"Happy belated Birthday, Primrose!"
Lilith's warm smile brightens up the estate as she pulls the raven head into an embrace. Caleb has informed her about his mate's visit as Primrose is looking for materials for her new script.
"Thank you, Lilith."
The younger Vatore leads Primrose to their reading room, with tall bookcases covered from floor to ceiling, a great selection of ancient tomes and leather-bound books that can't be found on the regular market. The raven head's eyes sparkle when she enters the place, she always finds a sense of familiarity whenever the earthy scent of paper hits her nostrils.
"How was your celebration with Caleb?"
"Oh it was…" a blush adorns her cheeks as she recalls the magical adventure she had with Caleb a few days ago "…wonderful…"
"I see that my brother made you happy, Primrose." Lilith sets down some books for her "I'm very glad."
The raven head nods, a loving smile still dangling on her lips. The musical event, a tower of treats at the famous Chez Llama Restaurant, a romantic stargaze at the planetarium, and that giant fluffy bear on his bed, everything Caleb did for her birthday was wonderful. That night when she received her new cuddly companion, Primrose's sleep became ever soundly, especially when she was in the safe and loving cocoon that was Caleb's arms.
"Caleb said that he will return after he has finished with his shift at the hospital." Lilith informs her "Feel free to enjoy all these books, Primrose."
Primrose nods, looking at the younger Vatore. Despite her vibrant smile, something is off. There is a sense of tiredness in her eyes, something that the raven head picks up immediately the moment she steps foot into the Vatore estate. Maybe it is her imagination?
"I will, thank you. I hope to see him before I leave for a concert."
Lilith leaves the reading room as she allows Primrose to have a place for herself, knowing how her line of work requires a silent environment to focus. The raven head opens the leather-bounded book, her eyes scanning through the materials as she slowly absorbs the delicate writing, weaving a story of her own. The quietness allows her to focus and she loses herself in the intricate narratives, finding inspiration for her new script within the pages of these rare and enchanting books.
Primrose occasionally glances at the window, the sunlight creeps in to provide a warm and gentle ambience air, wrapping around her like a safe blanket. Setting one book down and reaching for another, the raven head completely engrosses herself in the detailed storylines, those that were weaved by the hands of the authors who were far superior to her.
Ah…I truly want to be as amazing as these writers someday…
Lilian once told her that her hopelessly romantic nature might stem from her birthday as it falls on Valentine's Day, but Primrose just laughs it off as a mere joke. However, the brunette insists, saying that where else can they find such writing that oozes with amorous air and picturesque love that can hardly be found in the real world? Despite her stories being weaved with intricate storylines that reflect heartbreak and problems couples can find in their everyday life, it is still written in a fairy tale manner that fills with hopes and promises of a happy-ever-after for the characters.
Primrose's lips unconsciously purse up, an adorable pout hangs on her face as she recalls Lilian's tease. Even her family has the same thoughts as the brunette, that she is a romantic person at the core.
She thinks about her journey as an author, inspired by the works of her grandfather. The poetry and grace of his writing captivate her heart every time she comes to for summer vacation. Maybe that is why she is interested in creative writing in the first place, the thought of moving people to tears with her tale brings a smile to her face.
As Primrose continues to read through the book in her hand, completely immersing herself in the delicate stories, she doesn't notice the door creaks open. A tall figure steps in, mesmerizing silver eyes studying her. A fond smile adorns his lips as he carefully places a blanket on her shoulders, knowing that his beloved would not even pay attention to him as long as she still has a book in her hands. The fireplace provides a warm embrace around Primrose, but he is still worried. While his vampiric nature allows him to navigate through the cold weather, Primrose as a human is not blessed with such attributes and winters in Forgotten Hollow can be much harsher than in any other places.
Glancing at the young maiden one last time, he takes his leave, allowing her to continue her work as he returns to his study room, where butler Richard is waiting for him.
"My lord…" the wise advisor bows his head "Marlin Ember sent you an expressed message."
Raising a brow, Primrose's mentor never sent him this kind of message before. Opening the letter, his eyes narrow at the material he is reading. Anger plagues his handsome face as Caleb slams the letter onto the desk, unable to read the rest of it. News about students at Glimmerbrook School of Magic being missing has reached the young lord's notice.
While the school is still looking for the culprit, the fire mage has secretly requested Caleb's aid in order to find the missing students. Marlin's letter doesn't specifically state who is responsible for such a heinous act, he believes that it stems from Forgotten Hollow, similar to Selene Voss's case when she kidnapped Lilian.
"They dare lay their hands on the students at Glimmerbrook…" Caleb turns to his trusted butler, the anger in his eyes is evidenced "Richard, how is the investigation?"
"We have picked up suspicious activities regarding House Bloodhaven. Despite their main source of blood has been cut off, they still have others that they rely on. On top of that…" the butler puts a document on Caleb's table "It seems like they acquired a vampire vigilante group to do their deeds."
"Which explains how students at Glimmerbrook gone missing."
His expression darkens upon learning the report. No human is allowed to step foot on Glimmerbrook. Similar to how Forgotten Hollow is hidden in plain sight, the School of Magic is concealed behind that seemingly normal-looking portal sitting on top of the hills near the waterfall. House Bloodhaven must have acquired the Glimmerstone that allows them to travel to the Magic HQ for their kidnapping plan.
"Do you have any information on the group that House Bloodhaven has enlisted?"
"We do, my lord…"
The expression on butler Richard is ominous and hard to read, Caleb raises a brow at his hesitation. The wise advisor is known for his unwavering devotion and loyalty to House Vatore, anything that stands in their way will be wiped out immediately, whether it is through diplomatic means or if his hands are stained with the blood of the opposing party. Butler Richard, having served their family for hundreds of years, is one with an ambiguous moral. His proficiency in gathering information, sometimes through channels that skirt ethical boundaries, speaks volumes about his dedication to ensuring the survival and supremacy of House Vatore.
However, for the wise advisor to be hesitant to open up about the vigilante's information can only mean that…
"Brother…"
A knock on the door, followed by the entry of Kian and Lilith. The dark expression in his lilac eyes says it all…
"I get it…" a deep sigh escapes Caleb as he turns around, facing the tapestry that bears the crest of House Vatore proudly "It's them, isn't it? Vladislaus Straud loyalist…"
The lump in Kian's throat proves to be too painful to swallow, his hands balling into fists, nails digging into the pale skin. Lilith stands by her husband's side, her bright brown eyes are now carrying a rueful light. They never thought that Inna's accusation was now an inescapable reality.
"Allow me to do this, Caleb. I will make sure to wipe them out of Forgotten Hollow." Kian, struggling to keep his composure, proposes a dangerous idea "I will not allow myself to stain the name of House Vatore!"
"You will not go anywhere, Kian."
Understanding his brother-in-law's dilemma, Caleb shakes his head, refusing to let him act recklessly. The young lord knows underneath the gentle façade Kian wears is the guilt of being the son of Vladislaus Straud. For House Vatore to extend their hands and welcome him to the family, it pains Kian to know that there are evils out there who still support that man and the war he has inflicted on Forgotten Hollow.
Lilith lowers her head, her hands tremble at the thought of her husband's pain. If Inna Cents or any of House Vatore's allies caught wind of this, they would surely blame Kian merely for his past as a member of the Straud family. There is a reason why Inna wants to push Caleb into marrying a noblewoman of their kind, her thought stems from the goodness of her heart, believing that a pure-blood vampire child is the only way to secure the Vatore's legacy. While Lilith and Kian are vampires, because he is related to Vladislaus Straud, no ally wants the next generation of House Vatore to bear the same blood as that man.
"Brother, I…" Lilith begins, but Caleb's steady gaze silences her.
Looking at the crest of House Vatore, his mind begins to navigate through the intricate web of politics and familial ties. The revelation of the Straud loyalists' involvement, the link to the Glimmerbrook School of Magic, House Bloodhaven's responsibility for their crime, even until now, Inna Cents has not seen through the graceful façade of Seraphina Bloodhaven.
"Kian," his eyes narrow, a firm warning to his family "I understand your desire to protect House Vatore, but acting impulsively will only worsen the situation."
"I…" the blond vampire sighs, reluctantly agreeing "Yes, Brother…"
Turning to his trusted advisor, he orders Richard to track down the location of the vigilante group, believing that House Bloodhaven would never be careless enough to have students of Glimmerbrook in their jail cells.
"Kian, you will assist Richard in this case, do not act recklessly."
"Understood!"
As Kian and Richard depart to initiate the investigation, Lilith remains in the room with Caleb, there is something she must discuss with her brother.
"Is something wrong, Lilith?" looking at his sister, Caleb begins "Do not worry about Kian, we will do everything we can to ensure that he is safe."
"Y-yes, thank you. However, I do need to tell you something…"
Her hands are trembling, worries etch on her face as she contemplates telling Caleb the news, her big news…
Placing both hands on her abdomen, she stares at her brother, a mixture of happiness and frustration paints across her face as she breaks the news to him.
"Caleb, I'm expecting…"
The room becomes stiff as the weight of her words hangs in the air, waiting for a response. The young lord stares at his sister as the revelation settles in. The Vatore princess is expecting her first child with Kian, the timing can not be more delicate. Lilith's lips quiver, her eyes well up as she slumps to the wooden floor, the pressure has become too unbearable for her.
"Lilith, it's okay…" kneeling down next to her, the young lord expresses his joy "That is wonderful news, have you told Kian about it?"
She shakes her head, covering her lips to stop a sob from escaping. Her emotions heighten as tears roll down her eyes, how is she going to tell Kian about this? How are their allies going to perceive this? How will this child escape the grasp of the political turmoil that is still lingering in Forgotten Hollow?
Caleb, despite the complexities of their current predicament, feels a swell of warmth and joy for his sister. However, he understands the circumstances surrounding Lilith's pregnancy are far from ideal.
"We will ensure the safety of you and Kian, as well as the little one. I won't allow anything to threaten you both…" he pats her head, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder "Rest assured, Lilith."
Lilith's eyes convey gratitude, understanding the depth of her brother's commitment. As they navigate the delicate balance between joy and apprehension, Caleb knows that their actions in the coming days will shape the future of House Vatore.
His mind wanders back to Primrose, how his maiden is enjoying her time in the reading room, away from all of these turmoils. The responsibilities on his shoulders become heavier with each passing day and his mate is completely oblivious to them. He can not let her know about this, Primrose deserves to live her life to the fullest, even if it means he has to hide all of this from her…
"Primrose…"
The raven head startles, breaking her contact with the book she is holding. She turns to the window, surprised to see the sun is setting behind the mystical veil of mist, it is already this late?
The blanket falls off her shoulders as she takes notice of the soft material falling onto the sofa, her mind goes to Caleb, maybe he was the one who put it on her, shielding her from the cold. It is almost time for the concert Lilian is going to take her to, she should go and see him before she leaves…
Putting the book back on the shelf, the raven head leaves the reading room, navigating her way to Caleb's study room. She knows that whenever he is back to the Vatore estate, he always immerses himself in the increasing workload that is waiting for him on the desk.
As the water mage walks through the long corridor, following the stairs the the second floor, her mind wanders back to Lilith and the tiredness she was wearing. Despite the alluring beauty, her fatigue is evidenced as those warm brown eyes convey a sense of weariness that Primrose rarely sees. The dark circles under her eyes, masked by a layer of makeup, are visible enough that she takes notice.
"I wonder if she is okay…"
Primrose continues pondering her thought, and the sounds of whispering catches her attention. Her eyes catch a glimpse of a couple of maids gathering around in the hall, gossiping about the state of House Vatore, something that captures her interest.
From afar, she can hear the names Richard and Kian, something about a secret mission to eliminate a group of vigilantes, Lord Vatore's plan to wipe out the human trafficking case and so on. Caleb's name makes her raise an eyebrow, are these maids talking about the case in which Don Lothario is involved?
She continues to eavesdrop on them, hoping to find some other useful information that everyone, including Caleb, is hiding from her. She has noticed recently, how Lilith seemingly is investigating the same case that involves Ember and Lilian, and while Lilian's case was dismissed as not the same, the correlation between her kidnapping incidents and Selene Voss's heinous plan is not something to look down on.
Caleb has kept his mouth shut. She remembers that one time when she asked him about what was happening, but the young lord told her he would tell her when the time was right. However, that right time never comes. Even after the successful rescue mission, he remains silent on the matter. And then the formal party at the Vatore estate coupled with her birthday celebration distracted her from talking about the secrets that Caleb is desperately trying to hide.
"Don't let Lady Primrose hear about this, okay?" the gossiping continues "I heard that someone from Glimmerbrook just sent in an expressed message to Lord Vatore, I wonder what is going on…"
The raven head flinches at the name Glimmerbrook, did Marlin request to speak to Caleb without her knowing?
Refusing to be left out, Primrose makes a hasty retreat to Caleb's study room, where she finds Lilith and Caleb sitting on the sofa, the mentioning of the little one piques her interest, but that is not the reason for her to be here.
"P-Primrose?" Lilith turns to her, her momentarily worries are masked behind the warm smile "You here to see Caleb?"
"Yes." the raven head nods "Caleb, can I speak to you for a moment?"
Surprised at her formality, the young lord sends his sister a silent knowing as she stands up, leaving the study room for Primrose and Caleb to talk.
Ever the gentleman, he walks up to her and leads the water mage to the sofa, asking if everything is okay. The complexities reflect in her onyx orbs are evidence of her inner turmoil. At first, Primrose tries to dismiss her worries as mere self-consciousness, that Caleb has nothing to hide from her. But as she locks her eyes on him, something is amiss…
Despite the usual composure he is wearing, the young lord finds it difficult to look directly into her eyes. Something tells him that Primrose has overheard something she should not be exposed to.
"Primrose, is everything okay?"
Attempting to distract her, Caleb strokes her cheeks, hoping that she will focus on his affection instead of trying to see through him. Primrose is taken aback at first, enjoying his fingers dancing on her skin, until she catches his silver orbs eyeing something on the desk. Her attention falls on a piece of paper that slightly crumbles on the wooden surface before looking at him again.
"Beloved?"
"Caleb…" taking in a deep breath, she asks him "You're not…hiding anything from me, are you?"
"Hiding? Why would I need to hide anything from you?"
The frantic glimpse of his eyes doesn't escape her as Primrose finds her stomach churns at the idea that Caleb is not telling the truth. Moving away from him, she looks at the young lord one more time, silently encouraging him to share his problems with her, but all she receives is the gentle façade he puts on during stressful moments.
"Caleb, you're lying…" she asserts, her impulsiveness has taken the best of her.
"Wait, Primrose…"
But she doesn't listen and instead moves closer to the desk, grabbing onto the letter before he has a chance to stop her. She can't read everything that is written in there as Caleb sweeps in and takes the letter from her immediately. However, Primrose catches a few important details, particularly Marlin Ember's signature and something about Glimmerbrook missing students.
"Caleb, that letter was from Marlin, what is going on?" she exclaims, frustration plaguing her adorable face "And missing students from Glimmerbrook?"
Caleb, caught off guard, tries to maintain his composed façade but Primrose is not buying it. No matter how many times he tries to soothe her that everything is okay, that there is nothing for her to worry about, she refuses to accept his words. That letter has Marlin's signature on it, if everything is okay, then her mentor should not have a problem discussing this matter with both her and Caleb.
Her frustration at the young lord's ingenuine slowly manifests into tears, her grip on his shirt tightens, leaving wrinkles on the white dress shirt. Is it because she is not much of a help? Or maybe he doesn't want her aid because of how impulsive she was during Lilian's rescue mission? Or may Caleb and Marlin think that she is too young to understand this complicated matter?
Why is she always the one who is being kept in the dark?
"I get it…it is because I am a burden, right?" her voice thickens "I am not much of a help, that's why you and Marlin…"
"No, beloved. Not at all…" panic surges in him as Caleb sweeps her into his arms, wiping away the falling tears "You are not a burden at all, don't ever think of yourself like that."
"T-then why don't you tell me anything?"
The young lord stops for a moment, unsure how to respond. Primrose has read something she should not be involved and knowing his maiden, she wouldn't rest until she got to the truth. While Caleb can maintain his composure in stressful times, her teary face is something he never wants to see. Yet, in this moment, honesty seems to be the only path forward.
"I-it's complicated, beloved…"
Sighing, he never wants to trouble her with this matter, but…
Caleb carefully considers his words, trying to find a way to convey the situation without causing unnecessary worry. He explains the involvement of House Bloodhaven, the missing students from Glimmerbrook, and the vampire vigilante group. Primrose's tears slowly subside, replaced by a more understanding gaze.
The involvement of House Bloodhaven explains why Caleb wishes to keep her in the dark, considering Lilian's near-death encounter. The revelation of her friend's picture was stored in Selene Voss's room and how that wicked woman was connected to Seraphina Bloodhaven sent chills down her spine. It is more than just a regular human trafficking case…
"I see, that was why Selene Voss continued to call out to Seraphina Bloodhaven before her death…"
Marlin has requested Caleb's aid on the missing students of Glimmerbrook, something she is also concerned about. It seems like the missing cases only happened recently, but they can not rule out the possibility of House Bloodhaven being involved in this turmoil. Thinking back at how Selene Voss behaved, stating how the blood would enhance her beauty, she wonders if Seraphina Bloodhaven is thinking the same way. On top of that, she chooses to indulge in the blood of spellcasters…
"Would there be any difference between normal humans and those who can use magic?"
"I'm not sure, but that can be taken into consideration." Caleb smiles, caressing her soft raven locks "But to do that is unacceptable, whether it is towards humans or spellcasters…"
Primrose glances at Caleb, for a moment, his troubled face reminds her of a young man in his late twenties rather than a vampire that has lived for almost 300 years. In times like this, he is even more in tune with the human side of his heart…
"I just wanted to protect you from unnecessary worries, Primrose," Caleb confesses, his gaze is filled with sincerity. "But you have every right to know, and I trust that you will understand."
The raven head nods, feeling guilty for making a fuss at him earlier. A vampire lord like him always maintains his composure, even when in dire situations, a man with duties to fulfill. Yet, underneath that mask is someone who wants to protect those he treasures, whether it is his family or her, his mate.
"I'm sorry…" chewing on her lips, she responds "I should not have made a mountain out of a molehill. It just…" she sighs, reflecting on her mistakes "…I don't like it when you keep me in the dark. I want to help you too…"
Caleb listens to Primrose's understanding response, a warm smile gracing his lips as he continues to gently caress her raven locks. The guilt she feels for her earlier outburst weighs on her, and he reassures her with a tender gaze.
"I know you do."
The young lord is grateful for the support and love he finds in his mate, a pillar of strength in times of uncertainty. Primrose, sensing the calmness that wraps around them, finds her way to his neck as she leans into his comforting embrace. A sigh of relief escapes her lips when she feels his fingers massaging the tense nerves around her scalp, finding solace in his affectionate touch.
As they enjoy a moment of peace in the midst of the storm, Primrose notices the time on the clock, realizing that she may be late for the concert Lilian has in store for her. Caleb, ever the gentleman, offers to drive her back as she nods, thanking him for his assistance.
"It's quite dangerous out there, Primrose. Be careful, okay?" planting a kiss on her forehead, the young lord smiles "I don't know what I would do if something happened to you, beloved."
His gentle smile evokes a warm feeling in her heart as she tiptoes her feet, stealing a kiss in a shy manner. Her face is bloomed with a red color, an adorable sight in Caleb's eyes as he leans his forehead against her, finding solace in the warmth her body is providing.
Caleb opens the door as Primrose steps out, her eyes gleaming with joy when she spots the sign that has the name of her favorite musician on it. The raven head turns to him, offering her thank you for taking his time to drive her here, she knows very well how busy he is with the issues in the Vatore estate.
"You're driving back to the estate?"
Despite knowing his line of work, Primrose is still surprised when he says that he will not come back to the apartment and instead, stay at Forgotten Hollow for a night.
"I need to be there when Richard and Kian come back…"
The water mage nods, understanding the meaning behind his words. She wishes to not be this carefree, knowing how tense the situation is right now for everyone in House Vatore. However, Caleb reassures her that she doesn't need to be worried and just enjoys the night with her best friend, Lilian. The brunette has tried her best to secure tickets to Octavia Moon's concert as a birthday gift for Primrose.
"Be careful when you drive back, okay?"
Despite knowing how skillful Caleb is at driving, she is still worried. The young lord can't help but wear a warm smile, kissing her forehead as he assures her that he will be home safe and sound. Not far away, Lilian walks closer to them, teasing how lovey-dovey they are in front of everyone at the venue, prompting a blush from Primrose.
"Lilian, stop jesting…" she pouts before returning her attention to Caleb "Anyway, I'm going now."
"That's right, she is going now! Don't worry, Caleb…" Lilian continues to jest "She is in good hands. I will make sure she comes back to her apartment safe and sound, tugged in with the new cuddly companion she received from you."
Her comment draws a chuckle out of him while Primrose swats her friend's shoulder, her face turning crimson. As Lilian waits for her friend to come, Caleb steals a kiss from the raven head, smiling when she becomes a bundle of nerves at his display of affection. Waving her hand goodbye, she follows Lilian into the venue as Caleb drives off.
"Goodness Primrose, he is pampering you too much."
"I, well, I mean…"
The raven head sighs, she can't argue with that. Caleb's protective nature is evidenced, even if he has to drive an hour to drop her off, he is willing to do it.
"But then again, I think that it's cute - the way the takes care of you."
Primrose glances at her friend as they look at each other, giggling at the thought.
The lights dim, signaling the start of the concert. Octavia Moon takes the stage, greeted by cheers and applause. Lilian and Primrose become entranced by the music, losing themselves in the rhythmic melodies and soulful lyrics. Octavia's voice fills the venue, creating a magical ambiance that transcends the troubles waiting outside.
Throughout the concert, Primrose occasionally glances at Lilian, grateful for the thoughtful birthday gift. Lilian, in turn, revels in the joy radiating from her friend. When Octavia sings their favorite song, the girls join in, singing their hearts out and waving their hands at the musician. The brunette pulls out her phone and records a short video of Primrose singing, sending it to Caleb as a reward for his commendable action - driving her friend to the concert venue.
The final notes of the concert echo through the venue, leaving the audience in awe.
"Did you enjoy it?" Lilian, with a smile, turns to Primrose,
Primrose's eyes gleam with delight as she expresses her sheer joy and gratitude for the unforgettable experience. As they exit the venue, the night air carries a sense of joy and contentment.
Lilian, holding up to her end of the promise, drives her best friend back home. The raven head declines at first, finding it too troublesome for Lilian, but her friend just scoffs in return. Caleb would be upset if he knew she didn't escort his precious flower home safe and sound. Primrose turns red at her comment, denying any possibility of Caleb overreacting but the brunette just rolls her eyes, knowing how much he cares for her friend.
"Come now, Prims. Let's get you home."
Lilian's determination makes the raven head sigh, agreeing to get into the car. As she drives through the illuminating streets, the girls talk about the shared experience, praising the voice of Octavia Moon and her songs. The brunette turns on the radio, still listening to the same singer and singing along with Primrose. Despite the looming shadow that threatens the peace of Forgotten Hollow, the raven head decides to set her worries aside and enjoy tonight to the fullest.
"Here we are, Prims."
Stopping her car in front of the apartment building, Primrose waves at her friend for taking her home. Wishing her a safe trip, the water mage makes her way back. Unbeknownst to her, a dark figure slowly approaches her.
A pair of hands reach out…
Primrose's eyes widen…
The night, once filled with the enchanting melodies of Octavia Moon's concert, takes an unexpected turn.