Malachi Voss sits in the dimly lit corner of the quaint café, his eyes scanning the pages of a newspaper he has little interest in. He slowly and methodically sips from his freshly brewed cup of coffee, his feigned casual reading masking his true intent. His scheming thoughts cut through the ambient chatter in the café. Fueled by a sinister determination and a chilling patience, he mentally outlines the next phase of his plan.
Voss has purposefully chosen this location as the stage for his orchestrated encounter. He watches the café's front door over the newspaper, waiting for his quarry to enter. He is acutely aware that getting to Anthea will require a delicate approach, and leveraging her connection to her mother is a calculated move bound to yield the desired results.
The bell above the door jingles, and Voss looks up to see Antoinette entering the café, accompanied by a friend. He watches as the two women take a seat at a table near the window, chatting animatedly. Maintaining his pretense, Voss continues to sip his coffee, his eyes periodically glancing over the rim of the newspaper.
"Excuse me, sir," a voice interrupts his thoughts.
Voss looks up to see a young man standing beside his table, a notepad and pen in hand. "Can I get you anything else?" the waiter asks.
"No, thank you," Voss replies, his tone dismissive.
"Alright, well, let me know if you change your mind," the waiter says, turning to leave.
Voss returns his attention to the women. He knows that Antoinette is a creature of habit, and that her routine rarely varies. He also remembers from his time together with Anthea that she is a fiercely protective mother, and that any attempt to get to her daughter will require a careful approach.
With a flick of his wrist, Voss folds the newspaper and sets it aside. He reaches for his phone, his fingers deftly tapping out a phone number.
"Yes, boss," a voice answers.
"I need you to do some surveillance for me, Bauer," Voss says, his voice low and measured.
"Of course, boss. Who or what is the target?"
"La Petite Gourmandise."
"Got it. Anything specific I should be looking for there?"
"A woman named Antoinette Hopper. I'll send over a picture shortly. I want to know her routine. Where she goes, who she talks to, that sort of thing." He pauses. "And I want to know if she ever brings up Anthea living with or near her."
"Understood. I'll get right on it."
"Good. Keep me updated."
"Will do, boss."
Voss ends the call, his gaze returning to the women. He watches as they chat and laugh, oblivious to his presence.
"This might be easier than I thought," he murmurs, a cruel smile playing on his lips.
As the warm afternoon sun streams through the high windows of Kadic's spacious basketball gymnasium, the air buzzes with anticipation and excitement. Usually echoing with the sounds of basketball games, the enormous room has been transformed into a venue of celebration. Banners and colorful streamers adorn the walls while rows of neatly arranged chairs fill the expansive floor.
The graduating class of Kadic Academy's collegiate level chat idly in the holding room on the other side of the building while friends and family members find their seats in the gym. Laughter and snippets of conversations echo down the halls, creating a harmonious prelude to the ceremony.
Aelita's heart swells with pride as she looks back on William's accomplishments fondly. She recounts the journey he had undertaken. All the late-night study sessions and his unyielding dedication to both his academics and his soccer career. Yet, amidst the pride, a subtle wave of melancholy washes over her. The realization that this ceremony marks the end of their shared days at Kadic brings a bittersweet ache to her heart.
Aelita plays with the delicate engagement ring on her left hand, idly twisting it around her fingers while she zones out. She smiles softly as she thinks of William's move out of the dorms and into the Hermitage with her and the joy this new chapter in their life together will bring.
"You okay, Aelita?" comes Ulrich's voice, breaking through Aelita's reverie.
"Yeah, I'm fine," Aelita responds, a soft smile still gracing her lips. "Just thinking about how much has changed since we first started here."
"I know what you mean," Ulrich says, his expression wistful. "It's hard to believe it's been nearly ten years and they're actually graduating."
"Time flies when you're having fun, am I right," Maeve chimes in, eliciting a chuckle from Aelita.
"That's for sure," Aelita agrees.
Their conversation is cut off by Headmaster Delmas's opening remarks.
"Ladies and gentlemen. On behalf of Kadic Academy staff and faculty, I welcome you to the college's third annual commencement ceremony!" He pauses as he looks out into the sea of applause. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the achievements of our graduating class. These students have worked hard to earn their degrees, and we are proud of their accomplishments.
"I would like to take a moment to recognize the parents, guardians, and loved ones of our graduates. Without your support and encouragement, these young men and women would not be where they are today. Thank you for believing in them and helping them reach their goals. Now, without further ado, let us begin the ceremony."
The crowd applauds as the graduates make their way into the room, the familiar melody of Pomp and Circumstance filling the air. Line by line, the graduates walk through the crowd, taking their seats in the front few rows.
As William, Yumi, and Bastien walk by, all three give short physical acknowledgments as they each pass their significant others. William and Aelita share a smile and a thumbs up, Yumi blows a kiss at Ulrich who is stunned by the action, and Bastien does a silly dance, garnering a laugh from Maeve.
"What a dork," Maeve mutters, but her eyes are full of affection.
"That he is," Aelita agrees.
Maeve chuckles, nodding. "But he's my dork and I wouldn't change it for the world."
Once the last few graduates have taken their seats, Headmaster Delmas continues his speech, his words filled with pride and admiration for the graduating class.
"These young men and women have shown great courage and determination in their pursuit of higher education. They have faced challenges and overcome obstacles, and they have done so with grace and dignity. With all that said and done, let us begin the conference of degrees!"
Names between letters and A and C are called without issue and as the first couple of rows return to their seats, Yvonne notices William's row stand and start walking towards the stage. "It's almost time!" she gushes.
"Got at least a few minutes, honey." James says with a laugh. "Dunbar is not at the beginning of the alphabet."
Aelita giggles at her future in-laws' banter. "They're moving pretty quickly, though. They're already into the D-I's. Looks like about ten students left."
Finally William's name is called and Aelita and his parents erupt into applause with Ulrich and Maeve beside them giving short cheers of their own.
"William James Dunbar, Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Magna Cum Laude."
"That's my boy!" James shouts, his voice carrying over the din created by his wife and daughter-in-law.
Aelita watches him cross the stage and, as soon as he's handed his degree, calls out. "You did it, honey!" He looks into the crowd and finds his pink-haired fiancée, giving her a bright, wide smile and another thumbs up.
"He's done so well," Yvonne says, her eyes glistening with tears.
"I'm so proud of him," Aelita says, her own eyes misty.
"We all are," James adds proudly.
The ceremony drags on through the alphabet, finally getting to I. Soon enough it's Yumi's turn to walk across the stage.
"Yumi Ishiyama, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Science, Summa Cum Laude."
Elsewhere in the crowd, Hiroki can be heard cheering loudly. Ulrich just laughs as the sound of his voice echoes over the sounds of the arena.
"By the way, Ulrich, why aren't you sitting with her family?" Aelita asks.
"That screech you just heard over the rest of the crowd a good enough reason?" Ulrich says with a sigh. "Frankly, I'd prefer not to go deaf."
"Ah. I'm guessing that was Hiroki?"
"You'd be correct in that guess." He confirms. "I'll find them after the ceremony."
"Fair enough," Aelita says, a small smile tugging at the corner of her mouth.
The ceremony continues through the rest of the alphabet, sparse cheers popping out of the crowd every so often. Finally the professor calling the names reaches the R's. Bastien's name comes quickly as there are few R names.
"Bastien Rene Roux, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Cum Laude."
"Woo! Go, Bastien!" Maeve cheers, her voice loud and clear.
"Way to go, man," Ulrich shouts.
"Congrats, Bastien," Aelita adds.
The ceremony draws to a close as the last names are called. Headmaster Delmas once again takes his place at the podium.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to present to you the graduating class of Kadic Academy's College Level! The graduates will now recess. Families can meet their graduates in the next room where refreshments and Hors d'oeuvres will be served."
Pomp and Circumstance starts back up and the first row of graduates stands and begins the recession. The crowd erupts into thunderous applause, the sound echoing off the walls of the gymnasium.
"Congratulations, graduates!" Headmaster Delmas exclaims, his voice barely audible over the din.
Yvonne can't help but shed a few tears. "I'm so proud of him."
"I am, too. He's made amazing progress in his life," James says. He looks at Aelita as he finishes the sentence. "And thank you for helping him get there, Aelita."
"Of course. You could almost say keeping him focused is my job," Aelita responds with a smile.
"Well, it's truly appreciated," Yvonne says. "Honestly, I'm not sure he would have gotten here without you."
The crowd of attendees follows the graduates out of the room and into the reception hall next door. Aelita, James, and Yvonne split off as James notices William on the opposite side of the room.
"Ulrich! Maeve! Find us later. I want pictures of all of us together!" Aelita shouts at her two friends.
"Got it!" Ulrich responds as he begins to move through the crowd looking for the Ishiyama family.
"Will do!" Maeve shouts back.
"There you are," James says.
"Hey, Dad," William says.
James pulls him into a tight embrace. "Congratulations, son."
"Thanks, Dad," William squeezes out over his father's shoulder.
"We're so proud of you," Yvonne says, her voice trembling.
"Thanks, Mom," William says, his voice cracking with emotion.
William finally sees Aelita and he just opens his arms. She takes this as a cue to jump into them.
"You did it, Will," Aelita says against his chest.
"All thanks to you, Princess," he responds, rubbing her back
"Alright, you two, break it up for a second. Your mother wants to get some pictures," James says mirthfully.
The Dunbars take picture after picture as Yvonne creates an impromptu photoshoot in the middle of the reception hall. Her camera flashes incessantly as William strikes pose after pose, being used to his mother's antics.
"Alright, alright, don't you think that's enough, Mom?" William says, laughing. "You've been at this for like ten minutes and people are starting to stare."
"Oh, come on, Will. Let me have my fun," Yvonne says, her voice teasing.
"Fine, fine," William relents, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"Aelita, get in there, let's get some pictures of the two of you," Yvonne says, her tone leaving no room for argument.
"We're still not done?" William asks, his voice resigned.
"What? You don't want a picture with me?" Aelita teases.
William laughs. "Shut it, you. Of course I do, I'm just all picture'd out already." He grabs her waist and pulls her to his side and looks at his mother.
"Smile, you two," Yvonne instructs, her camera poised and ready.
Aelita and William smile for the camera, their love for each other and their happiness evident.
"Perfect," Yvonne says, her voice filled with pride. "All done."
Just then, Ulrich, Yumi, Maeve, and Bastien walk up.
"We heard there was a famous soccer player doing a photoshoot over here. Anyone know where he is?" Bastien says, looking straight past William.
"You're an idiot and I hate you," William says jokingly. "C'mere, man." William pulls Bastien into a hug. "Congrats, dude. I'm not sure how, but you made it."
"Oh, shut up!" Bastien says loudly, punching William in the arm.
"Ow! What was that for?" William asks, feigning hurt.
"For being a dick," Bastien replies.
William rolls his eyes. "Whatever," he says. "At least I'm not going around punching my friends."
"Anyway, congrats, man," Bastien says sincerely.
"Thanks, dude. You, too," William says, his voice equally sincere. He notices Yvonne has been waiting with her camera at the ready.
"You kids want some pictures together or not?"
"Yes. Yes we do," Aelita says trying to corral her friends.
"Hey, hey, no pushing," William says, laughing.
"Let's start with the boys," Yvonne suggests.
"Sounds good," William agrees.
"Alright, everyone, gather around," Yvonne instructs.
The group of friends gathers around, posing for the camera.
"Say cheese!" Yvonne says.
"Cheese!" the group choruses.
"Perfect," Yvonne says. "Now the girls!"
The three friends crowd together, making all manner of faces and poses.
"Let's get some of everyone, and then I think we're done! Alright, everyone, gather up," Yvonne instructs as she quickly bursts dozens of photos from a plethora of different angles. "Perfect. I think that's enough pictures for now."
"Thank God," William mutters, earning a playful swat from his mother.
"Don't be rude, Will," she admonishes. "I thought I raised you better than that!"
"Sorry, Mom," he apologizes with a laugh.
"I think it's time we celebrate," James says. "Who's up for some dinner?"
"Jesus Christ, Lita."
"What?" Aelita asks innocently with a shrug. She looses her hair from the messy bun atop her head, careful not to touch her face and ruin her makeup.
"Are you trying to kill William?" Sissi asks incredulously. "Because that outfit? Yeah, girl. He's dead."
"It's not that bad," Aelita protests, glancing down at her outfit. "Is it?"
"Not that bad?" Sissi repeats, her voice disbelieving. "Aelita Stones, look at yourself. You're wearing a little black dress. And three-inch heels? May he rest in peace."
"I'm not trying to kill him," Aelita insists. "I'm just trying to... spice things up a little."
"Spice things up, huh?" Sissi raises an eyebrow. "Is that what the kids are calling it these days?"
"Sissi!" Aelita exclaims, her cheeks flushing. "You're the worst!"
"You love me," Sissi says, her voice light.
"Unfortunately," Aelita says, her voice equally light. She steps in front of Sissi's mirror with a straightener in hand.
"And you're straightening your hair? Don't come complaining to me tomorrow when you're sore and finding it hard to walk."
"Do I really look that... slutty?"
"No, no, no, no. Not at all. You look sexy. Like, super sexy. But, like, in a classy way."
"So, not slutty?"
"Definitely not slutty. Just... hot. If I were Will, I wouldn't be able to keep my hands and eyes off you."
"Good. That's exactly what I was aiming for."
Indeed, her outfit is quite the sight. The black dress hugs her curves perfectly, accentuating her figure. The off-the-shoulder neckline lifts her supple breasts and reveals just the slightest, tasteful bit of cleavage. The small slit up the thigh reveals just enough skin to be tantalizing, and the heels make her legs look longer.
"I'm sure he'll appreciate it," Sissi says, her voice teasing. "He'd be an idiot not to."
"Thanks, Sis," Aelita says, ever grateful for her best friend's support.
"Anytime," Sissi says warmly. "Now, let's finish getting you ready. We don't want to keep him waiting, hm?"
"Right."
The two women work together to finish getting Aelita ready, their banter and laughter filling the air.
"There," Sissi says, stepping back to admire her handiwork. "You look perfect."
"Thanks, Sis," Aelita says again.
"No problem," Sissi replies.
"I'll see you tomorrow, okay?"
"Yeah, yeah. Go have fun," Sissi says, shooing her away. "I'll make sure to call before I come over," she adds with a wink.
"That would be much appreciated," Aelita says, laughing. "Bye!"
"Bye," Sissi replies, her voice light.
Aelita heads downstairs, her heart racing. She walks out the doors of the dorm building and finds William in a sleek, all black suit wearing a gold chain around his collar instead of a tie. She taps him on the shoulder. "And here I was thinking I'd win tonight's contest of looking good," she says as he turns around.
His jaw drops as he gets a full look up and down her body. "Holy fucking hell," he breathes. He pulls her in close and whispers in her ear. "How is it you seem to find dresses that always end up looking just as great on the floor as they do on your body?"
"Well unfortunately for you, Mr. Graduate, this dress stays on. At least until we're home from dinner." She says suggestively as she starts walking towards his car.
"This feels somehow familiar," he says to himself as he runs to catch up to her. He opens her door and lets her sit down in the passenger seat before walking around the front and getting in himself.
They drive to the restaurant in comfortable silence, every once in a while smiling at one another.
He parks the car before gathering his belongings. "Shall we, Princess? I'm sure my parents are already inside, so we should get going."
"They love being early, don't they?" she asks with a giggle.
They get out of the car and walk into the restaurant. They find James and Yvonne at a table in the back corner.
"Hey, guys," William says, his voice cheerful.
"Hi, you two," Yvonne says, her voice equally cheerful.
"Hello, son," James says. "Sit down. How was the drive?"
"Easy and smooth," William responds. "Now if only traffic around Paris could always be like that."
"I know, right?" Yvonne says exasperatedly.
James gives a light laugh. "And, how are you, Aelita?" he asks his future daughter-in-law.
"I'm doing well, thank you," she responds.
"That's good to hear."
"So, what's the plan for the rest of the evening?" William asks, his voice curious.
"Well, we were thinking we could go for a walk after dinner. Y'know, explore the area a little," Yvonne suggests.
"That sounds nice," Aelita says, her voice enthusiastic.
"Great," William says.
"Then it's settled," James says decisively.
"So, what is everyone having?" Aelita asks.
"I'm not sure yet," Yvonne says thoughtfully. "I'm really eyeing that swordfish steak."
Aelita raises her eyebrows as she looks at the menu item. "That sounds really nice actually. I've never had swordfish before, so maybe I'll do that."
They take their time finding meals that sound good to them. Eventually they order, and conversation shifts.
"How's wedding planning going, you two?" James asks curiously. "We haven't heard anything about it from either of you."
William and Aelita look at each other, wide-eyed.
"Will!" Aelita scolds William. "You haven't told them?" He just nervously laughs and scratches the back of his neck.
"Told us what?" Yvonne asks quizzically.
William gives another nervous chuckle. "Well, I guess now's a good a time as any." He takes a deep breath. "Aelita and I have decided on not having a big, traditional wedding ceremony. We're just going to elope."
James looks slightly disappointed.
"I don't understand, Will. Why?" Yvonne asks.
"We were talking about it and a big reason was that she doesn't have family of her own to share this moment with. Because of that we were having trouble with keeping the guest list even. And on top of that, I've gotten so much notoriety recently with the proposal and my pending transfer to PSG, that we don't think it's a good idea to do something high profile like a traditional wedding."
"But, Will, you're our only child. This is a special day for us, too," Yvonne says, her voice sad.
"I know, Mom. I'm sorry. It's just, we've been planning this for a while, and we're both really excited about it. We want to keep it simple, quiet, and intimate."
"We're sorry, Yvonne," Aelita says, her voice apologetic. "We know this is disappointing for both of you."
"It's alright. We understand," James says reassuringly. He and Yvonne share a look. "We figured this would probably happen, especially with how much William dislikes big celebrations. So, when is the big day?"
"End of next month," William replies, his voice confident.
"Wow, that's soon," James says, surprised. "Why the rush? You haven't even been engaged for a year."
"That's what I said," Aelita says, laughing. "But then someone," she looks at William dramatically, "had to pull the 'if you know, you know' card."
"Hey. You agreed to it, so your argument is moot," he crosses his arms just as dramatically. "Also, I know it'll get infinitely harder to plan and hold a wedding once I'm on the road every other week."
Yvonne and James share a laugh. "Whatever you two decide, we know you chose it because that's what you believe is best for your relationship and marriage. We will support you however you need," Yvonne says lovingly.
"We appreciate that, Mom," William says.
"Yes," Aelita agrees. "Thank you."
William sits on the edge of the bed, his arms folded across his chest as he watches his fiancée silently. Aelita, fully aware of his gaze, continues her nightly routine slowly and deliberately. She takes off her earrings, removes her makeup, and brushes her hair. Every few brushstrokes, she makes occasional eye contact with him in the mirror.
"Can I help you, sir?" she finally asks, flirtatiously.
"No, mademoiselle," he replies smoothly.
"You're staring."
"Can't help it," he admits. "You're just stunningly beautiful. That and I'm enjoying the view."
"Well, the view would enjoy some company," she says with a coy lilt to her voice.
"Is that so?" he asks, his voice teasing.
"Mhm."
"Well, I suppose I could join the view." He stands up and walks over to her, his hands coming to rest on her hips.
Aelita deviously smiles as she sticks her ass out, pressing it against his crotch. He groans and his grip tightens.
"What's wrong, baby?" she asks innocently. William is unaware that she is using his own words against him, and that it's only going to continue on.
"You're a tease," he murmurs, his lips brushing against her ear.
"Am I?"
"Yes." He spins her around and kisses her roughly, his hands roaming her body. He finds the zipper of her dress and pulls it down, exposing the bare skin of her back.
"You're not wearing a bra," he observes, his voice low and husky.
"Nope." She leans away from him and pushes against his chest. "But, you're not in charge tonight. I am. So, sit down."
"Yes, ma'am," he says, his voice playful. He sits back down on the bed, his gaze never leaving hers.
"Good boy," she praises, her voice sultry.
"Oh, fuck."
"Mhm." She oh-so-slowly removes her dress, letting it fall to the floor.
"Jesus Christ. You're killing me, Lita."
"I know." She smiles sweetly, brushing a lock of his hair behind his ear before climbing onto his lap and straddling him.
"What are you going to do to me?"
"Whatever I want." She says as she grinds her hips against his.
"Fuck," he groans, his hands gripping her hips.
"Let go of me. I didn't give you permission to touch me," she murmurs into his ear, followed by a nip at his lobe. She continues grinding her hips against his, her hands roaming his body. She starts to unbutton his shirt painfully slowly.
"You're a cruel woman."
She fights to hold back a smirk. "Oh, I know." She finishes unbuttoning his shirt and pushes it off his shoulders, exposing his muscular chest. "God, you're sexy," she murmurs, her voice filled with lust. She plants a trail of kisses down his neck and chest.
He groans, his hands gripping her hips again.
"I thought I told you not to touch me," she chastises, her voice playfully stern.
"Sorry."
"Don't do it again."
"Yes, ma'am."
She slides her hand down his chest and stomach, stopping just above his belt.
He groans his disapproval.
"Patience, baby."
"How do you expect me to be patient when you're doing this?"
"Sounds like you'll have to learn," she quips with a smirk on her lips.
"Ugh." He stares deep into her eyes, his gaze intense. "You want me to beg, don't you?"
Aelita's smirk morphs into a full-fledged, devilish grin. "Maybe. That would be nice."
"Fine. Please, Lita, stop fucking around and touch me already."
She looks at him innocently. "But I have been touching you."
William narrows his eyes. "You know what I mean." His voice is low, full of lust.
"Do I? Hmm." She pretends to consider his request. "I suppose I could oblige." She leans in and kisses him, her hands roaming his body again. She reaches down and cups his erection, rubbing him through his pants, her movements slow and deliberate.
"Lita," he moans.
"Yes, baby?"
"You're fucking killing me."
"Oh, I'm well aware."
"Stop teasing."
"Uh uh uh," she chides, "who is in charge tonight?"
He just growls in disapproval as he allows his fiancée to continue.
"Exactly." She undoes his belt without letting her gaze stray from his. "Now, be a good boy and let me have my fun." She unzips his pants and pulls them off of him, getting down on her knees as she does so.
William's eyes widen, but he says nothing. Aelita wraps her hand around his cock, stroking him slowly. She gives one slow, tentative lick, causing him to close his eyes and sigh.
She smiles and takes him into her mouth, her movements slow and deliberate. She expertly alternates between licking and sucking him.
He grips the sheets. "Christ."
"Mmm," she hums, her eyes fluttering closed.
"Fuck, Lita. I'm close."
Aelita deliberately opens her eyes and watches him closely as she removes him from her mouth. "Then it would be a shame if I stopped, wouldn't it?" she says while still slowly stroking him.
William's gaze snaps back into focus, and he looks right at Aelita. "Wait."
Aelita smiles sweetly. "What?"
"Did you just say what I think you said?"
"I sure did. I bet you didn't expect me to remember that stunt you pulled after the dinner party a couple of weeks ago, but I can assure you, you're gonna pay for it."
"Christ," William says again.
"Not even He can save you now, Will," Aelita says with a chuckle before she goes back to sucking him off.
William takes a deep breath and tries to control his reactions to her ministrations, but Aelita catches onto what he's doing and simply intensifies her efforts. When it looks like he's close to the edge again, she stops.
"Fucking hell, Aelita," William mutters. "Are you trying to pay me back for every time I've edged you? Please just let me come already."
"Well, since you asked so nicely," Aelita teases. She takes him back into her mouth and she bobs her head up and down, her tongue swirling around his shaft.
Without thinking, he reaches out and grabs her hair, his fingers tangling in her soft locks.
"Mmm," she hums, her eyes fluttering closed.
"Fuck, Lita," he moans, his grip tightening. "I'm gonna come."
Aelita feels his cock twitch and she knows he's about to come. She opens her eyes but keeps her mouth on him, her tongue still swirling around his shaft. She swallows every drop, never letting her eyes leave his.
"Holy shit," he breathes, his chest heaving. "Come here."
She obliges, climbing onto his lap and sitting on one leg.
"I needed that," he says quietly but in earnest.
"Me too," she replies, her voice equally quiet. "I love being able to make you feel good."
William gives a light chuckle, then gently plays with Aelita's hair. "You're seriously amazing, you know that?"