hey there! this is the final part of Love like Winter. thanks so much for reading!
...
"Don't push yourself."
Gladiolus spoke on his phone, Athenacia on the other line. He was just getting back from a run in the cooler air, stepping through his door when he heard his phone buzz. He frowned when he saw her picture come up. She never called him, something must be up. But when he answered the phone he could hear how terrible she sounded. She had the flu and he instantly regretted taking her out the other night. They were lucky the sky even cleared but were in the cold for so long. Didn't matter, she was already sick, which meant she couldn't come tonight and while he was a little disappointed, he couldn't get upset with her for something she couldn't control. She assured him that if she felt better she would come by but he didn't want her to exert herself at his expense.
"Mm."
Her voice was drifting off. He wanted to say something inappropriate to wake her up but Iris had walked into the kitchen where he currently was. She was looking at him curiously and he turned his back on her. His sister didn't need to hear what he was saying.
"You still there?"
But there was no response on the other end. Smiling slightly, he knew that she had passed out. He hung up the phone and put it in his pocket before opening the fridge. Gladiolus wasn't sure what he was looking for but he knew he was hungry. Pulling out something quick he went to the counter and noted that Iris was still there. He raised his brow at her questioningly, before taking a bite of his food.
"Who was that?" she asked, though she already had a smile on her face.
"Doesn't matter," he replied, continuing to eat as if she wasn't there.
"It was your girlfriend wasn't it?"
"So what if it was?"
"Do I finally get to meet her?"
"Nope."
Iris frowned, "But didn't you say she was coming?"
"She's sick."
Her face fell, the disappointment evident all around her. Gladiolus continued to eat, trying to get the sound of Athenacia's coughing fit out of his head. She sounded rough, especially when she whined while it was happening. She never seemed like the type to get sick but she would know better than anyone if she was. Iris was still chatting away about something but he wasn't listening. When he was finished eating he just walked away from her despite her protesting it the entire way. The teen tried to stop him but failed, causing him to smirk when he demonstrated just how big he was compared to her. Eventually, he was openly laughing at her poor attempts to brush him off. It was too bad Athenacia wasn't coming by because these two would get along extremely well.
As the day wore on it eventually turned into night as always. Gladiolus was still in his room despite knowing that people were already showing up. One of the reasons he was taking so long was because this wasn't exactly a fun occasion like it appeared to be. It was far less formal than the ball but still had high expectations of him while he was there. He was still in the public eye whether it was the comfort of his own home or not. He wanted Athenacia here not only to meet his family but also to help him relax. She had no idea how much stress she took away from him with her presence and he never actually showed her the more tedious aspects of his job. A career like hers was much harder so he never really wanted to complain about his.
The thought of calling her crossed his mind several times while sitting on his bed and staring at his phone. He wanted to know how she was doing, hadn't messaged her all day since he was far too busy getting everything ready with Jared and Iris. His father was at work but was home now greeting people as they came in. Gladiolus knew that he didn't have much time before he would be summoned down there. His finger hovered over her name, the picture he assigned to it blown up but cropped on the display so that he could only see her hazel eyes. But they had a light shining in them, making him smile at the memory. She was looking down at a chart while she was working, having cured another patient. She was so passionate about her job, wanting to help people despite what they thought of her. He admired her for it and wanted to be around her all the time so he could see that woman that he knew he had strong feelings for.
The Shield decided against calling her. If she was sick then she should rest and he didn't want to disturb her, even if he was eager to know what sort of surprise she had gotten him for the Solstice. He hated that he hadn't gotten anything for her, not one to really shop. But for whatever reason, he knew that she wouldn't mind. Besides, from what she was saying it wasn't actually a gift that he could hold onto wherever he went. His smile grew when he recalled her teasing him about it. Looks like he would have to wait but he was sure that it was worth it. Rising from his bed, he put his phone in his pocket. He was ready for the night no matter what came at him.
More guests had arrived and with that meant Ignis and Noctis. The Prince came because the alternative wasn't really all that exciting and Ignis made sure that he made it on time. Gladiolus was with them as often as he could be, a well-deserved break from playing nice with his father's cohorts. The Crownsguard were all good people but the young Shield had other things on his mind. Prompto was supposed to make an appearance as well but so far he hadn't shown up yet.
"We should have just picked him up," grumbled Noctis, obviously bored with being here himself.
"The roads are rather awful. I can only imagine how much more troublesome they've become since we've arrived," said Ignis.
"Maybe he won't show."
"Oh ye of little faith."
As if on cue, the young blond spoke, gaining their attention with a bright smile on his face.
Gladiolus scoffed, "Even had the decency to try and look presentable."
"All things considered," he gave a sheepish sort of laugh.
"What does that mean?" asked Noctis.
"Bad accident on the way that my cab got mixed in. We were fine but some of the others weren't. Had to get cleared by a doctor before I could come," he then looked at Gladiolus, "Too bad Cia won't make it since she's stuck at work."
The large man blinked, "What?"
"Yeah, I saw her working she was really busy. The accident was pretty bad and it didn't look like there were a lot of people to help out at the hospital."
"Is that right?" but it didn't sound like a question.
In fact, the hard look on his face had Prompto stop talking immediately. There was a tension forming around the Shield that all three of them could sense and they dared not speak another word. The young blond looked a little apprehensive, stepping out of the way before he was trampled. Gladiolus walked away, almost looking like he was stomping as he headed toward the liquor cabinet. The other three men just watched him go in a stunned silence.
"You've really gone and done it now," said Noctis.
"Oops?"
Ignis sighed, getting the feeling that this was going to be a long night.
And he was right, it was a long night. Gladiolus drunk a lot though was able to control himself fairly well. He was angry, something that his friends could tell. But he kept face despite his intoxication. Ignis was watching his consumption with calculating eyes. Whenever there was a disturbance in the large man's world regarding Dr. Virum it affected them all despite that he didn't know it. When they weren't speaking for a while before they started seeing each other he projected it on all of them until the situation was remedied. From what he could deduce she had not told Gladiolus that she would be working, so obviously she had lied to him and he was now finding out about it. Whatever the minor details were this was no time to lose himself in his own rage. And there was rage, even if it wasn't very obvious.
The Shield did not stop, ignoring the disapproving gaze of not only Ignis but his father as well. As long as he didn't cause a scene he saw no need for their judgement. Cor was also giving him strange looks. Gladiolus knew that the Marshal had trained Athenacia and was a little protective of her when it came to her past. He just didn't realize how bad it was until he was met with those piercing blue eyes. It wasn't like the two of them dating was a big secret, but he didn't see the need for the older man to get involved. As things were winding down Cor ended up getting a phone call that turned him far more serious than Gladiolus had ever seen him, and abruptly left. Whatever happened must have been important, shortly after the television was on and all eyes were glued to it. That's when he left the room.
Gladiolus controlled himself as best as possible until he was in his bedroom. His was fuming as he paced around, not stomping as he did not want anyone to come looking for him. She's at work? At work? The flu was just a lie so she could go to work? No, it was so that she didn't have to come. She avoided coming near his house on more than one occasion, clearly didn't want to accept his invite when he delivered it. She was always doing this, keeping him at arm's length and never letting him get close to her. This wasn't the first time she had lied to him in order to avoid something. Before they even started dating she lied about having to work in order to avoid him knowing where she lived. He thought that she was done with that now that they were together. But he was wrong and he should have seen this coming. He should have known that she wouldn't bother. Well if that was the case then she didn't have to at all anymore. She clearly didn't want to go any further with him, avoiding any sort of advances that he made with her. He knew she was damaged but he had more than proven himself.
He held his phone in his hands, sitting down in a nearby chair finally. He brought up her name on the screen, wanting to call her and demand answers from her. But it occurred to him that he probably wouldn't get any. She would avoid him like she had their entire relationship, since the day he first asked her out. Why bother even giving him a chance if she wasn't really trying anyway? What was the point of being with someone who clearly didn't want to be with him? There wasn't. She didn't want him then fine. No more dancing around it, he should have accepted no the first time she spoke it. Clicking on her name he composed his message and then threw away his phone in disgust. It wasn't long before he passed out in the chair, completely done with today. Happy Solstice to him.
...
Athenacia sighed for the umpteenth time that day. It was two days after the accident and she hadn't heard from Gladiolus since he broke up with her over text the night of the Solstice. She woke up the next morning in her bed at Cor's house where she had grown up. Taking the day off work was definitely in order and no one disputed it after knowing what happened to her. Changing into some clothes still stored there left her amazed that they even still fit her. Of course, she hadn't grown all that much since she was a teenager, smaller than average for a human it seemed. Observing herself critically, she noticed a scrape on her right cheek that was bruised. I wasn't visible the night previous thanks to the dust all over her skin. There was also a contusion on her arm as well from the first impact. She groaned, deciding that it was good enough before coming down the stairs noisily. As she came into the kitchen, a small smile crept across her lips when she saw another one of those mugs ready for her and a plate of bacon in between her and the Marshal.
"Thought we'd try it again," he said.
Athenacia only nodded at him, letting some of the better memories wash over her. Taking a drink of his hot chocolate, its warmth spread through her. She took a piece of bacon and was reminded of how well he could cook it. Rightfully so, this was the only thing they ever really agreed on and the only amount of personal time they spent together was eating bacon on the roof.
"Thanks," she said, "Sorry I've been a shithead."
"Lately or the last 25 years?" he raised a brow, though his voice was light.
She smiled, "You decide."
Cor gave her a small laugh, nodding at her once. It wasn't long after that he drove her home. Athenacia kept looking at her phone, expecting another message from Gladiolus but it never came. He broke up with her because somehow he had found out that she was at work and not at home with the flu. She was so hurt at the way he had ended things she pushed it from her mind until she was alone. She could easily tell him what happened but why? Would that really change anything? And how was she going to explain that she was feeling better so suddenly anyway? He didn't even ask her what happened, just drew his own conclusions and then made his decision. Even if she bothered to text him she doubted that he would listen anyway, knowing how stubborn he was.
Athenacia went to bed angry that he was so insensitive. There was no sense in looking her phone after that, having another dreamless sleep. She had the day off work again and that was how she ended up here, sighing for the umpteenth time. A new car was definitely in order since hers was crushed in the accident with no chance of being repaired. With the crappy weather outside it was a wonder when she would even get a chance to grab her things from inside of it - if anything even survived. She hated having to go through the process of buying a car, starting to wonder if she even really needed one. But she knew in the end that she did. She was sitting in the waiting area, the salesperson she was dealing with looking over the finer details of her application.
"Good afternoon."
The doctor turned her head toward a familiar voice. Ignis was standing behind her, a pleasant smile on his face. Of all people to run into he was here? She only offered him a small smile of her own, nodding her head slightly and turning back toward the television. The news was talking about the upcoming ball, the one that would take place tomorrow night. She pointedly ignored Ignis that came to sit on the chair beside her. She didn't want to talk to him, having nothing to say about anything. It was then one of the secretaries came out to assure her that the salesperson would be finished shortly.
"Dr. Virum, it was my understanding that you already owned a car," said Ignis.
"Yeah..." she looked a little nervous, "I did. There was an accident."
She didn't need to say anymore. The bruise on her arm and scrape on her cheek that was also bruised which said all it needed to. He didn't pry for any more information and she was actually shocked that he hadn't. Athenacia chewed her lip a little nervously, before frowning at the realization that he was here in a car dealership.
"What are you doing here anyway?" she asked curiously.
"Ah. I have an appointment to ensure Noct's car is in top shape for the ball tomorrow," he replied, pushing up his glasses.
"He has a car?"
"Indeed though he prefers resting over driving."
"Shocker," her voice was dry.
Ignis smiled slightly before they fell back into that awkward silence. And it was only awkward because he obviously had heard that she was no longer dating Gladiolus. She could feel him itching to ask her what happened. Her stomach tied into knots as she thought about what she would even say to him. Of course, she could easily tell him that a building fell on her and that it wasn't her fault that she didn't show up to his house but she didn't want to make it seem like she was making excuses. What happened was between the two of them. He opened his mouth to ask her but that was when the salesperson was ready for her. She shot up instantly, practically running away from the young Adviser that was watching her with that infuriating calculating gaze.
Once she was finished with everything she breathed a sigh of relief. It took a lot longer than expected but she would have a brand new car by next week. In the meantime, she was happy she didn't see Ignis on her way out though the thought of their conversation had her feeling down. Athenacia was mad at Gladiolus for being insensitive but it still hurt to know what she wasn't going to see him again. He was on her mind constantly and she finally knew what to do about him. There hadn't the time to mourn her loss and she knew of only one place that she could do that. She made her way to the train station, hopping on without looking back.
The snow was starting to fall again by the time she arrived at her destination. Athenacia knew she should have called first but she was so engrossed in her thoughts she didn't even think about it. No turning back now unless no one was home. She raised her hand, forming a fist and knocking loudly on the door. She strained her ears to listen and relaxed a little when she heard footsteps making their way over to her. Crowe opened up her door, widening her eyes in surprise to see her friend standing there. Athenacia had a look to her eye that the glaive hadn't seen in a while.
"What do you want?" asked Crowe.
"To get stupid drunk and forget that I have the ability to feel things," replied Athenacia in a nonchalant manner.
She smiled widely, "You came to the right place."
...
When Ignis left the car dealership he had intended to go straight to Noctis's apartment to make sure the wayward Prince was on track for the ball. But after seeing Dr. Virum there he changed his mind. It wasn't because of her obvious discomfort at her severed relationship, it was because when she left she managed to knock over a magazine that was hiding the paper. It caught his eye, simply because there was a picture of her on it. He took it carefully, reading it over with mild surprise. So that's what happened to her. He was not expecting this turn of events and after speaking with Gladiolus yesterday he knew that his friend didn't know about this either. That's when he decided to head toward the Amicitia manor instead. The delay may very well be worth it.
The Adviser was greeted at the door by the steward, Jared and taken toward the living room. Gladiolus was laying on the couch, clearly brooding still since the other night. Training was suspended so there wasn't much for him to do but usually he was out and about. Ordinarily, Ignis was sure that the other man would be with Dr. Virum but given that events of the other night that was definitely not the case right now. The large man sat up, not really expecting any company. Ignis threw the paper down in front of the Shield, that stern look still on his features. Gladiolus raised a brow, looking up at his friend before taking it in his hands. Ignis watched as the man before him frowned deeper the more that he read.
"What is this?" demanded Gladiolus, throwing it away in disgust.
"The answers you are quite obviously seeking," replied Ignis.
"What are you talking about?"
"Did you look at the date? That was the same night as the Solstice. Perhaps you were hasty in your decision to end your courting."
Gladiolus frowned, hating that someone was butting into his business. He was perfectly fine sitting on the couch being angry about the fact that she hadn't tried to contact him whatsoever. Angry at himself for being so upset about all of this in the first place. She as just a girl, it wasn't like he had trouble finding them, and now Ignis was inserting himself where he didn't belong.
"Why do you care so much?"
"Because you are insufferable otherwise. She was in a terrible accident. Instead of feeling sorry for yourself you should consider yourself fortunate that she wasn't gravely injured or worse, killed."
Gladiolus grunted and Ignis left after that. He picked up the paper, reading it over again. The picture of Athenacia over the headline is what he was looking at. She was covered in dust, blood coming down her face while she was looking away. She saved people in the parking garage, stuck there for hours it said. Ignis was right, she was lucky to be alive. He felt like an asshole now, but still in the back of his mind posed the question. Why didn't she tell him? She was at a mall not too far from here when this happened. At a mall after she was at work. After she supposedly had the flu. After she lied to him.
He sighed, tearing his gaze away and laying back down on the couch. He stared up at the ceiling with his hands behind his head, lost in thought. Why was he letting her get to him anyway? Usually, if girls flaked on him (which was rare in the first place) he just moved on with his life. This was the first time he ever sat around moping. Gladiolus remembered the look on her face the last time he saw her, after bringing her out to see the Lights. The memory made him smile absently, even if it was sad. He loved the look in her eye that night. He loved how easy she was to tease, how she devoted herself to her job. He loved the way she never complained about any of their dates, or how much she could eat in one sitting. He loved the way she would giggle at him even when she tried to be mad. He loved... her. The realization made most of his anger disappear, the understanding of its existence finally settling in. The more he thought about it the more he realized that he did so much for to get her than he ever had for any other. She wasn't just some girl she was... Cia. There was no one else he really wanted, just to have her back despite that he was the one to send her away. Even now he couldn't get his mind off of her. Shit, he really did love her.
The look on her face that night, he knew she felt something for him deeper than she could say. The same way he felt about her the more he spent time with her. She truly sounded like death when he spoke to her that morning, didn't sound like she was faking at all. She is a doctor, it's possible she was feeling better before she was called into work. But why go to a mall? Why not tell him what happened? Did she really just give up on them so easily? Gladiolus shook his head, rolling over so that his face was inside the couch. He needed to talk to her about this, figure out exactly what was going on with her. He just had no idea how or when he was going to go about doing it
...
Cor was extremely unhappy right now. He had been trying to get a hold of Athenacia ever since she left his house after the Solstice. While he knew that she was recovering from her accident he also knew about her falling out with Gladiolus. He overhead that the young man was moping in his own way from Clarus. Cor was the last person she wanted to talk to during moments like that so it wasn't really a surprise that she had ignored him. But she wasn't even reading her messages or she would have checked into the Citadel much sooner. The roads weren't as bad as the night of the Solstice so he was making good time getting to her apartment building. He didn't even bother trying to find a space, just left it out front and walked through the doors and went up the stairs, all the way to the seventh floor. Since she was in a corner unit he was at her door as soon as he entered the hallway.
The Marshal pounded on the door and there was no answer. His face hardened when he didn't get an answer still. He didn't bother knocking again, going to break the door only to find that it was unlocked. He sighed, wondering how many times he told her to lock the damn door. The lights were on and shoe mountain greeted him first. Cor walked past that and into the living room. Of course, it was trashed, she was such a slob. He noted the line of liquor containers all around as well, walking down the hall toward her bedroom. He didn't get that far. The bathroom door was open, the light on and a body on the ground beside the toilet. Rolling his eyes, the sight of her passed out infuriating him all the more he barged in, kicking at her lightly.
"Virum!"
She didn't budge and he repeated his actions. She began to stir, slowly lifting herself off the ground and rubbing her head. Immediately she vomited in the toilet bowl, flushing it down before having a look around her. She was a little shocked to see Cor towering over her like that, the look on his face speaking volumes about the way that he found her.
"What are you doing here?" she asked, her voice a little hoarse.
"Why aren't you ready yet?!" he bellowed at her.
Athenacia winced at his voice, "My hearing is perfect, thank you," she rubbed her ears, "Ready for what?"
"The ball."
"The ball?" she rubbed her head again.
"The one thrown every year! If you answered your damn phone you would know that you were supposed to be there over an hour ago!"
"What do you mean I'm supposed to be there?"
"You're hospital staff, your presence is mandatory."
"Yeah for the admin."
"Are you not the assistant manager of the emergency department?"
"I am," she replied confused, not following.
"Then that makes you admin, meaning you were supposed to be there an hour ago! Get up and get your shit together Virum!"
Athenacia was only gaping at him in disbelief. She had to go to the Citadel? Mandatory presence? This couldn't be happening right now. While she was extremely hungover she knew she really did have to get her shit together right now. She woke up for the first time since he barged into her door and knew she had to do this in order to make him go away. Shaking he head, she should have looked into this a lot sooner because she had absolutely no idea how she was going to get through this night. After pulling herself up off the floor, she flew toward her walk-in closet to quickly look through her clothes. There was no dress that was ball worthy, she was screwed! Keeping to her search, however, not giving up until she managed to find something that would be acceptable. Hastily pulling it off the hangar, she raced back into her bathroom and gave Cor a pointed look. He got the message immediately, vacating the room to allow her to get ready.
Cor paced around her apartment, looking on at the mess she had accumulated. He was only reminded of all the fights they would have when she was younger about keeping her room clean. Some things just never change, and apparently, her poor living habits were one of them. Cor expected her to be at the hospital instead of here hung over from a night of drinking. From the looks of things, this wasn't the first time she went on a bender like that and he absently wondered when she developed a drinking problem. There was so much he didn't know about her, having that rift between them over the years after what happened with Grun. She apologized to him though and he was hoping that maybe it was a step in the right direction. A sign that she was starting to grow up.
Of course, the most obvious sign was the one in front of him. Athenacia came out of the bathroom dressed and ready to go aside from shoes. It was like looking at her for the first time in years and she had grown up right under his nose without him noticing. He raised a brow as he looked her over, impressed with how well she did. She used to take hours to make that result but it seemed that she had improved over the years. He ought to give her more credit. Nodding at her, he went to the door to wait while she put on shoes hastily, grabbing a coat and one of those tiny purses that women carried around before closing the door behind her and locking it. They opted for the elevator this time since the shoes she was wearing would actually slow them down on the stairs. She had a very focused look on her face, paler than usual thanks to the hangover she was still suffering. He looked at the time, growling slightly as they got into the car.
The Marshal sped off though was careful on the streets. He noticed that she was getting more and more nervous the closer they got toward the Citadel. The young girl clearly didn't want to be there but wasn't putting up a fight about it. She cared about her job, that much he knew. He kept a frown on his face, trying to just get there. His absence would be noted but someone had to take care of this girl and she was his responsibility anyway. As they pulled up to the Citadel he was granted access easily before getting out of his car at the front and having someone else park it. He rushed her toward the ballroom, hating that they were going to walk in during the middle of the King's speech. She gave her coat to the check and then Cor opened the door, trying to be as quiet as possible.
"I'd also like to recognize..."
King Regis was doing his honourable mentions, the last part of his speech.
"Doctor Athenacia Virum."
Gladiolus was attentive, noting that the door opened right at the moment the monarch was speaking. Who would be so rude as to move while he was talking? But his amber gaze found Cor, a scowl on his face as he appeared to be almost bickering with Athenacia. He had his hand on her upper arm firmly, pulling her toward a table. They didn't get very far before her name was called, and she looked like a deer in headlights for a brief moment. All eyes were on her, as well as a spotlight and she did her best to relax. Cor faded into the background, obviously not wanting to be seen. Gladiolus was actually struck by the sight of her. Her hair was curled, half of it taken up at the top of her head with a simple silver sparkle on the left side. There was a scrape on her right cheek with a bruise around it, the evidence of her accident still there. Her makeup was hiding most of it but she couldn't get all of it. The dress she wore hung off her right shoulder, closing on her bodice and then flaring out at her hips in a natural flowing nature. It was black, though halfway down it started to turn blue. There was a sparkled design at the top of the dress and at her right curve, catching the light. He couldn't see her shoes but there was a sizable bruise on her arm that he didn't fail to notice. She had a thin, navy scarf that was see-through material hanging off the bends of her elbows to accent her. The sight of her took his breath away.
"Dr. Virum was one of the victims in that terrible accident the night of the Winter Solstice. Though she was injured herself she maintained focus and saved lives. Every day doctors like her sacrifice basic needs that we often take for granted in order to ensure our health. Let us raise a glass to those like Dr. Virum that have the strength to work against all odds."
The speech was over and the spotlight was off of her. Though she was still standing up straight as she kept her gaze upon King Regis. Gladiolus watched as he nodded at her, giving her a small smile. It was as if he knew her like an old friend. She returned his smile, bowing her head slightly as she curtsied in the most elegant way he had ever seen before in his life. He raised his eyebrows in surprise before she was whisked away forcefully by Cor toward her seat. Gladiolus watched her the entire time, Cor leaving to return to his post. She hadn't noticed him yet and he wondered if she would at all with the number of people here. The King was finished and the food was being brought out. It was time to start the ball.
Gladiolus kept to his job though his amber eyes wandered to Athenacia quite often. She was sitting at her table, drinking from the champagne glasses that were brought out while speaking with her colleagues, oblivious that he was even here and he watched the smile on her face. If he wasn't on duty he'd... do what exactly? The sight of her struck him but he wasn't exactly sure he was ready to speak with her. This definitely wasn't the time or place for it, not that he could if he wanted to anyway. He heard a low whistle from in front of him noting that Prompto had come over.
"Hard to believe that is on the market again," he said, nudging Gladiolus.
He was referring to Athenacia, who was now dancing with someone no one knew. Gladiolus tried to keep himself passive but he was sure he had a scowl on his face. This wasn't the first person to dance with her. Seemed she was popular after being acknowledged by the King and she looked absolutely stunning.
"Think I might take a crack at it," he spoke again, cracking his fingers as he did.
"Like she'd give you a chance," quipped Noctis.
He shrugged, "I'm sure I'd be a delight after the big guy."
"Watch it," warned Gladiolus darkly.
"You watch, I'm not on duty. See ya."
Prompto laughed as he walked away freely. Gladiolus watched as he made his way toward her. The shock on her face made him smirk a little until Prompto pulled her hand onto the dance floor.
"He actually did it," commented Noctis, impressed.
The man behind him was glowering at the sight. Prompto gave pointed looks in his direction and it was then she realized that Gladiolus was here. Athenacia flushed slightly but it soon disappeared as she kept dancing. When the song ended she gave Prompto a playful push with a bright smile still on her face before returning to her seat. The blond pulled out his phone, using it briefly before putting it in his pocket. Gladiolus had his eyes glued to the woman that took another glass of champagne. That was her fifth, he was counting.
"Think I might try it," said Noctis suddenly.
"You? Dance? You have two left feet," scoffed Gladiolus, almost laughing.
"I'm inclined to agree, though I daresay it is more interaction than usual on your part," interjected Ignis.
The young royal shrugged, "She made it look easy."
Gladiolus glared at his charge, who rose from his seat and made his way toward Athenacia. He gave Prompto a high five, the blond smiling smugly in their direction before making his way back over the Shield. Athenacia was in complete shock when Noctis arrived, downing the glass currently in her hands. But because he was the Prince she couldn't refuse and Gladiolus watched still with that scowl creased among his features.
"You know your face will get stuck like that if you keep doing it," teased Prompto.
"Keep it up," growled Gladiolus, his eyes fixated on his charge.
The young man only laughed. The song came to an end and she again curtsied in that elegant way Gladiolus had no idea how she could. Where did she learn that anyway? Did she really have to be so perfect right now? Noctis made his way back to his seat at the head table, and that is when Ignis decided it was his turn.
"You to?" Gladiolus raised a brow in surprise.
"I fancy a good dance partner," he smirked in response, "She does look rather exquisite tonight, wouldn't you agree?"
Gladiolus narrowed his eyes in response, crossing his arms.
"Alright Iggy! You know he's probably better suited to her anyway," quipped Prompto.
The Shield just growled, watching as Ignis was next in line. Athenacia sighed in exasperation but did take the Adviser's hand. Gladiolus felt a tightening in his chest as he watched them. Ignis actually knew how to dance, holding he closer than necessary as he led her effortlessly through the steps. Her face was flushed the entire time, the two of them looking like a new couple. It was so natural Gladiolus actually felt jealous. He knew what they were all doing and he had to put a stop to it. As the song concluded Ignis whispered something in her ear that made her face turn a dark shade of crimson though the act seemed extremely intimate. Gladiolus narrowed his eyes in anger as a fist clenched at his own arms. This was not going to go unpunished. Good thing he had a break coming up.
...
Athenacia finished off the champagne in her glass, wishing she had something stronger. She grabbed another glass from a passing worker and looked around with a sigh. Prompto was back with the Prince, chatting happily and looking in her direction once in a while. Ignis held a small smile, almost looking smug and Gladiolus was walking toward her. She blinked, making sure she was seeing things right. Gladiolus was walking toward her, his eyes only on her. Downing her glass quickly, she felt anxious but trying not to let it show on her face. The doctor grabbed another glass but held it lightly in between her hands. She looked everywhere but at the large approaching man, hoping that maybe he was going somewhere behind her. She already made a spectacle of herself since she had arrived drastically late in the middle of the King's speech, there was no need to be humiliated anymore. But she wasn't that lucky, he stopped right in front of her.
"Wanna dance?" he asked, his voice gruff.
"Aren't you working?"
"Break time."
She huffed, "I don't dance," she replied, the boldface lie spoken into her glass as she continued to avoid his gaze.
"Good, me neither."
She would have looked at him curiously if he hadn't grabbed her arm so suddenly and yanked her from her seat. Athenacia barely had time to grab her scarf as he purposefully pulled her toward the door of the courtyard. She was flushed, shivering slightly when the cool winter air hit her bare skin. He kept going, past any onlookers and further into the greenery. The Shield slowed down a little when she was starting to trip a bit in the deeper snow. He turned to face her, seeing that she was shivering. It was then he realized that her shoes weren't exactly made for trudging in the snow. He should have thought of that, watching as she brought her scarf about her shoulders tightly. Shedding the jacket of his uniform and putting it over her shoulders, he picked her up with ease. A surprised cry escaped her, clinging to his neck while he continued to walk. She was so stunned she couldn't form words, having no choice but to wait to figure out what he wanted.
Athenacia had no idea where they were, taking a maze of turns but he seemed to know where he was going. They came to the centre of it all, at least, that's what she assumed. There was a frozen pond that would have had a lovely fountain going if it wasn't currently winter. Gladiolus brought her to a bench, wiping off the snow and setting her down. Because the jacket was overly large she wasn't sitting on the snow directly with her dress. He cleared off a place for him to sit right beside her, taking her legs and then beginning to try and warm up her feet with his palms.
"Sorry," he said, his voice low and his gaze on his hands.
The doctor just watched him, feeling the chill begin to leave her. She didn't really know what to say, having not responded to his text from the night of the Solstice. She hadn't seen him either, forgetting entirely that he would be here. Not that she was eager to come at all but Cor made sure she met her obligations whether she wanted to or not. Athenacia was pulled out of her thoughts when Gladiolus's hand gingerly ran over the bruise on her leg from the accident. She pulled her dress over it, trying to hide it from him. He let out a sad sigh, going back to keeping her feet warm after he pulled them through the snow. He noted that flakes were making their way down on the sky and he knew after she had the flu that he probably shouldn't keep her out here for so long.
"Doc... about the other night..." he put a hand on the back of his head, shaking it slightly, "I just thought you were trying to get out of coming over. I didn't know that-"
"A building fell on me?" she finished, an edge in her voice.
He brought his hand back up to the wound, only keeping it over the clothing, "Why didn't you tell me?"
She shrugged before looking away, "Just figured you wouldn't want to hear it."
He grunted, "Didn't at the time. You could have said something still."
"Why?"
"You didn't want to fight for me at all?"
Athenacia looked at him sharply, "You assumed what you wanted to."
"And you didn't bother to try."
"Why should I? Even after you found out that a building fell on me you didn't bother to say anything. You should have realized that you were a jerk."
"Cia, you said you had the flu-"
"And I did."
"Then Prompto said he saw you at work-"
"I was feeling better and got called in."
"I had no idea that building fell-"
"I didn't exactly know that it was going to either."
"What were you doing there anyway if you were feeling better?!"
"I was getting something for you!"
He stopped what he was about to say next. Originally he had thought that she was just avoiding him entirely. He felt bad about the way he acted the night of the Solstice, but it still didn't explain why she was out there. Prompto had egged him on the entire night, even Ignis joining in for the hell of it. Gladiolus wanted to clear the air with her but he was not expecting her to drop that on him. And now there were tears in her eyes though they did not fall.
"I was on my way over," her voice was lower, her gaze dropping toward his hands that were still on her feet, "I was always told that you should never show up empty-handed. I was such a mess that day anyway, forgot to change after work so I was in scrubs but at least I would make it. I was about to leave the mall when the garage just collapsed. Completely totalled my car and would have flattened me if I didn't move in time. We were trapped for hours and by the time I even thought about my phone you already broke it off."
She brought her arms so that they were about her knees, leaning her chin on top of them. Hearing her heave a sad sigh tore at him. He reached over, bringing his hand to her cheek. The bends of his fingers were along her jaw as his thumb ran along the skin there. It was cold, just like the rest of her it looked like. She met his gaze and he gently wiped the tear that fell.
"You should have said something," he replied, his voice softer than before.
Athenacia sighed again, "It's not that simple for me," she shook her head, out of his grasp, "I..." she looked down again, trying to gather her thoughts, "I'm not that great with people. The last person I let get close to me well..." her fists tightened at the memory, "He... He tried to..." she shook her head again, knowing she couldn't tell him that, "He hurt me, a lot. I haven't been in a serious relationship, or any really since then. I'm constantly looked at as a traitor, still am and probably always will be."
She was silent for a moment, wiping away her own tears. Gladiolus knew she wasn't finished yet and patiently waited for her. Her knuckles were white, her body shaking slightly as she tried to hold in her own tears. They never spoke much about her past, she always wished to avoid it. He could see how hard it was for her and he knew that this was deeper than he thought. He always had trouble with his emotions he never realized that she did too. Maybe even worse than him. He reached out a hand, taking her own to try and calm her down a little or even be reassuring. She was broken before he had gotten to her and he never realized how bad until this very moment when she couldn't even form words to speak to him. Those walls were meant to protect herself but he wanted her to realize she didn't have to do that from him. Athenacia squeezed his hand, summoning her courage and facing him again.
"I like you Gladio, maybe more than I know. I love spending time with you, that you're so thoughtful. I love that you surprise me at work and go out of your way to show me a good time. In a perfect world I would see you every second of the day if I could but... When you told me not to bother anymore I was so hurt I did what I usually do and ran away from my pain. I... I don't want things to end but being who I am and how I'm known in the city I knew that it was for the best. I'll always be the Imperial spy trying to fish information out from the Prince's Shield. It's all kinds of negativity that you don't need. It's not that I didn't want to fight for you, it's that I just wanted things to be easier for you. I have so much unwanted baggage and after knowing how amazing you are I know that you deserve something better than anything I could give you. I'm such a screw up in so many ways but... at least I could do this one thing right."
At some point during her speech, her gaze had shifted back toward her hands. The tears fell but she was silent about it. Gladiolus had an unreadable look on his face, not really knowing what to say to her. He had no idea how this conversation was going to go, initially just wanting to make sure she was okay after the accident. There were all kinds of things he was learning about her tonight, including how she really felt about him. It wasn't like he didn't know she liked him, that light in her eyes shining bright whenever they were together. But he never knew how deep it ran, even while she was keeping him at arm's length. He realized even getting that close to her was a real privilege and it made him smile, happy that he was able to do so in the first place. Sliding closer caused her to look up in alarm. He planted a kiss on her soft lips, her nose cold against him but he didn't care. Holding her tenderly, one arm was kept around her shoulders. He felt her relax, giving into him just like he wanted. She was still shocked when he pulled apart, looking at him nervously even.
"I can carry a lot," he said, smirking a little.
"Gladio-"
He put a finger to her lips, silencing her protest, "You're a real pain in the ass, woman," he said lightly, that smile still on his face. She looked at him helplessly, his finger still stopping her from speaking, "You don't gotta hide from me, Doc. But you gotta learn to speak up or this ain't gonna to work. You're my pain in the ass and it's going to take a lot more than a building falling on you or bullshit accusations to get rid of me."
"But-"
"I already told you I don't care. Let them talk I don't give a shit about them. Just you."
To prove his point he pulled her in for another kiss. She was still stunned but eventually she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him close. His jacket fell from her shoulders but she didn't feel the winter air at the moment, lost in his feeling and swept up in the passion of their kiss that time seemed to stop. This was their moment and it erased all the bumps along the road. Everything was put back right in their universe and she was breathing a little heavier when they broke apart. Athenacia was flushed, the snowflakes hitting her skin barely felt while she was trapped in his smouldering amber gaze. Her nose was still against his, ghosting along as her eyelids fell shut once more. She was ready to claim his lips again, greedily wanting more of his taste that she missed while they were apart. Gladiolus was much in the same boat, having no intention of letting her go until he had his way with her. There was one small problem with that plan, however.
"Cia!"
The sound of the Marshal, Cor Leonis's, voice echoing throughout the courtyard made her freeze in place, her eyes widening. She heard her name again and turned her head in the direction it was coming from. Shit. Athenacia was already on thin ice with Cor the last thing she needed was for him to catch her like this.
"Why's Cor looking for you?" asked Gladiolus curiously, keeping his hold upon her.
"Butting into my business like usual," she muttered under her breath, annoyed.
"Hm?" he looked at her curiously.
"Nothing," she caught herself from revealing too much.
"Virum!"
Cor's voice was getting more agitated as he called her. She cringed at the sound of her name, detaching herself from Gladiolus and plunging her feet back into the cold snow on the ground. It came up past her ankles even with the heels she had on. She shivered, pulling her flimsy scarf tighter about her shoulders. Then she felt the large coat back on her and her body lift off the ground.
"Gladio!" she seethed quietly, not wanting to alert the Marshal.
"Your feet will freeze by the time you get back," he said pointedly.
"He is your commanding officer and you're technically working. Do you really think it's a good idea to get caught like this?"
"Good point."
She was almost relieved, getting ready to put herself back in the snow. But that wasn't the case. Instead, he bought them further inside, away from the voice of the Marshal that was fading into the open air. The snowfall was getting a little heavier and he was moving so fast she had no choice but to hold on. How the hell did he know where to go? This place was a maze, a fortress of hedges. But they were getting back toward the entrance of the ball and once the snow was no longer at his ankles he placed her gently on the ground as if nothing was happening. Athenacia gave him back his jacket and he put it on quickly. She would have been cold if she wasn't pumping full of adrenaline from almost getting caught by Cor out there.
They walked back into the ball, everything still going on while she wasn't around. Good, no one besides Cor happened to notice that she had disappeared. How did he even know that she was out there anyway? Didn't matter, Gladiolus put his hands on her shoulders firmly and that alerted her instantly. Clarus Amicitia, the King's Sworn Shield was making his way toward his son and she was being held in place. Her heart hammered in her chest, the colour draining from her face as she wished she took the chance to get away while she could. But the King's Shield was not looking at his son, he was looking directly at her. Probably why the large man behind her was stopping her from leaving. Not that it made the situation better, if anything it only made her feel like she was going to have heart failure at any moment. Clarus stopped in front of her once he reached them.
"Virum," his voice rang out, looking down at her.
"Sir," she straightened automatically, her training still very thoroughly bred into her when being addressed by superiors.
"You're needed in the conference room immediately."
"I'm sorry sir?" she frowned in confusion.
"We need your assistance. Come with me," he then looked up at his son, "Gladiolus back to work," he jerked his head in dismissal. Athenacia felt the large hands being taken from her shoulders as the older Amicitia began to turn his back. He stopped about halfway, looking at his eldest child critically, "On second thought, I think it's best you see this. Both of you, on me."
He didn't wait for a response, just started walking. Gladiolus and Athenacia were flanking his either side, her anxiety building up with each passing step. She was so engrossed in her own thoughts she didn't even notice that they were there already. This wasn't exactly a conference room, more like a central communications room. She recognized Pelna there and a couple other glaives she didn't know. There were monitors lined all up on the wall with different camera angles. The former Glaive knew this place, had been here before during her time in the war. Those monitors were of cameras on different Glaives. She could hear familiar voices coming out of the intercoms and she knew that they were in a skirmish. But why was she needed here?
"Cia?" Pelna looked over at her curiously.
She, however, was looking at Clarus for answers.
"The Glaive magic is suppressed," he said, "Scientia said that you devised this tactic. We need your special..." he glanced at his son briefly before continuing, "...talents to get rid of the inhibitors."
"But-"
"I know," he cut her off before she said too much, "Believe me Cor was as against it as you are. But you're the only one that can do this. We need you right now."
Athenacia gave him a helpless look. However being on the spot the way that she was she had no choice but to agree. He nodded at her as well before she turned her attention toward the monitors. Coming to sit beside Pelna, she put on a headset and assessed the situation. She could see where every Glaive was positioned as well as the perimeter where their magic was unusable. The Glaives were standing by, awaiting instruction while keeping any scouts from finding their position and giving them away. Athenacia released a large breath before she typed rapidly on the keyboard in front of her, studying the intelligence she had.
Gladiolus watched her, that look on her face the exact same as when she was in the hospital. He couldn't help but wonder why his father had brought him here and how he seemed to know about Athenacia. But her involvement with Cor sort of explained that. Either way, his eyes were glued to her as her mind worked. He knew she was a former Glaive but he never heard about what she could really do. She wouldn't be fighting but she was rumoured to have a brilliant mind as well. He was going to see first hand what exactly made her so special to them in the first place.
"Nyx, Luche, Crowe, do you copy?" she spoke finally.
"Cia?" Nyx's voice rang through.
"Is that you?!" asked Luche in disbelief.
"Do you copy?" her voice was much harder this time, commanding like she had done this before. And she had.
"Yes ma'am," all three of them answered in unison.
"Good. Listen carefully. Crowe I need you on the north side. Nyx, go east and Luche you're west. Stay out of sight until I tell you otherwise."
"On it," replied Crowe.
"You got it," agreed Luche.
"Good to hear you back," said Nyx.
"Don't get used to it," she said, her face still in thought, "Libertus."
"I thought you forgot about me," he spoke in mock sadness.
"Never," she gave a slight half smile for a split second, "Take the rest and go cause a ruckus directly south."
"Hang on, we're not actually taking order from this traitor are we?" an unrecognizable voice rang through.
"She'll get us all killed!" another cried.
"You'll do as your told soldier! Now get moving!" her voice was hard.
Gladiolus raised his eyebrows slightly, never seeing this side of her before. There was a likeness to her that resembled Cor's commanding presence. He really did train her, and well it seemed.
"Unless you want to answer to us," said Nyx darkly.
Gladiolus smirked. Athenacia really did have some friends left in the Glaive. She was still typing rapidly on the keyboard, constantly looking at different angles and screens. Pelna, who was beside her, made sure that she wasn't lagging in her streams. The Shield had no idea exactly what she was thinking but he was getting the idea. He remembered hearing it back in Noctis's apartment a while back. She didn't even want to get involved but no matter how much she ran she always did what she had to. He looked at her in a new light, understanding why his father had him here. Gladiolus could learn a thing or two from her field experience.
"Okay, Nyx, Luche, Crowe, you three are going to have no magic until you take out the suppressors. One at a time you'll go in. Follow my every direction and if it gets too bad abort and leave, do not risk your life unnecessarily. Do you understand me?"
"Yes ma'am," they answered.
"Nyx," she had an edge in her voice, "I mean it, no heroics."
He laughed at her, "You know me."
"That's exactly my point."
"He's not going to listen," said Pelna.
"I know, he's an idiot," she replied.
"I can still hear you," said Nyx.
"Good," the other two spoke.
Libertus and the others began their commotion. Athenacia waited, studying the monitors. She watched as the hoard of Niflheim forces started to make their way toward the trap. She wasn't foolish enough to think that they didn't know she was up to something. But by the time the figured out what it would be too late. It began with Crowe, having the young girl get in quietly on noiseless feet. Libertus was doing wonders but Athenacia turned off his communication. She focused solely on Crowe's, trying to pinpoint where the inhibitor was. The doctor remembered what they sounded like, having a slight advantage over everyone else since she wasn't entirely human. Clarus knew that, Cor knew that and that was why she was needed here. Her face was screwed up in concentration as she tried to pinpoint the sound.
Her eyes widened then. It was faint but she could still hear it. She directed Crowe through the proper channels and then had the woman take out the troopers there. She destroyed the one that she needed and Atheancia felt a weight lift off her shoulders. One down, two to go. Since she knew the sound she was listening for it was a lot easier to direct the other two and finally all the glaive magic was restored. Libertus brought the fight up from the south while the other three wreaked havoc on the weakened forces. Pelna cheered and Athenacia held a smile on her face as she took off the headset.
The doctor rose from her seat, turning around and seeing the proud look that Gladiolus was giving her. She shied away from it, flushing before remembering that his father was right there as well. Cor had also made an appearance, his face hard at the fact that he hadn't found her when he was looking. Athenacia straightened herself out, putting a hand on Pelna's shoulder briefly before walking toward the other three men. She just wanted to get out of there, starting to feel anxious at what was going on.
"Excellent work, Virum," Clarus praised her.
"Thank you sir," she replied.
He nodded, "Sorry to pull you out like that."
"It's no trouble sir," she assured him with a smile.
He returned it before looking between her and his son quickly, "Gladiolus, you're relieved for the night."
The younger man nodded at his father before he began to walk away. Athenacia turned toward Cor expectantly, wondering how he was going to ruin this. But instead, he just nodded at her, walking away with his friend. She was stunned, not expecting this turn of events at all. Gladiolus, however, took her hand and led her away from where they were. He brought her to the elevator, taking it up to the top floor and she remembered the roof though hadn't been there in ages. Her hand was still in his own, even as they stepped out and came toward the large aquarium that was there. She recalled the times she would spend up here in between her training or when she needed a moment. That seemed like such a lifetime ago.
He led her around the floor, only the two of them up here. It was nice, a moment that he wanted since he first laid eyes on her at the ball. Gladiolus looked down at her, taking her in again only this time with a smile. She blushed under his gaze, nervous for whatever reason. The way he was looking at her, she just wasn't ready for it. Her heart was racing as heat ran through her body.
"You know, you're pretty amazing too," he said.
She flushed further, "It was nothing," she tried to wave off, bringing her gaze to her feet.
His hand was on her bare should lightly, the other forcing her gaze back toward him by her chin gently. Gladiolus kissed her then and her mind went blank. Her arms came to wrap around him, pulling him closer. He kept his forehead against hers and they began to sway slightly. He was leading her and she was so caught up in the moment it took a while to notice that they were technically dancing.
"Thought you didn't dance?" she asked with a brow raised.
He smirked, "Anyone can spin in a slow circle."
She was about to make a smart comment, he could tell. But instead, he kissed her once more before pulling her body against his and continuing to sway to music that was only heard in their heads. The moment was perfect, even as the fireworks started up above them. They looked up, the lights reflecting off their faces before sharing another one of those long kisses.
...
Gladiolus opened the fridge, cracking his neck a little before grabbing a beer. He was in for the night, by himself thanks to the storm. Iris was staying with her friend, Jared home with his grandson and Clarus working late. The weather wasn't worth going outside anyway, a blizzard raging on. The Shield opened his beverage, tossed the cap in the garbage and took a long drink. He pulled out his phone, unlocking the screen and seeing that there were no new messages. Letting out a sigh, he was a little disappointed that he hadn't heard from Athenacia. She was working a double and the last time he saw her was the night of the ball. He knew she wasn't avoiding him, putting herself out there that night and making herself extremely vulnerable. She was busy with work, always agreeing to take those extra shifts that nobody wanted. She loved her job and he didn't want to take her away from that.
He kept his phone on the counter, taking another drink. At least, he was going to before the doorbell rang and completely distracted him. Eyes darted to the clock as he frowned, not expecting anyone to show up, especially so late. He left the kitchen, walking over to the entrance of his home. Who would come all the way here in this disaster anyway? No one was home nor were they going to be. But when Gladiolus opened the door he was shocked to see Athenacia standing there. She looked a little nervous, biting her lip as their eyes met. Her coat was overly large, pulled tightly about her. It was long as well but her legs were mostly bare aside from very thin black stockings and her feet in a very expensive pair of red stilettos. Her hair had a slight wave to it, as if she had put in a lot of effort into it and her make up was light but still made her stand out more so than usual. Those ruby lips were finally free of her bottom teeth as she looked up at him still shy.
"Hi," she said finally.
"Sup," he leaned against the door frame, holding his beer in his hand still and very clearly amused.
"Sorry I'm late for your party."
He smirked, "At least you made it."
She flushed, pushing past him and walking into the house without an invite. Athenacia stopped as soon as she was on the other side of the door, feeling her nerves get to her again. He noticed she smelled sweeter than usual, that hint of vanilla stronger than before. He had a brow raised as he looked at her, wondering what she was doing here. She turned to face him, looking around nervously.
"It's just me for the night," he said.
She relaxed her shoulders a little upon hearing that. Peering down the hall, she decided to just go for it. Her eyes looked around in wonder as she came into the main sitting room. The outside of this place looked huge but it was so much bigger inside. It was very intimidating and she thought about turning tail to run multiple times before she made it to the door. After she passed the overly large dining table there was a huge window taking up the entire wall that led to the yard. Three pink couches and a glass table were all placed neatly about on top of a very large and expensive looking area rug. There was a fireplace and mantle behind one of the couches on the left. It was roaring, keeping the place warm and the lights were dim which was oddly perfect. She saw stairs to her left as well, directly beside her and another doorway that led to who knew where. This place was a mansion no wonder he didn't feel the need to leave home. There was plenty of space for him to feel like he was on his own. She felt very timid right now but tried her best to focus.
Athenacia turned to face him, the curious look on his face only making this so much harder. There was no sense in losing her nerves now, she owed him. She came this far there was no point in retreating. At least no one would be walking in on them. She told him she was busy tonight on purpose, she wanted to surprise him. The first part was easy and she struggled with herself to keep at it. Especially when she was in the cab on the way over, very aware of her attire and the way the driver was looking at her. She wished she had her car because that was another moment she wanted to abort mission and go home. But she didn't, she was here. Athenacia wanted to do this, to show him that she wanted him in her life even if she was difficult at times. He fought so hard for her and the Six themselves only knew why.
"I'm a mess," she said. It was a start, "I'm emotionally damaged to the point that I'm all over the place. I don't handle stress very well at all which is very, painfully obvious," she took a breath, still nervous under his gaze, "I have trouble letting people get close to me, even if I like them a lot. When things go wrong I run away and I become a giant pain in the ass."
This was it, no turning back now. She opened her coat, letting it fall to the ground. He was mid drink when she did, choking a little while his eyes widened. She stood before him in a very lace red bra that was very see through. She wore matching underwear, the garter hugging her hips on top of it and latching onto those stockings. That scar on her neck was visible and the same ones he noticed a while back just below her abdomen. They looked like gunshots though he didn't ask. She was a former Glaive, after all, getting shot at was part of the job description. That was far from his mind, however, his mouth going dry as he drank in the sight of her. She was still apprehensive and he was utterly speechless at this point.
"But I'm your pain in the ass," she finished.
As if breaking him from invisible bonds he tried and failed at putting his beer bottle down on the table beside him. It fell to the ground and shattered into pieces. Not that he cared, he was already making his way to her long before it even fell. He quickly scooped her into his arms, crashing his lips upon hers hungrily while leading her toward the larger couch that was behind her. His hands were all over that silky skin, so inviting. He lowered her down while still attached to her, only breaking apart so that she could undress him. Losing himself in everything that she was became simple, her cries of pleasure fueling him as he delved deeper. He took a moment to look at her, taking her in once more. That dreamy hazel stare he was faced with was exactly what he wanted to see. Because when she looked at him like that he knew that she meant every word she said, that she really was his and it made him feel like he was on top of the world. He kissed her again in a more passionate way before burying himself deep within her. The cry she let out was heavenly and it only grew more positive as the night went on.
The storm outside continued to rage its fury and inside they were none the wiser. They were in a world of their own, all their troubles gone while they explored the full depth of their feelings for each other even if they weren't spoken out loud. She struggled for breath, as did he when they were finished. He gazed into her eyes, giving her a chaste kiss this time. He was so enamoured with her, keeping a hand on her cheek as he held her close. She returned that same sort of look and he smiled at her. The two lovers shared a moment that only belonged to them. A moment that would last for always. A love like winter.
~*~ Fin ~*~
...
thanks so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed this little mini story. I have an alternate ending for it that I might throw out, but I will definitely be getting back to the main story to try and finish that off. thanks, guys!