as he clutches his head. "I might be going crazy but ever since we've met her, I feel like I've seen her somewhere before."
"You feel like that too?"
My love nods. "Yes." He bites his lip shifting his gaze. "I'm getting quite attached as well."
A brief silence passes between us as I look down. Melody… "Is it possible for us to…"
He shakes his head. "As much as I would like that, no, we can't. She's not our daughter."
"I know… but…" My heart aches as my husband pulls me closer enveloping my body.
"We just have to treasure our days with her." He whispers in my ear. "That's all we can do right now, my beloved." But the thought of her leaving me is unbearable.
I nod as my eyes blink away the tears. His fingers glide across my cheeks wiping the moistness away with a tender look. "You're right."
"Astral?" I ask after a brief period of silence laying next to him.
"Yes?" A hand gently rubs my stomach cautiously as I bite the inside of my cheek. Do I want to know the answer? Should I ask?
"Would you have married me if I wasn't bearing your child?"
…
…
…
Even though he said that he wasn't forced into this, with the unexpected pregnancy, I can't help but feel like he's being forced against his will. Is he marrying me because of an obligation to do so?
"Liliana," I meet his gaze as a pair of soft lips touch mine. My eyes slightly widen at the sudden action. He's taking the initiative? My body begins to melt into his. His arm pulls me closer by the waist as the scent of jasmine hits my nose. My husband breaks our kiss laying a hand on my cheek.
"I will say it once more, my beautiful wife, I married you because I wanted to. True, in the beginning, when I found out that you were pregnant with my child, it was an obligatory gesture. However, as I get to know you during the past week, I came to respect you." I can feel his breath tickling my nose as he kisses my lips once more. "I care about you, Liliana." I care about you… that's the closest I got to an I love you!
Tears blur my line of sight as his thumbs wipe them away. "I love you too, my beloved."
My hands wrap around his chest as he rubs my back. "Ok, ok," He soothes as my face buries into his neck. "Why are you crying?"
I blink my tears away. "Do I need a reason to cry?"
My husband sighs as I snuggle closer feeling the warmth of his body against mine. His jasmine and sandalwood scent lingers around the room. Mm! He smells so good! Then again, he's always appealing. His head shifts as I feel a pair of eyes staring at me. "Are you… sniffing me?"
"You smell good." My purple eyes meet his mismatched as he stifles a laugh.
"I smell good?"
"Mhm!" I grip his shirt and hold it to my nose. "The scent of jasmine and sandalwood suits you."
"It does?"
"Yes. Not to mention," My lips brush the side of his neck as his breath hitch. "Seductive."
"Liliana, you're too close." Too close huh?
My lips curve into a smirk as my hand slips under his shirt caressing his stomach as he stiffens. I can hear his heart beating rapidly as he locks gazes with me. "If you consider that close," I wink and lean until our noses touch. "We could be much closer, my dear husband."
His face grows a deep crimson red as his eyes shift back and forth. "H-How can you say such a thing?"
"We're married, honey." A giggle escapes my lips. "You know what we're supposed to do tonight, correct?"
He gulps. "Y-Yes, but…"
"But what, my love?" A hand traces his lip.
"Whatever happened to not forcing me?"
My hands cup his face as I give him a lingering kiss burying my head in his neck. "You're right but I never said that I won't tease you."
A hand covers his face with a sigh. "You are really something else." He mutters as I stifle a laugh with his neck.
"Anyway, it's really late." A yawn escapes my lips as my body shakes from his hand. "Hey," I glance at him holding his body tightly to mine. "I want to sleep."
"Then rest."
"How do you expect me to sleep when you're clinging to me?" My husband shifts a bit as I wrap my arms tighter.
"You owe me this."
"How?
"I haven't slept with you in a while so you're my teddy bear." My lips peck his as I use my powers to close the curtains enveloping us on the bed.
"But how am I supposed to-"
I place my head on his chest holding his hand loosely snuggling against him. "Better?"
"Eh… I guess this works."
My lips curve upwards as my eyes start to droop. A yawn escapes my lips once again as I look up at him. "Goodnight, my love."
He smiles slightly kissing the top of my head. "Goodnight to you as well… my wife."
A hand pats my shoulder softly as my eyes close. I'm his wife… I'm actually married to this man. My eyes glance at his sleeping figure as my lips curve upwards. I wouldn't have it any other way. My beloved husband, My finger gently touches his soft hair. I will always love you.
(Pulse)
I grit my teeth as a dizzy wave shoots through my skull. What the…?
(Flash):
"Honey," Wait, where am I? My eyes drift around the room as I look in the mirror. My eyes widen.
My outfit consists of a flowy white floor-length dress that trails behind me. Although it's a simple dress, it carries a sort of elegance and regality to it. There is a thin brown belt accentuating my waist. On my hair is a beautiful silver hairpin in the shape of a stunning flower. What on earth…? Since when did I get into this… Angel-like outfit?
A pair of arms wrap around my waist as I stiffen. "Are you that scared of me, my beloved?" That voice…!
I glance back as he pecks my lips with a loving gaze. "What's on your mind?"
My brows furrow as I unwrap his arms and take a step back. Huh? What in Astral world is going on here? My husband tilts his head with a confused expression. "Liliana?"
This room… the bed… the piano… the curtains… the couch… it looks identical to his room but why do I sense something off about it? "Astral, what are you doing?"
A chuckle escapes his lips as his hand rubs my stomach pulling me in by the waist. "Do I need a reason to see you, my lovely wife?"
"Of course not," A hand lifts my chin to meet his luminous eyes.
His lips curve upwards slightly rubbing my stomach. "In these days, you got to be extra careful. Don't worry, I'll increase security around our room and the palace."
"Don't worry, I can-"
"No. Remember what happened last time?" Last time? "I don't ever want it to happen again especially not when it's close to your delivery date." Well, that explains why my stomach is big. Wait for a minute!
"M-My what?!" My face drains of all color as I stare into his eyes.
"Your delivery date, my darling."
Delivery date?! What the heck is this? I'm only about 6 weeks pregnant, right? Then how can I… this doesn't make any sense!
A hand touches my forehead. "Are you alright? Are you feeling nauseous again? Want me to call in Dextra?"
Did time somehow fast forward like in those movies and books? Am I crazy? Am I dreaming? My fingers pinch my arm as I let out a hiss. No. Not a dream. But how can this be?
"Ah, I think I know what's going on." His arms envelop my body into a tight hug from behind. "You're nervous, aren't you?" I stay silent trying to process this. "No need to be nervous, My Empress," His lips peck my neck as I glance back at my beloved. "You're going to be fine and so will our daughter."
D-Daughter? Did he just say our daughter? "W-What… d-did you just say…"
"I said that you and our unborn daughter will be fine."
He did say daughter… is this some sort of premonition? My hand touches my stomach housing my unborn daughter. "Have we decided on a name?"
My husband smiles. "Of course, we have."
"What is it?"
"Don't you already know, my wife?" I do not.
I stifle a giggle. "Can't I get a reminder?"
He shakes his head placing a hand on my stomach gently while kissing me passionately. "Melody."
(Flash)
My eyes shoot open as I rub my stomach. What the… what was that?! My unborn daughter? Was that a dream? No… I… it felt so real though. But the name Melody… it could be just a manifestation of my desires for her to be my actual daughter. That's right. Right. That was probably a dream. But… what if that was real? Then she is my biological daughter. No no no… stop thinking that. No matter how much you adore her, she isn't your daughter, Liliana.
"My love?"
I blink as my eyes drift towards the man lying next to me. "Are you alright?"
"Ah, yes." A cough escapes my lips as he gets up turns on the lamp and pours me a cup of water. "I'm (cough) I'm fine."
"Here," My beloved helps me up. "Drink this."
"Thank you." I sip my water as he takes it placing it on the bedside table.
"Are you feeling any better?"
"Yea, just a bit nauseous and mild cramps, that's all," I whisper as he sits next to me and gently massages my stomach. It's best not to tell him about that dream.
"Hey Astral?" I ask after a moment as he looks at me with tender eyes.
"Yes, my beloved wife?"
"Do you prefer a son or a daughter?"
He blinks with a smile. "I don't care the gender of our child, honey." My husband leans his forehead on mine. "Whether it's a son or a daughter, I will love them just like I care for you, my one and only Princess Consort."
"Liliana, I… I think I…"
My hands cup his face as our lips connect. His soft lips brush over mine ever so gently as he pulls me closer wrapping his arms around my neck. I shut my eyes cautiously opening my mouth to test the waters. Is he comfortable with…! My husband's lips part allowing my tongue to protrude into his mouth making a soft growl escape his lips. A shiver shoots up my spine as he lowers me on the bed nibbling on my upper lip as I do the same to his lower.
We break the kiss parting a bit to breathe staring into each other's eyes. That… look… My heart beats faster as the scent of arousal hits my nose. Ah. "Liliana, I…" He bites his lip. "I think I… like you." An audible whisper escapes his lips as my eyes widen.
"Say it again."
"I think I like you, Liliana."
My heart blooms as I pull him closer sealing the distance of our lips again. He said that he likes me! A soft moan escapes my lips as he licks my lips. My fingers slowly unbutton his shirt as he pulls away abruptly. Did I go too far? "Honey?" I lay my hand on his cheek as he gulps. Yup. I went too far.
"Um… I… I don't…" My husband's eyes shift downwards.
"Look at me," His beautiful mismatched eyes meet mine as my lips curve upwards. "I won't force anything upon you. If you feel uncomfortable then we can stop here if that's your wish."
We stare into each other's eyes as his lips crash down on mine parting my mouth and slipping his tongue in passionately. My stomach knots as butterflies flutter. I grip his shoulders as his hands trail to my waist caressing it ever so gently tilting his head to explore the depths of my mouth. A shiver shoots down my spine as my husband fumbles with the buttons on my shirt.
He breaks the kiss once more breathing heavily leaning his forehead against mine. "I-I'm sorry, I d-didn't mean to-"
My finger connects with his lips. "My love, it's alright. Remember, I'm your wife."
He nods staring at me. "Do you… want me to continue?" My husband whispers as I cup his face.
"This night is about you, Astral." My lips curve into a smile pecking his lips. "Do whatever you feel most comfortable with."
Astral's POV:
Liliana… she's relinquishing all control to me? I look down at the woman beneath me staring into her gem-like eyes. Those stunning eyes… "Have I ever told you that you have gorgeous eyes?"
Her eyes slightly widen with a smile. "No. This is the first time you said that to me." Oh.
"Really because your eyes are the most prominent feature about you."
She blinks with a pout. "Are you saying the rest of me isn't good-looking?"
I stifle a chuckle and roll my eyes. She's so cute! "Of course not, my lovely wife. When I first woke up, I couldn't seem to look away from your stunning amethyst eyes."
She looks away with a shade of crimson on her cheeks. "T-Thank you but your eyes are the stunning ones."
My eyes? "Huh… there has been a question I've been wondering for quite some time now."
"And that would be?"
I roll off her as she lays her head on my chest. "Why do we have different colored eyes from our parents?" My wife blinks blankly. "What I mean is, your mother has blue eyes and your father has red eyes. So you should have either red or blue eyes not purple."
"I've never thought of that before… I mean, I asked my parents that but they said it was the way genetics work."
"It could happen to be that one of them carried a recessive gene which resulted in you having purple eyes."
"That's a good point as well but nobody in my family has purple eyes."
"Well," I put a hand under my chin. Hm… "Perhaps you're adopted?"
I hiss as a hand smacks my chest with a pout. "Seriously?"
A chuckle escapes my lips as my wife snuggles closer to me. "I'm joking, my darling wife."
"You'd better be."
My hand stroke her long dark locks as a brief silence pass between us. "How did we meet?"
Liliana's POV:
I burst out laughing wiping a tear from my eyes as he looks at me with a confused expression. Oh my god! "Well, if I remember correctly, it was at my mansion…"
(Flash):
My breathing labors with a sword in hand. In front of me is a servant breathing heavily on the ground as I take his sword.
"My Lady," He kneels. "I have failed you."
I wave an arm and help him stand. "Don't worry about it."
Yet another beaten person. Can't anyone challenge me to an actual sword fight?
"Hey, John?"
"Yes, My Lady?"
"Are there any more people I can fight?"
His sweat drips as he bows. "I'm afraid you fought all of us in the mansion, My Lady." If that's the case then…
"Can I fight the royal guards?"
His eyes widen and suddenly kneels with a frightened expression. "My Lady, you shouldn't think to fight off the royal guards. They are the most elite in terms of martial arts and fighting hand-chosen by the king. Not to mention, you're only six years old."
"So what if I'm only 6? Age doesn't matter when it comes to fighting, right?"
"Liliana," My eyes widen as I tackle her into an embrace.
"Mommy!"
She carries me poking my cheek. "What is this about fighting the guards?"
"I wanna fight the royal guards!"
Her eyes widen. "What is with you and fighting all the time?" My mother sighs shaking her head. "I blame your father for this."
"No. Mommy don't blame Daddy. I like fighting more than dancing."
"Of course you do but you can't duel with the guards, honey."
I tilt my head. "Why's that?" She puts me down and crouches to my level.
"Because they are dangerous and I don't want to see you getting hurt."
I shrug. "I want to fight against someone who's on my level for once. The servants don't know how to duel so I have the upper hand."
"How about this. When your father is done meeting with the king, you can-"
"No. Daddy always let me win. I want an opponent that doesn't care about my status so that we can have a fair fight." Is that too much to ask around here?
"Countess Carissa," My mother and I turn our heads as she curtsies toward the kid with light blue hair and mismatched eyes. Wow… his eyes are different colors!
"Your-"
He subtly shakes his head as I look at her. "Mommy, why are you curtsying to a kid?"
"Liliana, that's very disrespectful."
Huh? "But he's around my age. You're older than him so you don't have to curtsy in front of him, right?"
She facepalms as I walk towards him. Hm… "Why do you have a gold and a silver eye?"
A gasp comes from my mother as she kneels. "She doesn't mean any disrespect, Your-"
"Don't worry about it, she is forgiven." What on earth is going on?
"Liliana, come back here this instant!"
"Why?"
"Because I say so."
"But Mommy, he has different eyes."
"To answer your question," The kid in front of me clears his throat. "My father said it's genetic." Oh.
I lean closer to him furrowing my brows as he backs away. "Are you sure that your eyes are real?"
"Yes, my eyes are 100% real." He said in a monotone voice. What's up with this kid? First of all, this face is like a mask. Secondly, his voice is cold.
"You're weird," I said after a moment as my mother groans looking at me in desperation. And why is my mommy acting like that?
"I get that a lot but I could say the same for you." What?
"I'm not weird." I look away crossing my arms. "You're the weird one!"
"Oh?" His eyes scan my body as I shiver a bit. Why are his eyes so scary? "You're a lady yet you sword fight." Did he just say…!
My eyes widen as I snap my head towards him. "Did you just say that-"
"No. I'm just saying that I find you different than the others that I have met."
Let's see… A thought flies in my head as I grin at him. "Do you know how to sword fight?"
"Honey, don't you dare challenge him to a sword fight." My mother pulls me aside placing a hand on my shoulder.
"Why?"
"If he gets hurt somehow, it's treason!"
"What's treason?"
"A very bad thing will happen to us if he gets hurt so-"
"Be assured, nothing will happen if I get injured."
I look at my mother. "See? He said that nothing will happen so I get to fight him!"
She stands up biting her lips pacing around the area and looking at us. Huh… what's the matter with her today?
He summons up a sword as I summon up mine. "You ready?"
"As ready as I will ever be."
"Honey, remember to not hurt him in any way." She shouts standing behind the fence. It's a fight? How am I not supposed to hurt him?
"Ladies first."
(Slash)
(Clang)
(Clang)
With every move I put out, he counters it flawlessly. Pretty good. My eyes widen as I dodge his incoming sword and block it breathing heavily.
(Swipe)(Thrash)
I jump and manage to charge at him. Yes! I backed him into a corner! Now, I got to…! He turns so that he suddenly got the upper hand as my fast reflexes kick in blocking his sword once again. How? I did that move perfectly!
"Are you getting tired already?"
"Me? Tired? You obviously don't know me that well."
(Slash)
"I got to admit, not many beings can last this long against me," He dodges my incoming sword with an emotionless expression. Stand still for once! "However," A sword blocks my attack in its tracks. "You're attacks are ludicrous." Ludicrous?
"Your attacks are random."
My eyes widen as I charge at him again. "How dare you? My attacks are not random."
(Clang)
He blocks it effortlessly with a yawn. "This is what I mean. You have okay form and technique but if this is a real battle," A fling the sword from my hands as my legs tremble. "You would've already been dead."
H-How?! I… I've lost… no no no no no no! I refuse to lose to such an arrogant kid! His sword points at me. "Any last words?"
There has got to be a way to turn this around…! My eyes drift to the sand arena that we have been fighting in. That's right… I can use this to help me! "Just two." My lips curve into a smirk as I throw a fistful of sand in his face temporarily blinding him. "Eat sand!" I quickly grab my sword and lunge at him.
Finally! This is the part where I- "That's highly clever of you but unfortunately, you're not fast enough." He dodges as I lose my footing and tumble to the ground. Ow!
My eyes glare at him as he stands there with a blank expression. How?! "Just give up. It's not like you're going to beat me anyway." He eyes me and my eyes narrow.
My feet stagger as I breathe heavily. "I… will… not… lose… to you of all people!" This is what you get for calling my attacks random and ludicrous, you arrogant person!
(Clang)
(Slash)
His eyes widen and jump up to dodge my sword while backing away. "I will not lose to the likes of you."
"I like your determination but the fact of the matter is," His mask breaks as he lets out a minuscule smile. "You already lost." Eh? Uh-uh… I gotta…
"Think again," I shout as I duck his attack making his eyes wide yet again. "Your plan is smart but," I wink at him. "You also don't know me very well."
"What on earth is going on here?" Uh-oh…
A voice diverts my gaze and he takes the opportunity to pin my body to the ground taking my sword away and pointing his sword at me. What the… ?!
"As I said, your attacks are way too impulsive."
"I… lost…" How could I have lost? Me? I've never lost a sword fight. "You cheated!"
He raises a brow and offers me his hand. "How did I cheat?"
"If my father didn't come in and distracted me then you wouldn't have the time to stop my attack." I stand up pointing a finger at him.
"And that's my fault? You're the one who got distracted. Rule number one of fighting is always keeping an eye on your opponent."
"Ahem, kids," We turn our heads as my parents and two other beings rush in. "Are you two okay?"
"Goodness gracious, Liliana," My father picks me up with a worried expression. "Are you hurt? Wounded?"
"I'm fine, Daddy!" I pat his face with a smile kissing his cheek.
"Son," His mother kneels to his level bringing him to a hug. "Thank the stars you're alright."
"Don't worry, Mother. I'm fine."
"Young man, don't you dare disappear on us again," His father scolds him. "Got it?"
"Got it, Father."
I wiggle from my father's grasp approaching him with a head tilt. "What's your name?"
"Why should I tell you my name?"
"Because you already know my name so it's fair if you tell me yours."
"I didn't ask for your name though." Why this kid!
My hand pokes his cheek as he blinks and backs away. "Also, why do you have that expression on your face?" I lean forward until our noses touch. "It's like a mask."
"Ahem honey," My mother clears her throat. Huh?
"Lady Liliana, please maintain boundaries between us." He steps back as I blink. Boundaries?
"What are boundaries?"
His parents look at mine as they smile nervously. "We haven't gotten a chance to teach her about that yet." My mother whispers.
"Boundaries are a set of guidelines that limit physical contact with another person. For example, you were standing too close, therefore, pushing my boundaries." Oh…
"Ohhhhh… so I made you uncomfortable?"
"Yes,"
"But why do you always have that expression on you?"
"What?"
"Your face is weird."
"How?"
"You don't smile."
"Why would I need to smile? There's nothing to smile for." There's nothing to smile for? Does he really think that way?
My arm swings over his shoulder with a grin as he stiffens. "What do you mean there's nothing to smile for?"
"Remove your arm."
"My mother always says that you should smile because smiles can help improve your mood." My hand pokes his cheek. "Come on, smile a bit."
"No."
"Smile."
"No."
"Just once."
"Why are you so insistent?"
"Why?" I blink with a head tilt. "Aren't we friends?"
His eyes widen. "What would make you think that we are friends?"
"We dueled of course!" He removes my arm and straightens his clothes. "It's because we dueled that we are friends."
He blinks and stares at me with a critical gaze. Why isn't he saying anything? "Right?"
My lips curve into a pout. "We're friends right?"
"Uh…"
I swing his arm back and forth. "Right?"
He stares at me as his mask breaks into melodic laugh. "That has got to be one of the most ridiculous reasons I've heard during my six years of living."
My eyes widen as he wipes a tear from his eyes. Woah… how does a laugh sound so pretty? "You should laugh more often."
"Why is that?"
"It will make you look more cute of course!" I exclaim excitedly as he stifles another laugh with the back of his hand.
"Cute? You think I'm cute?"
"Well," I place a hand under my chin looking up and down at the boy standing next to me. "When you smile, you're cute. When you don't, you're mean."
His eyes widen. "Mean?"
"Mhm. You look scary when you don't smile."
"That's just my natural face."
"I don't like it. It makes you look too scary." I frown putting my hands on his cheeks as he backs away.
"What are you doing?"
I squeezed his cheeks a bit. "I'm trying to make you smile more."
"By… corporal punishment?"
Corporal punishment?! "I never knew you had a sense of humor…" Oh yeah… he still hasn't said his name yet.
"Adrian." His lips let out a small smile as I withdraw my hands.
Adrian huh?
I stare at him in awe. "So you can smile after all!" And I know his name! Adrian…
"Mommy, Daddy, I have a friend!"
(Flash)
"Wait, you said that my face is weird?" He raises an eyebrow as I giggle. "What a wonderful wife you are."
"Aw, come on, I was 6 that time."
"Also, why did I use a fake name?"
(Flash):
"You're The Prince?!"
My friend covers his ears as I stare at him closing the door to his bedroom and sitting down on his bed. "Must you be so loud?"
He's the prince… I fought with him… A gasp escaped my lips as I curtesy. No wonder my mother said not to hurt him. "Your Highness, pardon my rudeness before."
A beat of silence passes between us as he sighs helping me up. "You see, this is exactly why I lied to you." Huh?
"May you clarify that, Your Highness?"
"I don't want people to be my friend because of my status."
"Is that why you used a fake name?"
"Correct."
"Well," I tackle him tightly. "You don't have to worry about that."
"What do you mean?"
I peck his cheek. "I will forever be your friend."
His hand rubs his cheek. "Boundaries, Liliana."
"You and your boundaries." I roll my eyes hugging him even tighter.
(Flash)
"So… you begged me to become your friend?"
"It wasn't really begging but you agreed to it so it works out in the end."
My husband pulls me closer pecking my lips. "I have another question."
"Yes?"
"When did you start liking me?"
"Um…" When was it? "I believe it was around 13 or 14?"
(Flash):
"My love!" I tackle him as he falls back on the bed.
"Lily," He sighs running his fingers through his hair. "Must you always tackle me like this?"
My legs straddle his waist smiling at my friend below. "It's our thing."
A chuckle escapes his lips as he ruffles my hair. "Ok, get off me."
"Don't you miss me?" I flutter my eyelashes with a head tilt.
"Of course I missed you but it's best if you get off before there's some sort of misunderstanding." Misunderstanding?
"Whatcha mean by that, honey?"
(Knock)(Knock)
"Your Highness, pardon the intrusion-"
The door opens as the butler blinks and coughs in his fist with his face red. "S-Sorry for the intrusion, Your Highness and Lady Liliana." He spins around. "P-Please continue."
"Out!" My friend's face grows a deep shade of red.
"Y-Yes, Your Highness." The door shuts as I stare at the guy below me.
"Why is your face so red?"
"Get off me."
My brows furrow as I lean down pointing to his cheeks. "Do you have a fever?"
"Liliana," My friend slides a hand down his face. "Just… get off me." What's with him?
In the arena:
(Slash)
(Clang)
"You're getting better at this." He blocks my attack with a smile.
"I learn from the best, Master."
(Thrash)
"Master, your mother is behind you."
"Hahaha, you think I would believe that, my darling?" It was worth a shot.
Sweat drips from my forehead as my eyes narrow. Should I risk it? I block his attacks as my friend charges at me. Now!
(Clang)
I jump to dodge his attack but the force of his sword flings me back. Ah, shoot! I shut my eyes tightly bracing myself for impact.
A pair of arms wrap around my waist pull me closer as I hit something warm and hard. Why is the floor warm? "Are you alright?"
My eyes slowly open to meet luminous gold and silver eyes. Our faces are inches apart as my face heats up. Why does it feel so warm? My heart accelerates as I bite my lips. His face… I… how did I not notice how good-looking he is before?
His arms tighten around my waist pulling me closer as I cup his face. Am I having a heart attack?! No… that's not possible. Am I dying?! Is that why it's beating so fast? "Lily, are you hurt?" My friend asks as he stares at my face with tender eyes. His gaze…
"Astral… I think I…" What am I feeling right now?
"Ahem, are we interrupting something?" Our eyes widen as his parents clear their throats. Their Majesties!
I promptly remove my hands from him and curtsy. "Greetings, Your Majesties."
(Flash)
"Hahahahaha!" My husband laughs rolling in bed wiping a tear from his eyes. "Oh my god." Hah?
"Honey?"
"Liliana, I can't believe that you were so oblivious back then." Oblivious?
"Huh?"
"That position where you were straddling my waist." He points out as I pull up the blanket. "You thought that I had a fever?"
"W-Well, um… I… ok, so what if I was oblivious back then?" My face heats up as a finger pokes my cheek with a smirk.
"It's fine if you were that way in front of me but imagine the consequences if it were any other guy?" Why do I detect a hint of jealousy in his tone? "If it were another, perhaps you would've gotten taken advantage of."
"Do I sense jealousy in your voice?" I tease as he scoffs.
"Jealousy? No way."
"Aw, my husband is jealous." My hand rubs his cheeks in circles as giggles escape from my lips. "I thought I would never see the day."
"Who said that I was jealous?" I massage his cheeks in circles as he places his hands on top of mine. "And stop rubbing my cheeks."
"But I can't help it," I whine giving him a lingering kiss on the lips burying my head in his neck. "My husband is so cute that I can eat you up!"
"Not literally, right?" My eyes meet his as I wink. My hands slip under his opened shirt stroking his muscular chest as his body shivers.
"It depends on my mood, my dear husband."
An arm pulls me closer by the waist. "How brazen of you, my dear wife." Brazen huh?
My lips curve into a smirk as I pin him down with our faces inches apart. "Brazen? You're accusing me of brazen?"
"Yup. The way you're pinning me down says it all."
My hands slip off his shirt tossing it to the ground caressing his abs licking my lips slowly as his eyes cloud with desire. "I could be so much more brazen if you would just let me," I whisper kissing his earlobe.
His eyes narrow as he pins me down holding my wrists above my head. "Do you think that I won't and can't do anything to you?" His hot breath hits my cheeks as he plants short kisses along my jaw making a jolt of electricity course through my body.
"I… ah~" A moan escapes my lips as his warm tongue trails across my neck hungrily. A warm and hot liquid stains my panties as his hands nimbly unbutton my shirt tossing it off the bed exposing my bare skin for him to admire.
My husband pulls back staring at me as I gulp trying to catch my breath from his ministrations. Is he going to- A pair of lips slams onto mine swiftly as my body reacts instantly. I grip his head pushing him closer opening my mouth wider as he kisses me hungrily and passionately.
My hands snake down to his pants unzipping the zipper and undoing the button as he breaks our kiss abruptly. Did I go too far again? "Looks like someone's getting ahead of themselves." He tease as a hand pulls down my skirt with a smirk.
My arms wrap around his neck pulling his face into my cleavage as he groans hotly nuzzling against it as I let out a sigh. "After three weeks without sleeping with you, you have no clue how much I desire this."
His hands rub my thigh making me wetter down there. "Astral~"
A warm tongue licks my cleavage sending jolts down my spine as I stifle a cry digging my nails into his back. Why am I so sensitive? Is it perhaps because of my pregnancy?
"You're quite sensitive huh?" My beloved mutters as he kisses my neck then my collarbone trailing his tongue as my breathing labors.
"Y-Yea… ah… it might be because of this… oh… baby." His hands rub my waist and hips feeling my curves as my breath hitches. Every touch from him is like an electrical impulse. It's driving me crazy!
"It will certainly make this more enjoyable for the both of us." Definitely. That is if I don't die from stimulation overload.
My back arches as he nibbles on my neck. "Oh, Astral~" My breathing labors as I grip his shoulders tighter as he nicks the area underneath my collarbone kissing it tenderly.
"N-No… ah… more hickeys~"
"Why? You're all mine, my beloved wife." My husband's hand trails down to my bottom giving it a hard squeeze as I softly moan my toes curl and my eyes shut from the excessive electricity flowing in my being.
"B-Because… oh… they will notice!" My nails dig into his shoulder blades as he cautiously bites the inside of my thigh. Oh lord.
"So you're afraid that others might notice." He whispers lowly spreading my legs open. My heart hammers as his delectable lips meet mine. The scent of sandalwood fills the air as his tongue licks and roams my inner mouth. My arms pull him closer rubbing my body against his. A growl emanates from the back of his throat that makes me spread my legs wider. "That won't be a problem."
"My love,"
"Hm?"
"I want you," I mutter as he leans his forehead against mine. My eyes stare at his breathing deeply.
"Am I not with you now?" He tilts his head as I pull him closer stripping him of his pants.
"Yes, but I want you… every inch of you, inside me." I whisper as his member pokes at my thigh. I can't believe that I said that.
A mischievous twinkle shines in his eyes as he licks my bra running his tongue over my areoles until they stand at attention. My breathing hitches as the fabric soaks with his slippery desire. "T-Take it off, ugh~"
"Nah, I'm enjoying watching you squirm."
"Y-You are such a… ah~"
My toes curl as he intertwines my fingers with his biting my nipple as sweat drips from my forehead. "I didn't hear the last part, my beautiful darling wife. May you repeat that?"
A growl escapes my lips. "W-Why, you are a… mmmm!"
My mind grows foggy as sensations from his mouth, hands, and body sends me into overdrive. Oh my lord if this keeps up I might not be able to last! "Ah, so that's what they look like." His husky voice fills my ears as I notice my white laced bra soaking wet allowing him to admire what's inside.
"You do realize that if you'd taken it off, you would've seen them sooner."
"Yes, but where's the fun in that?" My body shivers at his change in tone. This is approaching the dangerous territory.
His lips trail downwards to my stomach forming a smile kissing it lovingly and caressing it with his hands. His expression changed so suddenly.
My hands lay on top of his as we meet each other's gazes. In a way, I'm thankful for the appearance of this child. If it weren't for it, I wouldn't have gotten married to him this quickly.
"Astral?"
"Yes, my love?"
"When you found out I was carrying your child," I start as he shifts from his position laying next to me.
"You want to know what my initial reaction was?"
I nod looking down. "You were frozen for roughly 5 minutes when I broke the news."
He sighs placing a hand on my bare stomach. "When you first told me that you were pregnant, I…"
"I want the truth."
My beloved hesitates then nods. "When I first found out, I had an inkling of doubt if the child was mine or not." What?!
"You!" I jab my finger to his chest as he surrenders his hands up. "How could you think that? How on earth could you think that I slept with other men?! Honestly, do you think that I would-"
"Liliana, Liliana," He holds my hands as I glare at him.
Do I seem like that type of person? Does he view me as a person to engage in affairs when in a relationship?
"It was merely a thought. Of course, I don't view you as that type of person."
"Then why did you-"
"How was I supposed to react?" I close my mouth as he cups my face. "I found out that you're pregnant with my child yet I have no recollection of our time together." True…
"You do have a point but," My eyes narrow as my lips curve downwards. "Do you really think that I would sleep with someone other than you, my beloved husband?"
A chuckle escapes his lips. "Who knows?"
"Hmph!" I roll to the side furrowing my brows. Tell me again, why did I marry this man?
A pair of arms pull me into his chest as he kisses my neck making my breath hitch. "My beautiful wife, you know that I don't think that way."
"Who knows? Perhaps you do think like that." I stifle a laugh as he tightens his grip on my waist.
"I swear, if I ever think that way about you, I will-Mph!" I cut him off with a lingering kiss as his eyes widen. My husband stares at me wordlessly as I snuggle in his chest.
"Why would you go say those unlucky words?"
A chuckle escapes his lips as he caresses my stomach gently. "If that could get you to stop being angry, then I would gladly say those unlucky words." Oh yeah, because he says things like this.
"You're such a flatterer, you know that?"
His lips peck my forehead with a wink. "Only for you, my Princess Consort."
My face grows hot as my hands pull up the blanket with a yawn. How late is it? My tired eyes drift towards the wall clock as they widen. "It's 5:45?!" We talked all night?!
"I guess the saying is true." The man next to me let's out a yawn. "Time flies when you're speaking to the one you care about."
"Honey, don't you have a meeting tomorrow?"
"Yes," He lets out another yawn pulling me closer so that his arms wrap around my body. "But no need to worry. I can function on a 4-hour sleep schedule." No way am I letting that happen.
"I commend your spirit but that's not healthy. How about you reschedule for another day?"
My husband waves an arm lazily. "Eh… no can do. Remember that time when I blocked the shuriken for you? Well, my father rescheduled it for tomorrow so I have to show up no matter what."
"But-"
"I'll be fine." He mutters. "It's all… good."
A sigh escapes my lips as I stare at his peaceful sleeping figure. And not to mention, we have a ball to attend to tomorrow. There is no way that he can do all the events tomorrow with just 4 hours of rest. Hm… I got to find a way to…!
I wave an arm to place a sound barrier across the room. That way, the noise won't be able to wake him. Also, the do not disturb sign in front of the door should indicate a clear message to his parents.
A yawn escapes my lips as I blink and snuggle closer to my husband. "Goodnight, my love."
"Night." He mutters tiredly stirring in his sleep a bit as my eyes snap shut.