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callixpene · 2 months ago

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my bank account is your bank account

synopsis: you didn't use his card to pay

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Zayne

He worked hard to be a cardiac surgeon just to treat your heart condition—what makes you think his money is where he draws the line? He’d just finished his second surgery today, a CABG that took 6 hours, and the first thing he sees on his phone is a text message from you.

“Hey, Zayne. Do you prefer spicy or not spicy soup? I’m at the store to buy the ingredients!”

He smiles, already imagining you waiting for him while cooking.

He replies, “Spicy is fine, I placed my card on the back of your phone. Be safe.”

Just as he placed the phone down, it beeps again from your text.

“It’s fine, I bought my card with me. And it’s just groceries, I can handle it.”

His brow furrows as he noisily types to call your phone, “I gave it to you with the intention that you’ll use it whenever you need. It doesn’t matter if it’s just groceri—”

“Okay! Okay, I’ll use it, alright? Since you insist, I’m buying these expensive lotions I’d been eyeing on.”

He sighs, “If you’re gonna buy those lotions, the least you can do is buy me those hard candy, that blueberry cheesecake we always buy, and those lollipo—”

“I’m getting you ONE pack of candies.”

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Caleb

This man would be crashing out if he can’t provide for you. He even gets upset when you don’t need his help in getting things from the top shelf. Here he was with a smug smile on his face while handing you his card,

“Use it whenever you need to, pips. Rest assured it won’t ever maxed out.”

That smirk was so irritating that you wanted to wipe it off his face.

“Mhm? Why do I need to? I get payed just fine! And it’s not like other people don’t pay for me.”

“Huh?”

God, that dumbfounded look was just so satisfying to see. Of course, with Caleb paying for whatever you need almost all his life, you weren’t gonna turn down his offer.

He flicks your forehead, “You don’t even need other people’s money. And they don’t treat you always! Just use mine and you can use it endlessly.”

He’s looking at you with his signature puppy eyes and you know you just lost.

Sighing, you take his card, “Fine, and I better not hear any complaints from you.”

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Sylus

You knew this man doesn’t care even if you spent billions of his money—he literally let you spend more than 10 million a few days after you met. It’s not like you had a problem with spending his money (you don’t); it’s just nice to tease him every now and then, even if it backfires on you most of the time.

You were in the middle of a date when you decided to mess with him.

“Sy, does it taste good?”

He hums, “It tastes quite nice. You always pick the right places, sweetie.”

You smile, “Of course! Since I’m paying, it should be worth it.”

He freezes mid-bite and places his spoon down, “Are you now? If I may say, the soup was quite salty, the pasta lacked flavor, and the tiramisu was just an abomination.”

You smack his arm, “Hey! You said it was nice!”

He smirks, “I’ll pay for it, sweetie, since it wasn’t worth it,” already reaching for his wallet.

Why do you even try?

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Rafayel

“Baby, do you think this looks nice?” You gave your phone to Rafayel so he can see the sweater that you wanted. He shrugs, “It’s cute, perfect for rainy days.” You smile, proceeding to check out the sweater, “It’s 115 dollars, it’ll be delivered by next week!” He slowly turns his head, “Next week?" “Yeah!”

He slowly walks toward you and grabs you by the shoulders, “Cutie, did you already pay for it?”

You nod, “Yeah, why? Did you want one too?”

His shoulders slumped as he dramatically flings his arm around, “What?! Since when did you pay for your things? I’m transferring that money to your card.”

You lightly punch his shoulder, “Ayel! There’s no need, I have my own money.”

He raises his eyebrow, “And? I’m still wiring you that money.”

You try to argue, but he’s already tip-tapping away on his phone.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Xavier

“Xavi, what do you want for dinner?” You climbed on the couch and laid on his lap while fumbling on your phone. He shrugs, “Anything is fine.” You poke his cheek, “I’m too lazy to cook, do you want takeout?” He ponders for a moment, “Takeout is fine, I can cook too.” He says, already standing up to head to the kitchen when you quickly sit up, “Takeout it is!”

“How much is it?” He grabs your hand to play with the sleeves of your sweater. “It’s fine, I already payed for it!” His hand stops, and he slowly looks at you. His brows furrow and his lips form into a pout, without saying anything, he smooshes your face in his hands. “Don’t.”

“Don’t what, Xavi?”

He smiles. “Don’t do that again."

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

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callixpene · 2 months ago

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TMI/TID/TDA/TEC/TLH Extras

Edited in October 2024: Cassie has compiled a lot of the bonus content in different PDFs, you can find them here, but please be aware that you have to be a newsletter subscriber to have access to these files.

This list is still a WIP, but I’m doing my best to update everything! Since some content is exclusive and even Cassie hasn’t shared it yet, I also won’t share it here. I’ve still listed it and I’m sure you’ll find it elsewhere. :)

The Mortal Instruments

City of Bones (27 March 2007)

Not For Humans (crossover between Holly Black’s Modern Faerie Tale series and The Shadowhunter Chronicles, set before City of Bones)

Awake (Jace meets Clary for the first time from Isabelle’s POV): part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Original prologue from Jace’s POV

Magnus’s Vow

Kissed: Magnus and Alec’s First Kiss

When Midnight Comes: Jace’s point of view of his first kiss with Clary: Part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Official Clave files (City of Bones 10th anniversary edition): teaser

City of Ashes (25 March 2008)

Because It Is Bitter: The Seelie Court kiss from Jace’s POV: Part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Deleted scene: Isabelle defends Jace

Deleted scene: Magnus explains the faerie world

City of Glass (24 March 2009)

Read the original first chapter of City of Glass

Chapter 2: The Demon Towers of Alicante*

Jace kisses Alec*

Chapter 7: Where Angels fear to tread*

Chapter 9: This guilty Blood*

Chapter 13: Where There Is Sorrow*

Manor scene: Jace’s POV: Part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Jace’s letter to Clary

Chapter 20: Weighed in the Balance*

Jocelyn’s story

* Cut, deleted or changed

City of Fallen Angels (5 April 2011)

A story told in postcards

City of Lost Souls (8 May 2012)

A Question of Power

The Act of Falling

A Dark Transformation: Becoming Sebastian

Stephen’s letter to Jace

Deleted Malec scene

Deleted Jace scene

Deleted or cut scenes (including the cut DSCS)

City of Heavenly Fire (27 May 2014)

Inside jacket artwork

Uncut Clary and Jace cave scene

Deleted scene/comic: Magnus sends Emma and the Blackthorns back to Los Angeles

Comic strip scene “The Wedding” (exclusive to the UK edition)

Cut scene: Jonathan’s death

Letter from Faerie to Arthur Blackthorn

The Infernal Devices: Bonus content inside Life is a Book (PDF)

Clockwork Angel (31 August 2010)

On the Bridge: Will and Jem before Clockwork Angel: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Of Loss: Will’s perspective on his kiss with Tessa: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Why Will Hates Ducks: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Deleted scenes (Jem & Tessa on Blackfriars Bridge, Nate & Tessa, Will & Tessa): Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Tessa’s letter to Nate (exclusive to Illumicrate’s Clockwork Angel: 10th Anniversary Edition): Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Clockwork Prince (6 December 2012)

Will’s letter to his parents: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Burning Bright: Jem’s meeting with Tessa from his viewpoint: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Will’s love letter to Tessa (can also be read in Clockwork Princess)

An Offering of Moonlight: Jem’s Perspective on “Fierce Midnight”: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Deleted scenes: The Whole of It (Will tells Jem about his curse), Tessa and Jem: Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Clockwork Princess (19 March 2013)

Cut scene: Will and Jem

‘Will’s love letter to Tessa’

Carstairs, Herondale and Lightwood family tree (1831-2007), proceed with caution, because SPOILER this family tree is not correct

After the Bridge (Tessa & Jem with art by Cassandra Jean –> City of Heavenly Fire spoilers)

Will and Tessa comic from Cassandra Jean and Cassie

The Dark Artifices

Set before the books

Stars to Burn (Mark & Kieran, with art)

Lady Midnight (8 March 2016)

A Long Conversation (short story in some first editions of Lady Midnight, now an ebook): Part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Cut scene: Julian

Unedited beach scene

Deleted scene: Emma and Cameron

Deleted scene: Emma, the Blackthorns and the Ashdowns

Deleted scene: Emma and the Blackthorns

Deleted scene: Emma, Clary and Church

Lord of Shadows (23 May 2017)

Cottage scene (Emma & Julian, with art)

Our Waking Souls (canon online short story about Clary & Jace, with art)

Deleted Jemma scene (exclusive to UK 5th anniversary edition)

Queen of Air and Darkness (4 December 2018)

Deleted prologue: pending

Cut Blackstairs scene (unedited)

Deleted Jemma scene

A Love That Never Tires (short story in some first editions of Queen of Air and Darkness, sequel to A Long Conversation): Part of We Jace You A Clary Christmas (PDF)

Kit’s letter to Jace (exclusive to UK 5th anniversary edition): teaser

The Eldest Curses

The Red Scrolls of Magic (9 April 2019)

Magnus’s letter to Alec (from City of Heavenly Fire, formerly exclusive content for Illumicrate & Good Choice Reading)

How Magnus met Catarina: Now a flashback scene in The Lost Book of the White

Deleted snippet (back then the book titles were different)

The Lost Book of The White (1 September 2020)

Edited scene from beginning of the book

In Dreams Begin (Jem and Tessa’s wedding)

Simon’s graduation party (exclusive to Waterstones, deleted scene): A Tale of Brunch (PDF)

The Last Hours

Set before the books

Chain of Gold Extra Content (flash fiction): Bonus content inside The Penultimate Hours (PDF)

The Devil Tavern

Days Past: Lucie and Cordelia

Days Past: Christopher

Cirenworth Hall

The City of Bones

Lucie and Ghosts

A Lightwood Christmas Carol, Part 1

A Lightwood Christmas Carol, Part 2

The Anniversary Party, Part 1

The Anniversary Party, Part 2

Chain of Gold (3 March 2020)

Deleted scene: Matthew

Wedding Invitation (exclusive to Good Choice Reading): Part of Life is a Book (PDF)

Fairy Tale of London: part of Life is a Book (PDF) and also Fairy Tale of London (PDF). You can see artwork from the short story here.

Lucie’s letter to Cordelia (exclusive to LitJoy Crate)

Ragnor’s letter to Magnus (exclusive to Waterstones rune edition)

The Whispering Room from James’s POV with art by Cassandra Jean

Chain of Iron (2 March 2021)

One Must Always Be Careful of Books (exclusive to first editions)

Fever (exclusive to Waterstones )

Matthew’s letter to James (exclusive to LitJoy Crate)

Chain of Thorns (31 January 2023)

Aught But Death (Lucie and Cordelia become parabatai): Aught But Death (PDF)

Matthew writes to James (exclusive to Waterstones)

Jesse writes to Lucie (exclusive to LitJoy Crate)

Deleted snippets: pending

Unidentified snippets

The bonus content is put under the book titles where you can find the extras in, e.g. The Act of Falling is set in City of Fallen Angels but you can find it in City of Lost Souls.

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callixpene · 2 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 6: CALEB & LILIAN - FINALE

Note: Please read Parts 1-5 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-6

CALEB & LILIAN - PART 6: FINALE

Caleb X OC

Set in Future Timeline. All Love Interests have no memories of their past lives. All of the MCs(5 Sisters) all have memories of their past lives. Very persistent LIs. Avoidant MCs. Love at first sight. Soulmates.

Genre: Fluff

Caleb leaned back in the leather armchair in the living room of his sleek, modern home in Skyhaven, running a hand through his hair as he stared at the ceiling. His usually neat house felt smaller tonight, the weight of his own nerves pressing in on him.

Across from him, sprawled lazily on the couch, Sylus toyed with a whiskey glass, swirling the amber liquid like he didn’t have a care in the world.

Zayne sat more properly in the armchair opposite Caleb, ankle crossed neatly over his knee, a quiet smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.

"So...." Sylus drawled, setting the glass down with a soft clink, "You're finally pulling the trigger."

Zayne's mouth twitched. "About time."

Caleb shot them both a look. "You two aren't helping."

Zayne crossed his arms. "Both Sylus and I are engaged. I heard from Jasmine that Rafayel and Xavier are engaged, too. We already suceeded, Caleb."

Sylus chuckled lowly. "We're just basking in the superiority."

Caleb groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "I’m serious. I want it to be right. I want it to be memorable for her. Not just some grand show - something Lilian will actually love."

Zayne leaned forward a little, resting his elbows on his knees. His voice softened, the teasing slipping away. "Then you already know the answer."

Caleb frowned. "What do you mean?"

"You're not planning a proposal for everyone else," Zayne said calmly. "You're planning it for her. Focus on what makes Lilian feel loved. Safe. Seen."

Sylus tapped a finger against the glass thoughtfully. "She's not the type for a glitter cannon or a flash mob."

"No," Caleb agreed immediately. "She'd hate that."

"Good." Sylus pointed at him, grinning. "See? You know her."

Zayne nodded once, approving. "What has she always trusted you with?"

Caleb thought for a long moment. Flying. Food. Quiet moments no one else bothered to notice.

He exhaled slowly, realization blooming inside him.

"I want to take her out flying, on my own plane," Caleb said finally, voice low but firm. "Make it unforgettable. Special."

Sylus grinned, leaning back lazily. "Now you're talking."

"And I don't want to just ask her," Caleb added. "I want it to feel like... like everything we've built together. Like she’s part of the adventure, not just a prize at the end."

Zayne smiled, small but sincere. "Then show her. Show her she's the reason you fly at all."

Caleb nodded, determination settling in his chest.

He would do it right.

For her.

Sylus clapped him on the shoulder hard enough to make Caleb jolt. "She's already halfway yours."

"And the rest of her?" Caleb asked quietly.

Zayne’s expression warmed. "You already have that too. She just doesn't know it yet."

Caleb smiled slowly, heart steadying in his chest.

Yeah.

He could do this.

He would.

*****

The city lights blurred past the windows as Caleb drove, one hand steady on the wheel, the other reaching over to gently lace his fingers through Lilian’s.

She glanced at him, curious. "Where are we going?"

"You’ll see Pipsqueak..." Caleb said, voice warm.

She narrowed her eyes suspiciously but didn’t pull away. If anything, her hand squeezed his tighter.

When they pulled up to the private gates of Nexus Innovations’ executive airport, Lilian’s brows knit together.

"Caleb..." she said slowly. "Why are we at the hangars?"

He just smiled, hopping out and jogging around to her side of the car to open her door.

"Trust me?"

She sighed, half-exasperated, half-affectionate. "I always do."

The words hit him harder than he let show.

He tucked her hand into his arm and led her across the tarmac.

The night air was cool and crisp, smelling faintly of jet fuel and the ocean breeze sweeping in from the bay.

Far ahead, tucked away in the glow of the runway lights, one small plane stood ready - sleek, polished, with Caleb’s personal flight markings gleaming under the stars.

Lilian’s steps slowed. "Is that... your plane?"

"Yeah," Caleb said, glancing at her with a soft grin. "Figured if I was gonna steal you forever, I should at least do it in style."

Her cheeks flushed, but she smiled despite herself.

He helped her climb aboard, steadying her with a hand at her waist - a touch so familiar now, yet still enough to make her heart race.

Inside, the cockpit was simple and clean. Two seats, side by side.

Their seats.

Caleb pulled a small headset down for her, adjusting it carefully over her ears.

"You’re really going to fly us somewhere right now?" Lilian asked, half in disbelief, half laughing.

"Not far," he said, winking. "Just high enough."

Her brow furrowed in confusion.

Caleb settled into the pilot seat, his fingers moving quickly, competently, across the controls. The hum of the engine vibrated under their feet, alive and ready.

As they taxied toward the open runway, Caleb glanced over at her - and saw the exact moment her face softened.

This was his element. And he was sharing it with her.

"You ready?" he asked.

Lilian smiled faintly, heart thundering. "Always."

With a low roar, the small plane lifted into the night sky, climbing higher and higher, stars sprawling endlessly above them.

And then,as they leveled out over the glittering coastline...

Caleb flipped a small, inconspicuous switch near his seat.

From the back of the plane, a thin, white stream of smoke began to pour, trailing through the sky.

Lilian gasped softly, craning her neck to the side window.

Slowly, carefully, Caleb guided the plane into wide, graceful loops - spelling out words against the canvas of stars.

First a W.

Then an I.

Another L.

Another L...

Her hands flew to her mouth as realization dawned.

"Caleb," she whispered, tears already threatening.

He didn’t answer. Not yet.

Instead, as the words "WILL YOU MARRY ME?" painted themselves across the night sky, Caleb throttled back gently, steering them into a slow glide.

He landed the plane with careful ease.

He unbuckled quickly, turned toward her - and without hesitation, he dropped to one knee in the cramped little cockpit space.

"Lilian Kingsley," he said, voice rough and shaking with feeling,

"You are my everything.

The reason I fly.

The reason I breathe.

You made me want more out of life than I ever thought I deserved.

And if you’ll let me...

I want to spend every single day making sure you know just how loved you are."

He pulled out a small, velvet box.

Inside gleamed a diamond ring - delicate, brilliant, the band shaped subtly like a pair of winged accents curling together.

A ring with a plane engraved.

Her ring.

Lilian’s hands trembled as she stared at him, at the ring, at the sky outside.

Tears streamed down her cheeks.

"You idiot...." she choked, laughing through her tears. "You crazy, wonderful idiot...."

Caleb smiled crookedly, heart in his throat.

"Is that a yes, Pipsqueak?"

She launched herself at him, nearly knocking him over, sobbing and laughing all at once.

"Yes!" she cried. "Of course it’s yes!"

He caught her easily, cradling her against him, kissing her fiercely - her hair, her forehead, her lips - like he couldn’t get close enough fast enough.

Up above, the sky blazed with their promise.

And somewhere around them, some of Nexus Innovations’ staff - who had trickled outside, alerted by the aerial display - burst into spontaneous applause.

Caleb didn’t even notice.

All he cared about was the woman in his arms, the feel of her laughing against him, the sound of her whispering over and over into his neck:

"Thank you... thank you for always seeing me... for always loving me. For always doing so much for me. I swear to do the same for you for the rest of my life..."

He kissed her again, lifting her effortlessly into his arms and out of the plane, spinning her once with sheer, giddy joy in the hangar.

"You’re stuck with me now," he murmured, grinning against her lips.

She smiled through her tears, brushing her forehead against his.

"Good," Lilian whispered. "Because I don’t ever want to be anywhere else."

*****

Lilian still hadn’t stopped smiling.

As Caleb led her out of the hangar, she caught sight of the small crowd that had gathered near them - Nexus Innovations’ staff, clapping and cheering, some even whistling when Caleb carried Lilian effortlessly as they walked off.

He carried her the last few steps, ignoring her protests with a low laugh against her temple.

"Let me spoil you for once," he murmured.

Inside Caleb's executive lounge near the hangar, he set her down carefully onto one of the plush couches.

Lilian blinked at the sudden warmth of the cozy room - the low hum of the heater, the rich scent of fresh coffee someone had thoughtfully brewed.

"Stay right there," Caleb said firmly, pressing a kiss to her forehead. "No moving."

She opened her mouth to argue but caught the glint in his eye - stubborn, playful, protective - and sank back with a soft laugh.

He disappeared into the small kitchen attached to the lounge, sleeves pushed up, moving easily through the cabinets.

A few minutes later, he returned with a steaming plate - a makeshift meal of buttery scrambled eggs, toasted croissants he’d found in the mini-fridge, and fresh berries arranged neatly on the side.

Lilian stared at it, then at him.

"You cooked?" she said, half-laughing, half-incredulous.

Caleb knelt in front of her, balancing the plate carefully on his knee.

"Made with these hands," he said solemnly, wiggling his fingers at her. "Michelin star pending."

Lilian giggled and picked up a croissant, taking a bite, then groaned.

"This is illegal," she mumbled through the mouthful. "You’re not allowed to be good at everything."

He just watched her, a soft, boyish grin tugging at his mouth.

As she ate, he pulled a small travel-sized brush from his jacket - one he always carried for her, knowing how tangled her hair got when they traveled.

Without a word, Caleb moved behind her, settling onto the couch, gently gathering her long hair into his hands.

The first slow, careful strokes of the brush through her hair made Lilian go still.

"You don’t have to," she whispered.

"I want to," he murmured back, voice low. "Always."

He brushed her hair slowly, methodically, like it was something sacred.

Untangling every knot with patient fingers, smoothing it down over her shoulders until it gleamed under the soft lighting.

Every so often, he leaned forward to kiss the top of her head, murmuring little things into her hair:

"You’re so beautiful."

"I still can’t believe you said yes."

"I’m gonna take care of you for the rest of my life, Lil."

And Lilian just sat there, blinking back fresh tears, feeling absolutely, utterly loved.

When he finally set the brush aside, he wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulling her back against his chest.

They stayed like that for a long time, the world outside forgotten, the hum of the heater and the quiet beat of their hearts filling the room.

Finally, Caleb whispered against her ear, "You tired, Pipsqueak?"

She nodded sleepily.

"Good," he said, tightening his arms around her. "Because I’m not letting you go tonight."

"You’re clingy," she teased, smiling lazily.

"And you’re mine." he whispered back.

For once, Lilian didn’t tease him.

She simply turned in his arms, tucked her head under his chin, and closed her eyes - knowing, without a doubt, she was exactly where she was always meant to be.

*****

*A Few Days Later*

The morning light crept through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Caleb’s house, gilding the sleek surfaces and plush furnishings in soft gold.

On the oversized bed, Lilian stirred under the covers, blinking blearily as she became aware of two things at once:

First, the smell of something delicious wafting from downstairs.

Second, the empty space beside her.

She sat up, rubbing at her eyes.

"Caleb?" she called, voice raspy with sleep.

A moment later, he appeared in the doorway - wearing nothing but a plain white T-shirt and a pair of soft grey sweatpants, barefoot, hair deliciously messy.

He was holding a tray.

"Good morning, future wife," he teased, grinning as he crossed the room.

Lilian’s cheeks flamed at the words.

"Hmph" she muttered, hiding under the covers.

"I know you’re hungry," Caleb said smugly, sitting beside her and pulling the covers back with ruthless affection. "Come on, Pipsqueak. Eat before I have to feed you like a baby bird."

"You wouldn't dare," she gasped, scandalized.

He winked.

"Try me."

Laughing, Lilian sat up properly, and then froze when she saw the tray.

There were two perfect apple tarts on it, still warm and golden.

A neat omelette shaped like a little heart.

And a mug of coffee, just the way she liked it - extra cream, barely any sugar.

"You made me tarts?" she said, voice wobbling slightly.

"I'll make you a thousand," Caleb said simply, reaching up to tuck her hair behind her ear. "Anything you want, Lil. Always."

Her throat tightened painfully, emotion bubbling up before she could stop it.

She reached for the tart, breaking off a piece - and then impulsively held it up to Caleb’s lips.

He accepted it with a mock-serious look, pretending to savor it like a gourmet critic.

"Hmm," he said thoughtfully. "Not bad. Could use more love."

Lilian snorted, nearly choking on her coffee.

"You’re such a sap," she laughed.

He only shrugged, looking utterly handsome.

"I like being a sap. Especially for you."

She shook her head, cheeks hurting from smiling.

"You know," she said, nibbling at the tart, "most men wouldn't be caught dead brushing their fiancee’s hair, cooking her breakfast, and baking her desserts."

Caleb leaned in, brushing a crumb from the corner of her mouth with his thumb - his touch achingly gentle.

"I’m not most men," he murmured.

And of course Lilian knew that. After all, he was like this is their past life too - before things ended tragically.

She shook her head. That doesn't matter anymore.

Caleb was here now - no horrid Toring Chip implanted in his brain.

This was her Caleb.

He pulled her closer until she was straddling his lap, her tiny frame curled against his chest.

He kissed her forehead, her nose, her cheeks - tiny, worshipping kisses - making her giggle helplessly between the soft brushes of his mouth.

"Caleb," she protested breathlessly, "you're smothering me...."

"Get used to it," he murmured against her skin. "You married a stage-five clinger, Pipsqueak."

"You proposed two days ago," she huffed. "You can’t call yourself my husband yet."

He gave her a devastatingly lazy grin, brushing his nose against hers.

"Technicality."

And when he kissed her again, slow, deep, thorough - Lilian thought she could stay in this moment forever.

The tray clattered somewhere beside them, abandoned, as Caleb wrapped his arms around her and rolled her gently onto the bed.

Food forgotten.

World forgotten.

Only the two of them, in their own small, perfect universe.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Zayne and Jasmine will be next🩺 🍰

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callixpene · 2 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 6: RAFAYEL & NERISSA - FINALE

Note: Please read Parts 1-5 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-6

RAFAYEL & NERISSA - PART 6: FINALE

RAFAYEL X OC

Genre: Fluff

It had been a week since Rafayel had brought Nerissa back to Isla Nerissa, the island he’d bought for her, as a gift to show her how serious he was.

The journey was simple, but the air around them was thick with anticipation. Nerissa, ever the skeptic, was unaware of his plans, caught up in their usual banter. But Rafayel could feel it: the change, the shift in the air. Everything felt… right.

As they stepped off the boat, Rafayel took her hand, his thumb brushing ever so gently over her soft skin. A flutter of nerves stirred in his chest, but he suppressed it, knowing this moment was everything he’d been building up to. No grand gestures. Just the two of them, standing on the edge of something precious, something beautiful.

Nerissa glanced around, her lips curving into a knowing smirk. “Back here again? Rafayel, if this is another one of your ‘surprise’ romantic setups, I might just toss you back into the ocean.”

Rafayel chuckled, his heart racing as he led her through the soft sand, their footsteps leaving brief imprints in the moonlit path. “I promise, no more....surprises,” he said, his voice light with playfulness. “This time, it’s different. I’m just showing you something.”

“Uh-huh, sure,” she teased, arching an eyebrow. “Should I be worried?”

“Maybe,” he replied, a grin playing on his lips as he tightened his hold on her hand.

Nerissa smirked, amusement dancing in her eyes. “You know, I could’ve sworn you said you wouldn't suddenly bring me back here unless I asked you to. Guess your word means nothing?”

“It means everything,” Rafayel said, his voice dipping lower, quieter. “Except when it comes to you. With you, I’ll break all the rules.”

Nerissa paused for a bit as if she recalled something, then she simply laughed, rolling her eyes. “I think you just like being dramatic. You like all the theatrics, don't you?”

“And you’re impossible to resist,” Rafayel shot back, the playful tension between them making his heart race even faster.

They reached the coral pavilion nestled beneath towering trees, the moonlight filtering through the leaves, casting a soft glow on the ground. The world around them felt still, held in a breathless pause, as the gentle sound of the waves blended with the rustling of the leaves.

Rafayel turned to face her, his heart pounding in his chest.

This moment needed to be everything he’d planned. But more than that, it needed to show Nerissa that this wasn’t just a whim ....this was his truth. This was everything.

“I’ve brought you here before, Nerissa,” he began, his voice steady but thick with emotion. “But not like this.” He paused, taking in a breath, the weight of his words hanging in the air. “This island… it’s not just a place. It’s a part of me. And I want it to be part of you too....”

Nerissa’s teasing smile faltered, the playful spark in her eyes dimming just a little as she studied his face. “What are you getting at, Rafayel?”

He took another deep breath, the words hanging heavy on his tongue. There was no turning back now. “I know you don’t make it easy for anyone, and that’s one of the things I love about you. But I’m not asking you to make it easy for me. I’m asking you to trust me.”

Her gaze softened, the playfulness in her eyes replaced with something deeper, something more vulnerable. She folded her arms, leaning slightly against a stone pillar. “Trust you? You’re gonna have to do more than throw a fancy island at me to earn that.”

He chuckled softly, closing the distance between them. “I know. And I’m not expecting you to just hand over your heart. But what I am asking for… is a chance. A chance to spend the rest of my life showing you that I’m not going anywhere. That this,” he gestured around them, “this is only the start.”

Nerissa tilted her head, narrowing her eyes, preparing for the sharp retort she was known for. But this time, she paused. “Rafayel… are you trying to say something?”

“I...am,” he replied, his voice low, raw in a way that felt unfamiliar to him. “I love you, Nerissa. And I want to be with you, forever. I know we’ve had our fun this past week, our little banters, and we’ll have more. But I’d rather face it all with you than anyone else...."

He looked away from her, expression unreadable.

Then, he took both of her hands in his and looked her in the eye.

"Nerissa....will you marry me?”

The silence that followed was thick, hanging in the air like the calm before a storm. Rafayel watched her, the moonlight casting soft shadows across her face, his heart hammering in his chest as he waited for her answer.

Nerissa didn’t speak immediately. Instead, she stepped forward, giving him a playful slap on the arm, her expression teasing but tinged with something else. “You’re really crazy, you know that?” she said, her voice a mix of affection and mock frustration.

“Hey! I was serious,” he protested, pouting just enough for her to see the genuine emotion behind his usual bravado.

“Oh, I know you were,” Nerissa replied knowingly, her voice softening with affection as she regarded him. Her smile stretched, teasing but warm. “You just couldn’t help yourself, could you?” She smiled fondly at him.

Her eyes met his, and in that moment, Rafayel realized she wasn’t teasing anymore. This was real. This was her. And this moment - Nerissa.....His Nerissa - was everything.

“And you?” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “Are you going to throw me in the ocean or say yes?”

Nerissa’s gaze softened, a warmth spreading in her eyes. She stepped closer, her hand cupping his face as she stared into his eyes. “I’m not going anywhere, Rafayel. Not now. Not ever.”

With those words, the weight in Rafayel’s chest lifted, and for the first time in what felt like forever, he felt more certain than ever before.

She was his.

And he was hers.

He couldn’t contain the grin that spread across his face, the relief and joy pouring out of him in one glorious, uncontrollable rush. “You really mean that?” he asked, blinking as if struck speechless, his gaze softening with disbelief.

Nerissa rolled her eyes, but the tenderness in her smile couldn’t be hidden. “What do you think, Rafayel? If I wanted to bail, I would’ve done it already.” She placed her hands on her hips, her voice teasing but full of warmth. “I might give you hell, but I’m not stupid enough to walk away from the best thing I’ve ever had.”

Rafayel chuckled, taking a step closer to her, his heart soaring with every beat. “Good. Because I’m not going anywhere either.” He took her hand, pulling her gently toward him. “And you know I’m not great with words.....but I need you to understand how much I love you. It’s beyond anything I ever expected.”

His thumb traced the back of her hand, soft and lingering, before he dropped to one knee. Nerissa’s breath caught in her throat, her eyes wide with surprise. Despite their teasing, despite their sarcasm, this moment was real, raw, and it hit her like a wave.

Rafayel, her Rafayel, the man who’d given her an island, who had chosen her instead of Lemuria, his homeland in a past life, who’d been there for her in ways no one else ever had during her darkest times in those past lives, was kneeling before her, offering his heart.

Again.

“Rafayel…” Her voice trembled, but there was no hiding the emotion behind it.

He pulled out a gold ring, set with a blue diamond that sparkled under the moonlight, reflecting the ocean’s depths - mysterious, endless, and unyielding. “I made this, myself. I don’t need to promise you the world, Nerissa,” he said, his voice steady despite the storm inside. “You already have it.” He held her gaze, unwavering. “I just want to give you my heart. Forever. So, will you marry me?”

The breeze played with her hair, the waves rising and falling like a heartbeat in the background. Nerissa looked down at the ring, then back up at him, her heart swelling with emotions she could no longer hold back. Her eyes shimmered with the trust they’d built, and with a slow, steady smile, she whispered, “Yes, Rafayel. I’ll marry you.”

The words hung in the air, a weight and a promise that made the world around them feel like it ceased to exist. No more holding back. No sarcasm. Just them - two souls, intertwined by fate, bound by love.

Rafayel’s grin spread across his face, not cocky, not in his usual way, but soft - filled with the certainty of everything they’d just shared. “You’re sure?” he asked, voice low and tender, a laugh escaping him despite the emotion he felt. “No takebacks?”

Nerissa laughed, her hand caressing his cheek. “I was gonna make you sweat it out, but I figured… you’ve suffered enough already.”

She leaned down, cupping his face in both hands, and kissed him deeply. It wasn’t just a kiss - it was a bond, a promise, a moment that sealed everything between them. Rafayel felt as if the entire ocean could have swallowed them whole, and he wouldn’t have cared, because Nerissa was his, and he was hers.

When they finally pulled apart, Rafayel’s hands stayed on her waist, unwilling to let go. He smiled up at her, voice thick with emotion, though still carrying that playful edge. “Well, now you’re stuck with me forever. No turning back now, Cutie.”

Nerissa grinned down at him, her arms wrapping around his neck. “Like I’d want to turn back. You’re stuck with me, too.”

Rafayel’s heart soared, and for the first time in his life, he didn’t care how silly he looked when he pulled her tightly against him, holding her as if the world might collapse if he didn’t. It wasn’t about the island or the ring. It was about her. It was about them.

“Forever,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “I’ll spend every day proving it to you. Every single day.”

Nerissa smiled, her eyes warm and filled with the same quiet certainty. “I know you will, Rafayel,” she whispered back, her voice the softest promise of all.

“And I’m not going anywhere, either.”

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Caleb and Lilian will be next ✈️ 🍎

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callixpene · 2 months ago

Text

L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 6: SYLUS & NYX - FINALE

Note: Please read Parts 1-5 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-6

SYLUS & NYX - PART 6: FINALE

Sylus X OC

Genre: Fluff

The private rooftop garden Sylus had reserved glittered under elegant, scarlet fairy lights and the air smelled like the evening primroses that surrounded it.

No waiters hovered, and no strangers lurked.

Just an intimate table for two beneath a canopy of stars, Linkon's cityscape sprawled out below them like a conquered kingdom.

Sylus was adjusting the cuffs of his black dress shirt, and he glanced towards the entrance for the fifth time tonight.

His heart should not be hammering this hard for a woman who had practically threatened to gut him if he so much as used a pet name.

What was wrong with 'Kitten' anyway? They were adorable, and feisty. Sylus thought it suited her rather well.

The door opened and cut his train of thoughts.

The world stopped.

Nyx stepped into view, and Sylus nearly forgot how breathing worked.

A shining, fitted black dress clung to every lethal curve, delicate silver chains glinting at her throat. Her hair fell in loose, deliberate waves, framing a face too dangerous for heaven and too beautiful for hell.

She was temptation made flesh.

And she knew it.

Sylus kept his expression casual, though internally, it was carnage.

Gods, help him.

"You’re early," she said, arching a brow as she approached.

"You’re stunning," he answered, because anything less would have been blasphemy.

Nyx smiled tightly, clearly prepared for battle.

He held out her chair wordlessly, and after a pause, she accepted, settling into it with the fluid grace of a panther.

Sylus took his seat across from her, schooling his features into something calm.

"Wine?" he offered, lifting the bottle.

She gave a lazy nod, watching him like a cat watched a mouse.

Sylus poured her a glass, then one for himself, every movement deliberate, controlled - because if he let himself slip for even a second, he’d be across the table, devouring her.

And that wouldn’t do.

Not yet.

Nyx took a sip, eyes never leaving his face.

"Are you planning to wine and dine me into submission?"

"Sweetie," he drawled, ignoring her warning glare, "If you think I could ever dominate you with food and alcohol, you’re gravely underestimating yourself."

A reluctant flicker of amusement crossed her face.

"At least you're self-aware." She smirked.

Sylus leaned back, swirling his wine lazily.

"I'm aware of a lot of things. For instance-" he let his gaze sweep her slowly, shamelessly "-how goddamn difficult it's going to be to make it through this dinner without committing several felonies."

Nyx snorted, then coughed, startled at her own reaction.

"You’re insufferable."

"And yet," Sylus said lightly, "here you are."

She narrowed her eyes.

"Temporary insanity."

"Sure, Sweetie," he teased.

He caught the flicker of warning in her eyes, but this time she let it slide.

A small victory.

The courses came and went: light dishes Sylus had personally approved to keep the evening from feeling heavy or overwhelming.

Conversation circled safe topics at first: mutual acquaintances, Nexus gossip, trivial complaints about the city’s new security policies.

But every glance, every brush of fingers when a glass was passed, was soaked in a simmering heat neither could ignore.

And Gods, it was killing Sylus.

He watched her lips move as she spoke-sharp, clever words tumbling from that beautiful mouth-and all he could think about was tasting them.

Claiming them.

Claiming her.

His hands itched where they rested on the table, nails digging crescents into his palms.

Stay cool. Stay collected. Stay-

Nyx leaned forward slightly, and the neckline of her dress dipped just enough to expose a sliver more of skin.

Sylus' fists clenched under the table so hard he felt skin split.

Pain was good.

Pain kept him from ruining everything.

Nyx noticed, of course.

Of course she did.

A slow, wicked smile curved her lips.

"Something wrong, Sylus?" she purred, voice the embodiment of sin.

He inhaled sharply through his nose, forcing a grin.

"Not at all, Sweetie. Just... appreciating the view."

"You’re shameless."

"With you?" He lifted his glass in mock salute. "Absolutely."

For a heartbeat, real warmth flickered in her gaze.

And something else.

Something fragile.

She masked it quickly, straightening.

"I don't....like what's happening," she said bluntly.

"Then why are you here?"

Sylus set down his wine and leaned in, his voice dropping to a low, steady hum.

"Because when I'm with you, Sweetie, I feel like I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be."

Her breath hitched.

Tiny. Almost imperceptible.

But it was there.

He didn’t push.

He just let the truth of it settle between them like gravity.

Nyx fiddled with the stem of her glass, gaze darting away for the first time that evening.

Vulnerability cracked her armor.

And it was beautiful.

"You don’t know-," she said voice low, but then she bit her tongue. She avoided his gaze.

"I think know and understand enough," Sylus replied, just as quietly. "Enough to want more."

Nyx shook her head, a brittle laugh slipping out.

"You’re insane."

He smiled faintly. "Maybe. But at least I’m insane for the right woman."

Silence stretched between them.....thick, charged, full of everything unsaid.

Nyx leaned back, feigning nonchalance.

"You’re really bad at this, you know."

"Bad at what?" Sylus asked, cocking his head.

"This." She gestured between them, her bracelets catching the light. "Romantic crap. Sappy declarations. Fairytale endings."

Sylus' eyes softened.

"I’m not trying to give you a fairytale, Sweetie. I’m trying to give you something real."

Something flickered in her gaze. Panic. Hope. Longing.

She masked it with a smirk.

"And what if I don't want real?"

"You do," he said simply.

Her lips parted - whether in protest or admission, Sylus couldn’t tell.

He pressed, voice soft but unyielding:

"When was the last time someone asked you to just... exist? No armor. No walls. Just you?"

Her throat bobbed as she swallowed.

"I don't know how to do that...not anymore," she said, so quietly it almost hurt to hear.

"Then let me teach you." Sylus said, voice rough with emotion. "Let’s figure it out together."

Nyx stared at him, defenses crumbling in slow, painful inches.

"You’re serious," she whispered.

"As a goddamn heart attack."

For a long, breathless moment, she said nothing.

Then, finally, slowly, she leaned forward, resting her arms on the table, gaze locked to his.

"You're playing a dangerous game, Sylus."

He smiled....soft, real.

"I’ve never been afraid of danger. Especially not when it looks like you."

Another silence, this one different.

Not heavy, or wary. But hopeful.

Their hands found each other across the table. Tentative and searching....Fitting together.

Nyx’s fingers were cool, Sylus’ calloused and warm.

When their skin touched, it was like coming home.

Nyx exhaled shakily.

"You’re going to ruin me." She avoided his gaze again and stared into the distance, as if recalling memories from a past life.

Sylus smiled, thumb brushing the back of her hand.

"No, Sweetie," he said. "I’m going to love you."

And just like that, the dam broke.

Nyx surged up from her seat - and Sylus met her halfway across the table, their mouths crashing together in a kiss so raw, so hungry, it stole the very breath from his lungs.

Heat exploded between them, white-hot and reckless.

Sylus groaned low in his throat, his hands finding her waist, anchoring her to him.

Nyx’s nails scraped into his shoulders, dragging him closer, daring him to lose control.

He wanted to.

Gods, he wanted to.

But not yet.

Not tonight.

Tonight was for building, not breaking.

Still, when she whimpered softly against his mouth, Sylus very nearly lost every shred of restraint he'd fought to keep.

He pulled back slightly, panting, forehead resting against hers.

"Sweetie," he rasped, "if you keep looking at me like that, I’m going to do something we’ll both regret."

Nyx smirked, breathless and wrecked.

"Who says I’d regret it?"

Sylus laughed hoarsely, pressing a reverent kiss to her temple.

"Because you deserve more than a quick fumble in the middle of a rooftop garden."

She stiffened slightly - and Sylus immediately regretted how easily she'd braced, expecting rejection.

He cupped her cheek, forcing her to meet his eyes.

"You deserve everything, Sweetie."

And tonight, he was going to prove it.

Patiently.

Sylus drew her back down to their table, hands never leaving her.

He pulled her chair close beside his, wrapping his arm around the back of it - around her - and for once, Nyx didn’t resist the closeness.

The city glittered below them. A thousand golden lights blinking like stars fallen to earth.

Sylus traced lazy, featherlight circles against her spine, and slowly, Nyx’s rigid posture softened against him.

"You don't have to keep pushing me away, Sweetie," he murmured.

She closed her eyes briefly, hiding a flicker of fear.

"I'm afraid...of losing myself to this again. I don't want to get hurt again..."

Sylus didn't pry. If someone broke her heart before, that person didn't matter anymore. He was the only one she needs now. "The let me show you something different."

She smiled a broken, brittle smile. "You're so damn persistent, Sylus."

"And youre damn feisty," he teased, nudging her shoulder with his. "But look at me. Still here."

Nyx turned her face towards him-really looked at him-and what she saw terrified her.

He wasn’t just infatuated.

He loved her.

Deeply.

Again.

A different lifetime and yet, their souls found each other again. As they always have.

The wicked sorceress and her fearsome dragon....

Her stubborn, persistent, stuck-up dragon...

Gods help her...

The facade she had on was breaking down.

After all, she loved him too. She always did.

"This scares me," she admitted, so quietly he almost missed.

Sylus’s breath caught. He leaned in, brushing the lightest kiss to the corner of her mouth.

"This scares me too, Sweetie," he whispered against her skin. "But it's the kind of fear that makes me want to run towards you, not away."

Nyx let out a shaky breath.

"You're too good at this," she said.

"I'm just being honest."

"Stop," she said, half-laughing, half-pleading.

"Never," he said, smiling against her cheek. "You deserve every word."

For a moment, she struggled with herself. Wrestled with the instinct to run-to armor up-to fight.

But Sylus was patient.

And very persistent. It was evident that he wasn't going to ever stop pursuing her.

And so, she surrendered.

"I don't want to be alone anymore," she whispered, voice cracking.

"You’re not," Sylus said simply. "Not anymore."

And then he kissed her again.

This time, it wasn’t fiery or desperate.

It was slow. Tender.

His mouth moved against hers with a reverence that made her heart ache, his hands cradling her like she was something precious.

Nyx melted into him, finally truly letting herself be held.

When they pulled apart, Sylus pressed his forehead to hers, breathing her in.

"I have something for you," he said roughly.

She blinked up at him, dazed. "What?"

From his pocket, he pulled a small black velvet box.

Nyx stiffened instantly, eyes wide.

"Sylus..."

"Shh...," he said gently.

Carefully, he opened the box.

Inside, resting against the dark velvet, was a ring.

A rectangular-cut black diamond, gleaming with an almost mischievous light - bold, unapologetic, and utterly unique set upon a platinum ring.

Just like her.

Nyx stared at it, stunned speechless.

"You don't have to marry me immediately," Sylus said quietly. "Not yet. I know you need time." He paused and looked at her earnestly. "Be it days, months or years, I'll wait. Until you're ready."

He took her hand, turning it palm-down.

"This is a promise," he said. "A vow. That no matter how long it takes - no matter how many walls you put up - I’ll be right here waiting."

He slipped the ring onto her finger with infinite care.

"I love you, Sweetie," he said. "And I’m not going anywhere."

Nyx stared at the black diamond - at the man who had given it to her - feeling something fracture and heal inside her all at once.

Tears burned the back of her throat.

"You’re a crazy bastard," she whispered again, laughing through the sting.

"Maybe," Sylus said, grinning.

She shook her head, smiling so brightly it hurt.

"This is insanity..."

"And you’re mine..."

For a long moment, she just stared at him, heart hammering against her ribs.

Then, finally, finally, she closed her fingers around his.

"Okay," she whispered.

"Okay?" he asked, hope threading through his voice.

Nyx leaned in, brushing her lips over his.

"Okay," she repeated. "I’ll give you my heart, Sylus."

He smiled against her mouth, pulling her flush against him.

"And I’ll protect it with mine."

Nyx smirked through her tears, brushing her nose against his.

"And you can call me Kitten... just this once."

Sylus laughed, low and wrecked with relief.

"Only once?"

She kissed him again, fierce and full of promise.

"We’ll see...."

Above them, the stars spun wildly.

Below them, the city lights burned bright.

And between them, something even brighter was born.

Something real and eternal.

Together, they had found it, once more.

Finally.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Rafayel and Nerissa will be next 🐚 ⛵

21 notes · View notes

callixpene · 2 months ago

Text

L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 6: XAVIER & CELESTE - FINALE

Note: Please read Parts 1-5 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-6

XAVIER & CELESTE - PART 6: FINALE

Xavier X OC

Genre: Fluff

On the night Celeste agreed to go on a date with him, Xavier didn’t waste a second.

He swiftly prepared all the arrangements.

When Celeste met him the next evening, she expected a modest dinner in a quiet, but fancy restaurant.

She definitely didn’t expect to find a sleek private jet waiting for her, the Kingsley estate grounds dusted in twilight gold.

Xavier was there, wearing exactly what she asked - a plain white button down shirt and khaki pants. He looked simple, understated yet still impossibly handsome.

He offered his hand, a small, princely smile tugging at his lips. "Do you trust me?"

Celeste hesitated, her instincts warring, but finally, slowly, she placed her hand in his.

"Just this once..." she murmured.

*****

The flight didn't take long.

The sky turned darker, the stars blinking to life around them. Celeste watched from her window. She was silent, thoughtful.

Where were they headed? She asked herself.

When they landed, they weren’t in any city, no crowds, no glittering towers.

Instead, a fancy car drove them out past quiet roads until they reached an open field - an endless meadow of colorful wildflowers under the starry night sky.

Philos' Royal Palace could be viewed from the horizon.

The wildflowers swayed in a lazy, tender breeze, and the full moon hung low and full above them, quiet and serene.

A small table was set up in the middle of the field. It was draped in a crisp white cloth, with a lovely simple dinner laid out for two.

Celeste stood still, stunned.

Xavier watched her carefully, his heart in his throat.

“You flew me across the world…” she whispered, her voice breaking just slightly, “for this?”

He stepped behind her, close but not crowding her. His voice was low, sincere.

"I would’ve flown to the edge of the world for just one night with you."

Celeste squeezed her eyes shut for a second, as if trying to hold back something - emotion, fear, hope.

Dinner was quiet, but not uncomfortable. They ate beneath the stars, the conversation light at first - books, old travels, music they both loved.

But, eventually, the night deepened, and so did their words.

Xavier reached across the table, gently covering her hand with his.

“Celeste," he asked quietly, "why do you keep running from me?"

She pulled her hand back slowly, wrapping her arms around herself.

Her voice, when it came, was brittle and raw.

"Because it’s easier to be alone than for either party to be hurt. I’m tired of hoping, only for it to be gone in the end. I’m scared of loving someone, because I'm afraid of losing them, or being the reason why they're suffering..."

She stared at the flowers brushing her ankles, unable to look at him.

"And someone like you...." she broke off, shaking her head. "Someone like you, the crown prince of Philos - with all the responsibilities you have to bear to lead a whole nation and its people, might realize eventually that I'm not worth the effort, not worth so much sacrifice..."

Xavier stood slowly, rounding the table. He knelt in the grass before her, patient, unwavering.

“Listen to me, Celeste.” His voice was low but firm, every word deliberate.

"I wouldn't cross the ocean for someone I could ever give up on. I didn’t fall in love with you because you were just beautiful. I fell for you because ever since the first night we met, both my heart and my soul chose you."

She shook her head, tears building despite herself.

"You.....don’t know how much damage love can do," she whispered.

"I do," he said softly. "And I would still choose you.....everytime."

He took her hands gently, as if she were the most precious thing he had ever touched.

"You are not a burden. You are not unworthy. You are everything I didn’t even realize I was searching for."

The moonlight bathed them both, silver and soft.

Without another word, Xavier stood up, and guided her into the flowers, then he swayed her into a slow, tender dance.

There was no music - just the wind, and the heartbeats between them.

At first, Celeste was vey stiff, awkward, as she was fighting the ache in her chest.

But Xavier simply held her, patient, gentle. A warm smile on his face, his expression reassuring. His hand was firm at her waist, then he lightly rested his forehead against hers.

Slowly, but surely, Celeste released the tension on her shoulders. She let herself be swayed by him, let herself be carried.

Then, Xavier, in the most sincere voice, said:

"I love you.....," He whispered against her hair. "Celeste.... you've ruined me, wrecked me for anyone else. I can't imagine...being with anyone else besides you."

Her walls cracked. She gripped his shirt tightly, grounding herself.

There was a short pause between them, and then Xavier pulled back just enough to look into her eyes.

"So please....I want you to marry me."

Celeste stiffened in his arms, a soft gasp escaping her lips.

He only smiled gently and bashfully, as he reached into his pocket to produce a dainty, ornate box.

When he opened it, it revealed a delicate ring—a band of silver intertwined with a diamond that glowed like the starlight. Shooting stars were etched on each side of the diamond.

It was the most beautiful ring Celeste had ever seen.

Xavier knelt, the wildflowers brushed his knees.

"Celeste....I want you to be my Queen consort. I want to build a life where you never, ever have to doubt, again. I will fight for you, protect you, and when I become king of Philos, I will use every ounce of my power to ensure that you, your family, and Nexus Innovations thrive even more."

Now, tears were running freely down Celeste’s cheeks, as she covered her mouth with trembling fingers, as her heart threatened to beat out of her chest.

"Please, Celeste," Xavier said, quietly but with determination. "Let me love you....let me stand beside you. I promise that I will choose you again, and again, for the rest of my life."

The constellations above then glimmered even brightly now. Time seemed to still.

And then-

Then......

Celeste nodded.

Through her tears, she whispered: "Yes."

Xavier’s face broke into the most joyous, disbelieving smile.

In his exaltation, he surged to his feet, and lifted her up into his arms then spun her around in the sea of wildflowers, the both of them laughing and crying, together.

Then, Xavier kissed her with all the passion he had for her. To his delight, Celeste returned his kisses with just as much fervor.

They landed on the field of wildflowers. Xavier trailed kisses down her forehead, her nose, then the side of jaw.

"Xavier...." Celeste took his face with her hands and they kissed again.

When Xavier freed her lips, he sat up, then he lovingly slipped the ring onto her trembling hand.

Celeste clung to him, and buried her face against his chest.

He smelled like home.

Finally. She thought. No more running away. This time, Xavier and I will be together, and I will make sure of it.

My star will never leave me in this life.

All of a sudden, Xavier lifted her up princess-style, his grip on her careful, but at the same time, strong and steady.

"Hey!" Celeste huffed in both surprise and delight as he strode forward as he carried her. "Where are we going?"

Xavier pressed his forehead to hers. "To our room..."

Celeste only giggled as he sauntered off with her in his arms.

Under the witness of thousands of stars and the shimmering moon, Xavier promised silently:

I will never let you feel alone again, Celeste.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Sylus and Nyx will be next 🐦‍⬛🍷

I've been slowly working on all of Part 6 for weeks now.

Hope you guys enjoy it!

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callixpene · 2 months ago

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GUESS MY FAVORITE LOVE AND DEEPSPACE LI BASED ON THEIR WITH HIM DECORS

Note: I've done this before, but I've just re-decorated the rooms. I think it's harder to guess this time😁

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callixpene · 4 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 5: ZAYNE & JASMINE - THE BEGINNING

Note: Please read Parts 1-4 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-5

ZAYNE & JASMINE - PART 5: THE BEGINNING

Zayne X OC

Genre: Fluff

The cozy little dessert cafe was tucked into a corner of the city, like a secret only the snow knew. Through the frost-touched windows, the world outside shimmered white under the steady snowfall, casting the whole scene in a soft, silvery glow.

Inside, warm golden lights hung overhead. Sweet scents of chocolate, vanilla, and caramel floated lazily through the air. Zayne sat across from Jasmine in a private corner booth, a small fondue set bubbling between them.

She wore a delicate cream sweater under a baby-blue coat, a knit beret perched shyly on her head, her cheeks kissed pink from the cold. Zayne thought she looked like something out of a dream—soft, real, achingly lovely.

"Here," he said gently, sliding a plate closer to her, "Try dipping the strawberries. They're supposed to be the best with this chocolate."

Jasmine smiled warmly, accepting a berry with a playful "Thank you." She dipped it carefully, then offered it to Zayne instead of taking a bite herself.

"For you first," she teased lightly, her eyes shining.

Zayne chuckled, leaned forward, and let her feed him. His heart was pounding—how easily she always disarmed him, made him feel seen, made him feel home.

He savored the berry, then wiped a tiny smear of chocolate from her thumb with a napkin before she could notice.

"So," Jasmine said after a minute, tapping the fondue stick against her plate lightly. "My sisters updated me this morning about, well, you know...."

Zayne leaned in, half-smiling. "Oh? How’s everything going on your end?"

"Much, much better than we hoped." Jasmine's smile widened. "Nyx and Sylus finally... finally had a real heart-to-heart after the party. Nyx said it was intense but somehow....healing. She said Sylus really saw her this time, not just the mask she puts up. Apparently, Sylus is a total hopeless romantic underneath all that cold, proud exterior. Not to mention how persistent he is too," Jasmine giggled.

Zayne let out a soft, satisfied hum as he took a sip of his tea. "I believe it. Sylus always acted prideful, as if nothing could bother him, but it figures that Nyx would be the one to break that facade of his, and make him, vulnerable."

Jasmine nodded, as she sunk her fork into a slice of cheesecake. "Caleb and Lilian... They're so sweet to each another. Lilian told me all that's happened between them. She told me Caleb wants to make her laugh every day of her life. And honestly, Caleb is so devoted, so gentle with her. I'm certain, everyone around them can see it."

Zayne smiled broadly. "Caleb’s got a good heart. He will take good care of Lilian, I can assure you."

There was a small pause as they enjoyed another few bites. Jasmine's gaze was thoughtful now.

"And Rafayel and Nerissa..." Jasmine's voice softened. "They’re... honestly too adorable. Lilian said they're being ridiculously showy with their love. I guess when Nerissa agreed to give Rafayel a chance and agreed to be his girlfriend, it just unlocked everything. Rafayel would never look at anyone else anyway—he’s Lemurian, after all. No need to worry about them either."

Zayne laughed lowly. "It suits him. Rafayel is the type to be intense and too clingy when he's finally found someone."

Jasmine squeezed his hand gently. "And Xavier and Celeste... it’s slow, but... it seems promising, at least. Xavier’s doing everything he can to earn her trust, to break through her walls. And Celeste is letting him, little by little. We just need to give her time."

Zayne’s expression softened. "Good. He needs her as much as she needs him."

Jasmine reached across the table, threading her fingers through his. "I’m glad they’re all trying. Fighting for each other. To all be...together, finally"

He gave her hand a soft squeeze. "It’s because you set the example, you know."

Jasmine blinked. "Me?"

"You," Zayne said firmly. "You and your sisters... You survived everything thrown at you. You chose love over bitterness. You’re giving all of us a reason to believe in something better."

Jasmine looked down, her cheeks warming. "You're giving me too much credit, Dr. Zayne."

"I don't think I’m giving you enough," he said, and the way he said it made Jasmine’s heart skip multiple beats.

She squeezed his hand tighter. "Well, on your side, how are the men holding up?"

Zayne chuckled. "Let’s see... Sylus is a nonchalant mess, if that makes sense, but he's a mess in love. Caleb is already planning weekend trips with Lilian. Rafayel... Well, he and Nerissa are practically inseparable now. And Prince Xavier... he's doing all he can. He’s really putting in the work to be with Celeste."

Jasmine laughed, the sound like bells. Zayne could've bottled that sound forever.

"And you?" she asked gently. "How are you holding up?"

Zayne tilted his head, a smile curving his lips. "I'm doing better than I ever thought possible. Because I'm here with you."

Their eyes locked. The world fell away.

The waitress came by quietly, slipping their bill onto the table with a respectful nod, sensing the private moment.

Zayne paid swiftly, then helped Jasmine into her coat, ever the gentleman. As they stepped out into the night, the snow caught in Jasmine’s hair like stardust.

Zayne offered his arm, which she took gladly, tucking herself against his side as they walked.

"Where to now?" Jasmine asked, resting her head lightly on his shoulder.

"You’ll see," Zayne said mysteriously, guiding her gently down a quieter street.

They walked in companionable silence for a few minutes, their boots crunching softly against the snow. Jasmine trusted him implicitly, letting him lead.

Finally, Zayne stopped before a glass elevator at the base of a tall building. He pulled out a keycard, swiped it, and the doors opened silently.

Jasmine looked up at him in wonder. "You rented out a rooftop view?"

Zayne smiled. "Something like that."

They ascended. As the elevator rose, the city lights unfolded beneath them—a sea of glittering gold and silver under the falling snow.

When they stepped onto the rooftop, it was just the two of them. Lanterns lit the perimeter, casting a soft glow. A simple table was set with a thermos of hot cocoa, two mugs, and a blanket.

Jasmine gasped softly, her hand over her heart. "Zayne..."

He guided her forward, wrapping the blanket around her shoulders before stepping back a few paces.

The snowflakes kissed his dark hair as he looked at her—no fancy speeches, no grand theatrics. Just pure, undiluted feeling.

Zayne dropped to one knee.

Jasmine froze, her breath catching.

He pulled out a simple velvet box and opened it to reveal a ring—a delicate silver band adorned with a small, elegant snowflake diamond.

"Jasmine Kingsley," Zayne said, his voice low and steady despite the hammering of his heart. "You are the light that found me in a life that had none. You are every breath I never realized I was holding."

He smiled, soft and sure.

"I love you. I want to spend every moment I have left loving you, protecting you, growing with you. Will you marry me?"

Tears welled in Jasmine's eyes, blurring her vision. Her heart soared so high she thought it might burst from joy.

"Yes," she whispered. Then louder, "Of course, Zayne!"

He slipped the ring onto her shaking finger, and she launched into his arms, nearly toppling him over in her eagerness. He laughed—actually laughed, full and free—and caught her easily.

Snow swirled around them, the city sparkling below, but all Zayne could see was her.

They kissed then, long and slow, tasting cocoa and tears and promises that would never be broken.

When they finally pulled apart, Jasmine pressed her forehead to his and whispered, "Let's wish for the others, too."

Zayne smiled against her hair. "Yeah. For all of them."

They stood there for a long time, wrapped in each other and in the night, wishing silently that every broken heart in their world would someday find a love like theirs.

*****

The city continued to glitter beneath as Zayne and Jasmine held each other close, wrapped in the warmth of the blanket and the deeper warmth of what had just passed between them.

After a while, Zayne shifted slightly, brushing the snow from her hair with careful fingers. He tucked a strand behind her ear, his thumb lingering on her cheek, as if he still couldn’t quite believe she was real—and his.

"Are you cold?" he murmured.

Jasmine shook her head, smiling softly. "I'm warm," she whispered. "You’re my warmth."

Zayne pressed a kiss to her forehead, savoring the way she leaned into him without hesitation.

He poured two mugs of cocoa, handing one to her. Jasmine cradled the warm ceramic between her hands, taking a small sip. The cocoa was rich and sweet, almost too much, but she didn’t mind. Everything tonight felt sweeter.

They sat down together on the small bench near the edge of the rooftop, the blanket wrapped around them both now. The silence between them was easy, natural, filled only by the distant hum of the city and the soft whisper of falling snow.

After a moment, Jasmine spoke, her voice barely more than a breath.

"Did you plan all of this... just for tonight?"

Zayne smiled against the rim of his cup. "Planned it for a while," he admitted. "Was just waiting for the right moment."

She looked up at him, her eyes glistening with the reflection of the lantern lights. "It was perfect."

"You’re perfect," he murmured back.

Jasmine ducked her head shyly, a fresh blush rising on her cheeks. She slipped her free hand into his lap under the blanket, finding his and lacing their fingers together.

"I used to wonder if love like this was even possible" she said, her voice trembling slightly with the raw honesty of the confession.

"And now?" Zayne asked, gently.

She looked at him, her heart wide open.

"Now I know," she said. "It’s real. Because it’s you."

Zayne's heart twisted in the best way. He leaned in and kissed her again, slow and tender, a kiss that spoke of every vow he hadn't even needed to say out loud.

They stayed up there for a long time, talking about everything and nothing—the future, little dreams, big hopes, the life they wanted to build together.

At some point, Jasmine laughed softly, resting her head against his shoulder. "We have to tell them soon."

Zayne chuckled, threading his fingers through her hair. "They’ll lose their minds."

"Especially Lilian and Nerissa," Jasmine grinned. "And Nyx. Oh, Sylus will try to act cool, but inside he'll be planning a whole celebration."

Zayne smirked. "And Caleb and Rafayel will probably start making bets about who’s next."

Jasmine giggled again, snuggling closer. "I’m just happy we’ll be starting this new chapter with all of them around."

He kissed the top of her head.

"With you...." he whispered. "I could start anywhere."

The snow continued to fall, wrapping the world in quiet magic, as two hearts made a promise stronger than any storm.

Thank you for reading🧡❤️🩷🩵💜

There will be a hiatus before the release of Part 6.

PART 6 WILL BE THE FINAL PART OF THIS ANOTHOLOGY.

I want to thank you all so much to everyone who has constantly read this series until now🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹

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callixpene · 4 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 5: CALEB & LILIAN - THE BEGINNING

Note: Please read Parts 1-4 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-5

CALEB & LILIAN - PART 5: THE BEGINNING

Caleb X OC

Genre: Fluff, Some Angst

Two weeks after Jasmine Kingsley privately gave Caleb heartfelt advice about love and fighting for what mattered, an unexpected order came down from Nexus Innovations' HR Department:

Caleb, as the Kingsley's private pilot, was to personally retrieve Lilian Kingsley, the youngest Kingsley sister, from her solo vacation abroad and fly her back to the facility.

It wasn't said outright, but the implication was clear.

After the emotionally charged events of the Kingsley party — where Caleb, under the disguise of "Victor Sterling," a royal from Philos, shared an unforgettable, forbidden night with Lilian — she had left the country alone.

A way to distance herself... from him.

Though their connection had been electric and undeniable, reality crashed down once she discovered the truth — that the charming royal was actually the Kingsleys’ quiet, dutiful private pilot.

Now, Caleb was being sent to bring her back.

And he wasn't about to waste this second chance.

As plane touched down on the small, sun-drenched airstrip near the foreign coast, Caleb adjusted his uniform one last time before walking down the stairs.

And there she was.

Lilian.

She was standing there alone, a single suitcase by her side, dressed simply but elegantly in a white sundress that fluttered in the breeze.

Her hair was pinned up loosely, and sunglasses shielded her eyes. But Caleb would know her anywhere. His heart squeezed painfully in his chest.

He took a careful breath and approached her.

"Miss Kingsley," he said gently, his voice calm but warm.

At first, she didn't react.

Then, slowly, Lilian lowered her sunglasses to peer at him.

The look she gave him could have frozen the sun.

"Caleb," she said, voice clipped and cautious. "I thought they'd send someone else."

The words stung more than he'd thought they would. But Caleb only offered her the softest smile.

"I'm honored they chose me," he replied, and he meant it. He would fly to the ends of the earth for her if she asked.

There was a long silence. Lilian looked away sharply, gathering her suitcase.

Her body was stiff, guarded. Wary.

Still, Caleb stepped forward and gently took the suitcase from her, his touch careful and respectful.

"You don’t have to do that," she said immediately, voice tight.

"I know," he said, meeting her eyes. "But I want to."

Again, she didn't respond.

But she didn’t take the suitcase back either.

*****

The private jet was sleek and silent, slicing through the clouds.

Caleb sat in the flight deck, hands steady on the controls — but his heart wasn't nearly as calm.

He could feel Lilian’s presence, even from behind the closed cockpit door.

She was in the passenger area, alone. Isolated. Silent.

From the second she boarded, she'd barely said two words to him.

Eyes averted. Shoulders tight. Like she was forcing herself to even exist in the same space as him.

Caleb sighed quietly, gaze flickering over the controls.

In the short time he had known Lilian, he had quietly — and a little shamelessly — asked around her personal waiting staff from Nexus Innovations about her. Gathering every tidbit about her: her favorite snacks, the way she liked her tea, the types of music she listened to when she thought no one was around. The way she loved roller coasters but was too shy to admit it.

He learned she loved cats but was allergic.

He learned she pretended to hate horror movies even though she secretly loved the thrill.

He learned she preferred thunderstorms over sunny days, because she loved the sound of rain.

Caleb soaked it all up like a sponge, treasuring each new piece of her he could get.

He remembered it all.

Because he had decided.

No matter how long it took, no matter how many walls he had to gently break down — he would make her feel safe. He would make her feel loved.

And this time, it would be as himself. Only Caleb. Nothing more, nothing less.

Because Lilian wasn't just anyone to him.

She was... everything.

And today, he was determined to show her that.

God, I love her so much it hurts.

Caleb adjusted the autopilot settings and hesitated, thumb hovering over the internal intercom button.

He had to say something.

Finally, he pressed it.

"Hey, Pipsqueak,-" Caleb's voice echoed softly through the lounge speakers.

There was a pause.

"...Don't call me that," Lilian responded, her voice weak, but not angry.

Caleb smiled faintly.

"Sorry..... You doing okay back there?"

Another pause. He imagined her fidgeting with her sleeves the way she always did when nervous.

"...I'm fine," she said, but it was the kind of "fine" that wasn't fine at all.

Caleb leaned back in his seat, tapping the mic again.

"Lilian..." His voice dropped, serious now.

"Can we talk? Really talk...after we land?"

No answer.

"Lilian," he said more softly, "I need you to hear me out. Just once. I promise I won’t make you feel trapped. You can leave anytime you want after."

Still silence.

Then, barely audible over the intercom:

"Okay."

Relief flooded him. Caleb turned his focus back on piloting, heart hammering in his chest the entire rest of the way.

*****

When they landed back on home soil, Caleb finished the post-flight checks swiftly. He emerged from the cockpit to find Lilian standing stiffly by the exit stairs, her suitcase in hand.

Her expression was unreadable — cold, guarded.

He approached carefully, keeping his voice low and warm.

"Lilian," he started. "I know you're upset. But... please. Let’s talk."

She hesitated.

The engines whirred to a cooling stop around them. The world outside was still and grey, rain threatening in the clouds.

"I don’t want to talk here," she said sharply, her voice trembling.

Caleb nodded immediately. "Then let’s go somewhere else. Somewhere you feel safe."

For a long, painful second, he thought she might refuse.

But then Lilian surprised him.

"...Fine."

*****

Caleb drove them to an amusement park just outside the city — a quiet one, tucked away by a sprawling lake, largely empty due to the overcast weather.

It was childish.

It was ridiculous.

And it was perfect.

Lilian stared out the window in stubborn silence as they entered, hands clenched tightly in her lap.

Caleb, ever observant, didn't push. Instead, he bought two passes, a giant bag of cotton candy, and her favorite soft pretzel without asking.

He handed them to her without a word.

When Lilian looked at him, confused and a little overwhelmed, he just shrugged lightly.

"I....found out you like these," he said simply.

Lilian bit her lip hard.

Damn him.

How did he always know?

They wandered the empty park slowly.

Lilian nibbled at the pretzel absently, her defenses wavering with every quiet kindness Caleb offered — adjusting her jacket when the wind picked up, steering her gently away from puddles, asking about the rides she liked when she was a kid.

At one point, she muttered, "You don't have to pretend to care, you know."

Caleb stopped walking.

His voice, when it came, was low and raw.

"I'm not pretending, Lilian."

He turned to face her fully, his expression achingly sincere.

"I care about you. Deeply. I’ve cared since the first time I saw you. Every smile, every frown, every small thing you think nobody notices — I see all of it. And I love it all."

Lilian’s throat tightened painfully.

"No," she whispered, taking a step back. "You lied to me. You tricked me."

"I did," he admitted immediately. "And it kills me every day that I hurt you. But everything I said to you, everything I felt... none of that was a lie."

He reached into his jacket, pulling out a small, folded piece of worn paper.

He handed it to her.

It was a list.

Tiny, messy notes — things Caleb had gathered about her.

Liliana Kingsley:

Loves pretzels with mustard.

Favorite flower: Apple blossoms.

Secretly loves cheesy old romance movies.

Pretends she’s fine when she’s scared.

Looks at the sky when she’s sad.

Always tries to take care of everyone else first.

Tears blurred Lilian’s vision.

"You did all this for me?" she choked.

Caleb nodded.

"I wanted to be ready," he said. "To give you anything you ever wanted. Even if it was just someone who would really see you."

Lilian crumpled the list against her chest, emotions warring inside her.

"I.......I loved someone" she whispered brokenly. "Someone like you — you —"

Caleb's hands shook slightly as he forced himself to ask, "Do you... still love that person?"

For a while, Lilian only stared at him.

Then, she shook her head, a wet laugh escaping.

"He doesn’t matter anymore." She paused. "The only one that matters is the person standing in front of me now...." she muttered silently to herself, as if realizing something.

Caleb’s heart roared in his chest.

Without thinking, he stepped closer, cupping her face in his hands.

"Good," he murmured. "Because I swear to you, Lilian... from now on, we’ll only see each other as our whole world."

"No more disguises like that again," she whispered.

"Never again," he promised fiercely.

She searched his face, trembling.

And at last, finally, finally — she let herself believe.

Under the empty Ferris wheel, misty rain beginning to fall around them, Caleb dropped to one knee.

Not with a ring. Not yet at least.

Not with grand promises he couldn’t keep.

Just raw, aching honesty.

"Lilian Kingsley," he said, voice rough with emotion. "Will you be my girlfriend? Will you let me spend every day making you happy, making you laugh, making you feel loved?"

Tears spilled freely down Lilian’s cheeks.

She laughed — a broken, beautiful sound — and dropped to her knees too, flinging her arms around him.

"Yes!" she cried. "Yes, Caleb! I’m yours!"

They clung to each other, laughing and crying and shaking with the sheer overwhelming joy of it.

Caleb kissed her hair, her forehead, every part of her he could reach.

He whispered over and over, "Thank you, thank you, thank you."

And Lilian, burying her face against his chest, whispered back:

"I missed you, you idiot."

He chuckled through his own tears, pressing their foreheads together.

"Pipsqueak," he murmured.

She gasped in surprise, then it melted into laughter.

"I’ll allow it," she sniffled.

And Caleb kissed her properly then, under the rain, under the ghost lights of the abandoned rides, with all the love he had been carrying for her since the beginning.

*****

The next day, Nexus Innovations practically exploded.

Rumors spread like wildfire: Lilian Kingsley was dating someone.

Speculation ran wild.

In the middle of it all, Caleb calmly escorted Lilian through the lobby, hand resting protectively at her back.

The stares, the whispers — they didn't bother them at all.

One bold intern finally asked outright, "Miss Kingsley, is it true you’re dating someone?"

Before Lilian could stammer a reply, Caleb stepped forward with a slow, confident smile.

"Yeah," he said proudly. "She's dating me."

He pulled Lilian gently closer, his gaze fierce and loving.

"And I’m the luckiest damn man alive."

In the elevator, Lilian blushed furiously, hiding her face in his chest.

"You didn’t have to say it like that," she mumbled.

He laughed, the sound warm and rich.

"I wanted to."

He kissed the top of her head, murmuring against her hair:

"You’re everything to me, Pipsqueak."

And Lilian — who had once run away — now clung to him tightly, smiling through tears.

Home.

Finally.

They had found a home — in each other.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷❤️🧡

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments what you think of this series so far🥹🫶

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callixpene · 4 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 5: RAFAYEL & NERISSA - THE BEGINNING

Note: Please read Parts 1-4 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-5

RAFAYEL & NERISSA - PART 5: THE BEGINNING

Rafayel X OC

Genre: Fluff

The evening air shimmered with a warm ocean breeze as Rafayel stood alone on the moonlit terrace, surveying the final touches of his carefully crafted setup.

Soft white lanterns floated like tethered stars, and trails of pink rose petals created a path to an elegantly intimate table for two. Somewhere nearby, a string quartet played a slow, haunting melody — a soundtrack for a love story he was determined to write with his own hands.

He exhaled slowly, running a hand through his tousled hair.

"Be patient," Jasmine's voice echoed in his mind. "She jokes to protect herself. Match her wit. Make her feel safe...and make her laugh. Only then will you see her real heart."

Good thing Rafayel had taken her words seriously. He wasn't just here to impress Nerissa tonight — he was here to win her trust, to deserve her heart.

And if that meant dealing with a few barbs and walls? Bring it on. He'd play her game and enjoy every second of it.

When he finally spotted her stepping onto the terrace, time seemed to stop.

Nerissa Kingsley.

She wore the deep emerald gown that he designed and crafted especially for her to use for this occasion. As Rafayel envisioned, it hugged her delicate frame, and highlighted her gorgeous features. She glanced around with suspicion at the romantic setup, arms crossed, one brow arched high.

Exactly how he knew she would be.

Rafayel’s lips tugged into a boyish grin. She could raise her walls all she wanted. He still had time—and all the love—to tear them down.

“Nerissa,” he greeted, his voice soft but sure.

She raised an eyebrow, stepping forward with feigned nonchalance. "Well, aren’t you laying it on a little thick, Mr. Superstar? Planning to propose marriage before the first bite of dinner?"

Rafayel laughed, unbothered by her sarcasm. "Relax. I’m not proposing... yet."

Nerissa huffed, but he saw the way the corners of her mouth betrayed a smile.

He offered his arm gallantly. "Shall we?"

She paused, giving him a skeptical glance, before relenting with a sigh. "Fine. But if you start reciting bad poetry, I’m throwing you off this rooftop."

Rafayel smirked. Her behavior and snarky comments now were quite endearing, he thought fondly.

"Careful, Nerissa," he called out playfully, stuffing his hands into his pockets. "If you roll your eyes any harder, you’re gonna sprain something."

She gave him a flat look, but he saw the slight twitch of her lips.

"Is this some sort of trap?" she asked, voice dripping with dry humor. "Because I should warn you, I'm immune to cheesy lines and desperate millionaires."

He sauntered toward her, savoring every step. "Good thing I’m neither desperate nor cheesy," he said, eyes gleaming with mischief. "Just devastatingly handsome and stupidly rich."

Nerissa let out a short laugh despite herself. "Stupid is right."

"Baby steps," Rafayel quipped, offering his arm again, this time with an exaggerated flourish. "Come, mock me all you want. Now, would you do me the honor of surviving one evening in my company?"

A playful smirk was plastered on his face.

She hesitated, suspicious as a stray cat, but finally, with a sigh of theatrical suffering, slipped her arm into his.

Over dinner, their banter was fast and fiery — Nerissa throwing sarcastic jabs like darts, Rafayel effortlessly dodging and tossing back sass of his own.

"Did you seriously name one of your paintings 'Eternal Temptation'?" she teased, sipping her wine. "Bit full of yourself, aren’t you?"

Rafayel shrugged with shameless pride. "I call it as I see it. And if you must know, it was inspired by someone suspiciously like you."

Nerissa choked slightly on her wine, coughing into her napkin while Rafayel grinned devilishly.

"Don’t flatter me, fishie," she said when she recovered.

"Too late. You're already flattered. It’s written all over your cute, angry face," Rafayel teased.

Underneath the playful war, something softer began to unfold — Nerissa’s laughter came easier; her smiles lingered longer. Jasmine had been right: behind her sharp tongue was a heart yearning to trust.

And Rafayel would never, ever betray that.

Nerissa teased him mercilessly about his fame, his paintings, even his overly perfect hair.

Rafayel volleyed back with playful jabs about her "secret" shrine of his work.

He drank in every small smile Nerissa tried to hide, every fleeting softness in her gaze when she thought he wasn’t looking.

He loved her.

Deeply, impossibly, absolutely.

Being Lemurian, Rafayel had always known he would love once and forever. His heart wasn’t designed to wander—it was designed to anchor itself to one soul.

And it had chosen Nerissa the moment he laid eyes on her.

She was it. His beginning, middle, and end.

When dinner wound down, Rafayel rose and extended his hand again. His voice softened, threading through the crackling electricity between them.

"Come with me, Cutie. The night’s not over yet."

Nerissa gave him a suspicious look. "If you lead me to a karaoke machine, I swear I’ll drown you."

Rafayel barked a laugh. "Relax. I have standards."

He led her down a private staircase, towards a sleek black yacht glistening at the private dock.

Nerissa eyed it warily. "Should I have brought a life jacket?"

"Only if you plan on jumping me mid-ride," Rafayel said with a wink.

She snorted. "As if."

"Your loss," he shot back, climbing aboard with casual ease. "I’m great at rescuing damsels. Ask my PR team."

The yacht sailed smoothly under the starlit sky. Nerissa stood at the bow, wind teasing her hair, her laughter echoing across the waves. Rafayel kept stealing glances at her — this woman who unknowingly owned him body and soul.

After a short ride, he steered the yacht towards a glistening shore.

Nerissa leaned over the railing, frowning slightly. "That’s...an island?"

"Very observant," Rafayel said solemnly, cutting the engine.

He hopped off the yacht onto the pristine white sands, then turned to face her.

The beach shimmered under the moonlight, untouched and beautiful, framed by lush trees and soft dunes.

Nerissa gasped softly. "Where are we?"

"Welcome," he said dramatically, "to Isla Nerissa."

She blinked at him. "Excuse me?"

Cautiously, Nerissa let him guide her ashore.

The beach got more breathtaking the more she looked at it. In the center, nestled under a canopy of ancient trees, was a hand-built coral pavilion — delicate arches, soft golden lanterns, a hidden oasis just for them.

"This island," Rafayel began, voice deepening, "was once part of Lemuria. A piece of my ancestors' home. Lost, like so much else...until I found it."

He walked up to her, taking both her of her hands in his.

"I bought it. Restored it. Preserved it. For you."

Nerissa looked stunned, words failing her.

Rafayel’s voice softened, a rare, tender edge slipping free. "I wanted you to have a piece of forever. A sanctuary. A home that no one can ever take from you."

He pressed her hands to his heart, letting her feel the furious rhythm pounding inside.

"I’m Lemurian. We don’t love halfway. We don’t fall lightly. When we give our heart — it’s once. It’s eternal."

He kissed her knuckles with aching reverence.

"And Nerissa Kingsley," Rafayel whispered, voice raw and beautiful, "my heart has chosen you."

Her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, her defenses crumbling with every word.

"You’re insane," she whispered brokenly, a shaky laugh escaping her. "You can’t just... buy an island and—"

"Sure I can," Rafayel interrupted with a smirk. "Multi-millionaire, devastatingly handsome, remember? I’ve got receipts."

Nerissa let out a choked laugh, swatting at his chest weakly.

Rafayel softened instantly, reaching to cup her cheek with both hands.

"You don't have to say anything tonight," he said, voice like velvet. "You don’t owe me anything. Just let me love you. Let me protect you. Let me be the man who makes you believe that love doesn’t have to hurt."

Tears finally slipped down Nerissa’s cheeks.

"You’re impossible," she whispered, smiling through her sobs.

"And yet," Rafayel said cheekily, "here you are — crying on my very expensive island." Then, he added bashfully, "That is now yours."

Nerissa let out a broken laugh—and then, to his eternal joy, she launched herself into his arms, her emotions overwhelming her defenses.

He caught her easily, cradling her against him, feeling the wet warmth of her tears against his neck.

"I don’t deserve this," she whispered brokenly.

"You deserve the world," he murmured into her hair. "But I can only start with this."

Pulling back slightly, Nerissa looked into his eyes—truly looked—and for the first time, Rafayel saw her walls finally, gloriously, fall away.

"Okay," she whispered at last. "Okay. You win.... I’ll be your girlfriend."

The world stopped spinning.

Stars collapsed into themselves.

Time ceased to matter.

All that existed was her—his Nerissa—saying yes.

Rafayel grinned, the kind of smile that hurt, that stretched all the way to his soul.

"Finally." he said, before scooping her into a kiss that tasted like salt and hope and promises sealed by the universe itself.

For a beat, Rafayel couldn’t move, couldn’t breathe.

Then he laughed — a sound of pure, devastating joy — and swept her up into another kiss that felt like coming home.

Their silhouettes stood framed under the ancient trees, moonlight dancing around them, as the waves kissed the shore of Isla Nerissa.

And Rafayel knew — with absolute certainty — that he would spend forever proving to her that she was the greatest masterpiece he had ever been blessed to love.

And as they stood on the shores, wrapped in each other’s arms, Rafayel knew:

A new beginning had bloomed.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Please let me know your thoughts in the comments what you think of this series so far🥹🫶

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callixpene · 4 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 5: SYLUS & NYX - THE BEGINNING

Note: Please read Parts 1-4 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-5

SYLUS & NYX - PART 5: THE BEGINNING

Sylus X OC

Genre: Fluff, Some Angst, Slightly Suggestive

It had been a week since Jasmine’s words unsettled something deep in Sylus—the kind of unrest that didn’t fade with time or distraction. Her advice still rang in his ears: Nyx doesn’t want someone to fight for her. She wants someone who will fight with her.

And Sylus had been thinking about it ever since.

He'd never been one for emotional reflection, but Nyx... she made him want to change that. Want to understand her. Want to earn her. Even if it killed his pride in the process.

So, he pulled the only card he knew she couldn't refuse: business.

“There's a clause in Onichynus' contract with Nexus Innovations that we need to smooth out,” he’d written in the message he had a staff member deliver to her. “It’s urgent. Face-to-face only. – Sylus.”

Now, he waited.

The executive suite at Nexus Innovations' Skyview Tower was sleek, cold, and strategically impersonal—the kind of place where serious deals were struck and emotions were checked at the door.

Sylus stood by the tall window, arms crossed behind his back, the city lights below gleaming like scattered diamonds against velvet. He'd sent that message two days ago. Claimed it was about their ongoing partnership, a discreet discussion only Nyx Kingsley could attend.

Truthfully, he just wanted to see her again. But this time, with no crowd, no theatrics—just her and him.

When the door opened, he didn’t turn immediately. He knew it was her.

“I was told this was urgent,” came Nyx’s voice, cool and clipped. “So what’s the emergency, Mr. Sylus?”

He turned then.

Sylus didn’t even try to hide the way his gaze traced her figure. “Well,” he said, voice velvet smooth. “Nexus really does send their finest.”

His Kitten always dressed like she was daring someone to let their guard down.

Nyx cocked a brow, unamused. “If you called me here just to undress me with your eyes, I suggest you save us both the trouble and use your imagination instead.”

He smirked. “I have. Repeatedly.”

She scoffed, arms crossing under her chest—intentionally or not, it only drew his eyes downward. “This better be about business, Mr. Sylus.”

“Oh, it is. My business with you, Kitten.”

Her eyes narrowed. “You really want to play this game again?”

He stepped closer, his voice dipping low. “What can I say? I like playing with fire.”

“And what if fire burns you?”

“I’ve been burned before. None of it compares to the way you scorched me that night.”

Her lips curled into a slight, dangerous smirk. “Poor baby. Still recovering from a few kisses?”

“No.” Sylus’ gaze softened, and just like that, the tension shifted. “I’m still recovering from everything you are. Your body didn’t lie, Kitten. And mine sure as hell didn’t either."

That caught her off guard. The air between them stilled.

"You're ridiculous,” she replied.

“Maybe.” Sylus leaned forward. “But I’ve been thinking about you. About... us.”

“There is no us,” she said quickly, too quickly.

He smiled faintly. “You keep saying that. But the way you kissed me at the party? The way you knew exactly how to touch me?” His voice dropped just slightly. “That didn’t feel like nothing.”

Sylus stepped back slightly, giving her space, but his voice remained sincere. “I didn’t call you here to seduce you.”

“Could’ve fooled me.”

“I called you here… because I’m in love with you.”

Her playful facade wavered.

Her words died on her tongue.

He said it so plainly. No grand gesture, no dramatic flair. Just... honesty.

She blinked, scoffing lightly. “You can’t be serious.”

“I am. I was the moment I first saw you.”

She laughed once, dry and unimpressed. “You fell in love the moment you saw me for the first time, supplying you with guns at the Onichynus base? How poetic.”

“Kitten,” Sylus said, stepping closer. “It was the fire in your eyes when you realized I was trouble. The way you challenged me with one look. I wanted all of you—your mind, your strength, your fury, your tenderness. I wanted the woman you fight so hard to protect from everyone else.”

Nyx’s jaw clenched. “Well, that woman doesn’t want to be wanted.”

“You keep saying that,” Sylus murmured. “But then you kissed me like you meant every second of it.”

“That was a mistake,” she snapped. “I don’t do emotions.....I don’t do love.”

“You're scared,” he said quietly. “And I get it now. Jasmine told me about the walls you’ve all built. You’ve carried so much on your own, haven’t you?”

Her eyes widened in surprise when he mentioned her sister's name, but she didn’t pry. She only huffed and put her palm in her face in frustration while silently muttering: "Jasmine....what are you doing..."

Sylus stepped even closer, his voice dropping to something almost reverent. “I want to stand beside you. Share the weight. If you’ll let me.”

For a long time, she said nothing.

Then: “You’re out of your mind.”

He smiled gently. “So I’ve been told.”

Nyx glanced down, fingers curling around her wrist like she needed something to hold onto. “You don’t know what you’re asking for.”

“Maybe not,” he admitted. “But I’m still asking.”

Silence again. Then:

“You don’t get to just wear me down, Sylus. I won’t let you.”

“I’m not trying to wear you down,” he said. “I’m just trying to be honest with the only woman who’s ever made me feel like I wasn’t completely alone.”

Her breath hitched. That... that got through.

“I hate that you say things like that,” she murmured. “Like you actually mean them.”

He stepped closer—close enough to touch—but didn’t. “I do.”

Her walls trembled, but they didn’t fall. Not entirely. She looked at him, long and hard, before finally exhaling a shaky breath.

“One date.”

Sylus blinked. “What?”

“I’ll give you one date,” she said, brushing a stray hair from her cheek. “Business dinner. Neutral ground. If you mess it up... that’s it.”

For a moment, he just stared. Then a slow, uncontainable smile spread across his face. “One date,” he repeated, almost reverently. “You got it, Kitten.”

“Call me that again and I’ll cancel it.”

“Understood, Miss Kingsley.” Sylus chuckled internally. He would make sure that after that date, Nyx would permit him to call her that again.

She turned to leave, but paused at the door. “Don’t be late.”

He waited until the door shut behind her before letting out a quiet, breathless laugh.

As the door shut behind her, Sylus stood still, basking in the quiet triumph flooding his chest.

He finally had a sliver of her.

And Gods help him, he was already hopelessly in love.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Please comment what you think of this series so far 😁🫶

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callixpene · 4 months ago

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L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 5: XAVIER & CELESTE - THE BEGINNING

Note: Please read Parts 1-4 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-5

XAVIER & CELESTE - PART 5: THE BEGINNING

Xavier X OC

Genre: Fluff, Some Angst

He wasn’t supposed to be here.

Not in this part of the Kingsley estate. Not this close to her again.

His position as Prince of Philos has always bought him many privileges, but this might be pushing it.

Yet Jasmine had told him a few weeks ago, at his residence, “My sister, Celeste isn’t afraid of love—she’s afraid of what it does to her, and how it will affect the one she cares for. She's scared that if she lets it in, it’ll break something she spent years building. She needs to see you’re not here to tear anything down, or leave her when she's finally let you in.”

So he waited, and watched her from a distance.

It was to give her time.

The garden was hushed under the purple haze of dusk, petals of roses and violets scattered like secrets across the stone path. Xavier stood beside the ivy-wrapped bench near the fountain—the one Celeste always wandered to when she thought no one was watching.

And then she appeared.

Celeste Kingsley moved with effortless grace, even when her guard was up.

She moved like the moon—quiet, luminous, untouchable. A book in hand, shawl draped over her shoulders, her eyes focused somewhere far away until she caught sight of him.

He let her see him this time.

She sighed. At this point, Celeste was no longer surprised to see him. Seems she had finally gotten used to him suddenly appearing.

Her arms folded over her chest. “Xavier,” she said cautiously. “Why are you here?”

He took a breath. “Just waiting.”

“For what?”

“For you.”

She hesitated, lips parting like she might say something sharp, something final. But then she closed them again and looked away, tension obvious in the tightness of her jaw.

“You shouldn’t be here,” she said, more quietly this time. “This... isn’t a good idea.”

“I’m not here to make things worse,” he said. “I just wanted to see you. That’s all.”

Her eyes met his again, full of things unsaid. Guilt. Frustration. Maybe even fear. “You don’t get it,” she whispered. “Whatever you’re hoping to find in me... don’t.”

He stepped closer, but not too close. Careful. Calm.

“I’m not hoping for anything,” he said. “I’m choosing you. Whether or not you choose me back—I’m still here.”

Her breath caught—barely. Her guard didn’t drop, but it wavered.

“You always know what to say,” she muttered, almost bitter. “That’s part of the problem.”

Xavier’s smile was faint. “Not tonight. I’m not here to impress you. I’m here because I can’t stop thinking about you. Because no matter how much you try to push me out of your head, I know you remember that night too.”

Celeste’s eyes flinched. Just a little. Just enough.

“We made a mistake,” she said quickly. “That night—it was... it wasn’t supposed to happen.”

“I know,” he said. “But it did. And I’m not pretending it didn’t mean anything.”

Celeste looked away. “It was a mistake”, she insisted.

“Maybe,” he said gently. “But it’s the only mistake I’ve never regretted.”

She turned her face away, jaw clenched.

Xavier’s voice softened. “Celeste... I love you. I don’t care how foolish it sounds after one night or a hundred—I know what I feel. I’m not asking you to love me back. I’m just asking for a chance.”

There was silence. Long. Pressured. She didn’t breathe for a moment.

Then, with surprising gentleness, she lowered her arms and sighed. “You don’t give up, do you?”

“No,” he said. “Not on the people I love.”

She looked at him, really looked. And for a brief second, the mask slipped. The poised, unbothered Kingsley sister faded, and the woman underneath—soft, scared, hopeful—peeked through.

“…You’re exhausting,” she muttered, brushing a lock of hair behind her ear.

“But charming,” he added, tentative.

She rolled her eyes—and yet, the corner of her mouth twitched, just slightly.

He took that as a sign.

“Let me take you to dinner,” Xavier said, voice low and careful. “Just once. No expectations. Just… a quiet evening. You and me.”

Celeste opened her mouth—then hesitated. She looked like she was about to say no.

But then, maybe just to shock herself, she murmured, “Fine. One dinner.”

Xavier blinked. “Wait… really?”

She gave him a pointed look. “Don’t make me change my mind.”

His heart damn near exploded in his chest—but on the outside, he nodded coolly. “Right. Of course.”

But internally, he was screaming.

She said yes.

As Celeste turned to leave the garden, she paused, glanced back at him, and added, “Wear something simple. I hate it when men try too hard.”

He grinned. “Noted.”

She was gone a moment later, but Xavier remained still in the garden, hands in his pockets, staring up at the stars like they’d just aligned for him.

He’d won a date.

Xavier watched her disappear around the corner, still stunned.

His heart soared.

She said yes.

And after careful consideration this time, unlike how she seemed forced to accept his invitation to breakfast when he asked her that night at the ball where they first met.

He threw his head back and looked up at the moon, unable to stop the wide, disbelieving grin on his face.

She was like the moon—unreachable to many, ethereal in her distance. But tonight, she had looked down and seen him.

And for Xavier, who had carried Celeste in his heart like a secret prayer, who had loved her in silence and longing—this was more than a step.

It was a beginning.

Their beginning.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Keep an eye out for updates👀

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callixpene · 4 months ago

Text

L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 4: TIME TO REGROUP II

Note: Please read Parts 1-3 before reading this!Unfortunately this fic cannot be read as a stand alone, as it needs context from the previous Parts.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST for PART 1-4

ALL LIs POV - PART 4: TIME TO REGROUP II

Xavier X OC. Sylus X OC. Rafayel X OC. Caleb X OC. Zayne X OC.

Genre: Fluff, Some Angst

The doors of Xavier's residence opened, and in walked Dr. Zayne—tall, collected, and brimming with an ease none of the other men in the room possessed. But what drew every eye, and what tightened every chest, was the woman gracefully stepping in beside him.

Jasmine Kingsley.

Her hand was delicately wrapped around his arm, her soft smile lighting up the room. Her presence was warm and noble, like the scent of jasmine on a spring wind—a poetic justice to her name.

Zayne looked at her the way a man looks when he knows he’s found home. There was no question in his gaze, no fear, no lingering hesitation. Just love. The kind that needed no explanation.

And everyone else in that room felt it.

The tension that had ebbed and flowed between Xavier, Sylus, Caleb, and Rafayel suddenly grew still. No one said anything for a long beat.

Because it was real.

Zayne had done it.

He had won Jasmine’s heart.

And for the four others—who had stumbled, misstepped, or been pushed away by their chosen Kingsley sisters—the truth of it stung.

Zayne had found his forever. And they were still trying not to lose theirs.

Xavier broke the silence first. “So... I assume you’re not just here to gloat.”

Zayne laughed gently. “Would I do that to you?”

“Yes,” Sylus, Caleb, and Xavier said in eerie unison.

Zayne grinned, then looked down at Jasmine. “I brought her because she wants to help.”

Jasmine stepped forward, offering a kind, confident bow. “I know I’m not the sister you came for. But I am still their sister. And I want you all to succeed.”

Rafayel frowned, resting his chin on his palm. “Why?”

Jasmine’s eyes softened. “Because I want my sisters to find what I have with Zayne. I want them to be seen, chosen, loved—truly loved—to the extent that they will no longer have any doubts, worries or reservations.”

“You make it sound so simple,” Caleb said quietly, rubbing the back of his neck.

“It’s not,” Zayne admitted. “But I've witnessed how each of you pined for them...All of you are terrified of failing this challenge."

Each man shifted uncomfortably—not because he was wrong, but because he was painfully right.

Xavier held his breath every time Celeste walked into a room, as though the world stopped moving until she acknowledged him.

Sylus, ever the proud and composed one, always lost the edge in his voice whenever Nyx’s name came up.

Rafayel, so loud and confident, became reverently quiet whenever he sketched Nerissa, his strokes deliberate, as if he were trying to preserve every fleeting detail of her—to capture her beauty on paper so it never escapes him.

And Caleb... Caleb carried Lilian’s name like a fragile prayer. There was a longing in him that didn’t need to be spoken—it pulsed in the way he spoke of her, thought of her, ached for her. And when he did speak of her, most would argue they've never heard someone say another’s name with that much longing.

Jasmine spoke again. “My sisters are not easy. They-We grew up believing that we should guard our hearts, to be especially cautious with love, after all the things that we've been through.....forgive me, I can't say anymore than that about our pasts."

Jasmine continued as she stepped forward. “My sisters are not cold. They’re scared. We taught ourselves to always be guarded. For the longest time, we believed that love was a luxury, not a necessity. That falling for someone could cost us, or worse - the ones we love, everything.”

She looked around at them, one by one. “For that reason, my sisters will not let people in so easily. But......they want to. Just like I did.”

Jasmine approached Xavier first.

“Celeste is terrified of being vulnerable. She is the most guarded out of all of us. But if you show her that you love the quiet moments—the ones when she isn’t perfect or poised, and continue to reassure her—she’ll start to believe that her falling in love can lead to peacefulness instead of the despair...of being left alone.”

Xavier nodded, eyes focused.

Then she turned to Sylus.

“Nyx doesn’t want someone to fight for her. She wants someone who will fight with her. She’s strong, but she’s tired of carrying everything alone. Let her lean on you—not because she’s weak, but because she’s finally found someone worthy of sharing the weight.”

Sylus’s gaze shifted. For the first time in a while, he looked thoughtful. Vulnerable.

To Rafayel next.

“Nerissa hides behind wit and indifference. She plays the game well. But deep down, she wants to be seen. Show her that you’re not entertained by her games—you’re enchanted by the real her. The girl behind the sarcasm.”

Rafayel’s pencil paused on his sketchpad. “Got it.”

Then Jasmine turned to Caleb.

“Lilian... oh, Lilian,” she whispered. “She dreams of love. But should it get too close, she convinces herself it’s not real. You’ll have to be patient, Caleb. Don’t try to prove that you’re enough—just show her that she’s already everything. And don’t disappear, no matter how many times she tells you to go.”

Caleb's throat bobbed as he swallowed hard.

“You all still have time,” Jasmine said, her voice now stronger. “But not forever. My father made that clear. This isn’t just a game. If you fail... you may never see them again. And I know none of you can live with that.”

Zayne stepped beside her again, his eyes sweeping the room. “We’re here to help. But the next move has to come from you.”

“I know things didn’t go the way most of you hoped at the party,” Jasmine continued, voice soft. “But love doesn’t bloom under pressure—it grows in patience, in persistence, and in sincerity.”

Zayne stepped beside her again, his hand lightly grazing the small of her back as if to remind himself she was real.

“She’s right,” he said. Zayne glanced at Jasmine, his expression softening in that way it always did when she was near—like the world dimmed and she was the only thing still glowing. He reached for her hand, and she met him halfway, their fingers intertwining effortlessly, as if they’d done so for a lifetime already.

“For Jasmine and I....at the party, we spoke like the world outside had gone quiet. No one else existed —just us.” His voice dropped a little, almost in awe. “I saw her... and she let me."

The room fell still.

Xavier looked down, a soft breath leaving his lips. “And she fell for you too…” he murmured—not bitter, but aching. Longing.

The others didn’t speak, but their silence was heavy with unspoken questions. How did he do it? Why couldn’t that have been me?

Sylus’ jaw tightened as he looked away, and Rafayel’s pencil paused mid-stroke. Caleb’s hands were folded, but his knuckles were white.

They were envious of Zayne—because he had what they all so desperately craved: the heart of a Kingsley sister.

The one that made sense of their chaos. The one they dreamed about at night and ached for by morning.

Jasmine turned to them with a quiet fierceness in her gaze. “I want to help you all win their hearts. But you must understand: this challenge isn’t about beating each other or earning favor. It’s about proving yourselves—to them, and to yourselves. If you fail—if you give up—you won’t get a second chance.”

The reminder hung heavy in the air: Succeed—or never see them again.

Sylus stood from his seat and crossed his arms, eyes narrowed. “So what do you suggest we do?”

Jasmine met his gaze without flinching. “You each love my sisters differently. And that means each of you needs a different path. So here’s what we’ll do—starting tonight, I will help each of you, one by one, understand the woman you’re fighting for. Her fears. Her boundaries. What makes her laugh. What makes her leave.”

She paused, then added warmly, “And what makes her stay.”

The men looked between one another. There were no smug smirks now. No sarcasm. Just hearts wide open. Hope stirred again like a hesitant ember.

One by one, each of them stepped forward.

Now, they were comrades in love, and desperate to fight for it—because each of them had already chosen.

Xavier for Celeste.

Sylus for Nyx.

Rafayel for Nerissa.

Caleb for Lilian.

Zayne for Jasmine.

And they would not let go without giving it everything they had.

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

Keep an eye out for updates👀

Please tell me your thoughts in the comments what you think of this series so far🥹

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callixpene · 5 months ago

Text

L&DS Future Lifetime Series - PART 4: TIME TO REGROUP I

Note: Please read Parts 1-3 before reading this!Unfortunately, this fic cannot be read as a standalone, as it needs context from the previous Parts to be fully understood.

READ HERE: MASTERLIST FOR PART 1-4

ALL LIs POV - PART 4: TIME TO REGROUP I

Xavier X OC. Sylus X OC. Rafayel X OC. Caleb X OC. Zayne X OC.

Genre: Fluff, Some Angst

"You don't look well today Prince. Let me guess, your lady turned you down, didn't she?" Sylus mused as he smirked. He was sat comfortably on the chaise lounge across Xavier.

Xavier's blood simmered at the sarcastic jab. Onychinus' boss really had a knack at getting into his nerves. "One more word and this time I really will cut your tongue off," he seethed. "And speak for yourself. I have intel that you got outplayed by your lady. Heard she got up and left you high and dry after your 'VIP time' was done. Must be humiliating." This time, it was Xavier's turn to smirk at Sylus.

The veins on Sylus' forehead visibly pulsed in irritation.

"Now you listen here Prince-"

"Both of you, that's enough." Caleb calmly interjected.

Xavier, Sylus, Caleb and Rafayel were all currently within Xavier's posh residence in Linkon City. Xavier had invited them all to come over(well, everyone except Sylus, who showed up unannounced to Xavier's surprise and irritation) to discuss what had happened on each of their ends at the business party a few days back.

They figured that since they were all going through the same challenge, and since time was very limited - they all agreed that they would at least meet up once a week to regroup, to discuss and strategize and help one another to complete Mr. Kingsley's challenge. Every bit of information they can get from each other at this point might help them, and it was evident that if they helped one another - like how their alliances got them into the business party despite none of them originally being invited, it would substantially raise their chances in succeeding.

After all, the ones who will successfully complete this challenge would end up being family - they were courting sisters after all.

But right now, Xavier vehemently detested the idea of being 'family', or even being generally associated with Sylus. His cocky and arrogant demeanor was unbearable, and every interaction they've had so far nearly ended in a brawl.

"Prince Xavier...and Sylus, don't waste your energy on another fight. We're all here to help each other, alright? We each have twenty-two days left. We need all the help we can get." Caleb reiterated again to calm them down, the heavy dark bags under his purple eyes indicated that he hadn't had much sleep lately. Clearly, things didn't go well for him and his lady at the party either.

Xavier crossed his arms. "This is why I didn't invite this bastard. He still has no manners." He glared at Sylus, who only smirked arrogantly in response. "How did you find out about us meeting here, anyway?"

"Mephisto." Sylus replied, matter-of-factly. "You know, for royalty, your security is incredibly laughable."

Xavier rolled his eyes. "That darn mechanical bird. Of course." He sighed and pinched his nose bridge in annoyance. Just ignore Sylus, he thought. After all, he has proven to be useful to them before. "Where is Zayne, Caleb?"

"He said he needed to take care of something important this morning, and that he'll be here after he's got that sorted." Caleb replied.

From across the room, Rafayel scoffed. He was eagerly drawing something in his sketchbook. "Something more important than this challenge? Seems Dr. Workaholic doesn't care much about his lady after all...."

The three men all collectively looked at Rafayel's direction. They were all envious.

Things actually went well for him. When he came in, he almost immediately started yapping about how 'his' Nerissa gave him a chance, and that he was going to plan the grandest, greatest date the world has ever seen so there would be zero chance of rejection.

"I'll be planning a wedding by next week you guys, you'll see..." He told them all earlier, with full confidence.

Rafayel felt their heavy gazes on him, and turned to face them. He smiled smugly. "Now, don't give me those bitter looks, guys. Just because you all failed to woo your ladies doesn't give you all right to shoot your hideous scowls at me. Just tell me if I can do anything to help. I do kind of owe you guys for getting me into that party in the first place, after all."

Then, he started sketching again. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm just gonna go back to designing the dress I'm making for Nerissa for our date. She's going to love it."

Rafayel had an annoying lovesick expression on too as he got back to his sketching. Sylus internally scoffed and pondered: How did the brattiest one of them that yaps the most actually score a date with the lady of his choice?

"I'm jealous..." Caleb sighed, but he wasn't looking at Rafayel, he was looking at Xavier. "After what happened at the party...I don't think Lilian wants to see my face anymore. I knew I should've told her that it was me when I had the chance, but she really seemed to like my fake identity. Must be nice being royalty, huh, Prince?".

"Where's this coming from, all of a sudden?" Xavier raised a brow at Caleb.

"When I met her for the first time, when I picked her up from that island....she didn't seem to like me that much. It felt like she was forming an invisible wall between us, so I couldn't reach her. But when I was disguised as your relative Prince Xavier, there was no wall between us. She was herself, and she actually seemed happy and comfortable around me," Caleb continued.

Xavier looked at him curiously. "What do you think that means?"

Caleb's expression turned somber. "I'm worried, that maybe...maybe what I am isn't enough for her. I mean, she's the daughter of the wealthiest man in the country. She probably was raised thinking that she would marry a prince..." he looked at Xavier, "or a wealthy man like her dad..." he looked at Sylus and Rafayel, "when she grew up."

Caleb chuckled sardonically.

"Sorry you guys. I know this is a really pathetic way to think, but I just couldn't think of any other reason why Lilian liked me better as 'Victor Sterling' than just plain old 'Caleb', the family pilot."

Xavier was about to say something, but Sylus spoke first. "Thinking like that will get you nowhere." He said, sternly. This caused everyone in the room, even Rafayel, to face him.

Sylus continued: "So what if she wants to marry a prince, or a millionaire, or the wealthiest man on the planet? Frankly, it is up to you, and you alone, to change her perspective." Sylus smirked. "If that is what she wants now, then show her why she should want you instead. Just give it your all. Mr. Kingsley gave us this challenge to see if we are worthy of his daughters. So prove to him that you are worthy, by winning Lilian's heart."

Xavier was flabbergasted, as these encouraging words did come from Sylus of all people.

Then, he shared his thoughts as well: "Caleb, didn't Mr. Kingsley appoint you as an Aerospace Engineer last time? Frankly, that's an incredible feat. I heard that even the sons of Nexus' own board members with engineering degrees from prestigious academies couldn't meet Mr. Kingsley's excessive standards. Him giving you that position already proves that he thinks you are worthy enough of being around his daughter."

Caleb stilled, and went silent for a bit. Then, he got up from the settee to walk towards Xavier.

He tapped Xavier's shoulder and grinned at him. "Coming from a talented Prince, and this self-made tough guy right here," he turned to face Sylus, "that means a lot. Thanks you guys..." Caleb's voice was lively now, like how it was when they all met. "Alright! Enough with the brooding. Let's start planning our next move to get our ladies!"

"That's what I've been saying! Quit sulking and come up with a decent game plan already. I still need to start sewing this dress when I get home!" Rafayel called out from across the room.

Sylus scoffed, and Caleb and Xavier chuckled.

"Say, what happened on your ends by the way?" Caleb asked.

Sylus perched his chin on his palm, his brows furrowed. "Well, like His Royal Highness over here said earlier, I got outplayed." he said. "I planned to tell Nyx everything that night. My offer to her father, and about my proposal. But she didn't let me get a word in before she left. Even Mephisto couldn't find where she went afterwards." Then, surprisingly, his face shifted to an amused expression. "Seems my girl's quite crafty. I quite like chasing her down like this. Makes catching her at the end all the more rewarding."

Xavier, on the other hand, sighed dejectedly as he rubbed his temples. "I thought things were going well with Celeste that night. After all, she didn't turn me away when I-" Xavier paused and lightly coughed as if to purposefully cut off his words. Rafayel and Caleb each raised a brow.

"Ah, clearly multiple bases were skipped that night. I'm impressed, Your Highness. I didn't expect that from you amongst all of us. Don't tell me they teach that sort of thing back in Finishing School at Philos?" Sylus retorted, amusedly.

Xavier glowered at Sylus. Then, he cleared his throat and his face was flushed as he continued: "The morning after, she left me a note. Said it was a mistake. That I should avoid her from now on..." His tone turned sullen.

"Wow....you and I really are on the same boat, Prince." Caleb said, as he bashfully scratched the back of his head. "That's practically how the night and the morning after went for me too."

In a swift motion, everyone collectively turned their heads to Caleb. He raised his arms. "What?"

"Don't tell me....you slept with her, and she actually thought you were Xavier's relative the entire time?!" Rafayel practically yelled. "That is so messed up! Let me guess, she panicked when she figured out in the morning that it wasn't who she thought it was she slept with, but her pilot instead? God, Caleb what were you thinking?"

Sylus chuckled, quite loudly this time. "I didn't expect this from you either. I guess it's true what they say, it's always the ones who seem decent..."

"I just told you guys....she was more comfortable around my false persona than my actual self! I really tried to tell her multiple times that night, but then she told me she was trying to forget some other guy, then I lost it..."

"Some other guy...?" Rafayel asked.

"I swear when I find out whoever that is...I'm going to make him pay for causing Lilian pain..." Caleb said to himself, furiously.

Xavier could understand that. The mere thought of Celeste having feelings for someone else would make him anxious and envious to no end. He didn't want to think of the things he'd do if someone else vied for her affections.

In the midst of Rafayel and Caleb's clamorous exchanges, Sylus' sarcastic jabs and Xavier's silent plans of ridding a nonexistent rival, one of Xavier's attendants opened the door.

"Your Highness, your guest, Dr. Zayne has finally arrived." the attendant called out.

"Took him long enough..." Caleb said.

"Let him in." Xavier replied.

"Of course, Your Highness. I shall go get him and his companion then." the attendant replied, before leaving promptly.

"Companion? Wait, who did he bring along with him?" Rafayel asked no one in particular.

However, before anyone of them could guess, the doors opened again, revealing Zayne and the so-called 'companion'.

"Hello everyone, I'm sorry for being late."

But Dr. Zayne didn't look apologetic at all. In fact, he looked full of life, a stark contrast from the rigid, nonchalant person he was when they all first met.

There was a bright, joyful smile plastered on his face as the lady wrapped around his arm gracefully bowed to greet everyone in the room. "I had to pick up someone immensely important..."

"Good afternoon. My name is Jasmine. I'm sorry for the intrusion. I'm here, to help all of you..."

Thank you for reading💜🩵🩷🧡❤️

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