#@mxdanni

[choicesfandomappreciation]

Spreading kindness Part 2

@rosepetals1 is such a sweet person who supports others. Glad I met her. She's so kind 🌹I like seeing you in my notifications

@mozartholvdehwk Such a sweet and friendly person who encouraged me to play ItLives3. I like her seeing in my notifications too. Soooo glad you found me 🤓

@thedistantshoresproject who makes a Distant Shores sequel possible. Can't wait to meet Oliver again.

@ nightboundfanfiction who will be hopefully soon delievering a Nightbound sequel project game, so we can return back into the magical worlds and fight the evil. You have no idea how many people I know who are excited even though you don't see it cuz... busy life?

@itlivesproject for starting the fanmade game sequel project trend and delievering the best sequel game which even PB would never have given us. The accessoires, LGBTQ+ content, collecting points, collecting artifacts, relationship options, choices that matter and deeply influence the story and more...

@squid-princess-teach-swallow For beeing friendly, talented editor and recommending me RC along with @ratanslily

@zoeywades-spouse RC is one of the best thing that ever happened. Thanks for recommending it to me, dear Angel Dino stan who likes Kazu too. Just like me 😍

@mariemarieohcontrary I miss you, bestie. And your beautiful and talented art which needs to be showed so we all can admire it. And don't forget to tag me on your Nightbound and Heaven's Secret fics

@mxdanni For always reading my fanfics which means a lot than you can imagine. Thanks <3

@rosepetals1 , @mozartholvdehwk , @thedistantshoresproject , @nightboundfanfiction , @itlivesproject , @squid-princess-teach-swallow, @zoeywades-spouse , @mariemarieohcontrary , @mxdanni

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 7: Brother

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder / (F!MC×Cal Lowell)

Summary: The search for Nik leads Alex and Cal to shocking discoveries.

Word Count: 2.0K words

Rating: Teen (Drama, Angst, Relationships)

Warnings: Language, Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @mikaelsrose ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @choiceshorrorfest [Prompts: Nightbound; Cal Lowell; Nik Ryder; werewolf; nighthunters; death] ; @choicesmonthlychallenge [Spooktober]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

"Hmmm, I think I remember seeing this place. Are we near your new house in the woods?", Alex asked Cal as they continued their search for the missing nighthunter who ran away from them.

"If, in this dimension, it's still my house, then yes. But I think we should head back, I can't recognize Nik his scent here instead... Oh..."

"What is it, Cal?"

"It's weird. I... I... I smell... Me? But...", before Cal could complete his sentence a figure appeared behind the bushes. A very familiar figure which they haven't met before.

"Cal, that's your doppelganger??!!"

The Cal with Alex and the other one shockingly staring at each other and not believing their own eyes. At first, they silently stare at each other and then try to identify the other being by their scent by sniffing each other before getting wary.

"Who are you, and why do you have my scent?" the other Cal asked, glaring at him; then his eyes met Alex, which increased his anger even more, and he took a few steps backward.

"Uhhh, why don't we ignore each other and go our own ways? Let's..."

"Huntress, how dare you show yourself in my territory?!! Leave, or else I'll shred you in tiny pieces", he hissed at Alex.

"Me?? Why would you do that? And did you just call me a huntress?"

"Don't act dumb, huntress, I warned you to never show yourself to me, but you still did. And this time, you tried to lure me out with a fake copy of mine? What kind of spell is that even?"

"Back off, this is not the way you speak to her. Respect her." Cal protectively stepped in front of Alex to shield her from the other Cal.

"Why should I respect the woman who played with my feelings? Who acted like she cared about my well-being but in real didn't."

"I would never..."

"You're a liar, huntress. You ruined everything. Because of you, my Alpha died, and so did my little brother."

"What???!!!! No. Noooo!!!! No, it can't be. Say that you're lying!! Say it!!!" Cal freaked out, shouted, and began to shake his doppelganger by gripping his shoulders as tears began to roll down his cheeks.

"It's the truth. Why would I lie and even think about this? It's sadly true. That day when Elijah and that girl entered Kristof's cabin to get some hunter's sage. Of course, he didn't give it to them. Instead, I offered them mine, but only if they helped me to find Donny. We three ended up in Club Persephone, Elijah refused to go inside and got furious. It took me a lot of time to convince him. It was hard to find Donny, but when we did... It was too late."

"Nooooo... Donny, my bro..."

"Oh Cal...", Alex rested her hand on his shoulder to comfort him.

"Hey, no need to pity. It's too late anyway, little lady. If you would have cared, you would've tried harder when we were in Persephone. Convincing the old hunter more. Leave before I...", the other Cal moved closer to threaten Alex, but her Cal immediately pulled her behind to protect her.

"Don't you dare to touch her, man!! Where's the respect and your manners?"

"Already dead, along with Donny. I lost my brother, I lost everything. What is she to you anyway? A Wolf Bride?", he dangerously snarled at them and began to shift into his werewolf form. Ready for attack.

"Don't you dare, nasty fur ball!!" a familiar voice shouted angrily at the Cal from this dimension. Immediately, Nik Ryder jumped between and shot a holy light arrow in the attacker's direction to blind him.

"Nik, you're here!!"

"Rook, Wolfman, he's not in a good mood. Let's just get outta here.", the blonde hunter ordered and the three of them began to run. Escaping the angry werewolf, Cal's doppelganger.

"Where are we running?"

"Somewhere safe. Just away from danger. I was near and heard trouble, so I came."

"Just in time, Nik. Thanks."

"Yup, thanks bro."

"You're welcome, Cal.", he coldly thanked Cal only and ignored Alex.

"Nik, you're still mad at me. I'm sorry, but believe me what happened before was... I thought the guy I kissed was you. I'm..."

"Less talkin', more runnin'.", Nik answered back to her girlfriend who disappointed her.

"Nik, Alex, can you two please... Hurry!!! He's following us.", Cal noticed his doppelganger chasing the three of them in it's werewolf form.

Nik desperately ran while turning around several times to fire some holy light arrows in the pursuer's direction. But the werewolf is still close, evading every blow until Nik realizes that he has no arrows left anymore. Empty.

"Damn it... Rook, use your magic."

"No, I'll hurt him. He's somehow still Cal and the Fate said..."

"He'll shred us apart!!", he argued.

Without noticing, the three of them reached a familiar place, the cemetery. The very same place where Nik Ryder once rescued Alex from a bloodwraith the very first time. The angry werewolf was hot on their trail.

"Oh no, what do we do now?", Alex panicked and now hoped that the bloodwraith wouldn't appear again.

"Hey, werewolf!!! Leave these innocent humans alone!!!!", an energetic and light voice echoed around them. A very familar voice.

"Uhh, Alex? Was that you?"

"No Cal, I didn't say anything... I... Woah!!", Alex lost her words after she found out who that voice belonged too. The mysterious figure appeared from the shadows revealing herself as...

"Rook?! Wow, you're... I mean, she's...", Nik's cheeks turned softly pink.

"Yeah, she looks wild. Gorgeous. And that scent. Alex, that's your doppelganger!! The Alex from this dimension.", Cal confirmed.

"Uhhh... Guys, why are the two of you staring my doppelganger like this? I don't even know if I should feel honored or feel jealous."

Yes, the mysterious figure, a slim lady with wavy silvery hair which was fluttering in the wind. And the very same chocolate-brown eyes was indeed Alexis Clarissa Fontaine. The Alex from this dimension. But she looked a little diffrent than the "original". A light shirt. Black, ripped pants. Heeled boots. Wearing everything in leather, including the familar cherry-red leather jacket which she once received from Nik. Her hunting outfit.

"Heyyy, werewolf!!! Let them goo!!!", she yelled at the creature which turned it's attention to her and began to snarl. When everyone thought that he's about to attack her, the werewolf shifted back into his human form.

"So, you're here. Hunteress.", he hissed.

"Cal, let these innocent... Wait, what??!!! There are two of us??!!!" she was shocked at the sight of two Cal Lowells standing in front of her and another Alex.

"Oooohh, finally I get to meet my doppelganger in this dimension. Hello other Alex, I love your fashion sense. Where did bought these heeled..."

"Rook, shut up!"

"Nik, you shut up!!"

"Uhhh, could the two of you please...", Cal tried to calm them down.

"Shapeshifters, aren't you?!!", the hunteress asked at the three and quickly drawed two daggers from her pockets. Ready to attack Alex and Cal. But Nik Ryder protectively stood infront of them.

"Step back, they are no shapeshifters. Or else you have to deal with me first, little chick.", he winked at her, trying to make his Alex jealous. Then aimed his crossbow at her to defend his group.

"Wait, where did you get that crossbow? Who are you??!!" her eyes widened at the sight of Nik's weapon, and she began to glare at the blonde man.

"Nik. Nik Ryder. Also a nighthunter."

"It... It can't be... Impossible."

"Wait hunteress, they're no usual shapeshifters. The girl has your scent and so does my doppelganger has mine.", the werewolf finally spoke.

"Really, Cal?" her eyes met his, and for a single moment, the werewolf's gaze softened for her. He silently admired the beautiful huntress standing in front of her.

"Really, Alex." the werewolf, Cal's doppelganger, confirmed, finally calling the huntress by her name and then smiling a little.

While the two were distracted from each other, Nik lightly signaled his friends, Cal and Alex, to leave before they got more in trouble. Silently walking backward till they managed to sneak away.

"Nik, bro..."

"What is it, Cal?" he asked him while the three of them were wandering around the woods. Alex was a small distance behind, sunken in her own thoughts.

"Thank you. Thank you for everything. Because of you... No, because of you and Alex, Donny is still alive in our world. All thanks to you two my little brother is alive."

"It's nothing, Cal.", Nik watched the ground while they were marching down their way without looking up, as if he looked bothered.

"No, Nik, if it wasn't for you and your brilliant plan, we would have never found Donny. Or at least not that quick. You broke the spell to track down Donny, got us inside Persephone without any trouble, and tracked him down just in time before it was too late. Even though you don't like Club Persephone, you still risked it. You're more clever and cunning than Elijah. You have a heart."

"My dad's the best and not me, Cal."

"No Nik, it was you who..."

"My dad would have done the same."

"But Nik, he failed. Haven't you heard what the other Cal just said? Elijah couldn't save Donny, but you..."

"I know, but I don't want to talk about it. Elijah is my hero, that's it! I don't want to hear anything about this now.", he requested while trying to hide his disappointment. For Nik Ryder, Elijah Ryder is not only his father but his hero, his role model. Hearing about his father's failure in Donny's rescue just shocked him a little.

"Whatever, Nik. We may haven't gotten along well at the beginning, but getting to know you better made me realize that you're a good man. A man with a heart of gold. You're a friend. You, Alex, Katherine, and Vera are not only friends... You're like a family to me who accept me the way I am. I don't have to prove anything to you like I always had to among the werewolves. You guys are my own pack. Nik, you're like a brother to me."

"You're actually not bad either, bro. I think. Cal...", Nik hestitated.

"Yeah?"

"Don't get me wrong, but after seeing your doppelganger today. The way he watched at the huntress, it makes me wonder..."

"Wonder what? Is everything alright, Nik?", he smiled and gave him a reassuring pat on his shoulder.

"Do you still have feelings for Alex?" he whispered with worry to make sure Alex wouldn't hear their conversation from behind.

"Woahh, Nik... I..."

"We just considered each other's as brothers, and would you ever hide something from a brother, Cal?" he asked without losing eye contact from his werewolf companion. Cal took a deep breath before answering.

"Nik, the truth is... Alex is perfect. She's perfection.", he confessed which made Nik's face falter.

"So you do have feelings for her?"

"Listen, I was in love with her for a long time. Since I met her, Nik. I still like her and if something would happen to her, I... Well, it doesn't matter now. She chose to be with you, Nik, and I'm happy for both of you. Really. You're a nice guy, even though at first I couldn't understand what she saw in you. But I understand now... You have a big heart, but you don't like to reveal it. Guess maybe that's what she saw in you, Nik. She really loves you. You didn't see her sadness, worry, and love when you were in New York. She suffered alone."

For a minute there was total silence between them. Total silence. After a few thoughts in his mind, Nik finally spoke.

"Thanks for telling me this, Cal. I mean... bro. But seeing Alex kissing and making out with someone else, I... It hurts. It damn hurts.", he softly sniffed.

"I'm here for you, Nik. I'm right here, brother.", Cal wrapped his strong arm around the young hunter to comfort him.

"We're almost there. I can smell Vera's perfume. Katherine and Vera must be somewhere here and very close.", Cal informed as they were strolling together through the woods.

"And we're near my dad's house", Nik smirked.

"Hey Alex, we... Alex??!!", Cal turned around and realized that Alex wasn't with them anymore. The whole time, both guys hadn't realized the girl's absence, even when they were privately talking with each other about her, and now... Both got worried, turned back, and were headed from where they came from to search for their missing Alex.

"Damn it, where did she go now??!" Nik's speed increased, and he was looking in all directions. Cal was close behind.

"Don't worry, we'll find her. I can still smell her. She must be close."

[mxdanni]

I did write some vampire porn in the end… 👀

Thanks guys 💚😂

Late night thinking:

1. Vampires don’t have a heartbeat 💓

2. Their blood doesn’t course 🩸

So.

3. How do they get it up then..? 🍆

I’m asking for research 🧐 purposes.

[ladylamrian]

Nightbound • Blades of Light & Shadows • Crimes of Passion

Pairings: F!MC×NikRyder ; F!MC×AerinValleros ; F!MC×MalVolari ; F!MC×M!TrystanThorne

Summary: Principal Liam has an interview today with a new teaching staff. Will they try to impress him and get the job?

Chapter 1 - The new staff - Word Count: 2.8K words - General

-> My complete Choices Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesjunechallenge2024 [Theme: Liminality - Time, Punctuality, etc...] ; @choicescommunityevents

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: It might take a long time till the next chapter releases. I have a lot writing plans, so I hope you understand. Inspired by @a-cloud-for-dreams series: Scholars of B. Lane.

Welcome to The Royal Academy, a place for a prince, princess, duke, duchess and other royal nobilities to study and learn more about their royal life filled with responsibilities, duties and challenges. Led by husband and wife, His Royal Highness King Liam Rys from Cordonia and Her Majesty Queen Riley from Cordonia with their right hand, Duchess Olivia Nevrakis from Lythikos... What challenges await this year? With new students, there will be also new staff available.

King Liam, now Principal Liam was seated in his office in the academy, preparing some important documents for the new year tomorrow. He was the head of the academy and was also expecting a new full-time teaching staff today for an interview since Duke Simon Montjoy and his American wife were expecting a baby soon. Family was one of the most important things for him since he was also a father of three children. His children are very young, that's why his wife was only working part-time for now. The Cordonian friends, Drake, Hana and Maxwell always supportive and on their side to support him and take care of his children.

Sadly there weren't many applicants eligible for this position, so all the hope was that this job interview would go excellent. Time was short. Really short.

"Hey honey, I made you some tea.", his wife, Riley entered the head office which she shared with his husband. She carried a teacup filled with warm green tea and placed it on the wooden table. Liam thanked her without meeting her eyes as he was still focused on his unfinished paperwork which got Riley a bit worried and tried to reassure him.

"Liam, don't worry. You will do great like always."

"It's not that. I'm worried about the future of my new students. I just hope today's interview will go excellent and I don't have to look for another teaching staff anymore.", he confessed and looked at his wristwatch.

It was already 5 minutes past the job interview which should have already started. Whoever the applicant is, is late and it can't be tolerated in the academy. Teaching staff who should be educating young royals about manners, responsibility and to fulfill any task correctly before the deadline... Is late?? Not a good first impression. Punctuality is important.

"I assume the interview won't happen today.", Liam sighted as if he just accepted defeat. But his wife was sure that the applicant would come today and tried to keep up the positive side.

"Liam, people can get late. There must be a reasonable explanation and...", she couldn't finish her sentence as a sudden knock at the door interrupted.

"Come in, please.", Liam commanded the guest inside their office. The door lightly opened a few centimeters, but not more. It stayed still and there was no sight of someone entering. Seated on his office chair, Liam was stunned and so was his wife.

"What was that?"

"Perhaps just the wind, darling."

"Can the wind knock, Riley? I'm pretty sure that we both heard..."

"Excuse me, sir.", a high-pitched voice was requesting for some attention.

"Uhh, Liam, did you hear that?"

"Yes, but I don't see anyone here.", he and Riley were surprised until the same voice appeared again. This time it sounded almost annoyed.

"Pardon me, but would you humans just look down. I'm here!!", a black cat with bat wings flew up and landed right in front of Liam on his desk.

"What the...??!!! What are you?", King Liam panicked as didn't expect a talking cat to appear.

"Awwww, isn't the cat cute?!!!"

"Riley, it's a talking cat and not cute."

"Pardon me, but I cannot handle such disrespect. If the lady thinks I'm cute then please respect her opinion.", the creature annoyingly hissed which frightened the principal.

"Please, leave!! It's a school and people could be allergic to cats like you. Where did you even come from?!!"

"Pardon me, but I'm attending important business here and need to speak to the head of this school. Perhaps even complain about you since you cannot speak to me, Threep Pompedorfin, a wise nesper like this.", the winged cat licked his paw with attitude.

"Wait, you're Mister Pompedorfin??! The new teacher I'm expecting for the interview??!! I... I didn't expect you to be... like this.", Liam was highly surprised about the sudden reveal.

"Meow me? Excuse me, and you are...?"

"Principal Liam, Head of the Academy.", he spoke with confidence while adjusting the collars of his white shirt underneath his fancy, black coat. His introduction shocked the bat-winged cat.

"Purrrr... You're the head of the academy and king of Cordonia? Well, I expected someone more... older and wiser? Pardon me.", Threep licked his paw again, then brushed it behind his ear.

There was a long silence between the Rys couple and their furry guest, trying to progress. Liam's wife, Riley encouraged him to still continue the job interview and give Threep a chance. It didn't take long till the king agreed to it. Folding his arms, his focus turned back to Threep.

"So, Mister Pompedorfin, tell me more about you."

"Of course, I'm Threep Percivacurus Pompedorfin, a very wise, respectful and ancient nesper. And I love food, so I hope the food in the cafeteria is worth it."

"Very interesting. Also, a nesper?"

"Yes, I'm a nesper and so is my pregnant partner, Loola. Nespers have wisdom and the impeccable ability to judge character. So my apologies for that. It is my solemn duty and distinct pleasure to offer aid wherever I can. Even when it means giving life lessons to the young generation because it is them and my wiseness who'll form the upcoming future."

"Well, it's good to hear that you care about the future of my students. And your motivation to teach them some fruitful lessons. Why did you choose my academy?"

"Because my sixth sense told me that I am desperately needed, sir. Wherever people seek my help, I'll be there... Well... And my partner is pregnant, so I need something well-paid to feed her and my unborn babies."

"Awww, such a cute kitty is having baby kittens?!!! Congratulations on becoming a father soon, Mister Pompedorfin. Please, I'd love to meet your wife, and the babies after they're born.", Riley was excited and still found Threep cute.

"Riley, dear, please... Let me handle this. It's an interview.", Liam silently whispered and held her by her shoulder. Threep meowed to get their attention.

"Meow! Excuse me, but do I have the title of Professor and staff member of your academy already? Do you take me? I'd like to know before taking a look into the cafeteria and then flying home."

"Of course, Liam would accept such an adorable face like you, right?", Riley encouraged and patted Threep's tiny head, still amazed by his cuteness.

King Liam pulled Riley towards him and requested their guest to wait outside to discuss this matter with his wife in private. The newspaper did as he wished and waited outside for the final answer. Will Threep be accepted in the Academy or will he immediately be thrown out?

"So Liam? Do we give him the job?", she asked him.

"Honestly, that was... It's not what I expected. I can't believe it. Tomorrow's the first day of school and I can't even arrange a proper teaching staff?"

"What about Mr. Pompedorfin? He's our last chance. We can't pressure the teaching staff we have already more work. At least accept Threep. He knows a lot and seems very wise."

After hearing his wife's words, he stood up from his chair and walked around his office in circles. To think. It took him a few minutes until he stopped walking and finally came to a conclusion.

"Okay, Riley. Fine, I'll hire Mister Pompedorfin. But if he doesn't fulfill his duties properly, I'll immediately start looking for another staff and fire him. Look, I'm normally not like that. Everyone deserves a second chance, but it's also about the future of our students."

"I trust you, Liam. And I'm pretty sure that Mr. Pompedorfin won't disappoint.", she moved closer towards her husband and embraced herself in his arms while he pulled her closer. Planting a tiny, sweet kiss on her bare shoulder, he thanked her for supporting him.

After their sweet little moment, Liam hurried towards his desk and pulled a list out.

"I'll hire Mister Pompedorfin and will hand him over the smallest class of students. Just in case. If he handles this well, then I'll be more confident about him in the future and he'll stay with us in the academy. I already have a few students in mind to put in his class. They're so various, that perhaps he might have already experience with them. I want to take things slowly for him.", Liam warmly smiled, ready to welcome the new teaching staff. Professor Threep Pompedorfin.

After the nesper found out in Liam's office that he got accepted, he was amazed and delighted about the news.

"I knew that you would finally see that I'm suitable for this honorable cause, your Highness. That's the respect I deserve."

"Congratulations and welcome, Mister Pompedorfin. May tomorrow's first day be a success."

"Puuurrrrfect. Now if you'll excuse me, I want to stop by the cafeteria downstairs and ask about tomorrow's menu and if they have something already prepared today that I could taste. Someone has to check. For the students, right? See you tomorrow."

These were the last words of the winged cat before it flapped it's wings and flew outside the office.

"Isn't he adorable, Liam?"

"Why do I have the feeling that many women will get easily charmed by him? Well, anyway... I need to focus on work."

For the next two hours, King Liam, Queen Riley and their loyal friends from Cordonia were seated in the office discussing the upcoming school year. They had often those kind of meetings about the academy and their dedication towards their kingdom of Cordonia. This one was just the last meeting to discuss the opening of the Academy in the new year like they did every year.

Olivia Nevrakis, the right hand of the Rys couple was delighted for this year, especially after she just saw the name of her cousin from Drakovia on the students list. She's also the new head of security in the academy because it was essential to secure safety for the high-elite students.

"Liam, I found two of the best people I could hire to secure the safety of our students and the academy. The parents have nothing to worry about. This year we will have two people for our security and safety.", Olivia, the Scarlett Duchess spoke with high confidence.

"I like our new security standards, Olivia. If you trust them, then so do I. I want the students and the academy to be left in safe hands.", Liam trusted Olivia's decisions and was excited to meet the two, new members. Only a few Cordonian guards are now in the academy, but they are mostly needed in his kingdom.

During his absence, Drake Walker was responsible for the security of Cordonia. His home and where his children lived. His wife, Queen Riley will only support him for the beginning days, then she'll return to their children.

"Have you already made the timetables?", Lady Hana curiously asked, wanting to know her times and which class she'll get. She would be teaching the subjects Art, Music and some Fashion classes. While Lady Kiara specialized in Foreign Affairs, Cultures & Languages.

The rest of their friends, Maxwell, Penelope and Madeline had royal duties in Cordonia to handle like Drake. Plus, Maxwell loved to spend time with the Rys children and take care of them.

Class schedules and lists were now already made. And like Principal Liam decided, the new teacher, Professor Threep Pompedorfin would get the smallest class group of students. He checked all the lists one last time before they were finished. The new school year can come...

Servants rushed in the early morning around the dining room serving the two children their breakfast on their first day of school in the Royal Academy. They bowed as their ruler, their duke entered and then continued their work.

"Good morning, my lovely children. Are you excited for your first day?", he sweetly asked before planting a gentle kiss on their cheeks.

"Yes, father. I can't believe today's our first day and I'm so excited. It'll be just like high school again, right?", the daughter answered while she continued to eat her fresh fruit salad.

"What's high school? Well, never mind. I still think it's not right. Why should we go to a school led by human beings?", the younger brother snorted who definitely wasn't thrilled about going to school.

"My son, I figured that it might be the best. Perhaps this way you would understand the life your sister had among humans and that they're not all bad after all. I love you and just want the best for my shining stars. And I heard that other beings will be there too. You will learn a lot there."

"Tialo, could you hand me over the orange juice? Please, I can't reach it.", the sister was struggling as her hands couldn't reach the filled glass carafe. The younger brother, Tialo didn't care and ignored her request until their father, the Duke, Lord Elric spoke.

"Tialo, help your sister.", he ordered him, then reached for the juice himself to hand it over to his daughter.

"Father, how many times did I tell you that she's not my sister??!!", Tialo almost shouted while innocent Alex was too focused on her meal.

"Enough, Tialo!!! Your mother and I accepted her as our own already. She may be my child from another woman, but I still love her."

"Father, that woman you were together with is a human!!! And so is Alex!!! Humans are nothing. Alex is half fae, half human. A halfling who shouldn't be among us. There's nothing royal about her and..."

"You said enough, Tialo. Quiet now!!! Perhaps sending you to the academy with your sister might be wise, so you would understand each other. Support each other and learn how to get along."

Tialo wasn't thrilled at his father's words and decided to stay quiet, but that won't happen for long... He'll figure out something. Just wait and see.

"Chop, chop, you're getting late for your first day. Hurry up, my children.", the sweet voice of the loving Lady Thalissa, Lord Elric's wife rang across the room as she entered. She rushed towards them and planted a gentle kiss on each of their foreheads. Some fae servants brought the suitcases of Lady Alexis and Lord Tialo already downstairs for them.

"I will miss you two very much. You'll stay away from home. I wish...", the duchess whispered to them and her green eyes sparkled with tears.

"Mother, I'll be fine. Don't worry."

"Yes, Thalissa. Tialo is right. We'll be alright. Don't worry, we're strong. You're not alone, Father is still with you. Please, don't cry.", Alex tried to assure her caring stepmother and squeezed her free hand.

"I know, it's just... Promise to take care of each other, to eat enough, and to behave yourself. Don't forget to drink water and wear clothes that are made for the weather. And...", she got interrupted by her husband.

"I think they understood and we shouldn't hold them any longer. They're getting late."

"But father, we won't make it. It's already..."

"My princess daughter, you're forgetting that we're fae.", Elric answered with amusement and to her surprise, opened a portal that would directly lead them to the academy in the human realm.

And with that, Alex and Tialo met each other's eyes before focusing back on the portal in front of them. Tialo may have been used to fae magic and portals, but his half-sister wasn't. Clutching her suitcase and saying her goodbyes to the parents, she closed her eyes, finally entering the portal along with Tialo. Bright light was all she could see even when her chocolate-brown eyes were closed. After a moment, she slowly opened them again and faced...

"Wow!!! Beautiful.", she happily twirled in front of the gate of the academy. So huge and majestic.

"You find that beautiful, halfling? Poor thing, then you haven't seen our home completely yet.", he spoke in a mocking manner and then laughed at her.

In front of the two siblings, other students entered the gates of the academy with their suitcases, one by one after a proper security check. It was very astonishing to see various students from different places. European, Asian, Hispanic... Even different species which weren't only humans, like elves and even faes like them. Perhaps an Inter-realm Academy?

[ladylamrian]

Fragile

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Thomas's wraith was defeated by Alex. But the battle wasn't easy. She was now fighting between life and death.

Word Count: 6.3K words

Rating: Teen/Mature

Warnings: Angst, Heartbreak, Hospital, Health...

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @bri1234 ; @artbyalz ; @choicesaprilchallenge24 [Prompts: "What happened?" ; "Shut up!" ; "I'll take care of you." "Just relax" & "Wake up." ] @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

Author's note: Nightbound rewrite of last scene.

Nik's girlfriend, Alex was lying on the hospital bed, injured, unconscious and not waking up. Nik held back the tears that came to his eyes. Tears he didn't think would appear so easily for a tough man like him. He watched her for a long time and then kissed her forehead.

"Don't worry, rook. Everything will be alright, I swear. Just don't leave me. Wake up, I'm here. Your Nik is here with you and never left your side.", his voice trembled as he whispered. After a little pause, he continued.

"I... I think... I love you... I never thought that I would ever fall in love so deeply with you. Never imagined the thing I would fear the most would be losing you. Hell, I can lose everything but not you. But oh, not you. Please... Wake up."

He sat quietly by the bedside holding her hands, and couldn't help but keep talking to her even when she was unconscious.

"What I would give to hear your voice again...", he stroked her silvery-black hair, remembering their happy moments, their first meeting, their first kiss. Wiping away the tears that kept coming to his silvery-gray eyes, he thought he should have protected her better. He failed. Not ready to lose her like he once lost his birthparents and Elijah. He failed again. He couldn't protect her from the bloodwraith which attacked his girlfriend. Now she's fighting between life and death. Struggling.

"That Thomas bastard... Damn Lady Fate who couldn't fight that bastard before all this happened before. Powerful Fate? The hell with that!!! Thomas's gone now, but at what cost...?", he muttered as his eyes burned with anger and revenge.

Even though Thomas and his bloodwraith who tried to kill Alex and all the supernatural elite, were finally defeated at the Mardi Gras event by Alex's mysterious powers. But before its defeat, the bloodwraith just had to attack her. Its claws sank into her body, making her lose so much blood that the wraith itself ended up bloody. She lost so much blood, but it was somehow a miracle that his girlfriend was still with him. For now...

After a moment later, a doctor entered the room to check Alex's status and vitals. For his luck, the doctor was a fae, disguised from the human sight through the glamour spell. He wouldn't question much about the happenings and already knew that this was the work of a supernatural being. The bloodwraith, a killing machine. And since Alex was partly fae, he would understand her better than the rest of the doctors. Nik got up from the chair where he was sitting and approached the doctor.

"How is she?"

The doctor turned his attention to him and appeared a little worried.

"I'm afraid her situation is rather delicate, she's still unconscious. She's in a coma, her condition is serious but stable. She's been intubated and connected to many machines that keep her alive. I can't give you a date when she would wake up... it could be tomorrow or it could be in several days... I'm absolutely sorry, sir."

Nik was visibly shaken.

"And she will survive this right? Right?!!"

"The truth is... I can't know for sure. We just hope she'll pull through without any further complications.", the fae doctor informed without meeting his eyes. He paused before he continued. "We need to run some tests to know more."

Nik's body suddenly trembled slightly and his fists tightened into a ball. Taking a deep breath, he tried to remain calm.

"But in the meantime, there must be something you can do for her right?"

The doctor felt sorry, looked at her condition on the monitors and then adjusted some of them.

"She's a half-fae, right? She appears to be stable, for now. The most important thing we could do for her is allow her body to rest. And we will perform several tests so please if you want, you can be with her during the tests."

The young nighthunter nodded and watched his girlfriend. Her long hair was so beautiful, her face full of peace even when unconscious, she seemed so still, so fragile. She was now his Sleeping Beauty, waiting for her to finally wake up because he couldn't bear thinking of the worst. He gripped her hand tightly, feeling her warmth and how her skin was soft as silk and whispered to her. For him, she looked like an angel on earth. Peaceful.

"Please wake up rook, don't leave me alone..."

The doctor left the room to give him some privacy. Nik kissed her on the forehead and held onto her hand. His face is completely devastated and broken. Every fiber of his being was being torn away by this pain. Tears kept flowing down his face, his heart felt like it was about to explode and shatter in many tiny pieces. His thoughts were so chaotic and filled with dread. He blamed himself for everything. If only he could have protected her better. If only his last memory with her was a happy one. If only he made sure that Thomas and his bloodwraith were really really dead and defeated. The young man felt so powerless in this situation. He wanted to do something for her. His helplessness was torturing him, but there was nothing he could do right now. He could only wait. Nik's head whirled, his hands trembled and all that he could do was to keep holding on to this only connection he had left with his beloved.

Weeks passed and Nik Ryder was still sitting next to his girlfriend's bed. He hasn't left the hospital room since the deadly bloodwraith tried to kill her. He looked exhausted and his eyes were red as if he hadn't slept in days. He had barely eaten anything and just couldn't leave her alone. The doctor and the nurses tried to urge him to leave the hospital for a while, but he refused. Every time they suggested he go rest at home, he shook his head, because he was afraid that the second he left her, she would slip away to leave him forever. A tear ran down his cheek as he saw her lying motionless, so pale and so fragile on the bed. She looked like a small and innocent child. Alex had lost so much blood, but he was grateful at least that she was still here with him. But the fact that she was so vulnerable and helpless... Just seeing her like that cut him with a knife to his soul. He couldn't imagine what he would do if something worse happened to her. He held her hands again, and couldn't help but be overwhelmed with fear.

"I'm here love. I'm not gonna leave you. I swear.", he felt his own heartbeat as he whispered to her.

Again, weeks have passed and Nik was still sitting at her side. Every single day, holding her hand. He has barely eaten anything in all this time and now looked very pale and tired. His eyes got even more red and swollen from all the tears and exhaustion. He never left her, not a single moment. Every second he spent beside her bed because his only concern was her. If only she knew that too. He watched her with the same devotion as if they had just met and he had fallen in love. She was so peaceful in sleep, she looked so cute to him with her delicate face, her hair still so soft and shiny. But he only wanted her to wake up. If there's a god in this world then please let her wake up, he thought. Please. He would even die for her.

"It's me, darling. I'm here. Come back to me. Please.", he whispered as he stroked her silver strands and gently kissed her forehead.

"Wake up, love. Wake up, my rook... Alex, my love... You're everything to me and I need you. Wake up, please."

He stared at her, not taking his eyes off of her, looking at her face with a mixture of love, affection and fear. The silence in the room killed him and was only interrupted by the faint noise of the machines that tried to keep her alive.

Hours later. Nik was still next to her, holding her hands, caressing her hair, watching how she was in this state of deep sleep. His Sleeping Beauty. He hasn't left her side for a second and for all this time, he has barely eaten anything in the last week. Still devastated and exhausted, everything he was going through was overwhelming him. Nik Ryder was broken. His face was covered with wrinkles, and his silvery-gray eyes looked even more lifeless and swollen. He looked very pale and even a light beard began to grow. All his fears overcame him and the doctor did not give him any hope. His heart was in agony. He leaned over her and looked at her face again. So peaceful and pure with closed eyes as if she was a sleeping angel. He caressed her soft hair with devotion, his eyes were full of pain and fear. He spoke to her in a hoarse voice.

"Please wake up love. I need you. I need you so much."

"Nik, I..."

Nik sensed words coming out of her mouth and froze. Did she just say her name or was he imagining this? Did his brain start to play tricks on him since he hadn't slept for days? But then he heard her again and a spark of hope was ignited in his heart. He leaned over her and watched her lips carefully, waiting to hear her again. His hand trembled a little bit and his heart raced in his chest. Beating fast. The man took a deep breath in anticipation of the next word she would speak. He whispered to her with excitement and hope.

"Yeah? You wanna say something, love?" He was watching her lips intently to try and discern what she was trying to say and he was desperate to know if she was alright and that it was all just a bad dream.

Alex opened her eyes weakly and was struggling to open her mouth. She couldn't speak. The machines attached to her were beeping louder which made Nik immediately rush outside to call the doctors and nurses. They quickly followed him back inside the room where Alex was lying. The doctor came over to help her raise her head a little. Nik watched her lips and managed to capture the last word "You". What was she trying to tell him? He kept trying to listen to what came next, as she kept struggling to move her lips to try it again. It really looked like she wanted to say something. She managed to mumble a couple more words, but Nik couldn't understand what she was trying to say. He leaned down very close to her to listen to her words. She kept repeating the same words which sounded like "you and me". The rest he couldn't understand the rest and requested her to stay silent and not lose any energy. Nik watched as the doctor and nurses worked on giving her medication. Nik was relieved that she was showing signs of improvement now.

But she's still confused and disorientated. There were a lot of machines and tubes around her. She tried to speak again. Her voice is even more hoarse but this time she managed to murmur a few more words. This time she tries to say "I'm scared, what's happening?"

She seemed desperate to get up, not understanding why she couldn't move and why her body was still so weak. The nurses and the doctors kept checking her, giving her medicine and trying to soothe her. Nik whispered to her with empathy.

"My rook. What do you want to say?"

"Nik? Is that you?"

Nik smiled immediately at the mention of his name. He caressed her cheek with affection while feeling a lot of relief. His heart pounded fast, it was her! She's finally starting to regain consciousness!!

"Yeah It's me, I'm here love.... ", he whispered in a warm voice and smiled. He caressed her cheek and hair with more tenderness. He wanted to hold her but he was too afraid to move her since her body was still so fragile and weakened. At least, he was very happy to hear her sweet voice again.

"Yeah rook, it's me. You're alive!!"

"Nik...", she got emotional and began to sob. He softly wiped away her tears and stroked her rosy cheek.

"Hey, calm down. Don't cry. Just relax, you're safe here." He wanted her to feel safe and loved. Almost holding his breath, he also had tears in his eyes, felt very touched and so much love for her.

"Where am I? What happened?", she asked and he noticed her confusion.

He held her close to him and he wiped away her tears.

"You're safe now. We're in a hospital. Everything will be alright, don't worry."

"Nik, don't leave me here alone."

"I won't leave you alone, I swear. I've been here with you every day since this happened.", he sighed with sadness and held her hand tightly without taking his eyes off her. Nik wanted to experience every second she was awake to be able to comfort and support her. She's everything for him. There was silence between them while the doctors and nurses were working in this room and all Nik wanted to do was stay by her side. Then he noticed that she silently kept looking at him. Her face suddenly washed with sadness as if she just remembered something very important. Her break-up with Nik.

"Rook, try to rest, your body has gone through a lot. Let me stay here with you, I won't leave your side.", he promised, not being aware of what she was currently thinking. A few seconds later Nik watched her as she silently fell back asleep. Her body was so exhausted from what it's been through and she couldn't withstand being awake for a long time. Nik felt like a part of his soul was slowly being taken away with every moment he saw her in bed with the machines keeping her alive. He was still so worried and afraid. His whole body shook with fear and desperation. Taking a deep breath, he continued looking after her. Stroking her hair gently, holding her hand to never let go, he stayed there with her in silence. Only the sound of the machines that kept her alive filled the room.

Days later, finally at home.

Nik was carefully carrying her from his Black Range Rover to his apartment. Finally home. He was still holding her in his arms like a baby. Her body was so light and fragile that seemed as if he was carrying something much more delicate than a human being. He entered his apartment and took her to his bed, placing her gently on it. He watched her with tenderness, a lot of love and concern for her state of health.

"You're gonna to be okay and you'll get better, rook. I'll take care of you."

"Are we home?", she whispered, still dazed. Without noticing she accidentally said the word "home" as if she accepted that she and Nik live and belong together, sharing a home.

"Yeah, we're finally back home.", he kissed her gently on the cheek which confused her and got back to her senses.

"But... But Nik, why? Why kissing and loving me? I thought you broke up with me."

He now felt ashamed of himself, looked down to the floor for a moment to avoid her eye contact and cleared his throat before speaking.

"I... I had to think things over, and calm down, but when I realized that I'd lose you forever. I couldn't let you go anymore. I know a little sorry won't be enough to make it up, but you're so damn special to me and I never felt like this to anyone before. I still love you, my rook. I want us to be together. I want to hold you. And kiss you again. I want to feel you against me and your skin on me. To hear you breathe. To hear your heartbeat. Wake up with you every morning and sleep at night. I need you. I need you more than ever needed in my whole life. You changed me to a better man. The rules I made in my life... I broke my rules just for you."

"Nik, you broke my feelings. You hurt me. It won't be easy anymore.", she scolded him which made him feel very guilty. Ashamed, he looked away without being able to hold her gaze. She was very disappointed in him and it probably won't be the same anymore. Nik thought that he had been very selfish and unfair towards her, yet this was something he had to say, knowing the pain it could cause both of them.

"Rook..."

"Shut up, I'm not your rook!!!", she almost yelled.

"Sorry, I mean... Alex. I was a coward, but please let me explain, I swear that I'm damn sorry. I can explain..."

"Nik, I want to rest.", she decided to change the topic before she burst into tears in front of him. She didn't want to cry, feel sorry, look weak and little in front of him. She knew that Nik was taught since childhood to move on which was harsh, but it hurt her so much. She would love to be happily together with him because she never felt that way to anyone but him. Their love was so deep, strong and passionate, but that sadly didn't last for long. She wanted to be back with him, but she couldn't.

"Yeah, of course. Rest now, but later we need to talk and fix things. Or just at least hear me out to understand why I did this?", he begged for forgiveness.

"We'll see.", she answered coldly which filled him with desperation and guilt.

"I promise you that I'm gonna make it up to you and I understand your anger. Hell, you're allowed to be angry with me. But please don't...", he couldn't finish his sentence because she immediately moved away from him as he squeezed her shoulder for support.

Nik was shocked by the fact that she did not let him touch her or even get close to her. He noticed that she had gotten very distant from him which broke his heart with every move she made away from him.

"Please don't be like that. Don't push me away."

"You pushed me away first, Nik."

The man nodded, accepting his true guilt, but he couldn't argue with the fact that she was right. He also knew that for every word he said, the situation would only get worse and cause her more anger and pain. He watched her sadly, with no words left to say. A wave of guilt overwhelmed him and he felt truly terrible for what he's done. He stayed silent for a moment and faced the floor with his face full of agony. The man didn't know what to say anymore and regretted pushing her away that night before Thomas's wraith attacked her. When Nik wanted to sit on the bed near her, she immediately stood up which broke his feelings. That distance. He froze and just watched her in silence. He couldn't handle the silence and her cold attitude towards him anymore. Nik wanted to see her looking at him again, but instead, she tried to walk away. Taking a few steps forward got difficult for her because she still felt weak. Nik saw her losing balance and his natural instincts kicked in. He quickly ran towards her and placed his hands on her arm. His touch was so delicate, his grasp so gentle as he held her. He got concerned.

"Gotcha, rook. Are you okay? You were about to fall. Here, sit down, lemme me help you."

"I feel a little dizzy, nothing else."

Nik analyzed that her condition had worsened and he noticed that she got very pale, her eyes were almost closed and her body was now leaning more to one side. He held her gently by the waist and tried to help her to sit down. The nighthunter looked into her eyes with worry and was very concerned about her health. He sat her down on the bed slowly and held her, afraid of letting go. The girl was so fragile. He had taken care of her every day since she came home from the hospital. The doctors were surprised by her recovery but told him to expect some weakness for several days. Nik was very careful with her, carried her in his arms everywhere he could and not letting her out of his sight. He felt so much guilt about everything that happened. He couldn't bear to even look at the scars and all the bandages. Knowing that she almost died broke him. Alex was not yet ready to talk because of her weakness which she didn't want to show. She hated to be weak, helpless and belittled.

"Nik, I..."

"Don't pressure yourself. I'm here and I'm not gonna go anywhere. You can recover at your own pace, I'm not gonna push you, I just want you to get better, rook."

They were silent. Now looking very peaceful and relaxed after closing her eyes. Nik was glad that she was at least resting and not thinking about anything that stressed her. They stayed like this for a long time until Nik broke the silence speaking softly to her.

"You are stronger than you think. You will get back on your feet soon, I have faith in you."

He smiled as he looked at her. Nik felt a new inspiration to fight for her and was more determined than ever to give her whatever she needed. He stayed with her and was patient.

"Nik...", it took a lot of effort for her to speak.

"What is it?"

"Why? Why are you doing this for me?"

"Because I love you. It's as simple as that. Why else would I be doing this? I don't want you to be alone, or be sad or in pain. I just want you to be happy, and if I have to go through every obstacle and take every step, I'll take it, as long as I can see you smile again someday. I love you, Alex. I love you so much."

"Are you sure? You're not just loving me because I almost died?? Because if this wouldn't have happened you might..."

"No!!! Hell no, I loved you before too and still do. Before all this... this death thing happened. You broke all the walls I've built and opened me up a bit. I never felt this before. Never felt like this towards anyone before. I love you, Alex. You're so special and it would kill me if something happened to you because everyone close to me died horribly and I wanted to prevent that. Keep you safe by separating each other. What a damn mistake I made. I couldn't even keep you safe from my bad luck by breaking up with you and you still died. Almost. I love you still. Since the beginning."

She wasn't responding very much to what he just confessed, but at least she didn't seem to be angry anymore. Just tired and weak.

"So this is the only reason why you're helping me? You weren't offered some extra money or something like that, huh?"

"No rook, damn the stupid money!! You're more important than money. You're not only a job to me, but something more. More than a job. Alex, you have become so dear to me. I care for you and you're everything I have left now in this darn, cruel world. You mean so much to me. I love you, Alex."

She felt like her heart skipped a beat when she heard her name coming from his lips in such a gentle tone. She gazed at him for a moment before responding.

"You're complicated, Nik."

Her words reminded him that many people have told him this before and she was sadly right. His emotions which he always kept hidden from the world were like a tornado which confused him too. For him, choices weren't always easy like black and white. But right now, it's hard for him to explain himself to her in this state. The young man just wanted her girlfriend to get better, so he spoke with tenderness and sympathy.

"I know you're tired and everything confuses you right now. But later, I will explain everything to you."

Again, days have passed and she felt much better but still had some weakness for not being able to walk alone. At least she could sit on her own and she seemed to be more energetic. She was even able to hold conversations for several minutes without getting tired or bored. But she still seemed angry, didn't let him touch her and she just shortly answered him. However, he was still trying to show her that he had changed and that he was going to make amends for what he did.

Nik, the nighthunter discovered her sitting on the white sofa, reading a book. Her face is expressionless with no trace of the beautiful smile he once knew. He missed the good and romantic times with her. She seemed very distant from him and it saddened him to see her this way. He knew the reason behind her behavior was him and he couldn't blame her for that. Taking a deep breath, he approached her gently. He stood in front of her and he spoke softly and with a lot of sadness, honesty and determination, willing to take whatever came, even if he had to suffer. At least he tried to make up for what he did to her in the Mardi Gras Parade. The break-up. He cleared his throat and tried his best to express himself as honestly as he was.

"Rook... I mean, Alex... I know you're angry and you're upset because I left you. Because I wanted us to go separate ways and move on, but listen, I was a coward and I was afraid to tell you the truth. Since childhood I was taught not to trust anyone, to be alone and to move on. I made you believe that I no longer felt the same way I felt about you before, but that was never true. Alex, I never stopped loving you, and I will never stop loving you.", he paused, hoping that the words he was saying had some effect on her and so that he could understand the damage he did to her. She remained silent and looked at him indifferently which hurt him just looking at her that way. The young man didn't want to pressure her and he knew that for now, he had to be very patient with her.

"I... I'm really sorry for hurting you, for making you think that I don't love you.

"Alex, I can't find excuses for what I did. It just wasn't the right thing. I'm sorry..."

He knew it would be very difficult for her to forgive him for the heartbreak he caused her. Still, at least he got her to listen to him and had a brief conversation. That's the start he needed, now he just had to keep his promise that he was serious about making it up to her and that he would show her how much he really loved her.

"Listen, Nik... Thank you for taking care of my health and getting me back on my feet, but I think it's time for me to go."

A wave of sadness hit him when he heard what she just said. His heart sank and he felt desperation welling up within him.

"What are you talkin' about?", he asked, looking at her with eyes full of longing and a kind of fear that perhaps his last attempt to have her stay with him has been lost.

"I will go back home where I came from, Nik."

"But you're still not in a condition to do this alone. Who's gonna take care of you at home?", he was suddenly taken aback.

"Nik, you broke up with me. I can't live with you like this"

Nik sighed sadly and faced the floor. He knew that he had no right, as this was a natural consequence of his own actions. He was upset and depressed for causing this break-up and for losing her true love, but he had only himself to blame.

"I'm trying to fix everything between us, I swear. I don't want to lose you again. I love you and I can't imagine my life without you anymore. Please, I beg you to stay."

"But Nik, can I trust you? Will you prove yourself? How will I know you won't change your mind again?"

It seemed like a small window of hope was still open to him and he felt like he actually had a chance to convince her to trust him again. He thought for a few seconds before he spoke, this was probably one of the most important moments for him. He gazed at her directly in the eyes with a serious expression and he spoke with pure honesty.

"I know my words alone aren't enough for you to trust me again, but I can assure you that I'm serious about fixing the mess I created and proving I can be a better man for you. So, what do you say? Wanna start our love story again?"

"Nik, it feels good to hear this. Thanks, but I need time."

The blond-haired man was very understanding when she confessed that she needed some time and he knew that he had to be patient and give it to her. He smiled at her with kindness and sincerity, but his smile also hid a sadness in him because of all the pain he had caused her.

"I don't want to rush anything, I know I have to win back your trust little by little, so just take the time you need. But, please, do me a favor... Just don't close me out, okay? I know right now we can't act like we used to, but lemme be here for you. Lemme help you. Lemme stay by your side, please."

Nik knew that she still had a lot of anger towards him, but he also hoped that in time, he could find a way to make her see that he was indeed a changed man.

"Hmmph, I try my best.", she muttered.

He tried not to show impatience, tried to be patient and to respect her decision. Patience and tolerance. She was also making an effort to at least stay calm and listen to him, which was also a good sign for him, even if she hadn't forgiven him yet.

"Thanks, Alex. All I ask you is to not give me your back. Lemme be here for you, that's all I want."

"But I can't live here with you just like that without any relationship, right?"

"I know... I don't expect you to trust me 100% in your present circumstances. That's why I'm telling you that we should take things slow and that you need time to regain your confidence. However, I do expect that you let me continue to help you."

"I know, but... But Nik, I don't want to bother you."

He chuckled and his response was honest and spontaneous as his natural personality returned at the sound of his humorous side coming back.

"Don't be silly, rook. How are you bothering me? Quite the opposite actually, I'd be bothered if you didn't let me help you..."

Nik's laughter felt heartwarming which made her smile a little. Though it was still quite small, he felt his heart skip a beat at her sweet smile and his affection for her grew even stronger. She was like a small kitten he wanted to cuddle and protect.

"See? Now, that's a cute smile more like the ones I like to see on your face...", he confessed which made her blush.

"Thanks", she whispered as her cheeks turned softly pink.

Nik and Alex's relationship has progressed over the past weeks, despite the slow pace they had, she let him stay near her and help her. She became more receptive to his help and she even showed some affection with her attitude, though sometimes she was still very distant and a little cold towards him. He knew that the break-up was very painful for her and she was still struggling with her anger, but he was determined to help her. Both would get through this difficult situation and still work hard to build something strong again.

A few days later, Nik was in the kitchen helping her clean the dishes, as he had done with her these past few weeks. She looked a bit more comfortable and smiled a little bit more. However, she was still tad cold with him as she couldn't easily forgive him yet, but he was patient and tried his best to make her realize that this was all in the past and he was determined to win her affection and trust and heart again.

"Woah!!", she shouted as she was about to slip. Nik quickly rushed to catch her before falling. He pulled her close to him. Alex looked down at the fallen dishes from her hands and realized that he caught her just in time. She gazed at him with a surprised expression upon realizing he was there for him.

"Are you okay? Are you hurt?"

"Nik, I..."

He held her close to him and couldn't help but feel an increased affection increase as their eyes met each other's.

"Alex, are you feelin' weak again? It's okay, I'm here for you."

His tone was affectionate and protective, which could give a hint of his growing feelings for her. He could see that her condition improved a lot over the past few weeks, but she was still a little fragile. He held her close to him, feeling her body pressed against his and she didn't even protest about it. They stood there for a few seconds like this as if the time froze. He was still holding her with affection. She was in his arms and felt his gentle touch which felt comforting.

The physical proximity between the two brought them closer on an emotional and sentimental level, which was evident by the soft glances he gave her. His gaze spoke of affection, it gave a hint of an awakening feeling that was becoming more sincere and profound. They stayed like this for a few more moments. His arms were tightly wrapped around her and he was almost holding her close to himself. More affectionately than he should, although his intention was only to comfort her as much as possible.

"You can lean on me as long as you need. I have you..."

She looked at him with surprise and appreciation and she was finally able to feel this affection that he had been expressing towards her. A hint of emotion started to form in her eyes and she couldn't help but feel comfortable with his touch. Safe and protected next to him. Her heart beated faster with satisfaction and she couldn't resist the feeling of affection towards him that began to form within her. She leaned her head slightly against his shoulder and allowed herself to feel sheltered.

"Nik, I missed us."

Her words made him emotional. He missed the relationship they had before too, loved the bond they had and now he saw its spark reigniting.

"Me too... I missed us too... My rook."

[ladylamrian]

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Something terrible happens on their date night. Will he lose her forever?

Word Count: 5.8K words

Rating: Teen (Drama, Angst, Hospital)

Warnings: Monster attack, Injury

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesmonthlychallenge (Flufftober & Fictober) ; @choicesficwriterscreations whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Nik Ryder never was that much in love than now with his girlfriend, Alex. He watched directly into her chocolate-brown eyes, unable to tear his silvery-blue eyes away from hers. Her beauty was undeniable, her smile dazzling, the stars shining in her eyes, and the light of the moon fell on her skin, which was a masterpiece. The expression of her cherry-red lips, her long silvery-black hair, her delicate slim body, her perfect silhouette. Every time, Alexis captured his breath and warmed up his heart. Nik caressed her tenderly and took her into his arms as she leaned against his strong chest.

"You know, you look even prettier when you smile. For me, you are already a wonder worthy of all the praise in the world. To be here with you and listen to you, to see you smile, it's something wonderful. I never thought I'd be ever happy again. You're the light in my dark world, rook.", the man admired her as he held her tightly, looking into her eyes."

"Oh Nik, you're so romantic all of a sudden. Did Cupid's arrow strike you or what?" she giggled, which made his heart flutter.

Nik ran a finger through her wavy hair as they we both seated on a white couch in his apartment. Both cuddling.

"Damn, I love your scent. The scent of your skin is so delicate and so irresistible. I would've given anything to sink inside your beautiful eyes, to listen to your voice for hours and feel your soft skin deeply against me." he whispered and then started kissing her deeply.

"Oh, someone is in a good mood now.", she mischievously signaled him to get closer.

"Damn right, that is. I am. Because I am here with you. Only with you, rook.", he looked directly into her eyes, his voice soft and almost whispering.

"So? Any plans for the evening?"

"Not yet, but I thought about taking you somewhere nice, maybe take you to eat? I thought maybe this romantic French restaurant? What do you think?", he winked while trying to charm her with his smile.

"Ohhhh, yes!!! Mon Amour is a great place!!! But also expensive, Nik."

"Doesn't matter. I know you're gonna love it. It's a place only for couples, perfect for a romantic date."

That night, the young couple were getting ready for their date. Nik wore an elegant black suit, while Alexis decided to wear the Maroon Majesty, an expensive, maroon-colored, silky designer dress with a deep cut and a golden body chain, which Nik bought for her for the first time.

"Alex, you ready now?! I made reservations, and we're getting late." Nik nervously was fumbling with the keys of his Range Rover in the hallway while constantly staring at his wristwatch.

"Just 5 minutes, Nik!!", she called out from the bathroom.

"But that's what you said 10 minutes ago, rook."

"Beauty takes time, darling. Just 5 more minutes, Nik.", she requested which made Nik groan.

After half an hour, they stopped in front of a fancy restaurant. The restaurant was located in a small square.

For a moment they just stopped to stare at each other before entering the building. The moonlight fell directly on her face and her skin was shining like silver. He looked at her. Her eyes were shiny, and her skin was radiant in the dim light, which made Nik smile.

"Damn, rook, even the moon itself wouldn't shine so brightly for me, if it wasn't for you and your beauty. Even the most brilliant stars pale in comparison."

"Oh, Nik. That's now too much. Stop saying these compliments. I'm not that..."

"Impossible, babe... There are not enough compliments and words in the world to describe the intensity of your beauty. And this night is magical; you're shining as bright as the stars themselves." his words made her blush as he whispered.

The young man placed his hand on her cheek, leaned closer before crashing his lips on her.

"Oh... Oh, Nik..."

"I know... even if I lived a million years... I can never forget... You're the most unique and beautiful... The most beautiful and special person in the universe. The woman I love the most..."

"Nik, look!!!" she suddenly shouted, which startled him. Nik broke away from her and followed her gaze. There was a strange and sinister-looking creature, a monster watching them. It seemed to be trying to approach them, making strange and unpleasant sounds. Immediately Nik stepped in front of her to shield her. His expression got very serious and focused.

"I'm here to protect you."

The mysterious monster approached closer with more aggressive noises and was ready to attack.

Nik, let's leave. You don't have your weapons with you. Let's run. Please.", she begged for their safety.

He realized that she was right and grabbed her hand and urgently led her away from danger. Nik was walking with her fast, and his face was very serious.

"Don't worry, rook. I will not let anything happen to you."

The streets were dark and they were alone. The noises of the monster suddenly started to approach rapidly behind them which frightened them a bit.

"It's following us, Nik. It is after us."

Still holding her hand tightly, both continued to walk at a faster pace. Almost ready to run.

"Alex, Just don't look back. And don't be afraid, okay? I will not let this creature harm us in any way. Damn, why haven't I thought about bringing some weapons?!"

"On our date?"

"A nighthunter has to be prepared for anything, rook."

"Honestly, I do wish now that you would have brought your weapons with you."

Their fast walk rapidly began to become a run as the mysterious creature regained speed, following them down various dark streets as the couple avoided the main streets. They kept running. The monster followed them closely behind. Nik turned a corner in the street and dragged his girlfriend into the alley between two buildings. The monster was right behind them, and it seemed like it was going to jump and attack any second.

Through the running, Alex suddenly stumbled. Nik quickly reacted and caught her in his arms to keep her from falling.

"I got you, my love."

The monster was almost in range to attack. The noises got loud and very unpleasant to hear as they faced it.

"Nik..." she whispered in fear, holding him tight.

"It's okay. I won't let this thing hurt you, baby. I'll take care of it.", the young man assured while turning her face to look at her eyes and stroked her hair as ge gently spoke so that she does not get more scared.

"I swear, nothing's gonna happen. I'm there to protect you and fight this thing without fear. I had worse. Just put your faith in me and my abilities."

He held her tightly against his chest and pulled her closer to him, and her face pressed against his chest, where she felt his heartbeat.

Within seconds, the monster attacked already, which separated the couple.

"Nik!!!"

"Noooo!! Alex!!!"

In a hurry, he immediately grabbed her and pushed her to the side with one hand at the last second to prevent the monster from hurting her, and it was he who got to receive the attack in her place. With great force, he got knocked back and thrown several feet. He hit the ground on his back.

He could barely see while a strong pain seized his body, but he felt the need to get up and protect Alex. He must protect her.

He managed to raise his head just to see that the monster was approaching again. Alex her head got bumped against a brick wall when he pushed her to the side. Unconscious and with her head bleeding, she was lying on the ground. Only a few feet away from the creature, which started taking advantage of the situation and tried to approach her instead of Nik.

Nik got frustrated. He was unable to get up. He wanted to get up, he wanted to protect her, but he couldn't move. The amount of pain he was in was immense. Blood covered the side of his face.

When the being approached quietly and was about to grab Alex, ready to sink its fang-like teeth into her neck, Nik felt that he couldn't bear it any longer; he must act.

He dragged himself forward and with what little strength he had, he reached the monster in time to drive his fist into its chin. The monster fell back. Nik got up with a huge effort, trying to keep the monster away from his girlfriend. The sudden urge and strength to protect her at all cost, even when it meant his own death, because there was nothing in this world that dear to him any more than his beloved, Alex.

Grabbing the monster he managed to hold him back from her with both hands. The monster tried to push Nik away with its feet and claws, but he somehow managed to hold it back still. Fate was on his side. With every effort, he pushed the danger back. Every second that passed, every moment he held back was a triumph for him in this battle. His strength was running out quickly and the pain grew more and more. Breathing heavily and almost exhausted, the man managed to hold it back and push it away once again. The monster getting more and more aggressive now. Nik's breathing was getting shallower, his strength running out. He's starting to feel dizzy. It's a battle against something supernatural and he must resist until the last moment at any cost.

"For Alex.", he whispered, which gave him strength.

A last-ditch effort was needed. Nik suddenly felt a burst of energy and an intense adrenaline surge, as if his body was forcing him to resist until the last minute. His muscles tensed up and a look of determination crossed his face. Nik faced the creature, tightened his grip on the monster, and pushed it away with a last effort.

He quickly took a dagger in his hand from his pocket and held it firmly. If he had no weapons, why not try with a simple dagger which he had just found in his pockets. The monster stared at him as he waved the dagger in front of him, getting closer each second. His look is intense and predatory, just like a beast ready to pounce to attack. Nik faced him with great determination and bravery. He had to protect his lover at every cost.

Taking the initiative, he dared to step forward while holding the dagger and aimed immediately for the throat of the monster.

With a loud scream, the monster fell to the ground dying.

A wave of relief floods through him. The battle against the monster had cost him a lot of effort, but he finally managed to defeat it. The young nighthunter bleeding, had bruises and scratches all over his body, but it was nothing for him. He watched Alex with concern as he went over to check on her.

She was still unconscious with a huge wound on her head. Seeing her in that state, he panicked, pulled her towards him, careful not to hurt her, and placed his hands on her cheeks.

"Alex... Alex...?!!", he shouted her name as he waited for a response while gently shaking her shoulder, but she didn't.

His expression went from concern to pain as he started to realize that he may have failed to protect her.

Without losing any more time, he called the ambulance immediately. As he waited for someone to come, he tried to stop the bleeding of her head wound. Visibly frustrated and overwhelmed by the situation, he put pressure on the bleeding while he continued to call her and wake her up. He kissed her on the forehead near the injury, anxiously waiting for someone to arrive as soon as possible. It was a long and painful time for him.

Finally, the ambulance arrived after long minutes. The paramedics put her in the ambulance and started to treat her and also Nik's wounds.

Nik was sitting in a chair across from her hospital bed. Alex was still unconscious. He watched her with a look of deep concern on his face. Her body was attached to various IVs and monitors, and she was being closely monitored by the nurses and doctors. He still had blood on his face and various cuts, bruises, and scratches all over his body. His left hand got bandaged too. Their eyes were red from all the effort he had to face the monster, and his heart was beating rapidly from the adrenaline overload. His body hadn't recovered yet either, but despite his battered state and all the pain, he worriedly waited for her to wake up. To see that she is okay.

Finally a nurse informed him that her condition was stable that they had managed to stop the bleeding and that her vitals were now within normal ranges. However, her head injury still required a lot of observation. They were careful but they explained to him that there are still risks associated. She would have to remain unconscious for a few hours, but there was no danger of a more serious condition. Nik got a bit more relaxed but was still worried. He stayed with her the whole time.

A few hours later Alex finally up and looked around.

"Where am I?"

When Nik finally heard her voice, he breathed a sigh of relief, taking her hand with a big smile on his face. He leaned over her and spoke in a gentle tone.

"You're safe now, my dear. You're in the hospital. We were attacked by a monster and you got hurt, but don't worry, you're okay now. You're going to get better."

"What??!!"

"We were attacked by a monster. I was able to push you away from danger, but your head. You got injured. I'm sorry, rook. I tried to get the monster away from you but... Well, it's dead now. We're safe now. Your head is being monitored. But you're fine it's nothing serious. Don't you remember anything?"

"No. Nothing. But who are you?"

"What? What the hell are you...?"

"I asked who you are."

"I'm Nik. Your boyfriend. We have been dating for a year now. I was taking you home when we got attacked by a monster. I managed to fight it off, but I wasn't fast enough to protect you."

Nik couldn't stand to see her like this and looked down, feeling guilty for being unable to keep her safe. Visibly very concerned, his heart grew heavier. He took her hands in his before speaking in a soft tone of voice while he gazed down at his hands which were still holding hers.

"No need to worry, the doctors say that a temporary memory loss is normal. It's part of the shock, and it's only a temporary situation. You will recover your memory soon, okay? The doctors said that you should rest and not worry.", he tried to reassure her and himself too, wishing she could remember him already.

"Who are you? Where am I?"

Who are you? This question hit him hard. Nik felt a deep pain inside him that she didn't remember him.

"I'm your... your boyfriend."

"Really? I don't think I have a boyfriend."

Nik couldn't believe his ears. He tried to keep calm but with every word that she said made his heart grow heavier.

"You don't have a... a boyfriend? Why do you think that?"

There was a sudden silence on both sides; Nik was speechless and didn't know how to get out of this situation she had a hard moment believing that she could be in a serious relationship with this dashing and handsome in front of her. She dared to speak again.

"Who are you?"

"You don't remember me?", Nik couldn't believe the situation. He watched at her with a look of shock and hoped for any sign that she was remembering him or just pulling some silly prank on him. Sadly, she was still looking at him with a confused expression and this is made his stomach feel heavy.

"Mister, I..."

"Nik... it's Nik... Your boyfriend."

"Oh, okay. But, I'm sorry, I don't remember you."

Nik was speechless; he didn't know what to say or how to react. He remained quiet for a moment, taking deep breaths and trying to contain himself. He was really struggling not to show that this was hurting him

Suddenly he noticed that she was feeling a bit ill and tried to ask her some things to distract her from her memory loss. He spoke with a concerned tone of voice and a tender look. She may not remember him but she's clearly upset by all this too.

"Hey, are you feeling okay?"

"Why don't I remember? What's going on? I try to think but I feel pain."

"They say it's normal, temporary memory loss. You had a bad injury and you had a severe shock, and that can affect the memory. But rest assured that doctors are taking good care of you.", he sighed and lowered his head, starting to lose some hope. A little hope that the doctors were right. That eventually she will recover her memory.

"And why are you here again?"

"I'm here because of what happened to you. It's my fault. I tried my best to protect you from the monster, but I wasn't fast enough.

"Monster?? Are you crazy? They don't exist. What non-sense are you talking about?"

Nik was speechless for a moment; what she said didn't make any sense to him at all. He had no idea how to answer her. He watched her and opened his mouth to say something but he stopped himself. Perhaps her memory loss was more serious than they thought. He swallowed hard and began to speak in a tone of voice that was trying hard to sound convincing.

"Yeah... you're right, of course. They don't exist. You should try to rest now." "Then what really happens to me if monsters don't exist, huh? You're hiding something. Or are you using me because I don't remember anything?"

He had no idea what to say and how to answer this anymore. Of course, Alex knew about the existence of supernatural beings, but that was months ago when she found out. Did she seriously lose so many memories? Such a huge gap. Memories of their relationship all vanished within a day. He didn't know what to say. The accusation made him feel bad, and he was worried that she might not trust him anymore. When he opened his eyes again he tried to explain in a desperate voice as if he just had run out of words. Frustrated, felt that whatever he was saying would be wrong to her.

"I swear I'm not hiding anything. Please, you have to believe me..."

"How? Who are you? A man who's taking advantage of my memory loss so he can do and tell whatever he wants me to believe??"

Shocked by her accusation, as if a nerve had touched inside him. As if his lover was taken away from him.

"Listen, I'm your boyfriend, we've been dating for a few months. I'm not taking advantage of you or anything like that. I'm just... here for you because I love you. Can't you believe that?"

"Look, I lost my memory so I have to be careful. You could be anyone. Even a guy who wants to use me, abuse me, or..."

"Woah, I would never do that. Trust me, I understand what you're saying and I know you find it difficult to trust in people because you can't remember anything. But I'm not that kind of guy and I would never hurt you. I'm... I'm just here for you. You're safe with me."

Nik swallowed hard, she didn't say anything wrong. Alex was right in being very cautious given her situation. His girl has been through something very traumatic, and, understandably, she finds it difficult to trust people. But it also hurt him that she didn't remember him at all

He wanted her to remember him so much.

When Alex tried to stand up from the hospital bed, Nik immediately stopped her by placing his hand gently on top of hers.

"No, don't try to get up, please... The doctors said you need to wait a little longer to recover before you walk around. Let's not take any risks. Just lie back. Relax for a moment, okay? Do you have any pain anywhere?"

"No, my head hurts when I try to remember", Alex sobbed, and tears began to roll down her cheeks.

" Ssh... Hey... you're gonna to be okay. Just relax and don't try to think too much now. I'm here for you, Alex. Please..."

Now the young man was holding back his own tears, the way she reacted was affecting him so much. He kept caressing her hair and spoke to her in a gentler and calming way. He was trying to keep his voice from breaking

"Ssh... Shhh... it's okay. Don't be afraid. I'm here, okay? Just try to relax now and don't think about it too much. Just try to rest now... Can you do it for me?"

"I... I'm sorry. You seem so kind."

Hearing the compliment was enough to make him break down. His heart and stomach grew even heavier as he got more emotional. His silvery eyes watered a lot now. Answering with a nod, Nik swallowed hard a bunch of times as he tried to keep himself from crying. It was completely rare to see him like this. Completely overwhelmed, crying and emotional over her

"So what was your name, again?",

This question was like the breaking point for him. His heart filled with immense hurt and now tears spilled from his eyes. She didn't remember him at all. The person that he loved the most and who was everything to him just asked him his name and didn't acknowledge his love for her.

"My name is... Nik... and I'm your boyfriend..."

"So, you're my boyfriend?" she asked for reassurance again, and he nodded with a weak smile. Her voice felt good to hear but the words and the way she was talking to him like a stranger. His words have no weight right now. Nik swallowed hard and nodded again. "Yes, I'm your boyfriend. And you're my girlfriend."

"I need time to process. I'm sorry."

"Don't be sorry. Everything will be okay again. I just hope so."

"Can I ask something?"

"Sure."

"Why was I wearing a dress tonight? Looks quite expensive. And..."

And you're wearing a suit?"

Nik raised his chin a little bit and gazed at her body, seeing her still in the dress and himself in his suit. He swallowed hard and looked down a little.

"You dressed to go on a date with me. You... you don't remember that we made plans to go to a fancy restaurant tonight?"

"No."

"So... we have been dating for a few months and I asked you out this evening to a fancy restaurant. We talked a lot during these months, but you don't remember?" he dared to ask. His words were now becoming more forceful, desperately wanting her to remember something about their relationship.

"No, I don't. Sorry."

"Don't be sorry. It's not your fault. I just hope you remember me soon."

"I hope too."

"Yeah... let's hope so..."

"Hey, what happened to you actually? You look seriously injured too."

Nik noticed the concern and surprise in her eyes. She was gazing at his body, especially his legs which were injured pretty badly.

"Oh, that. Nothing. Just some scrapes and bruises. The doctors said it's nothing serious. Let's not worry about that too much, okay? Just relax for a bit. Okay?"

Nik smiled at her again in a gentle way. His eyes watery and his tone of voice filled with joy and sadness at the same time. Alexis was so beautiful and he foimd himself wanting to hug her so bad. Not wanting to let go of her, but forced himself to do so since she would be trying to rest and sleep. Nik sat by her bed and he noticed that her eyes were now closed. Alex looked so much more relaxed and calm now which made the man happy that she's finally getting some rest. His heart relieved that there was something positive happening. He wanted to take the opportunity to try and calm himself down a little since he felt so hurt and sad. It was extremely painful for him to see her like this.

The young man opened his cell phone and started browsing the internet to stay occupied. After a bit he felt so overwhelmed that he needed to distract himself from everything. Nik was browsing the internet, just trying to get his mind off of all the stressful thoughts he's experiencing right now. Trying to remember all the good times that he had with her during all these months. The smiles, the laughs, the dates and all the little things that made a relationship special. Now, he scrolled through his photos and he started to get overwhelmed with positive emotions. He felt a tear coming up his eye but he forced it back since he wanted to stay calm. But scrolling through all the photos that he had of her, he just wanted to remember her smile again, as he watched all the pictures. All these moments were now just forgotten to her.

The nighthunter blinked to prevent the tears from coming out again and he tried to regain his composure. Extremely touched by the pictures he was going through, especially the ones that were the most meaningful. He remembered every detail from those moments. Nik continued to scroll until suddenly he got an idea. He could use the photos to try and jog her memory. When young man found a photo taken by a nice lake in the bayou during one of their dates. The place where they shared their very first kiss. He decided now to show it to her to see if maybe this photo could remind her of anything. Slowly, he approached her bed and held his black phone in front of her face.

"Hey, look at this.", he wispered, slowly continued to show her the photos.

Sadly, Alex doesn't seem to recognize it at all, and it made him feel a bit disappointed, but maybe this photo will have some effect on her memory somehow. He continued to show the picture a bit longer, hoping and that something in her eyes will suddenly change and show a recognition or something like that.

"Please, rook... Try to remember."

"I try, but... Hey, why does it sound so familar?"

"What?"

"The way you just called me. That word..."

"You mean the word: rook ? That's your nickname. That's how I call you. Cuz I love you. Please, I want you back. Try to remember.", he begged, still holding his phone in front of her.

Suddenly, after a little while, her chocolate-brown eyes became a little watery. She smiles slightly, looking much more relaxed at it but nothing else.

"That's me."

A glimmer of hope rose within Nik Ryder, confident that she might remember again. Just those two simple words 'that's me' and that already meant a little bit more to him before than anything. It felt like her first steps towards recognition.

"Yeah, that's you. And that's me. Us."

"Such a pretty picture", she positively and happily confirmed which made Nik smile. Determinated, he tried to continue to explore her memory by swapping right on the phone screen, showing another picture. It was taken while they were sitting in a park on a nice day, eating ice cream.

"Oh, ice-cream. Is that a picture from summer?"

"Yeah, that was last summer. You can remember that part? When was that? Summer?", he got extrelmly happy as she was giving him some signs of recognition and now he hoped she will remember more and more if he showed more pictures of them.

"This one is a bit older and was taken just 3 months ago. The two of us at a restaurant, having a wonderful evening together. Being very affectionate and having a lot of fun."

"So beautiful. Nik, we were really dating? Look how happy we look.

"Yeah, we were in a beautiful and meaningful relationship. This is just one of our dates."

He continued to move the photos in front of her face, looking at her reaction.

"And this picture looks cute. We kinda look good together. I think.", she giggled which was a positive sign for him. Her eyes were starting to sparkle a bit as she almost seemed to recognize it.

"So we are still dating."

"Yeah, we are. Can you tell me what was the last thing we did together?"

He waited for a few more seconds to see if she would say anything more and finally decided to break the silence. Nik was now thinking that maybe he asked the wrong question. He could see she was focused deep inside her mind but she couldn't remember. Perhaps he should have asked for something more specific and not this kind of a general question. He felt like he had now rushed a little, made her panic, so he decided to talk to her calmly.

"My lovely, you've forgotten me and everything about our relationship, but I still want to keep trying every day to reconnect with you. I just need to know, do you still want to be with me?"

"I... I... I try to remember. According to the pictures we were so happy together."

He felt a bit relieved that she at least knew they had a happy relationship.

"Yeah, we were. And I want us to be like that again. It takes time and you're getting closer now. But I just want to know. The truth is, I haven't stopped loving you even for a second, I've been waiting every day for a chance to be with you again. Do you still want to be with me?"

"Nik, that's your name... Right?"

"Yeah."

"Look, I want to remember everything first before I give an answer. Like, is our relationship still happening or... you know... I hope we are no exes and..."

The thought of them being exes was very unsettling to him, so he responded very bluntly without thinking twice.

"Hey, we are absolutely not exes!! Okay? And I completely understand that you want to remember everything first. But you did recognize our relationship in the last few pictures. And also that we were a very happy couple. Is that correct?"

"Yes! I just want to be on the safe side and... What was our last picture?", she requested him to show the last picture of them and so he did.

"The last one was when I took you on a picnic in one of the parks. Would you want to go again?", he smiled which suddenly faded a bit when he just realized that she still didn't say if she wants to continue with him.

"Sorry, I..."

"It's alright. I just can't believe how I even ended up with a young, handsome man like you if it's true.", she blushed shyly.

"I'm actually the lucky guy who's with such a gorgeous woman, my love."

"Can you show me the date this picture was taken? Like was it last month, last week or a few days ago?"

Without questioning, he took the phone from her hand, quickly checked the date of the photo and then showed her the date of the photo.

"Here's the date, rook. 31st July."

"Just 3 days ago? So we're still together, I assume."

"Yes!! Yes, we are!! Of course. And I still love you."

"Ummm, what's your name again?"

"Nik. My name is Nik Ryder."

"So, Nik... Can you show me more pictures? It looks fun. Please?", she lightly rested her head on his shoulder.

With a huge grin as he took the phone and started to scroll through the pictures again and then he showed her another one. This time it's a picture of them together standing on a sidewalk and they were holding hands. Nik still remembered that day. They were both smiling, wearing jackets because it was the middle of the winter. The weather was cold but they were still able to enjoy each other's company. He was feeling very happy just to be there by her side.

"So pretty."

Nik felt very hopeful, he knew he was doing the right thing by showing her all his photos like this one by one. It seemed to really help her remember some parts, and that's enough. He was more confident that this was working and his feelings were being confirmed. He immediately continued to show the next photo. This time around, it's one of their dates as they are sitting in a romantic restaurant eating food together.

"Wow, look at me. That expensive silk dress I'm wearing. And you look very handsome in that suit, Nik."

The man shyly grinned after hearing her compliment. Her words made him feel much more comfortable with her and the memories were now becoming even more clear in her mind. He was excited to see where this will go next.

The last photo he decided to show to her, was a moment that was incredibly special and romantic. They were both sitting on a bench together at night, looking at the stars. The light was just dim enough for her to see his beautiful eyes and she was also very beautiful at that moment. The warmth of the star's shine made them feel even more united and the light just seemed to create the perfect romantic atmosphere between them. Nik remembered this moment like it was yesterday and now waited for her response.

"Nik... I may not remember, but... I believe you. I believe you, Nik. About us."

These words sounded like music to his ears. She finally trusted him completely, even without remembering everything. She was trusting in what was true and she was believing him that their relationship was real. He smiled at her and her eyes seem to brighten as she smiled back at him.

A few weeks have passed and they have finally returned to their old, daily life together as a couple. Her memory was finally back and everything was as it was before. She remembered all the things they did together, all the adventures, and also their plans for the future. She remembered how much she loved him and how much he loved her.

"Nik, I missed you. And I love you."

"Damn, I missed us too and I love you. You scared the hell outta me. Thought I lost you forever."

"I know. And thanks for not giving up on us."

[ladylamrian]

Broken Heart never heals

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: What happened the night after Alex's royal fae welcome party in Lamrian...

Word Count: 1.1K words

Rating: Teen (Angst, Heartbreak, Death)

Warnings: Character Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesmonthlychallenge with @jerzwriter [Regret, Guilt, Remembrance, Forgiveness]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: This scene takes place in the middle of the Choices Nightbound book.

Nobody thought that something like this would happen tonight. A tragedy. Tonight, the most respected duke of the fae, Lord Elric of Lamrian, passed away as he got killed by the deadliest creature that ever existed, a bloodwraith. As the protection wards of Lamrian fell, the monster managed to enter the world of fae to kill the most powerful beings. Alexis was its first victim and prey to eliminate at her welcome party in the fae world. It almost had her if it wasn't Lord Elric, her newly found birth father, who saved her life and risked his own. This incident just happened a few hours ago and Alexis could still remember everything. It was so fresh and everything happened so fast.

Nik Ryder, her personal bodyguard guided her back to his own apartment after all this happened. Silence hung in the air, and both were shocked. They couldn't believe what had just happened. It took time until words came out.

"Hey Alex, how are you holding up?" he checked on her, wanting to make her feel better as he caressed one of her cheeks with his thumb. But Alexis gazed silently in the air, not reacting which made him worried.

"Alex? Alex? Are you alright?", he asked again until she finally came back to her senses. He met her swollen eyes and trembling lips.

"Do I look like alright to you, Nik? After... After what just happened?!!! After that monster...", the girl sobbed until she crashed into tears and began crying.

"Rook, hey... It's okay now, it's okay. I'm here."

"No, It's not okay. I'm not okay. Let me go!!! Don't touch me!!", Alex almost screamed, pushed his hands away, and ran upstairs, crying. Nik immediately ran after her to calm Alex down and to make sure that she didn't do something stupid. He was concerned for her.

"Alex, wait!!"

When both finally reached the bedroom upstairs, he saw her crash on the floor and crying hard.

"Alex... Shhhh, no. Hey. Hey, calm down."

"No Nik, leave me alone!! How can I calm down when my father just died?!! You saw it too. You saw him dying in front of me and in my arms.", Alex sobbed.

"Yes, I saw. And I'm sorry. God, I'm so sorry. I failed you.", he apologized and trembled a little as he thought about the scene again.

Despite everything he always had a hard time not being able to save the lifes he loved. And Lord Elric was special to him because the fae lord was special to Alex. He failed her.

"Hey, I promised you I would be here for you, I would not leave you alone.

"It's all my fault."

"Of course not, why would you think that? Don't ever say that again, rook. You're not to blame for what happened. You know it's not true."

"He died because of me."

"No, I won't let you believe that and I will repeat it every day if necessary. Hey, look at me."

Nik pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her, letting her cry against his chest while he whispered to her soothing sweet words of comfort.

"I will stay with you, rook. I will be your pillar. You are the only thing that really matters to me in this life."

"Nik, because of me Kristin..."

"Listen, you have to believe in me alright? What happened didn't happen by your fault, okay? You have to understand this, okay? It was not your fault." he held her face gently and whispered, rubbing tears away from her cheek.

"I wish I died instead."

"Hey!! Woah, woah... Pull the breaks now, rook. Never say that ever again!! Your life is too precious, do you hear me? It breaks my heart to even think you would say that. Your father died to save you, Alex. He would not want you to say that, he sacrificed his life for you. You have to keep going, please. For him, for me...", Nik turned serious, jaws set tight as he explained.

"Nik..."

"Shhh, shhh... I'm here. You're not alone. I will always be by your side, I will always be here for you. I will be your strength and your comfort. You are everything to me, my love... My world."

Nik cradled her in his arms, gently rocking her back and forth while whispering in her ear.

"You are the most important thing in my life now. And I will do everything to protect you, to make you happy again. I promise you that, okay? Now please, don't cry anymore because it breaks my heart.", he assured as he wiped away her tears with his thumb and gently kissed her forehead.

"I lost my dad, so of course I will cry. Nik, I feel..."

He held her face with both hands and looks at her firmly before he spoke.

"Alex, I understand your sadness. But don't let the tears control you, okay? I'm here for you and I will always be. He sacrificed his own life because he loved you, and he wouldn't want you to let the grief consume you. Remember the short moments you had together yesterday, the memories that you are going to carry in your heart. Those will never be lost, no matter what. He will always be with you in some way."

"Nik, I miss him already. I miss him so much even if I only knew him since yesterday. I thought I finally found the missing part of me which I never thought was missing."

"Rook, I know what it feels like. It shattered my world when it happened to me. I was left alone in the dark. And that pain never really goes away, you learn to live with it. Broken heart never really heal, but it doesn't kill you either..."

"I know, Nik. It's just... I just finally met my long lost father, but then already lost him?!"

"Yeah, I know. It's not fair, rook. Fate can be cruel sometimes, but please don't think that it was your fault."

"My father, Lord Elric only knew me for a day or two and already risked his life for me, Nik. How?"

"That's what good fathers do, rook. They sacrifice everything for their children. And it's not about how long they've known you, it's about how much they love you. Your father loved you so much that he gave his life to save you."

Emotions suddenly hit Alex as she cried even harder than before. She wanted the father she never had back, spend time with him, get to know him and be loved. But it was too late. She lost him forever. Just found him and already lost him. He was gone. Nik held her tightly, letting her cry against his chest. He felt her tears soak into his shirt, and his heart broke for her. But he knew that all he could do was to hold her, to support her through her grief. To comfort her. To be with her.

[ladylamrian]

Female Main Character: Alex (F!MC)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Nik prepared a surprise for Alex.

Word Count: 3.3K words

Rating: General (Fluff, Romance)

Warnings: none

Author's note: Inspired by this F!MC×Nik art commissioned by the sweet @stars-are-within-me and made by @artbyalz

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @liviusofpella ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesmonthlychallenge (March Challenge Prompts: Wildflowers, Nature) & @choicesaprilchallenge24 [April Prompts: Wildflowers, Nature, "You know, I may be a terrible dancer, but I've got great moves in bed." ; "You must be tired because you've been running through my mind all day." & "I'm not great at math, but we're a perfect match." ]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

"Nik, I'm back home!!!", Alex, his girlfriend announced in the evening as she entered the apartment which she was sharing with her boyfriend, Nik Ryder. Nik was delighted to see her.

He moved closer to her and wrapped his arms around her to greet her.

"I hope you had a good day, rook. I've been thinking of you all day."

"Really? I'm just tired."

"No wonder you must be tired, you've been running through my mind all day. Do you want to lie down and relax? Or would you like me to make you some tea?", he chuckled.

"No, I'm fine.", she whispered without meeting his eyes.

"Everything all right? Did something happen?"

"No, nothing."

"Come on now, don't lie to me, rook. I know when something's not right. Tell me.", he requested while trying to make eye contact with her.

"Nik, we don't spend much time together anymore which is sad."

"I know, baby, but you've got to understand that both of us have big responsibilities at work. While I protect the city at night, you're handling Lamrian at day. But don't you worry, that's gonna change someday and we'll have all the time we want again like before.", he wasn't sure but still tried to assure his girlfriend.

"Thanks, I hope so too."

Nik kissed her again, more passionately, and caressed her cheek before answering.

"I love you, Alex.", he whispered. While holding her by the hand, he walked inside the living room with his girl, hugging her from time to time.

"Hey rook, are you hungry? I made pasta for dinner."

"Yummy, pasta!!!"

He smiled widely at her cute reaction.

"I know you love pasta. Wait here, let me go prepare everything."

After some time preparing dinner and setting the table, both were seated at the table. Nik served her some pasta, then he served himself. Both silently ate until she spoke.

"You know what day tomorrow will be?", she asked.

"Tomorrow's Friday. Why are you asking?"

"I know it's Friday, but it's a special day."

"What day are you referring to, baby?", he asked her while looking a little puzzleed.

"Think!!"

After a moment of silence, he realized what she was referring to and he smiled gently.

"Of course, tomorrow is your birthday!! You're turning 26. I can't believe it's already been one whole year, rook."

"You remembered my birthday!!"

"Of course, I remembered!! But thanks for reminding me again, I was thinking about it this morning and the past few days. Can't believe it just slipped so easily out of my mind. So yeah, I haven't forgotten your birthday, babe. I love you and it is a special day for you!! I have something prepared for tomorrow, just wait and see, Alex."

"But you still forgot something. Nik, tomorrow isn't only my birthday, but also our very first anniversary. I met you one year ago for the very first time. We may not have been dating at that time then, but don't you think we should celebrate that too?"

"Damn, I forgot about that?! Now, I feel terrible for forgetting the date of our celebration. Sorry, forgive me. I'll make it up to you, I swear. Tomorrow there will be two parties in one!!", he laughed a little, but still felt terrible about forgetting their very first and special day.

Alex was now silent and continued finishing her pasta. But there was something about her silence that bothered him. The past few days were rough for him and decided to confess something.

"Rook, I'm really happy with you and I feel really lucky. I'm not great at math, but we're a perfect match. You're my soulmate. But we haven't been spending so much time together anymore and it's starting to worry me too. I hope you didn't think that I wouldn't notice, but you always looked so busy and tired and there are times when, to be honest, it feels like... like... I'm a bother. Am I imagining this, or do you...?", Nik looked very upset while confessing.

"Oh Nik, you're never a bother. I love you. You're my heart, my soul, my everything."

"Are you serious, rook?"

"Yes, baby."

He sighed in relief before answering back.

"Damn, I was starting to overthink things. It's just that when I see you tired and overworked... I just wanted to make sure you didn't feel pressured by me. Because if that was the case, my love, it would break my heart."

"Oh, I'm so sorry you thought like this. It's not because of you. I'm soooo sorry to make you feel that way. Please forgive me."

"There's nothing to forgive, my love. You mean a lot to me and I'm sorry if I've been annoying to you. You know that you're important to me, I just wanted to clarify that with you. But now everything's fine, you don't have to worry anymore. Now let's just focus on having a great anniversary tomorrow... Okay?", he gently whispered in her ear while caressing her cheek.

"You're not annoying, Nik."

"Thank you, babe. I love you, Alex.", he confessed then planted a quick but gentle kiss on her cheek.

"So, are we good now?"

"Of course, we're good now, my love. There's nothing more in the world I want than to see you smile."

"Thanks, Nik. You're the best."

He smiled, took her hand and pulled her gently to his chest.

"No, you're the best, my dear. You're beautiful inside and out. I'm so lucky to have you in my life. I love you so much."

"Love you too!"

He pulled her even closer to his chest and kissed her hair.

"I'll make sure you have the best day tomorrow."

I feel so lucky with you, Nik.", she confessed which made him smile even more while he caressed her cheek.

"I can say the same for you, Alex, but it's not a thing of luck, it's meant to be. As I said, you are my soulmate, my dream woman, my partner and the love of my life. You're the reason why I get up every day with so much motivation to face the world. Don't ever forget how much you mean to me, okay?", he pulled her to him again and kissed the top of her head, very lovingly. Then he spoke again.

"It's getting late, tomorrow we have a big day, and we need to get some rest. What do you say?"

"I agree! I can't wait for tomorrow."

He let her go and both headed toward their bedroom to sleep. Nik was very excited, he had prepared a surprise party for her. Will he be able to sleep tonight at all with his excitement? Both were looking forward happily for the next day.

Nik just put the final touches on everything. His planned surprise for his girlfriend must go perfectly. He requested her to come earlier today from Lamrian so they could celebrate together. A knock on the door made his heart beat faster. He ran to the door and opened it, revealing the love of her life who looked more beautiful than ever. A big smile appeared on her face. He was stunned by her beauty. Speechless he couldn't take his eyes off her. Both stepped closer to each other with a tender look in their eyes. While Nik Ryder was wearing a suit, Alex wore an elegant dress with matching high heels.

"Nik...", she suddenly stumbled as she entered, but Nik quickly grabbed her to prevent her from falling.

"Are you all right, darling?", he anxiously asked.

"Yes. Hello, Nik!!", she smiled.

"You look amazing, I like that outfit on you. I can't believe you decided to wear the maroon-colored dress with the golden body chain that I once bought for you. My Maroon Majesty."

"Of course. Thanks!! Nik, you have great taste and I love this dress. By the way, you look very handsome, Nik.", she sweetly giggled.

"Ah thanks, I know I am. But I'm a bit nervous, I want to make this day perfect for you. The truth is that I was dying to see you. Hope you like what I've planned, my rook."

Then Nik leaned forward and kissed her. He caressed her cheeks and pulled her even closer to him. His eyes met hers while whispering in a low tone in the ear.

"I've been waiting all day for this moment. You must be tired because you've been running through my mind all day.", he chuckled then.

"I'm glad to hear it, that makes me happy.", she giggled then too.

Like a true gentleman, the boyfriend helped his girlfriend take off her coat and took her hand to go sit down.

"Please, come on, let's have a wonderful dinner."

Taking her hand in his, they walked to the dining table. Nik seated her by pulling her chair, then he sat down on another chair in front of her. The candles illuminated him and made him look even more handsome. There was a romantic atmosphere and as the two of them gazed at each other, he squeezed her hand tenderly.

The young man hesitated before he continued.

"I know we've been dating for a year now and we've been doing great but... I wanted to tell you something that's been in my head for quite a while and I can't keep it secret..."

"What? What it is?", she suddenly became surprised about the sudden turn. She worried, held her breath and waited for him to continue. He looked very serious at her.

"The truth is that I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you, and I want to know what you think about the idea... I want to know what you think, do you think you'd ever want to marry me?"

"What??!!! But you never wanted to marry, Nik."

"Look dear, I know I told you from the beginning that I wasn't interested in marriage. It's true, but with time some things have changed. I'm surprised by myself too, but... When you find the right person, you change, and in my case... I've found you.", he confessed, gently took her hand and kissed it sweetly which made Alex's heart almost melt.

"Oh, Nik... Am I dreaming or are you saying this?"

"Well, you pushed the wall with the bricks I've built. You just couldn't stay on your goddamn side cuz you're are too stubborn, dear. So I want to marry you someday. Not now, but someday. I want you to be mine and only mine. I get jealous when other people try to flirt or even try to impress you. I want you to be mine only and I only your's. I want you to be my wife one day. But... Not now."

"And what about children?", she teased.

"Uhhh, well. I... Alex, I... I thought..."

"Nik, don't worry. I was just teasing. You've made me already so happy with the marriage confession, dear. Thanks for making this day even more special than before. That's great news and I will patiently wait for the day or night when you will finally propose to me because now I have hope."

"Unless I change my mind."

"No!!! Don't you dare, future husband!!", she warned him which made him laugh.

But let's go ahead and eat.", he suggested, serving her meal first, then himself. Both started eating, looking at you with a satisfied smile and with eyes full of love.

After dinner, it was time for a sweet dessert.

Nik took her hand and led her to a big table decorated with a romantic cake, candles and flowers surrounding it. He gently cut a piece and fed her.

"Mmmhhh, yummy. I feel like I'm in heaven. So creamy.

"Glad you like it."

"Nik, sid Cal help you with the cake?", she raised her eyebrow while staring at him.

"How... How did you know? I mean, I... Yes... Yes, you caught me, rook. Wolf guy helped me with the cake, but I swear I did the rest all by myself.", he panicked which made her just giggle.

"Well, Cal gave a lot of treats so my pretty brain immediately sensed that it was one of his excellent creations. Mmmmh, the buttercream.", she swooned a little.

"Yeah, Cal is great at baking and all. I get it, I get it. Now let's just focus on both of us, okay.", he rolled his eyes. He just wanted to turn their day into something special and only about them.  But Nik was still thankful for Cal's help. He definitely wouldn't have arranged a cake on such short notice since he was already busy with other preparations. Maybe next time he'll order earlier, directly from a cake shop.

After each ate a piece of cake, it was time for the next surprise.

Nik led Alex into their bedroom which was beautifully decorated. She was stunned by the view. It's a room with their bed covered by a romantic canopy and many candles around it. The ceiling had red heart-shaped balloons attached to it and there were red roses spread everywhere. He pulled her into his arms and watched her with tenderness.

"Just for you dear, I have prepared everything.", he whispered and planted a quick kiss on her cheek.

"Nik, this is so romantic. Roses are my favorite flowers. And rose petals on the bed? Wow, so gorgeous!!! Thank you, my sweetheart!!!!"

"Now, shall we spend a little time here alone, my love? After dessert, we could burn some calories together on bed.", he winked.

"I love your playful side, my love."

He took her by the hand and led her towards their double bed. Gently pushing her playfully back, he let her sit on the bed.

"Oh, before I forget... I bought a gift for you."

He opened a gift box for her, revealing a beautifully, bejeweled necklace.

"This is for you, honey. I hope you like it."

"Eeeek, this is so pretty!!! So sparkly!! Thanks, but it looks too expensive."

"Expensive? For the future Duchess of Lamrian?? Hey, you have to accept. I bought it for you only. Don't look at the price but at my love."

"But Nik, I..."

"Rook, please."

"Nik..."

"Look, the price was nothing for me. Remember the six figures I got from protecting you? The million dollars? It was only because of you, that's why I decided to spend them all on you and your happiness. They're yours. It's our money, baby. You're worth it."

"I see, but still."

"Seriously? You know, you're the most stubborn person I have ever met.", he was about to lose his patience.

"Okay, okay, I accept. Sorry, I was just... It's so pretty. So sweet of you, Nik. I suggest that we should invest or save the money for our future. But for now, I thank you from the bottom of my heart, Nik. Thanks, but I sadly have no gift for you right now."

Nik shook his head as he caressed her neck and pulled her close.

"You don't need to give me a gift, because seeing you happy and beeimg with me is my best gift. But just so you know, I'm not done yet with the surprises. You know, I may be a terrible dancer, but I've got great moves in bed.", he winked.

"Oh..."

Later, after a passionate moment in their bedroom, it was time for the last surprise. He lead her outside. Tonight was a beautiful night, the moonlight created the perfect atmosphere for some romance.

He looked her straight in the eyes, holding her hand.

"We're going to a special place, so you gotta close your eyes for a sec?"

Nik waited for her reaction with anticipation, hoping she would trust him and agree to close her eyes. He couldn't contain his happiness and satisfaction by getting her to agree to close the eyes. With closed eyes, she waited for the next step.

"Okay, great! Now hold my hand and just keep walking, keep your eyes closed but don't open them at all until I tell you okay? And most importantly since I know you very well... Don't even peak!!"

"Okay, fine. I won't open my eyes till you allow me, I promise."

He led her a little further and she could feel a gentle breeze on her face. After a few minutes, he suddenly stopped. The sound of birds and a stream of water running were to hear. Alex waited a few seconds, Nik caressed her cheek a little and after a while, he finally told her to open her eyes. A romantic and very beautiful spot in the middle of the forest. A quiet place, with a waterfall running over the stones and making a sound that gave an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity. The moonlight illuminated the water and reflected its light. Colorful wildflowers everywhere. The entire place was filled with flowers. The aroma in the air was divine. A very romantic atmosphere perfect for two loving people. On the fresh grass, Alex discovered a blanket.

"We're in the bayou, Nik. Your favorite place on this planet and where we shared our first kiss.", she recognized.

He leaned forward, kissed her softly on the lips, and then whispered.

"That's right, rook. Where we both kissed for the first time. Happy Birthday to you and a very Happy Anniversary to us."

Later, Alex decided to give her boyfriend a gift too since he worked so hard to make her happy and their day memorable. A little gift for her beloved Nik. Sadly she hadn't bought anything for him and shops were already closed, so she decided to quickly slip into their bedroom and then return to him. Nik was patiently waiting for her in the bayou, not aware of her plan. She finally returned to him with her loyal violin in her hand.

"Should I play for you?"

It caught him by surprise at how unexpected it was. Then he glanced at her face, a look that let her understand how much he liked the idea.

"Yeah, I would love to hear you play."

Nik sat Alex on a large rock near the small river and leaned on the rock himself next to her, with curiosity and expectation in his eyes. He watched her with tender affection, waiting.

The way Alex played her instrument touched a deep cord in him as if he seemed to be transported in his world by the melody. Even though she played a romantic song, she noticed that the rhythm was more slow and melancholy now. He looked at her with adoration and admiration, enjoying her music fully. Until finally, he whispered.

"You're the most beautiful woman on earth and I love you."

[ladylamrian]

Alex's Birthday Calendar

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Only one birthday left to add...

Word Count: 2.0K words

Rating: General/Teen (Fluff, Comedy, Angst)

Warnings: Trauma, Death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @mikaelsrose ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @choicesmonthlychallenge with @jerzwriter (November Prompts: Forgiveness & Appreciation) ; ... and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: I decided Nik Ryder to give my own birthday

Nik Ryder's living room was heated on a cold winter morning. The young nighthunter was free today and had no missions to attend. But who knows what urgent business could appear in the evenings.

"How is my little rook doing?", the young man gently kissed her cheek.

"Good. Hey Nik, I have a question.", Alex spoke after receiving her boyfriend's kiss.

"Of course, what is it? Shoot your question, rook."

"You know it's been a year now and... Well, you never told me when your birthday is. When is it?"

"My birthday? That's a topic I rather not dwell on. Trust me. Just so you know... My birthday is a date of pain and loss. So, please... Don't force me to go back there or ask me too many questions about it. Alright?", he answered. His mood suddenly changed into an unhappier one, which made Alex more curious.

"But you know my birthday and give me the coolest presents. I want to do the same to you."

"I know... and your birthday is a day of celebration and happiness. I'd rather not put a taint on it just by bringing my sadness to the table. You deserve good things and I'd prefer to see you happy. Please, respect my choice on this. You don't need to give me anything; just your love is enough.", the young man answered, which didn't satisfy her completely.

"Okaaayyy, fine...", she rolled her eyes and grinned.

"Thank you, my sweetest darling. You're already the best gift of my life, rook.", his compliment made her blush.

"Oh, Nik... I..."

"See? Even with blushing you look gorgeous! My beautiful girlfriend."

"Nik, can I see your identity card?"

"My ID... card? Sure, why?", he blinked in surprise and started to search for his wallet in his pockets.

"Or your driving license would do it too, Nik.", she answered with a grin.

"Are you trying to steal my identity or what?", Nik chuckled as he pulled out his card from his pockets and handed it over to her. Alex immediately snatched it away and somehow started to analyze it.

"Uhh, rook, what are you looking for exactly?"

"Your birthday, of course."

"Seriously? And why do you want to know so bad? Damn, I told you already that date is painful to me. Why are you so damn stubborn always? Do you know what else is sad than my birthday?"

"What?"

"Seeing the one that you love insisting on something you don't want to share.", he looked almost shattered as he confessed, which made Alex now regret.

"I'm sorry, I just... But you deserve a Happy Birthday, Nik. And I want to give it to you. You deserve to be happy."

"It's not as simple as that, Alex. This is a deep trauma. I understand your good intentions but please... Can you at least consider how I'm feeling? I told you how much this matters. If I refuse to talk about it, just respect my decision."

"Nik..."

"No, just a question... Would you like it if I forced you to talk about traumatic moments against your will?", he firmly asked, trying to make her understand his position.

"Of course not, but... Ugh, fine, sorry. So no birthday gifts on January 23rd then." his girlfriend finally accepted defeat and sadly looked away, not daring to face him as she realized that her actions and playful stubbornness were wrong. How can a Birthday, the day of a person's birth, be the most hated day? Of course, her 25th birthday wasn't the best, and it changed her life completely, but still... What horrible event could have happened on Nik's birthday?

"Thanks, rook. Believe me, I hate denying you your gift giving. You're the most wonderful person to me but I really don't want to celebrate my birthday and it upsets me a lot that something that should be fun, has become a source of hurt and pain. I... I just want things to be nice between us and not end up in another argument over this. Especially something trivial as a date, you know? If I was honest, I prefer to celebrate our anniversary instead. Your birthday is actually also our anniversary. At least this day is happy for us. The same cannot be said about my own birthday... Look, I love celebrating our anniversary even if I forgot it the last time completely. Damn, that was embarrassing. But let's please change this subject before I lose the happy mood, yeah? I don't want to talk about my birthday anymore and I don't want to argue with you. Come here, my love.", he confessed, pulled his girlfriend into a tender hug and kissed the top of her head.

"Of course, I'm sorry. But Nik, I'm happy that you were born."

"I'm not, but thanks. You have a big heart and kindness as strong as yours is beautiful. Please don't blame yourself for doing the right thing and trying to help me. I know that you want me to be happy, however... The reality has to be accepted and acknowledged. That date... is a day of trauma and remembering the pain of the past. It's not a day of joy and celebration for me. Look, I know I'm hurting your feelings with this and I loathe myself for it. However, what else can I do? I can pretend to be happy and celebrate because you'd like me to do but... I know I'm only pretending and not really embracing my true feelings. The worst part is you think this is your fault for wanting happiness for me.

You're never to blame for my trauma, Alex. Please don't think that way."

"But Nik, it was your mother's birthday that day when you lost your parents and not yours.", she tried to explain, which hit Nik's boiling point. Recalling that memory, the past was like stabbing a knife in his back.

"Alex!! I know, but still... It happened on her birthday. On a day which was supposed to be a happy one. A birthday which turned out to be a deathday. So I don't believe in happy birthdays anymore. After the death of my birth parents, I never celebrated mine anymore. Never. I mean, remember how you ended up with your 25th, rook. Deadly monster chases and that bloodwraith killing machine. You could have died too on your birthday if... Damnit, I..."

"I understand and I'm sorry. You're right, Nik. Honestly, celebrating my own birthday isn't the same anymore either."

"How so? I mean, your friend, Kristin, almost infected you with being a party animal like she is. Bet she's even crazier than you."

"Heyyy, I'm not crazy!! Just sometimes I like to act a bit naughty and cute."

"And stubborn. Very stubborn."

"Okaaayyy, fiiiiine. Sorry Nik, I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I just wasn't aware of the reason before. Please forgive me."

After a few seconds of angry silence, he finally calmed down a bit.

"Thank you, rook. I didn't mean to become rude and angry. Sorry, you're the best and I love you. I really do."

"No, Nik. It is I who should apologize. Sorry, I just wanted..."

"I know, I know. I understand that your feelings came from a good place. I'm not angry with you. I'm just worried that you're feeling guilty and blaming yourself for this. I'll tell you again. You're not to blame for anything. You know that I have trouble saying no to you. Maybe one day, with time I'll come to accept and celebrate that date. But today's not that day and it might be very unlikely for it to ever come. Still... Will you give me time? This is not about hiding things from you or because I don't want to enjoy it with you. Please, don't think that way."

"Of course, Nik."

"Hey, I'll tell you a secret... Since you really wanted to, do you want to know what would be the best gift you could give me?"

"What?"

"Your company. Your presence, love.

Not a material gift. Only your presence next to me would be the greatest happiness of my life."

"Oh Nik, you always have me."

"Yeah, I do and I love you a lot. Thank you for being my girlfriend. Thank you for accepting me. Thank you for being with me despite my flaws. I love you, my sweet beautiful Alex.", he confessed and finally smiled at her.

"Oh Nik, I love you too. Always."

"I love you even more, my babe.", he whispered as he grabbed her cheeks and kissed her fully on the mouth. After a sweet little moment, they parted.

"I understand, Nik. I respect your feelings, but I still want to add your birthday just in my calendar which I crafted myself. Only to make it feel complete and that's it. Okay? Pleaseeee?"

"All riiiight, if having my birthday on your precious calendar makes you happy, then I'll allow it. Just remember... no presents on January 23rd, okay?"

"But..."

"No buts, rook. You have to accept my rules too, you know? No gifts? Got it? Promise me."

"Not even a kiss?", she asked, ignoring to make a promise.

"Hey, don't try to wiggle your way around. No gifts. But kisses are always allowed.", he chuckled.

"And hugs?"

"Of course, you can give me hugs! And cuddles too."

"And more kisses?"

"Of course, as many kisses as you want! I'd never deny your kisses, which taste like sugar and honey. I got addicted to them. Just... absolutely no gifts. Agreed?"

"Oh, really? Define the word gifts, please.", she was confident to somehow still get a gift for Nik.

"Uhh... Well... it's any item that I would usually not have that is given to me as a way of saying "Happy Birthday". Like cake, clothes, and books. You understand the concept, right? So no gifts because I already have everything I want. No need to add more things to my life and I don't want you to spend much money on that date, love." he defined it in detail, which she didn't expect to hear.

"Wow, what a definition. I understood."

"Good. Thanks for being understanding and caring. I truly appreciate it, and I'm sorry for the way I spoke. But sometimes you make it really hard to be longer mad at you. Your silliness is adorable.

But please... Just respect my request, okay? No gifts."

"I try..."

Nik gently grabbed her chin and moved closer to his face.

"Now... time for some long overdue kisses."

The man softly brushed her rosy cheeks before kissing her tenderly, but Alex mischievously pulled away.

"Sure, after I add your birthday on my calendar first."

"You won't let go, will you? All right, get your pen and add that date there and then I'll kiss you.", he chuckled.

Nik watched Alexis grab a colorful pen to add his birthday to her own crafted calendar before she hung it on the wall.

"Satisfied now, rook?"

"Aren't you going to praise the calendar I created?"

"You want me to praise the calendar you crafted? Uhhhh, it's very... glittery? Too glittery and colorful for my place if you ask me. You used your favorite colors too. But you know, I find anything that comes from you wonderful."

"Thanks, hehe."

Well, my cute rook? I kept our deal, now it's your turn. You made me praise your calendar. Give me those beautiful lips. Come here, love."

"Oh yeah? Come and get me first", she giggled and started sprinting around the room.

"Oh, so you want to play this way? Come back here! I'm not getting you go that easily, rook. You won't escape.", he smirked, started to chase after her.

"Catch me first, Nik."

"I will. You're quite fast, I have to admit. But you can never get away from me."

When Nik finally reached her, he swiftly scooped her up with bridal style in his arms.

"Heyyyy!! Nik!!"

"Gotcha, rook! You weren't thinking you could outrun me, right?", he answered before kissing her on the lips. Then they kissed each other deeply and passionately, with her still in his arms.

Alex's own crafted Birthday Calendar

Main Character's Birthday calculated. It's a few days before the Mardi Gras Parade 2019 (=release year of Nightbound). Plus, it's on "Tell a Fairytale Day" 👑

Nik Ryder: gets my own birthday. According to the Nightbound book, he's 1 year younger than the Main Character, so now he's just 11 months younger. When the Main Character got 25 years old, Nik was 24.

Kristin: World Party Day. Party girl.

Cal: World Lupus Day. Spring season. Fluff.

Garrus: International Fairy Day

Vera: Relaxing Day. Gives off some warm summer vibes

Luc: Supernatural Day. Summer vibes.

Katherine: National Ghost Hunting Day

Krom: Poetry Day. Writer.

Ivy: Halloween 🎃 Spooky. Zombie Girl.

[ladylamrian]

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder (Fairytale AU) 🦚👑

Summary: The Story of the Peacock Princess.

Word Count: 4.2K words

Rating: General (Fairytale, Fantasy, Royalty)

Warnings: none

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @liviusofpella ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @choicesmonthlychallenge [March prompts: Nature ; Spring ; Animals ; ...] & @choicesaprilchallenge24 [Prompts: Birds ; Butterfly ; Ladybugs ; “Well, would you look at that? You’re not entirely stupid after all.” ]

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: inspired by Barbie: Princess of the Swanlake & Barbie: Mystery of the Pegasus. Nik Ryder transparent made by @garrusknight . The banner above was created with Picsart. The peacock divider by @saradika-graphics

Once upon a time, on a land far away... Lamrian. There lived a King and his Queen who ruled happily together over their gigantic fae kingdom.

One day, a total stranger who wasn't even a fae, visited the royal couple and asked for the hand of their daughter and only child, Crown Princess Alexis from Lamrian.

The princess was silently dancing ballet in her royal chambers upstairs and wasn't aware of what was happening downstairs in the throne room.

She raised her arms above her head, extending her hands like wings as if she were a bird in flight. She brought her arms down to chest level and bent her elbows. Extending one leg in front of her into a kick, and then the other one in a kick behind. The kicks were executed in sync. The result of her ballet dance movement was the impression of a soaring bird as if the bird's wings were flapping to allow it to fly. She made delicate dance movements that were pleasant to watch and with a refined and elegant presence. The movements of the feet were graceful, the movements of the arms and the fingers were very fluid, and the whole body got synchronized. The whole dance was a wonderful spectacle of harmony until she heard loud voices coming from downstairs.

"Father?", she got worried, stopped dancing and immediately rushed the stairs down towards the throne room where the voices got even louder. As she finally entered, she discovered Elric, her father having a heated discussion with an unknown stranger.

"I already declined your proposal, now leave!!! My daughter is too young for you.", Elric shouted at the man. Never in her life has Princess Alexis seen her father so angry. He was always such a calm and patient man, but that stranger kept pushing.

"But your Highness..."

"No, I don't want to hear anything. Now leave!!", Elric commanded and pointed towards the exit.

"But..."

"Heyyy!!! Haven't you heard what my father said??!", the young princess intervened and stood up for her beloved father.

For a moment the stranger's eyes met hers. Both stared at each other for a moment without avoiding any eye contact. Then he began to grin like a madman.

"So that's our precious crown princess. My future wife.", he smirked.

The young girl was shocked by his words and wasn't aware of the situation, but her father quickly stepped in front of her to cover his child.

"Child, go back upstairs. We will handle this."

"I demand your daughter's hand, Your Majesty. I hate being declined. Make me the new king of Lamrian."

"Never!! And now leave before I call my guards."

"Fine, I'll leave. But if I cannot have the princess, then nobody will.", he promised while he took a closer look at the young girl. She was wearing a beautiful, sparkly peacock dress with matching ballet slippers. A creepy grin appeared on his face again as he just got an idea.

"I command you to leave!!"

"Yes, your Majesty I will leave, but I'm very sure that you will seek me later.", he took a few steps backward, revealing his magical scepter. Without losing any second, he pointed it towards the princess and a blast of light appeared which hit the young lady. She got frightened and panicked.

"If I cannot have the princess, then nobody will because I hereby curse her. She will no longer perform ballet, no longer show herself in public and nobody would want to marry her, because... I'll turn her into a peacock!! The Peacock Princess. Forever."

And with that, the young princess was turned into a peacock, a majestic bird. Even though female birds were gray-colored, weren't bright colored and attractive like the male ones, she still got turned into one. A brightly, blue-green colored bird like the gown she was wearing. The evil man wasn't very educated, so he had only seen the blue-green colored ones which were male. When he saw that his dark magic worked and the girl had turned into a bird, he used his magic again to vanish in thin air. Only dark clouds were left behind which slowly dissolved by themselves.

"No, I'm a bird now. It can't be...", Alexis realized and began to cry. Her father and stepmother were supporting her and embraced their child.

"Hush, do not let your precious tears fall. We're here for you.", the loving stepmother encouraged.

"That man was no ordinary human and neither a fae, but a wizard who used dark magic and cursed my beloved daughter."

"Do not worry, dear Elric. I will try to lift the curse. After all, I'm a powerful magic wielder.", Thalissa spoke with determination. She cannot allow anyone to hurt her family. She loved her husband, Elric and Alexis whom she didn't give birth to, but she's still like her own. Family wasn't always bound by blood. Bound by Love.

She could no longer see her innocent child in pain, who was now struggling to stand on her new bird feet and tried to maintain balance. Thalissa closed her eyes, concentrated and chanted a spell while spreading her palms towards the child. After a moment, the princess was surrounded by light which could break the curse of the evil wizard. But the light was soon gone, faded away immediately. Queen Thalissa failed. She failed which broke her own heart that she couldn't save her stepchild. The wizard was stronger. But she tried again. Again and again, together with her husband. But they sadly couldn't break the curse together, so Thalissa changed her plan. Instead of breaking a spell, she tried to weaken it. Instead of staying a peacock forever, the princess shall be back in her true form at night. Peacock at Day and Half-Fae at Night.

They wanted to do more, but the curse was sadly too strong. Now the poor princess was sadly gazing at her parents, hoping to be back herself again. Somehow. Someday. Back again in her own body.

Till the late afternoon, Alexis was resting in her royal chambers upstairs in her peacock form and sad about today's happenings. She couldn't show herself like this to the public, the royal staff and locked herself up in her room. She was a peacock who could barely walk like one, who couldn't dance ballet, who couldn't play her violin, who couldn't take her black horse out for a ride and who couldn't hug her parents. She couldn't do the things she loved to do. She needed an escape.

Without letting anyone notice, she slipped out from the palace. Even the royal fae guards didn't stop her because they thought that it was just an innocent peacock that strolled around or got lost. She left her home because she didn't want to sadden her parents even more. She felt like a burden to them and went into the woods. The girl rarely went somewhere alone, because she wasn't allowed to go somewhere on her own without any security like the royal guards. After all, she was the crown princess and future queen of the kingdom.

As she arrived in a secluded part of the woods, she was surrounded by Mother Nature. Beautiful wildflowers were blooming. Little ladybugs, colorful butterflies and tiny birds filled the air with their singing and other animals were living peacefully.

Night has fallen and the princess wasn't in the palace. She was missing. The young Alexis who was strolling in her bird form now turned into her old self again which made her extremely happy. She finally was back in her body, but sadly knew that it would only be for a short time. By sunrise, she'll be a peacock princess again. But for now, she was just delighted to have her body back and began dancing. A ballet dance that expressed her happiness. After all, she couldn't dance properly when she was in her bird form.

The young royal performed a smooth ballet dance. She was a skilled dancer who could master difficult choreography with ease due to her years of training. Her footwork was delicate, yet strong, as her body moved through elaborate dance steps with grace and control.

"Keep on dancing. Keep on dancing.", she motivated herself, but immediately stopped at the sudden audience in front of her. A few seconds later, they clapped... Like humans?

"Such a beautiful dance.", a black cat meowed.

"Fae-tastic, darling.", a white dove praised.

"Wohooo Hooo Hoooo...", an owl hooted.

Even a gigantic grizzly bear appeared and clapped his paws which made the princess panic and took a few steps backwards.

"A bear??!! And did these animals just talk and act like human beings? Please let me go.", she begged mercy without knowing what was going on.

"Please, don't be afraid. Many are afraid of me because I look big and dangerous, but I am not. I'm Krom, a stone-troll.", the bear assured in a gentle voice.

"A stone-troll?? But you're a bear? And you can talk real words??!"

"Krom darling is telling the truth, lovely fae princess. And I'm no dove either, I'm one of your kind, your Highness."

"We were cursed by an evil wizard. He turns everyone who doesn't obey him or even disgusts him into animals with his magical scepter. Someone needs to stop him by destroying his wand, his scepter.", the owl spoke and then introduced herself as Ivy, a zombie girl who loves books.

"And I'm Luc, dear princess. Please kiss me so I'll get back to my handsome form again.", a green toad hopped towards the girl. He leaped on her shoulder and tried to meet her lips.

"Luc, behave. She's our guest.", the black cat hissed which frightened Luc, so he decided not to kiss her and just rested on her shoulder.

"You're right, mademoiselle Vera. C'est vrai. I apologize."

"Apology accepted, Luc. And like Ivy said, the curse can only be broken when the scepter gets destroyed. Not like in the Frog Princess story since we all got cursed and not only you."

"Wait, let me understand. You're all not animals?", she tried to understand and the five animals nodded to confirm.

"Yes, we all got cursed except for Cal."

"Cal?", the princess asked and then discovered a gigantic wolf who was silently leaning against the tree. He was so silent that she barely noticed him. The princess got more afraid, but they all tried to calm her down.

"Hey relax, I won't harm you. I'm not the Big Bad Wolf.", he calmly spoke and shifted from his wolf form back to his human form. He was a werewolf. Half human and half wolf, so there was no way the wizard could have turned him into an animal when he was partly already one.

"But princess, we saw you in a peacock form a while ago, before you began to dance. How did you turn back into your regular form?"

"Oh, I would have stayed in my peacock form forever if Thalissa, my stepmother wouldn't have tried to weaken the curse. I am still cursed like all of you, but I will turn into a bird until sunrise. Peacock at Day and Half-Fae at Night. But how will we ever find the evil wizard to break the spell? He just disappeared. He's gone and I have no idea where he is.", she began to cry. Tears welled up in her chocolate-brown eyes and couldn't stop falling. The girl got frustrated and had no idea what to do next. She was alone with the cursed beings.

Suddenly, the sound of horse tracks appeared which made the cursed ones panic, so they hid themselves. Even the werewolf decided to hide. Only the young girl remained who was still shedding her tears without knowing what was happening.

A young man arrived in the woods on his majestic, white stallion. His cloak flowed in the air. He noticed a crystalline castle in the distance. And then he heard someone crying, so he headed there to see where it came from.

There he discovered a lovely lady standing alone in the dark. He got off the horse and walked towards her.

"Greetings milady, what are you doing so late at night alone in the dark woods? It's not safe. And why are you crying?"

"I am... I was the princess of Lamrian. Princess Alexis Clarissa Fontaine from Lamrian. Now I am the victim of a curse that turned me into a peacock."

He was taken aback by her words, but quickly regained his composure and bowed.

"Oh, you're the princess?! Your Majesty, tell me how it happened. I will help you break the curse. It doesn't matter at all to me, you are still the most beautiful woman I've ever seen."

She was touched by his words and began to cry, this time more happy tears.

"You are quite kind... An evil wizard cursed me and other innocent beings into animals. By sunrise, I will be a peacock again. To break the curse, his magical scepter must be destroyed."

"Princess, it could be dangerous. I cannot let you go alone and find him all by yourself. Let me help you. Where will we find him?"

"Deep, deep, deeper in the woods. In a small hut is where he lives.", the owl hooted from another tree.

"That voice?? What was...?"

"It's one of the talking animals. These are the cursed ones."

"Fine, that's where we will go then, my lovely princess.", he extended his hand forward to support her. The girl took it and carefully climbed on the white horse to sit behind him. Then they started their journey together. But could the innocent princess just blindly trust him? Meanwhile, in a small hut at the edge of the lake, the evil wizard who cast the spell on the princess was waiting for them. He knew they would be coming and watched them as the lake reflected what the couple was currently doing, like a magical mirror.

"Curses, how did the princess get back into her form? She should be a peacock. I don't understand, did that commoner do that? It must be the work of a hero. Well, whatever his case is, I won't let him leave alive."

Back on the journey, the princess is curious about the young man, Nik.

"My hero, aren't you afraid of the evil wizard? Why do you want to help me?"

Nik is touched by the princess's questions.

"I have had many adventures, my princess... I'm a Nighthunter... A professional that hunts all creatures of evil origins and defends the good and innocent."

She was indeed impressed by his answer. In a clearing in the woods, they came across a band of dark creatures that just appeared, the wizard's henchmen.

Nik realized the sudden danger, hopped off the horse, and drew his weapons.

"Damn it... We've encountered the wizard's henchmen but no worries, my princess. I will protect you."

He turned to the creatures then.

"Stop right there villains, by the power of light, I order you to leave this place immediately. Leave us alone or else... you'll have to face my Holy Light arrows!!"

The henchmen snarled at him, but Nik was determined to get rid of the creatures once and for all. He grabbed his crossbow and began shooting holy light arrows at them one by one.

They got afraid by Nik's determination and some of them even got killed by the light arrows. The ones left behind disappeared back into the shadows.

The princess was amazed by Nik's courage and strength.

"I was so worried... How did you know they would leave? You are a hero, Nik... I am happy that I am in your protection, thank you very much."

Nik looked into her eyes and was moved by her kindness and sincerity.

"You are quite a kind and beautiful princess by the way. Your face is even more precious than the most precious jewels in the world."

She blushed a little, touched by his words. After he got on his horse, sitting behind her, the princess leaned her head on his chest. He took her arm and placed it around to keep her stable on the horse.

Meanwhile, the villain, furious to see Nik so dedicated to the princess, decided to cast another wicked spell... He began his spell, while the couple were still on their journey, completely unaware of what was about to happen. The jealous wizard chanted a spell of pure hatred and malice, then shot it at them, aiming directly at the princess.

The couple didn't realize what just happened yet. Meanwhile, Nik felt something disturbing in the air, a spell that disturbed his soul. He immediately scanned the surroundings, seeking the dark magic that had been created. He felt the dark spell. It's coming from the Princess. His instincts told him to be careful because there was something wrong, so he stopped his white horse and gently guided it toward a place where there was more light.

"Princess, are you okay? You seem strange all of a sudden. What's going on?", he asked the princess who remained silent and Nik noticed that. Even her face had changed. She showed a strange coldness and a strange look as if she had been brainwashed. Then she looked at him with a deadly look, as if she had forgotten everything they'd gone through together.

"What the...?", Nik got shocked and didn't understand the sudden change from this beautiful girl to a coldhearted woman. He looked around desperately and realized that they were now in a dark place, with fog and shadows everywhere. Also, his weapons were gone. The evil wizard played his game!

The young hero watched the mysterious figure who suddenly appeared in front of them. The wizard himself.

"Well, well, well... Nik Ryder is the name, am I right?"

"No dirty tricks now, wizard guy. Hand me over my weapons and return the princess to her normal self. Otherwise, I swear I will rip you apart!", his voice filled with anger. The villain laughed mockingly and cruelly back.

"My dear, you should try to think logically. Can a simple human fight against the will of a powerful wizard? If I wanted, I could turn you into an animal. Perhaps a bird too just like the princess. A falcon!! And then I'll lock you lovebirds up together in a bird cage. But I won't, I will let you live. Just one condition... Bring me the precious princess. She's mine and not yours.", he commanded while glaring at Nik with a cruel grin.

Nik was shocked by the words, he looked at the princess and saw her beautiful but cold look. He didn't want to admit it but he realized that the wizard guy had done something to her. She was brainwashed and in some kind of trance. In a last attempt to save the princess, Nik drew a secret dagger from under the saddle without letting anyone notice, hid it behind his back, hopped off the horse, and turned towards the evil man.

"I will never let you touch this lovely girl, don't you dare come closer. I don't have my weapons but I'm not afraid of you. Even without them, I'm powerful enough to protect my princess."

He stood determined in front of the guy, the dagger ready to strike the wizard his chest. The evil guy smirked at his brave attitude, knowing very well that he had the upper hand and that he controlled the princess.

"You silly little human, can't you realize the sad truth? Your princess is now my puppet. So there are only two options. You can give up and save her from a great deal of suffering or you can take me down and watch her die in your arms."

The Princess's eyes looked like there was a struggle inside her. She's looking at Nik, hoping that he could save her and Nik Ryder himself was determined to free her.

"No... I will never let you have her! If I defeat you I will also break your spell and I bring her back!", he yelled at the man who laughed cruelly.

"Oh, Nik, Nik, Nik... you can't fathom the power of a might like me... not many beings could break my magical power, that's why I rule over the most terrifying and dark beings."

He glanced at the Princess of Lamrian and then turned back to Nik.

"But if you think you can save her... I'll just laugh at your boldness and watch you fail. So come here and try me, if you dare", he spoke in a teasing tone.

Nik didn't hesitate and charged towards the man, taking him by surprise. The hero managed to slash him with his secret dagger within seconds, and the man screamed in pain. However, the wizard quickly took the opportunity to recover, grabbed him, and shot dark powers all over him. Nik managed to counterattack and they both got to the ground, each one looking for the advantage to be able to put an end to the battle. After a few minutes of struggle, the wizard managed to get the upper hand and pointed his scepter at Nik.

As he got ready to shoot his final and strongest spell of pure hatred and malice to finish Nik, the princess suddenly regained control of her senses and jumped between the two with Nik's secret dagger in her hands which was lying on the ground. She stabbed the wicked wizard in the chest while catching some unwanted blood stains. But it didn't matter to her as long as her hero was safe. Then she was able to destroy the scepter easily now with her fae powers after the villain was defeated. Destroy the owner of the scepter first, then the scepter.

The wizard collapsed, died in pain. Nik gazed at the princess with a new level of admiration.

"Well, would you look at that? You're not entirely stupid after all. Damn, look at you. How amazing you are, my princess! That was a brave action you just did!"

"Did you just called me stupid??!!"

"Forgive me, I was teasing you. Just joking. You did great, my love.", he chuckled.

He stood up from the ground, turned towards the princess who seemed a bit tired and confused now. He embraced her into his arms, looking at the evil wizard's corpse lying on the ground. The princess seemed exhausted and shocked as she realized what she had just done. Alexis still had a lot to process but the most important thing was that she was safe now. He placed the young lady gently on his white horse, then he also got on it, sitting behind her, and led the horse back. She seemed to be silent but Nik knew that she needed some time to recover and he respected that. When she was ready, he was sure that she would tell him everything about her experience with the evil guy. A few minutes later, the princess suddenly remembered everything that happened and started to shake. She looked like she was about to have a nervous breakdown. Nik watched her with worry and tried to calm her down.

"Hey, my princess, please do not be scared. The bad guy is no longer able to hurt you. You did a great job of defeating him with one of my hidden daggers. That was a clever move.", he whispered, hugging her as she started to cry in his arms. He comforted her by gently stroking her silvery-black hair and they continued the journey. When she calmed down and started to feel more herself, she faced him. Very sweet and loving again.

"I... I... Did I just kill someone? I feel so ashamed. Nik, I'm so sorry that I was cold and cruel to you before. I didn't know what was happening. Thank you for believing in me and rescuing me. You're my prince charming, my hero.", she praised before tenderly kissing him on his soft lips.

"Don't worry my dear, I knew it wasn't your fault."

The young couple exchanged a sweet look. They were in love.

Back in the palace, the king and the queen were relieved to see that the princess returned safe and sound. The whole kingdom was happy about the good news and the princess's parents decided to throw a grand celebration. To celebrate the return of the crown princess and the defeat of an enemy.

The next night, the whole kingdom was in a festive atmosphere, even Nik Ryder and the new friends from the woods came. The curse was broken. They weren't animals anymore and were back in their real form. Almost everyone noticed how the princess and Nik passionately and specially glanced at each other. They started to dance together. At first, it was a waltz, but then the young girl decided to dance ballet on her own while everyone ended up just admiring her including her lover, Nik Ryder, Hero of Lamrian. They were officially a couple.

And they all lived happily ever after.

The End

[ladylamrian]

✨️ Kit meets Rook ✨️

Female Main Character: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine (Nightbound) & Astrid (Blades of Light and Shadow)

Characters: Nik Ryder, Mal Volari, Tyril Starfury, Imtura, Nia Ellarious, Vera Reimonenq, Katherine, Cal Lowell, Threep, ...

Pairings: F!MC×NikRyder & F!MC×MalVolari

Summary: Astrid accidentally opened the wrong portal.

Word Count: 3.2K words

Rating: Teen (Magic, Adventure, Friendship, Fluff)

Warnings: none, just a small fighting scene

-> My complete Masterlist here <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @liviusofpella ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @artbyalz ; @choicesficwriterscreations

Some parts grammar checked by @lilyoffandoms

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

Author's note: The tiny story takes place after Nightbound and Blades of Light & Shadow Book 1. Special thanks to @chanceisagoodboy for the inspiration and idea ✨️

New Orleans always looked beautiful at night. Shops, restaurants, bars and dance pools were gleaming with bright colors and lights. But in the middle of an abandoned alley, near the street, where no one else was there, something mysterious happened. Air was filled with magic. The weather changed within seconds. The clear night sky turned into a thundery scene as rain fell down the earth and thunderbolts flashed above. But there was something else, something strange and unusual. A mysterious vortex appeared which tossed six strange figures outside. And then... it closed. The six beings remained.

"Ouch, what an uncomfortable landing!!", a lady in a gown commented as she was lying with her companions on the ground. She focused her lavender-colored eyes on her surroundings and wondered where they got.

"Well done, kit. Now care to explain where you transported us, because this doesn't look like Whitetower.", a young man with brown, shoulder-length locks and a light beard spoke. He discovered his two daggers, Stabby & Stabby Junior lying in front of him as he crashed on the ground, so he quickly picked his loyal weapons up and stashed them back inside.

"A powerful and wise never like me doesn't deserve to be lying on the dirty floor and get treated like this.", Threep, the bat-winged cat hissed. As the cat saw how everyone finally stood up from the ground, he fluttered its wings and landed on Astrid's shoulder. His cat eyes fixed on her, waiting for an answer.

"I'm so sorry for the hard landing, Threep. I didn't know it would be like this."

"Hmmph."

"Threep, will you please forgive your Astrid?"

"I suppose a snack wouldn't hurt to make it up for you, dear realmwalker.", he meowed and played around with her blonde braids like a playful kitten which made her giggle.

"Sure, Threep. But first, we have to figure out where we landed. This world looks so weird.", Astrid's blue eyes scanned the surroundings in the dark with the help of her night-vision ability.

All around them were humans. No elf and no orc. They were all dressed in a diffrent style which neither Astrid nor her friends understood. Not only this, strange machinery drove by in which humans were sitting, but there were no horses that pulled them. They moved on their own. Colorful lights are everywhere on the street. Was it magic?

"What strange world is that? Where did you bring us, Astrid?", Tyril asked.

"I don't know, but looks all so new and interesting which got me curious... Let's explore and begin a new adventure!!", she announced with confidence.

"Astrid, I don't know. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."

"Come on, priestess. Be a little more active and open to the world. We pirates explore new places and find treasures.", Imtura agreed with Astrid.

"Imtura's right! Who knows what shiny treasures and gold we'll find."

"Can't you just NOT think about gold for once, treasure hunter. I have to agree with Nia. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."

"Three against two, elf boy."

"Excuse me, I would like to be included with my opinion top. I'm with Nia and Tyril, because I want to go home. My warm food is waiting for me.", the nesper licked his palm with attitude.

"So it's three against three. We have a tie. This means we'll explore a little and then we'll go back home. Do you all agree with me?"

"Yes Astrid, that's fair! I just hope you know how to open the right portal which leads us back home.", Nia Ellarious, the priestess agreed, along with everyone else.

"Honestly, I'm still learning my powers. I seriously didn't thought this would happen, but I promise that I'll do better. We'll find a way to get back home!!", Astrid, the realwalker assured her friends.

The group of friends walked through the bustling streets of the unknown place and every time surprised as they made a new discovery. There were small, shining figures in green and red which signaled the humans when to cross the streets and when to stop. These secured the safety of both, the walking humans and the ones who were sitting in these strange, horse-less machineries. Was this magic?

"Hey, why are some humans looking at us like this and then laughing? Are they making fun of us? Maybe because we're dressed differently or...?", Nia asked with concern.

"Yeah, it's like they never saw an orc!"

"Or a noble elf like me. I feel that we're being watched and I do not like this, my dear friends. I told you before too, that it could be dangerous here.", Tyril agreed with Imtura.

Not far from them, a group of youngsters were enjoying themselves. One even held a small, metallic device that flashed like lightning. Out of curiosity, Mal moved closer to the group to take a closer while remaining hidden in the shadows. It turned out that the group of young people now could see a picture of them in that pose when that mysterious device flashed at them. It's like watching a portrait of them that just got painted by the flashing light.

"How can they still be here standing in front of me and also being captured in that small device at the same time?", Mal thought and immediately left, because he didn't want to accidentally get captured in an item.

He quickly joined his friends in a more quiet place, but was shocked as he saw them facing a very familiar figure.

"Well, well, well, who do we have here? How interesting! Humans, along with an elf and an orc. These two might fit well into my collection", the mysterious woman in black smirked. Behind her were standing tough, muscular men who looked dangerous.

"Uhh, who are you? What collection?"

"Oh, dear. You don't know me? Everyone knows who I am. Would your elf friend and orc friend be interested in joining my secret fighting ring under Club Persephone? Elf versus Orc. That would create a huge audience and a lot of money.", she answered Astrid's questions while pressing her face with her gloved hand as she moved closer towards her.

"Hey!!! Let Astrid go!!!", Mal shouted at the woman. He grabbed Astrid's arm and pulled her protectively closer to him till their bodies pressed each other.

"Mal, I'm fine. Don't worry, I can handle it.", she showed strength, but also gratitude towards her caring lover. They glanced at each other with full affection and love until their attention turned towards their friends and the mysterious woman.

"Oh, so you're a couple? You two remind me of that annoying hunter and his fairy girlfriend. You disgust me."

"Leave us alone, thief master.", Mal warned her which made her even more angry while the friends were surprised.

"Mal, you know that woman?", Imtura asked.

"Thief master??? You dared to call me, a thief?!! I am the Lady Smoke!!! The most powerful woman and most dangerous murder mob boss of New Orleans??!", she unleashed her anger, and finally removed her glove, revealing her palm which showed black, poisonous veins. The whole crew was shocked at the discovery. While the lady in black moved her hand towards Astrid and Mal, her muscular men grabbed the rest of them.

"Let go!!! Don't hurt my friends.", Nia shouted.

"I'll show you the strength of an orc, you rats.", the orc hissed.

"Threep, is that woman corrupted or why does she have these black veins?", Tyril asked while fighting one of the goons.

"No, it's something else.", he meowed as he tried to free Nia, the priestess. The nesper began attacking the enemies with his sharp claws.

The whole situation turned into a fighting scene. Mal tried to protect Astrid, and she tried to protect him, as they switched back and forth. Trying to protect each other.

"Astrid, I'll handle.", he grabbed his two daggers and got into a fighting position.

"Mal, I can do it. Let me use my powers."

"But..."

"Ssshhhh, I'll be safe. Don't worry, love."

"But I'll..."

BANG

Before Mal could say more, a bright light appeared out of nowhere which illuminated their whole surroundings. It took everyone a little time to adjust. They shielded their eyes from the light which was so bright. When the light faded, they slowly opened their eyes. There was a mysterious young man in a leather coat facing them, holding a crossbow in his hands. It was the holy light arrow he just shot, which caused the bright light. The arrow landed on the ground near Lady Smoke and her goons as a warning and not to injure them.

"Let them go, Smoke!", he warned her.

"And if I don't?"

"Don't make a fuzz of this, Tonya. Just let them go and everyone will be happy."

"Mind your own business, nighthunter."

"Heyyy!!! Nobody speaks to my partner like this!!", a silvery-black-haired woman appeared next to the mysterious man.

Nik smirked as she called him her partner and wrapped his free arm around her waist.

"My rook."

"Oh, so the couple is here together now. Solo suited you better, Nik Ryder", Tonya mocked.

"Shut up, Smoke!! And let these innocent people go."

While Tonya was focused on Nik and his girlfriend, Astrid used her skills to free her friends. Time for the Seduction Skill!! She swayed her hips and leaned closer towards a man who held one of her friends captured. Mal was surprised at her sudden move.

"Hello, strong man.", she winked at one of them.

"Me?"

"Yes, you. You're very strong and look at your muscles.", she traced a finger on the stranger's arm who suddenly felt attracted to her. The rest of them wanted that too now.

Mal definitely didn't like it even though, she used her seduction skills several times and it helped. But this time was different. They were nasty men who could hurt her and were now hungrily staring at her. Mal had to do something.

"Hey Astrid, you haven't seen my muscles yet. Let me use them to smash those bastards.", Mal got jealous. Astrid's eyes were still on the men.

"Oh yes, Mal is right. You guys have muscles, but use them for what??!! To serve an unthankful woman. I definitely would value your hard work and loyalty. All of you.", the braided blonde played with her lashes which made the men loosen their grips.

And with that, Tyril, Imtura, Threep and Nia managed to free themselves and began fighting. Even Astrid now used her combat skill and threw a few punches at the men, while Tyril, Imtura and Mal used their weapons. Threep supported the priestess to defend everyone.

"How dare you treat a legendary and wise nesper like that??", he hissed and used his cat claws to hurt the enemies.

"Watch out!!!", the silvery-haired girl shouted and blasted a flame of light towards a goon who was about to hit Astrid from behind. The bad guy couldn't harm her now, fell backward, and then fainted.

"Thanks!!", Astrid shouted towards her and continued her battle.

Tonya Reimonenq noticed that her men couldn't win, especially against a strong orc like Imtura. So she demanded her men to retreat, getting back to her Club.

"I'll be back. You haven't heard the last from me, Ryder.", she swore revenge, quickly stepped inside her limousine and commanded her driver to escape.

"Phewww, she and her men are gone.", Nia got relieved when Lady Smoke and her goons were finally gone.

"I knew it!! An unknown world could be dangerous."

"I know, Tyril. You were right, but I'm glad we got rid of them. And these two helped us.", Astrid turned her attention towards the couple in front of them. The two stepped closer to the group.

"Damn, didn't know you guys would handle it on your own. I'm impressed. At least some people don't need to be protected which makes my work easier. And you did a great job too, rook.", Nik praised everyone.

"Awwww, thanks.", she got delighted, stood on her toes and planted a quick kiss on his cheek. Then she stepped closer to the group to introduce herself and Nik. They shook each other's hands.

"Nice to meet you, Alex. I'm Astrid. These are my friends, Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal and Threep."

"Awwww, Threep is soooo cute!!!! Eeeeeeekkk...", she admired the little, winged cat and wanted to cuddle it.

"Pardon me, but I need my personal space. No cuddles when I'm hungry, milady."

"You can talk??!!"

"Of course. I'm a very wise nesper who has to confess my hunger and speaks wise words."

"Awwww, poor kitty. You must be so hungry. Let's get you some food, huh? Garrus's bar isn't far away, he'll serve you food and I'll feed you as much as you want.", Alex picked Threep up from the ground and held it like a baby in her arms, gazing sweetfully at him.

This time the nesper didn't complain because he was ready to get treated like he always wanted to.

"What's a bar?", one of the friends asked.

"Uhhh, it's where you drink? You guys never went to a bar? My friend, Garrus serves non-alcoholic drinks too if you want.", Nik informed.

"Ooooh, so it's a tavern. Then let's go!! I could use some refreshment.", Mal immediately agreed.

"Threep, meet Tinkerbell. Tinkerbell, meet Threep.", Alex tried to introduce Threep and her pet with each other.

"Is that a kricken? But what is it doing here?", Nia asked and petted the pet.

"A kricken? It's a perrikin."

"Oh, I see. In our realm it's called a kricken."

"Oh, so you're from another realm?", Alex asked with curiousity.

Nik, Alex and Astrid's crew were now sitting in Garrus's bar, called The Graveyard Shift along with some more friends. Each of them was getting along with another very well and was having a great time.

"So you're a nighthunter who hunts evil creatures and beings at night?", Mal was talking with Nik.

"Not only do I hunt. I make sure that both sides of the world, the World of Day and World of Night are save and secure against the evil. So yes, I'm a professional nighthunter. And you are...?"

"A thief. A professional thief.", Mal grinned, raising his arm to show Nik what he was holding.

"Hey, is that... My wallet?!! How the hell did you...??"

"Don't forget to look after yourself too while protecting the world, nighthunter.", Mal mischievously smiled and returned Nik's belongings back to him.

"Hmm... I like you already, thief. You're not bad actually. I'm impressed by your skills... And I like your shiny daggers."

"Thanks, Nik. My daggers are my tiny babies. But you're very skilled too."

Not far away, Katherine and Imtura were laughing together.

"Woah, really?!!! Could you teach me how to throw axes? It could come in handy for me while hunting."

"Now that's what I call a strong woman!! You may not be an orc or strong like me, but you have the spirit. I'll definitely teach you that, Katherine."

"Thanks, new bestie.", Katherine high-fived with Imtura.

Nia Ellarious and Vera Reimonenq enjoyed each other's presence while having conversations and drinking warm lemon tea together. Both admired each other's outfits and figured that they had a few things in common.

"So that dangerous woman we met before was your mother?"

"Yes, but I'm not like her. Don't worry."

"Oh, I'm not afraid of you. I can sense that you're a sweet and pure person. Besides, I also had the similar experience. I looked up to the Light court, but they were not like I expected them to be. I may belong to them as a priestess, but I can still be different and choose the path I want to. The path of harmony.", she explained to Vera and both sweetly smiled at each other with affection.

"Wait, you're her child?? That means she can't be the person I thought she was. She looks exactly like the thiefmaster.", Mal passed by as he overheard Nia and Vera after finishing his conversation with Nik.

"The thiefmaster?", Nia asked him.

"Oh, never mind. Forget it, priestess.", Mal tried to avoid the topic and decided to look for Astrid.

"Is that a fae??", Tyril got shocked as he saw Garrus passing by with a tray of drinks. The fae was too busy with work and serving customers to notice Tyril, the elf. Then Cal answered him.

"Yes, that's Garrus. He's a fae. And the silvery-haired girl you met earlier, she's a half-fae. Are you a fae too?"

"A half-fae, how rare and astonishing!! And no, I'm no fae. I may have pointy ears too, but they are longer. I'm an elf. Tyril, House of Starfury."

"Oh, a noble?"

"It's complicated. My sister takes care of House Starfury now. I don't feel like I belong with the rest of the noble elves."

"Hey, I know what you mean. I also feel like I don't belong to my pack anymore. I'm a werewolf, but I'm not like them. An outsider. I'm different, but I feel proud of it. By the way, my name is Cal. Cal Lowell.", he extended his hand forward and Tyril accepted to shake it.

"A pleasure to meet you, Cal."

Later, Mal finally found Astrid in the corner of the room who was talking with the silvery-black haired woman from before.

"Hey, kit."

"Hey, rook."

Nik and Mal greeted their own girlfriends at the same time when they appeared. Both were surprised. They stared at each other open-mouthed for a while before turning their attention back to their partners. Alex and Astrid began to giggle.

"So Nik calls you rook, Alex?"

"Yup, and you're Mal's kit. Am I right, Astrid? Guess our boys have a few things in common just like the two of us.", she continued laughing with Astrid at the boys.

"Oh Alex, as much as I enjoyed tonight with you and your friends, it's getting late. We must return, but I will never forget tonight. You're my new friend in this weird, but modern world."

"I will miss you too, Astrid. I hope you will visit us again. Threep is so adorable. And next time when you come, you should definitely teach me your seduction skill."

"Oh nooo!!! For god's sake, please don't!!! Enough people are hitting on her already, I don't want her to get started too or get in trouble.", Nik begged the girls who giggled again.

"Awww, Nik. You're my everything. But I could use the seduction skill to convince you whenever we both disagree with each other."

"Oh, so that's your evil plan? How cruel of you, my rook?", he raised his eyebrow, then chuckled.

Then Astrid spoke, promising to teach Alex the seduction skill if she would teach her some magic. Afterall the flame of light which the nighthunter's girlfriend used against Lady Smoke's goons was impressive and could be useful. Maybe Alex could also convince her friendly stepmother, Lady Thalissa to teach both of them. For example, how to open the correct portal.

And with that, it was time for Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal, Threep and Astrid to go back to their realm. Back home. This time Astrid opened the right portal. And if not, then they would have landed on their next adventure.

[ladylamrian]

| My favorites | My To-Do-List | My Side-Blog |

VISIT MY SIDE BLOG: @ladylamrian-archive

❤️ Alex Clarissa Fontaine × Nik Ryder (Nightbound)

💜 Kim Park × Damien Nazario (Perfect Match)

💙 ...

💞 Crossovers

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls and whoever wants to join...

🩵 Catherine Hill × Brian Baker (On Thin Ice)

💞 Crossovers

Romance Club Fanfiction Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @bri1234 ; @zoeywades-spouse and whoever wants to join...

[ladylamrian]

Funko Pop Love 👩🏻‍❤️‍💋‍👨🏼

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: What is Alex up to now?

Word Count: 1.8K words

Rating: General (Fluff, Comedy)

Warnings: none

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Choices Fanfiction Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @artbyalz ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @bri1234 ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

"Nik, look what I got us!!!", Alex excitedly squeaked, running towards her boyfriend, Nik Ryder who was seated in the livingroom with a cup of black coffee.

"What is it, rook?", he asked before taking another sip.

"May I present you Funko Pop Nik Ryder and Funko Pop Alex?", she proudly held two tiny figures of plastic in her hands and showed them to him.

"Oh, is that us? In Funko Pop version? You are so cute, Alex.", he chuckled as he took a closer look at the little creations.

"That's right, Nik I created them online and had to order. Now they're finally here with us. So cute!! I love them."

Nik smiled at his girlfriend's excitement and took one of them in his hands, looking at Alex's mini version with a loving gaze.

"Damn, they look great. Thank you, darling.", he planted a quick kiss on her cheek to appreciate her.

"Nik, I find your Nik Funko Pop kinda cute."

After she mentioned, Nik picked up his own Funko Pop in his hand and pondered it from head to toe.

"Hmm... now that you said it it's not that bad! I hope you find me cute too and not just my Funko Pop, rook."

"Of course, Nik. I just couldn't get the jacket right. Sadly a long, brown leather coat wasn't an option, so I hope you're satisfied with the blue jacket. I could buy one for you if you want. I see that blue suits you well too."

"Hey, I don't complain. My Funko Pop looks pretty good in my humble opinion. And I like it that you put your Funko Pop in a red jacket, just like the cherry-red leather jacket that I gave you the first night we met.", he confessed as he put the Funko Pop on a counter and wrapped his arms lovingly around Alex's waist. Then he continued.

"You know, rook... The only difference between your toy version and you is that your toy version, despite being cute, is not half as beautiful as you really are. I love you, Alex. And I think the Funko Pops you created are kinda adorable, just like the two of us."

"Agreed, Nik. So they need a special place to stand. They are like little ambassadors of our love! Now the question is where to put them?"

"Well, I'm bad at this but... Hmmm, maybe on the living room bookshelf?"

"Great idea, Nik, the living room shelf is a perfect place for them, then our guests will see them too, and they will all agree that they are a perfect tribute to our love!"

"Whatever you wish, love. Anyway, I think I should get ready, darling.", Nik informed while glancing at the clock.

"Oh, right... Your mission. I kinda feel too tired to join you today anyway. Be back home soon and stay safe.", she kissed him.

"You got that, babe. Don't worry. You'll stay alone, so will you be okay on your own? And don't forget to lock up the doors and be careful. And..."

"Nik, it's not the first time. I'm no child. I know, I know, you're my overprotective boyfriend. In the meantime I'll admire our Funko Pops and play with them"

"You say I'm overprotective, but I just care for you. Oh, go ahead and have some fun with our Funko Pops, they're quite a good company for their size.", he chuckled and smiled at her.

"Oh, and I'll create a third one in the future too. In case after we get married we both want to... You know...", she teased him and playfully winked at him. Nik's cheeks turned into a soft pink shade.

"Ugh... Well, I'm not one to make predictions but if that's the way things might or should go... Then you can be creative, darling. For now, let's just... Ugghh... Well, I think we better not get carried away by the imagination. Anyway, I'd better get ready, I must hurry.", he answered while scratching the back of his neck.

"Sure, stay safe."

"Oh, you know me, I'm always vigilant.

I'll lock the door behind me... Be back soon.", he said while taking one last look at the Funko Pops of the couple and smiled.

Later, Alex was alone in the apartment getting bored without Nik, so she decided to play with the Funko Pops. About an hour or two had passed since Nik had gone on a mission. Alex lonely with Funko Pop Alex and Funko Pop Nik which were now placed on the counter in the living room. As she looked at them she let her mind wander, thinking nostalgically of her relationship with Nik. Of the highs and lows they had together. Smiling, she picked up her Funko Pop and the one of Nik, making the two miniatures kiss. She giggled slightly then made Nik's Funko Pop hug the Funko Pop of herself and give her a long kiss on the lips.

Then, she glanced at her own Funko Pop and made it kiss Nik's Funko Pop several times in quick succession on the mouth and on the cheek making a series of little "pecks".

"I'm crazy, I know. This happens when I'm alone", she giggled at this, finding it hilarious.

Taking a deep breath, laughing, and putting both Funko Pops on the countertop, she sat on the uncomfortable, white leather couch, starting to reminisce about her love story with Nik. Despite it not being completely perfect, she had to admit that she loved him and never wanted to be without him, so much so that she wondered.

"What if we have kids? What if we get married one day? Would he...? ", Alex sighed as the answer to that question could be a bitter one. If only she could know what was happening in his mind.

Taking the Funko Pops again, she started to play different scenarios. Using her imagination and skills to recreate scenes like the couple having a romantic dinner, going on a trip, or watching a movie together, and also more funny scenes like Nik pretending to be hurt just to get a hug or a kiss.

She laughed amused as she saw her imagination become reality through the miniatures of the couple, but as she continued to watch she also felt a bit of nostalgia for maybe not being able to actually experience these scenarios with Nik.

Now, Alex picked up the two Funko Pops and imagined a wedding proposal. The Funko Pops representing her and Nik was in a romantic location, under a starry night with a moon full of candlelight illuminating the scene. The Alex Funko Pop was smiling lovingly at the Nik Funko Pop who held her hands and was knelt on one knee, presenting a shiny gem-encrusted ring.

"Alex, will you marry me?", she spoke as Funko Pop Nik in a lower, manly tone.

The Alex Funko Pop smiled and tears of happiness welled up in her eyes as she answered, also in Alex's voice, but this time in her sweet, normal tone.

"Yes, Nik. Yes, I will marry you, with all my heart.", Alex answered making the Funko Pops kiss each other.

Funko Pop Nik picked up Funko Pop Alex in his strong arms, holding her close in a tender embrace and kissing her passionately. The lovely Funko Pop couple held each other tightly in their arms as if nothing bad could ever happen to them.

"Awww, such a cute story. Now which scenario should I play next? Hmmmmm... Oh, I'll play how I, Alex saves Nik."

Alex smiled at her own idea, picked up the Funko Pops and placed them in a fighting scenario. Nik's Funko Pop was wounded and kneeling, while Alex's Funko Pop was standing protectively in front of her partner to defend him from an invisible opponent. The Funko Pop of Alex was looking back at the wounded Funko Pop Nik, giving him a determined and protective look. "I'll protect you, Nik."

The Nik Funko Pop looked at her with a pained expression but love in his eyes and weakly whispered. "Thank you, babe"

"What are you doing, Alex??!!!", Nik's voice interrupted her.

"Funko Pop Nik, you can talk??!!!!", she panicked and immediately moved her hands away from her toys. Anything magical and supernatural could happen in the World of Night, even Funko Pops getting alive... Right?

"Turn around, rook."

She did as the voice commanded, and turned around. Her gaze wandered toward the entrance. A bit startled, she saw Nik, her boyfriend standing there. His expression a mix of surprise and concern on his face.

"Nik, you're back?!!"

"What the hell are you doing here alone in the dark living room at midnight?"

"Nik, you're back. I... I can explain. I couldn't sleep without you and..."

Nik's expression softened, his gaze filled with understanding and affection. He approached her girlfriend and cupped her face gently, caressing her cheek tenderly.

"Oh, my rook. I'm sorry if my absence caused such concern for you. I was just doing my job like always. I swear everything's okay."

He leaned in to give her a tender kiss on the lips, wanting to reassure her.

"Thanks, Nik. Glad to see you safe and don't worry, but our Funko Pops kept me entertained. Right now I'm playing a wedding scene."

Nik burst into laughter at this revelation, his eyes widening in amusement and surprise.

"Oh really? You and our Funko Pops have been planning a wedding?"

"And later they'll have children.", she innocently confessed.

Nik grinned, clearly amused by the whole thing, and chuckled.

"Oh my goodness, so we'll also have Funko Pop children now? Are we gonna build another shelf just for their family?", he couldn't stop laughing, shaking his head slightly in amusement.

"Who knows, Nik."

"Well, our miniature selves seem very proactive. If they're already planning a wedding and contemplating children, I don't know where they'll stop. Maybe soon they'll be requesting a house in the suburbs with a white picket fence.", he joked which made her giggle even more.

Smiling, he gently wrapped his arms around her waist as he leaned closer.

"You know, while our Funko Pops are busy planning their future, how about we focus on the present? Spend some quality time together, just you and I?", Nik whispered into her ear, his tone filled with warmth and affection.

"Nik, you know what? Let's go to sleep and spend some quality time tomorrow. Sorry, but I feel a bit tired.", she confessed and nodded in agreement. He gently squeezed her hand and pulled her into a loving and comforting embrace.

"Of course, my beloved. Let's hit the bed and rest. I can imagine that a day spent arranging weddings and thinking about children can be very exhausting.", he chuckled as he gently kissed her forehead. His voice was soft and filled with a hint of playful amusement before heading towards the bedroom together.

"Good night, Funko Pop Alex and Nik.", she wished their two little figures.

Nik laughed softly at the mention of their Funko Pop counterparts.

"Good night to them too, darling. I have a feeling they'll have more adventures in their little world while we rest."

[ladylamrian]

- Chapter 3: The Unknown

[ Please read past chapters before this ]

-> Masterlist of this Mini Series <-

Female MainCharacter: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Other characters in this chapter: Katherine, Vera Reimonenq, Ivy, Garrus, Krom, Elijah,...

Summary: Nik doesn't remember Alex, instead... Elijah Ryder and the bloodwraith are back.

Word Count: 1.1K words

Rating: Teen (Mystery, Angst)

Warnings: Language, Talk about death

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @liviusofpella ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

GIF interpretation: Alex loses her lover, Nik Ryder. Again.

With an old enemy left and getting rescued by an old, familiar stranger from a past vision, Alex froze, slowly trying to progress. She's shocked, and so is the blond next to her. Nik Ryder, being an absolute stranger tried to calm down his pet. Never in his life has he seen that kind of creature, and now being saved by an old man who shoots glowing arrows in the modern 21st century?? Both face Elijah with open mouths. The legendary nighthunter, Elijah Ryder standing now in front of them.

"What are ya' both lookin' at me??", the old man muttered.

"I... Uh, Elijah? Is that you? No, it can't be. You're supposed to be dead.", Alex unsurely spoke.

"Oh, here I go to war and ya' already expect me to be dead?!! I may be old, but tougher than you think, child. Look at you, getting saved... and... Who's that pretty boy of your's anyway?", his strict gaze turned to Nik who was standing next to her. Nik who felt addressed, cleaned away the dust from his clothes and adjusted his glasses while his dog curiously started sniffing the surrounding area.

"Thank you for the rescue, sir. I don't know how you did this or what that was, but thanks. My name's Nik.", he reached his hand forward to shake Elijah's hand, but the old man avoided the friendly gesture and turned his strict gaze back towards Alex.

"How many times did I tell you to stay away from danger and not take things into your own hands when I'm not around?! You would have been dead now, child. Glad that I appeared on time, huh? And what are you even wearing? Where's ya' huntin' gear?"

"Uhhh, I'm wearing my regular clothes. My white shoulder-free top and blue jeans. Excuse me, what's going on? Who are you? You can't be alive, because you died years ago?!!"

"What non-sense are ya' muttering? Enough! Let's pay Garrus a visit, he'll have to explain. I told him to look out for ya' and...", he answered, grabbed her arm and pulled her to follow him until Nik intervened.

"Hey, back off!! Is this the way you treat a woman?"

"She's my student and my responsibility. Mind your own business, pretty boy.", he shooted a glare at him.

Exchanging another glance with Alex, Nik decided to turn his back and leave. His loyal dog follows him. Alex's heart sank seeing Nik go. Not after finally seeing him again. What's happening? What's going on? That man can't be her Nik. He doesn't even recognize her. Maybe a look-alike?

"Nik...", she sadly wispered while shedding another tear for him. She wanted him back, found him, and then she lost him.

"Child, I expected better from you. Remember what I once said, the closer you get to a person, the weaker you get. The more it will hurt you one day, so don't get too close. Don't trust anyone.", he explained in a harsh tone as she turned her attention towards him.

"Nik is the love of my life and I trust him from the bottom of my heart."

"A few months I was just gone and ya' already changed. Look how close the bloodwraith was about to kill ya'. Guess, I'll have to have a few strict words with Garrus for not looking after ya' while I was gone."

"Oh yes, lead me to Garrus. He'll explain what exactly is going on here.", she glared at Elijah.

The entrance doors of the Graveyard Shift shot open, as Elijah Ryder and Alex Clarissa Fontaine marched together inside. Both seeking answers. A friendly face with shimmering blue eyes greeted them.

"Elijah sir. Alex darling. Glad to..."

"I told ya' to look after her while I was gone. Just returning from NY and then I discover her beeing chased after the bloodwraith while holding hands with a guy."

"What??! My apologies, I didn't know. Alex, I thought you were at home?"

"Uhhhhh, Garrus. Explain first... Why is Elijah Ryder still alive and standing next to me? Nik said that he died when he was 17."

"What rubbish are y'a sayin', girl? Nothing ever happened to me and who's that Nik guy you're talking 'bout? Second thing, why were ya' runnin' away from the wraith, like a damn coward? I taught you to fight.", Elijah intervened when Alex was asking Garrus the question.

Before Alex could answer back, suddenly someone hugged her from behind which startled her at first. But then she calmed herself down after discovering who it was.

"Hey Alex, missed me?"

"Katherine?!! You're... You're back!!!"

Delighted to see her friend after so many months, she turned around to face her, returning her a warm welcoming hug. Again, tears rolled down her cheeks.

"Katherine, is that really you?! And the scars on your cheek... You're hurt. Did the war...?", she sniffed.

"I'm as hell as fine. Long time not seen, huh? Just returned with Elijah from the Vampire War. New York is safe now."

"I'm glad that you're alright, Katherine. I missed you. But... What is happening here and what happened to Nik? And Elijah??!!"

"Who's Nik, sweety?"

"Ooooh, is our Alex in love?! I want to know too. Who's Nik? Is he good-looking?", Ivy came from behind to tease her and giggled.

"Oh, not you all too!!", she begged and angrily dashed outside, leaving everyone behind in Graveyard Shift. Escaping those questions and everything. What should she do? What just happened? Of course, she's happy to finally have Katherine back, but Nik? Instead, she got Elijah??? No. No!! As Alex's mind tried to process everything, her eyes discovered a heartwarming, familiar face. It's... It's Vera who's lonely walking down the streets.

"Veraaaa!!!", she shouted, hoping that she knew at least what was happening. As she called her the second time, their eyes met each other's. Mysterious dark eyes. But before she could finally catch up to her, Vera frightened and ran away.

"What??!! Veraaaa, nooooo! Stop!!!"

Hearing Alex her screams, Katherine, Elijah, Garrus, Krom and Ivy dashed out from the Graveyard Shift to check on her.

"What's the matter, darling?"

"Everything okay? Why are you screaming Vera's name? Did she try to harm you?", Krom asked with concern as they all faced Alex and her tears.

"Wha... Wha... What? Why would Ve... Vera try to harm me? She's my friend."

"Because she's a Reimonenq. And a Reimonenq only wants power.", Elijah hissed.

"But Vera is different and not like her mother, Elijah."

"Why do ya' care for her? I thought I already convinced ya'? She's an enemy who can't be trusted. You two are no friends."

Nik beeing a total stranger? Elijah is alive? Not beeing friends with Vera? One night all friends were sitting together to comfort each other. But now everything and everyone has become unknown.

"I... I... I'll go for a walk. I want to be alone for a while, please.", Alex requested, turned away and left without turning back.

"What's wrong with this girl?!!", Elijah hissed.

*tap and zoom closer on pictures to see details

[ladylamrian]

Forever Royal 🌹💍

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder (Royalty × Commoner)

Summary: After the death of the duke, Lord Elric, Lady Alexis Clarissa Fontaine had to become the new duchess in a very young age.

Word Count: 5.7K words

Rating: Lightly Mature (Drama, Romance, Angst)

Warnings: Royal Drama ; lightly naked ; Commoner against High Class ; attempt of seduction/abuse (nothing harsh)

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @artbyalz ; @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join...

Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome

Author's note: It was supposed be a Women's Day Prompt: Powerful Woman for @choicesmonthlychallenge , but now I'm unsure if it even turned out well enough

Nik Ryder's face was all smiles as he entered the fae royal palace of Lamrian where he had been invited by his girlfriend, Lady Alexis Clarissa Fontaine, the new duchess of Lamrian.

The young duchess had all the power now in her hands. But Nik was a little worried that she might forget about him. But he pushed those thoughts aside. Once inside he walked up to a pair of guards.

"I'm looking for Alex... I mean Duchess Alexis."

One of the royal guards looked him over up and down for a moment.

"Are you her boyfriend, sir?"

"Yes, I am.", he confirmed.

After a minute the door opened and Alex approached him. Although now she wore a dress of light silk embroidered with threads of gold. She now the new duchess of Lamrian, but the woman in front of him was still the same Alex he had always known. With her hair in a braid tied with a ribbon, she looked at him with a smile that made him catch his breath. She hugged him back tightly, the smell of her perfume, her skin, her embrace filled his head.

Nik pulled back a bit and looked at her affectionately.

"I'm so very happy for you. You look stunning in that dress, even more so now that you're a duchess.", he kissed her in her cheek and grabbed her hand.

"I'm glad you're here, Nik."

"Of course I'm here, my love.", the young man gazed at her with admiration and desire. Then he hugged her tightly.

She was all smiles and leaned in, kissing him on his soft lips. Then the two started strolling inside the palace while Alex kept holding Nik's hand the whole time.

"This is all thanks to you, you know. If you hadn't been by my side supporting me all the time, I don't know what I would have done. You're the one who united me with my home. You're the one who found my long lost home and my father. I wish he would be alive now. He would have been so happy to see me as Lamrian's newest duchess.", she seemed emotional and very grateful towards her lover.

"I'll always be there for you, my love.", he raised her palm and planted a sweet kiss on it.

"Nik..."

"Yes, babe."

"Don't panick please, but...", she hestitated as if trying to find more courage to continue.

"What's the matter, love?"

"Nik, I'm a duchess now."

"Yeah, I know."

"I need to get married one day. Probably soon.", she wispered without meeting her lover's eyes.

"You what?!", Nik stopped his tracks and almost got pale. He watched her with a troubled look. "You can't be serious, darling?"

"Nik, don't you want to marry me?", she finally turned towards him, looking at him with sadness and hope.

"Because you once said you wouldn't be the man who wants to be bound in marriage, Nik."

He breathed hard for a second, and then he replied.

"Of course I want marry you, you're the love of my life. But I don't like what you're implying, that you don't consider me as your future husband?"

"Wait, what?? You want to marry be??!! Really?!!"

"Yeah, really. You changed my mind, rook. I can't imagine a life without you anymore and want to stay with you forever. And I definitly can't see you with anyone else than me. You're mine and I'm your's. I want to marry you one day. Not now, but someday.", he shyly confessed.

"Oh Nik!! You have no idea how happy I am to hear this. It's like a heavy stone has been lifted from my chest. Thank you, thank you, thank yoooouu. I love you!!!", she began to dance and twirled around him as if all her worries in the world disappeared.

"Love you too, my rook.", he chuckled as he saw her sweet reaction.

But then, she immediately stopped her little dance as she just remembered something ver, important and got serious now. "Then I have to convince the royal fae court for that."

Nik smiled and laughed a little. "There's no need to worry about it. They won't refuse the wish of their new duchess. Besides Lady Thalissa loves me. She knows about us, doesn't she?", he grinned, raising an eyebrow at her.

"Nik, it's just not normal for the other fae if their duchess is together with not only a human, but a nighthunter. You're a nighthunter, Nik!! You hunt supernatural creatures and well..."

Nik chuckled at her comment. "True, our relationship is a bit unconventional, my sweetheart. But I hope that doesn't matter to anyone."

"Uhhh...Well, I heard some of the court members trying to invite possible suitors for me", she got nervously answered while looking at the polished floors and then back at him.

Nik stopped for a second, his whole body tensed. "What do you mean? There are other people besides me who are interested in you? But don't they know that I'm your boyfriend? So that's why you asked me if I want to marry you, right?"

"Yes, I'm sorry. But you deserve to know about it now. I was just afraid, but I'm glad we're on the same page now.

Also, these other fae nobles just want marriage to strenghten their royal status. Nik, you're the one I truely want."

Nik couldn't help feeling jealous of the fact that other people were showing interest in his partner. He took a deep breath to calm his nerves and then decided to talk without fear. He looked her in the eye with determination.

"Well, that's too bad for these suitors because I intend to marry you. Do you think I'm going to let them be with you? I won't let that happen, my queen."

"I knew I could count on you, my love. But please, no drama in front of the fae court. Try to impress them."

Nik then laughed softly.

"No drama, I promise. Let's just go and I'll do my best to impress them with my appearance and words."

A few minutes later, they were introduced to the royal fae court. All of the eyes were set on them, analyzing Nik with his worn out leather jacket and the nighthunter weapons at his belt, and Alex with her glittery, golden dress. The suitors however, were looking at her and whispering something to each other. Their jealousy was not hidden at all. Alex got very surprised, didn't expected so many court members visiting her and asked the ones she knew about it.

"Those are potential suitors for you, my duchess.", one of the council members replied to her.

"Oh! They're here? Today?? Uhhh... Can't we postpone the meeting? I was about to present you Nik."

The room went silent and a few of the men gave him a disapproving look.

One of them stepped up and spoke. "Why? Is this man here our competition?"

One of the other men stepped forward as well to answer his question.

"No, he can't be a competition, he's not one of our rank. He's just a nighthunter."

Another fae man stepped forward in a loud and arrogant voice.

"Even worse! What are we going to do when we learn that he was with our duchess alone, what kind of things did they do? He's an outsider. A low-lander!! We cannot trust him, my duchess."

"Please, before I found out I was royalty, I was dating Nik. He's my boyfriend", Alex tried to defend him. Even Nik desperatly wanted to intervene and balled his hands into fists. He hardly couldn't stay silent any longer, but he didn't wanted to ruin Alex's reputation and remained quiet.

The men didn't seem to be convinced and one of them answered sarcastically.

"How can a commoner like him be with a duchess? I mean no offense your Highness, but he's no suitable husband."

Another royalty stepped forward and added something in a rude tone.

"Besides, what can he possibly offer? Money? Power? Status? Can he protect your kingdom? The answer is nothing."

"Nik saved my life from a bloodwraith. He truely loves me."

The men laughed at the answer, their smiles were filled with contempt.

"Love? You believe in these fairytales?"

"Well, my father, Lord Elric still loves my mother. This is no fairytale. Nik risked his own life for me against a deadly bloodwraith when I had nobody else and when everything seemed hopeless. He was there for me in the hardest times."

The men looked at each other and one of them said in disbelief.

"A deadly Bloodwraith? But how is he alive after that...".

"That doesn't matter, the point is that this man here has nothing to offer to you. Why don't you pick one of us instead? Like me?", one of the suitors said in a provocative tone, looking at Nik with condescension.

The other men laughed at his joke and some of them even joined him and started to make fun of him.

"Look at his worn out jacket, look at those weird weapons, those are not those of a knight of our fae kingdom."

"He probably spends all his time and money on hunting and killing useless monsters, right, boy?"

"You better shut your mouth or else...", he wanted to punch on the men, but Alex pulled him back, wanting to handle the situation by herself.

"See? This man is getting upset, he can't even control his emotions. He is not suitable for you, my lady."

"Nik and I dated before it got revealed that I was royalty. It proves that he's not after status and money. That he loves and respects me. With him, I'm happy."

"Your Grace, if you wish to take Mister Nik Ryder as your husband... Will he be ready to become our duke after getting married with our duchess?"

Nik seemed surprised and a little nervous at the sudden announcement.

"Wait, are you saying that if we get married I'll become a duke of Lamrian?"

"That's exactly the case. But as you probably know, there are several responsibilities that come with being a duke. Are you up to the task, mister?", the fae noble replied.

Nik was suddenly filled with many different emotions after the unexpected announcement. He thought about the responsibility and the burden that a such role would place on him. Then he looked at Alex as tears welled up in his silvery-gray eyes.

"If it means to be with the love of my life then... I would do it."

"Nik, are you sure? Look, we get married, but I can handle the duchy alone. You don't want to become a duke, right?", she intervened for his sake.

"Rook... I mean, my lady, it's impossible for you to handle a whole duchy all by yourself.

"Of course, I can rule over a duchy all by myself. I also have royal advisors and Thalissa by my side. Never underestimate the strenght of a woman."

"I know, you're strong. But that's still too much. I... I'll help you with anything. I promise. "

"Nik, you feel forced, don't you?", her girlfriend asked with concern.

Nik took a deep breath, trying to clear his thoughts. Then he answered truthfully.

"A little bit, to be honest. I mean I don't really want to be responsible for an entire duchy or fae colony. I would rather just protect its citizens as a nighthunter.", he chuckled softly, feeling a bit confused. "But, I guess I might be able to handle the position if I do it by your side. You could teach me how to rule the duchy and I could learn and adapt quickly. Don't you think?"

"I'm still learning myself, Nik", she confessed.

"I know, but you already know more than me. I'm sure that you'll teach me well. Besides, the council will be there to guide us too. We won't be alone. I think. I hope that.", he smiled, showing his supportive nature. But deep down he was nervous too. He would do anything for her, because he wouldn't bare to see her with someone else than him.

The suitors and the council kept trying to force Alex to choose them as her partner. But she remained firm on her conviction and kept repeating that she wanted no one else but Nik.

The men were getting frustrated and they decided to take things to the next level. Instead of arguing, they just tried to convince Alex by presenting her with a large amount of gold and luxury goods. They tried to impress her by showing her rings and diamonds, but she didn't look impressed.

One of them even decided to up the game and presented her a large diamond necklace. It was a very pretty necklace and she had to admit it looked very good, but she still remained true to her emotions and stayed faithful to her beloved Nik. It became clear that they had failed to impress her, and it didn't help that she was getting anxious from all the attention on her. The council and suitors were getting irritated now, they couldn't believe that she wasn't swayed by the expensive gifts. But the more desperate they got, the more Alex stayed true to her heart. She loved only Nik.

The council members lost a little faith in the process and were very irritated by the whole situation. One of the suitors then approached Alex and said loudly.

"What's wrong with you? Don't you understand that the man you want as your husband is just a simple nighthunter, he has no position or power.

Why not just pick one of us? We can offer you many more things than he can.", he explained while the other fae suitors agreed and nodded their heads. Two other suitors kept looking at her, trying to influence her with their eyes.

"You royal faes just decided to hold a meeting in my palace without my approval. Please, postpone this. My original plan today was to spend some time with Nik", she let anger take control over her. The fae seemed taken aback by the decision of the young duchess. She was very annoyed by them.

"Your pardon my lady, but this meeting is of the utmost importance. You don't expect us not to choose a partner for you? We have to think of the best for the entire kingdom.", one of the council members replied.

"You're the new duchess, it is your responsibility to find yourself a noble husband. If you fail to do so we'll be forced to do the decision for you.", another one spoke.

"If you have children with him they won't be able to possess any of our strengths, they will be like ordinary humans. Do you really want that?"

After this statement Alex felt taken aback and disappointedly turned towards Nik who's eyes met her's too.

"Nik, you... you didn't wanted to have children, right?"

Nik was a bit concerned about her sudden comment and then replied.

"My Love, I don't oppose being a father. I would be willing to have children with you if you want that. It is your wish that matters to me. But I only ask that you would at least consider the council's words and hear them out. They have a point."

"Nik, I only want you."

Nik smiled, it warmed his heart that his beloved did not value powers more than her feelings towards him.

"It means that I would rather be with you and have a family with you. Royal powers will not be necessary for you or our future children as long as we have each other. You and me, Nik."

Of course the fae weren't happy with her decision and still tried desperatly to convince their young duchess.

This time, Nik showed annoyance since this matter was becoming too insistent. He didn't like his beloved being forced.

He interrupted and replied boldly.

"That's pure nonsense! You can train royal guards, hire bodyguards and nighthunters like me can hunt down beasts and other supernatural villains to protect the fae realm."

The council members looked at him with surprise as he openly rejected their advice. And even more because it was him, a simple nighthunter who had the courage to speak his mind openly.

Nik didn't seem to care about their attitudes and replied proudly

"You can deny the truth and it is still the truth. Powers are not necessary to keep the kingdom safe, with or without them you can be protected. Besides, this decision is about what makes us happy. Why should we be forbidden?"

The men in the room got angry and one of them finally spoke.

"You dare to challenge our rules? You dare to go against our traditions?

Do you think that by saying some empty words we will be convinced? These traditions have been around for generations. The powers are vital and it is our job to make sure she is protected and that the kingdom is safe. You, as a commoner cannot offer her those things."

"I'm the duchess and I order silence!", Alex, the woman with power almost screamed, not wanting to hear another bad insult about her lover.

The men were caught off guard by her sudden order and the room got quiet. They were astonished that the young duchess would dare to challenge their authority as they were also curious about what she would say next. But before she could say anything else, she lost her balace.

Nik rushed to her, held her by her shoulders trying to steady her and make sure she didn't fall or get hurt. The men in the hall stayed silent and looked worried.

"I... I... I want to rest. Let this meeting be held in another day. I need to think."

Seeing that his beloved's stress was getting too much, Nik couldn't help but agree with her.

"Sure my love, just take some rest and feel better. We can always deal with this meeting at a future day. Your health is more important."

The other men kept quiet but they tried to give Alex a sign asking her if this meant that she was willing to reconsider her decision and listen to them instead.

At this moment, Alex was too emotionally overwhelmed to answer the council. She felt like she was about to faint just from the pressure they were putting on her. But the only thing that mattered to her was Nik's love and support. She looked at him with tears in her eyes, grateful for everything he was doing for her.

"Nik, go back home and rest. I'll rest upstairs."

Nik was reluctant to leave her alone, but finally gave a nod and replied.

"Alright my dear, I'll go. Please take some rest and take care."

After Nik left the hall, the council had mixed emotions, as they had not expected the duchess to resist their orders. Some of the royals seemed irritated and frustrated that she did not agree with them, while others seemed impressed that she had the bravery to stand up for her beliefs.

But they all decided to hold the meeting for another day when she would be more receptive to their words.

"Council members, we will meet next time.", Alex declared.

They all nod in agreement, as they knew that this matter was not over and they would have to convince the new duchess one way or another. Then they parted ways to go do their own errands for the day. Only one person remained behind, the one suitors who still wanted to impress the duchess. He looked at her from his corner waiting for a chance to talk to her.

"Servant, lead me to my chambers. I need to rest.", she called for help as she saw one of her helpers appear.

"Yes madam, right this way.", a fae loyal servant immediately stepped forward and replied. The fae took Alex's hand and led her upstairs to her chambers. Once inside her bedchambers, the servant quickly exited and closed the door behind. Alex was now alone, she only had a few moments of peace before the suitors would be back to try and win her heart.

Alex was feeling tired and dizzy and sat down on her gigantic bed. She had a lot of thoughts in her head and she felt overwhelmed by everything that had just happened. She was glad that she at least now got to rest, but she was still worried that the suitors were going to convince her to change her mind and abandon Nik. She needed to calm down and to collect her thoughts

The young duchess felt extremly exhausted from the mental and emotional stress. She had a long and difficult day. She needed a bubble bath to relax and ease her body's tension. She took her dress off and let it fall to the ground. She looked at herself in the mirror and began to prepare for the bath.

While she was doing that, many thoughts flooded her mind. Was she making the right decision by choosing Nik over the rich and powerful suitors? Would her children lack the strength to protect themselves in this cruel world? Would they even get born healthy? She was very anxious and worried...

Her mind was now more at ease as she was feeling the relaxation of her bath. Her body was submerged in the soapy bubbles. She let her thoughts wander and then she started to wonder just how strong her love for Nik was. She felt that she loved him as much as he loved her. But she was also feeling anxious about their future together. She was worried that she might be doing the wrong thing by going against society's norms and marrying a commoner instead of marrying a royalty. If only her father, Lord Elric was alive or Thalissa returned back from her trip, both would have definitly supported her and Nik. They would do anything for Alex and her happiness.

The soap and bubbles were gently massaging her skin and she liked the sensation of being so comfortable.

Her body was feeling relaxed but a sudden noise caught her attention. She took her eyes away from her own body, and tried to listen more carefully. She thought that she heard the sound of someone coming inside her chambers, but she wasn't sure. She felt paranoid about the thought of someone watching her while she was bathing. She quickly wrapped herself with a robe and got out of the bath. She was now feeling very nervous, and she wanted to confirm who it was, and if they had seen her naked.

"Nik? Is it you, my love. I'm here.", she hoped that it would be boyfriend who was allowed the only one allowed to enter her chambers. But then she realized that she sent him home.

She started to look around her room, but she didn't see anyone. The royalty sat down on the bed, now with a robe covering her body, starting to take slow and deep breaths.

Then she heard the door creak open and she couldn't stop herself from becoming more anxious. Her heart was beating quickly and she was ready to scream if anyone else came near her.

She instantly grabbed the robe covering herself and then she saw a person entering the room. She was about to scream, but then she was stunned to her spot as she recognized the man's face. It was the one suitors she disliked the most. He was now inside her room and she felt completely exposed, because she was naked under her robe. She was waiting for him to look or say something.

"Excuse me, such disrespect!! How dare you enter my private area? And this without my permission. Leave!!!!"

The suitor was now shocked and embarrased facing the duchess like this.

"I'm sorry, miss. I'm just here to express my love for you one last time. And I was hoping that we could talk, and that you would reconsider my offer of getting married."

"Our meeting got postponed regarding that matter. I command you leave my palace immediately.", she got furious.

"Oh, I see that it's time for your bath. What would you say if I joined you?"

"Excuse me, how you dare you?!! Leave!!"

The suitor became frustrated by her rejection.

"You know he is just a commoner, right? He doesn't even have the necessary strength to defend you. Whereas I am a royal and I have the strongest army in the kingdom. I'm stronger and more powerful than him, I can defend you better than no one, especially not a commoner."

"My Nik at least respects women. If you treat your duchess like this, how will you even treat your subjects or even your future wife? Now if you speak one wrong thing about my Nik, I will make you regret. I'll use all my powers against you. Leave!!! Leave immediately, or else I will scream!! The royal guards will marsh here immediately to save me. I'm going to order them to arrest you.", she exploded and threw a high-heel at him.

The man's arrogance was quickly replaced by pain as the heel struck him directly in the face. He held his face and looked at her with an expression of shock and anger. His voice was now full of fury as he replied.

"Do you know who I am? I could ruin your life if I wanted to. Don't think you can just treat me this way."

"And I'm a woman. A strong woman. A duchess and powerful magic wielder. I order you to leave my room immediately and never face me again!!! You're hereby banished from my palace and Lamrian."

His expression became terrified and he took your threat seriously. This was a dangerous woman that he couldn't get away from easily. He realized that he didn't want any trouble and he backed away before finally leaving the room and shouting on his way out.

"I'll be back for you, do not forget that. You'll regret treating me this way, I'll make sure of it.", he still felt angry about the high-heel she dared to threw at him.

"If my Nik finds out, he'll make you pay."

The man's face became red with anger and arrogance as he started to walk away but before leaving, he couldn't resist adding one last comment about her. He shouted one last time at her before finally leaving.

"I will find a way to make you fall in love with me, mark my words!"

After the fae noble finally left her room, Alex was alone and now she was feeling very relieved. But at the same time she felt frustrated and angry over the situation.

She then took deep breaths and looked down, feeling ashamed and guilty about her body almost being shown to another man after making a promise to only reveal herself to her beloved Nik.

She couldn't stop crying after the events that occurred within her bedchamber with the suitor.

A few moments passed before her boyfriend, Nik, walked in. It was clear that he had heard her shouting and he looked worried. As soon as he hurried inside, he instantly approached her and pulled her into a warm embrace. He was trying to calm her down and make her feel better.

"Nik?? I... I thought you went home?", she sniffed, not daring to look at him.

His expression became even more worried after hearing her tone of voice when she replied. When he held her close he noticed that her body was shaking and she was still crying. He quickly asked her.

"Is everything alright? What happened?"

"One of them entered my room without permission, trying to win over me.", she wispered without meeting his gaze while covering herself again.

He immediately understood and felt shocked at the same time. How could that fae even think about doing this? He wanted to know everything and let her tell what happened.

His anger skyrocketed as he understood it was a suitor. He was now even more furious that one of those men was the one who saw her like this and that he wasn't upstairs when this happened.

"Nik, please calm down!! It was all so sudden, but I know how to handle. I didn't gave a chance. I made sure he'll regret."

But the nighthunter didn't really feel like cooling down. His blood started to boil a little bit more when he heard her telling him to calm down.

"How can I calm down knowing that one of those suitors saw you like this?!!", he replied.

"Nik, I'm sorry. I tried... I... I'm fine. I handled everything by myself. I didn't let him touch me and managed to cover my body well. I'm so sorry, Nik."

Finally the young man let out a heavy sigh before turning to look at her, his anger was still present but her apology somewhat relieved him.

"It's okay, don't be sorry," he said, softly. "You had no control over the situation and you couldn't know that he would suddenly enter the room like that. You didn't do anything wrong."

"Nik, close the door.", she wished.

"Umm, okaaay?!", his expression became slightly confused when she asked him to close the door.

And he then closed the door and locked it, making the room feel even more private and safe. His attention then returned to her and he was trying to find a way to make her feel better, still holding her close.

"Nik, I don't want the servants to hear or know about our situation. They can be a bit snoopy."

"You're right, I think it's better if we keep this matter just between us. That way no one will know about it except for us. How are you feeling now?"

"Better. Now that you're here."

"Glad to hear that you're feeling better.

Just forget about the incident, that person who disrespected you is just nothing but a stupid nuisance. You don't have to worry about him ever coming near you again."

"Yes, Nik. Nobody will seperate us"

"Yes, you're right. No one, not even the most powerful man on the universe can separate us. We have a strong bound and it doesn't matter how strong whoever tries to separate us will be, they can never succeed. I swear, I will always be by your side and I will never let anything or anyone get in the way of our love."

"Fate is on our side. Because Fate united us."

He looked at her with genuine admiration and affection in his eyes. He liked the way she thinks and the way she saw their relationship.

"Damn, right. It's Fate that brought us together and we have a true bound between us. I mean... It's like we were made to be with each other and whoever tries to separate us is fighting against destiny itself.", he chuckled which made her feel better.

"Uhhh, Nik?", Alex noticed.

"Hmm?"

"Turn around, please. I still need to get dressed, my love.", she shyly added.

"Thanks, Nik. Now don't try to peak."

"I... umm... sorry about that." is face suddenly flushed with embarrassment. He immediately looked away, he just couldn't hide his blush. She was completely right and he couldn't control himself from taking one glimpse at her body. He kept his eyes.

While she was busy getting dressed, his eyes were still focused on the floor and he couldn't help but notice her beautiful curves. Her body had just no words to describe it. For her she was simply hot and he was feeling incredibly attracted to her, and the thought that she was now wearing nothing but her bra was not helping. He looked away, but then he peaked a little. Only a little. At the sight of her, she was having difficulties with wearing her gown. His heart beat increased and he felt like he had to help her. So he walked behind her and he tried to tie her dress in the back. He noticed that she had a very beautiful back, her body was like a work of art. He was now trying to tie the knot in the back but without letting her notice that he was looking at her back.

He was trying very hard to keep his eyes on the knot and not just on her body. He was almost finished with it when she suddenly leaned back her head, as if she was stretching to relax. Which in turn exposed her cleavage a little bit and it made his heart speed up even faster. She now moved away from him, straightend herself and turned herself to face her lover. She gave him a sweet smile before she spoke in a serious voice.

"Nik, thanks for everything. My love, but you must leave now. I do not want the servants or guards think that my desperate scream was because of you, which is not true. Hurry, before they see you at this time in my chambers. I don't want you get in trouble, my heroic prince."

The moment she suggested that he had to leave, he felt a bit disappointed, but he understood her thoughts. Both don't want anyone to assume he was the one who made her terribly scream out of fear which wasn't even him. Nik was a bit reluctant to leave her alone, but he was really careful to hide his sadness and disappointment from her.

"Yes, that may be better... The servants may get suspicious about me staying here late at night for too long. I'll be going then, my love."

With her lips pressed noe against his, he got overwhelmed with emotion. Her taste still made him feel butterflies in his stomach, and the thought of leaving her alone now filled him with sadness and worry, but he knew he had no other choice, so he reluctantly had to pull back from her lips after they had shared a long and romantic kiss.

"I'll be going now. I'll see you in the morning, my love.", he promised while holding her hand in his.

"See you tomorrow, my beloved."

When she called him her his beloved, he fell even more in love with her. Her words filled his heart with pure joy, and the fact that they would be seeing each other soon was such a relief. After one last tender kiss, he slowly took one step back, waved goodbye at her, and then silently left the room. Tomorrow they will meet again <3

[ladylamrian]

Jacqueline's return 🐍

Female Main Character: Alexis (Alex)

Pairing: F!MC×NikRyder

Summary: Jacqueline decides to visit her child in New Orleans. The city she left years ago.

Word Count: 4.7K words (Whoopsie. Sorry.)

Rating: Teen (Fluff, Angst, Drama, Past life)

Warnings: Drama ; Mention of Death ; Mention of Jacqueline's One-Night-Stand + pregnancy

-> My complete Nightbound Masterlist <-

Taglist: @lilyoffandoms ; @secretaryunpaid ; @blackcatkita ; @liviusofpella ; @peonierose ; @jdstar88 ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @tessa-liam ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @rosepetals1 ; @bri1234 ; @artbyalz ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @stars-are-within-me ; @choicesficwriterscreations and whoever wants to join... & Tagging @jerzwriter for her Mother's Day Event

Comments via Reblog wholeheartedly welcome

Author's note: It was supposed to be a short Mother's Day Oneshot, but turned out very long with some angst. It takes place after my released Oneshot: A Meeting in Wyoming

"Uh, rook... What the hell are you doing?", Nik was confused as he discovered his girlfriend running back and forth. One moment Alexis was in the kitchen baking something, then cleaning the living room and now she decided to sit on the dining table to craft something. It was early in the morning and he never saw her that hyper than ever.

"Nik, change your clothes!! Now!!! Hurry!!!"

"What's wrong with my every day outfit, rook?"

"You look like a nighthunter."

"But I am a nighthunter."

"Not today. Now hurry!! Wear a decent suit.", she commanded him without meeting his eyes as she was focused on what seemed like creating a beautiful card.

"Could you tell me what the hell is going on? Why're you so..."

"Nik, my mother is coming today!!"

"What?!!!"

"I said that my mom's comin..."

"The hell with that!! I heard you already, but why??! Weren't we both just recently in Wyoming and celebrated with her Christmas?", Nik panicked and also began to run back and forth, not knowing what to do.

Yes, you heard correctly. Alex's mother, Jacqueline Fontaine was back in New Orleans and ready to meet her daughter to reunite with her again. She just texted her that she just landed on her private jet and might be on her way to them soon. Last Christmas, Alex and Nik visited the wealthy businesswoman and accountant in Wyoming to spend some time together, reunite and let Alex introduce Nik Ryder as her boyfriend which was a wish from her mother. That time Nik may have revealed himself as a nighthunter as Jacqueline Fontaine herself revealed that she's aware of the supernatural side of the world, but meeting her now all of a sudden and unprepared? Will Nik still be able to hold the good impression he once made to Alex's mother?

"But rook, why suddenly all of this? Did something happen?", Nik got worried and watched how she ran towards to check the oven and then returned back to him.

"Nothing. She just texted today, missed me and wanted to spend some time with me like in the good old days. Because tomorrow's Mother's Day. Now please stop talking, I have an apple pie in the oven and I need to concentrate on the card I'm crafting for her. Everything needs to be perfect.", she looked a bit stressed and in a hurry without meeting his eyes.

"Can I help you with something?"

"Yeah, go and buy some flowers for my mother."

"Aren't the card and the pie enough? I think your mother will be just pleased to see you again and..."

"Nik, the flowers!!! Now!!! And then change into some nice clothes when you're back. Hurry!!!", she yelled and he did as she wished him to. After all, his girlfriend's mother was coming today and Alex knew her better than him, so he trusted her with the choices and the decisions. Better try to impress the guest while listening to her orders because wanted the best for themselves and Jacqueline.

After a little while, Nik finally returned back with a bouquet of fresh roses and showed them to Alex. The girl was suddenly preparing a chocolate cake.

"Uhh, what happened to the apple pie?"

"Got burned. We're having a chocolate cake for dessert instead. But Nik, why did you buy red roses?"

"Because they're your favorite flowers, so I assumed your mom would love..."

"But she loves a cactus."

"A cactus? The one that stings when you touch it? But that's not even a flower? How should I know?!!!"

"Fiiiiine, chocolate cake and roses instead. They're okay too.", his girlfriend agreed while cleaning their living room now.

"Damn, rook... You're filled with energy today. Maybe your mom should come more often cuz that way you'll clean my apartment more often.", he chuckled as she was busy with dusting and cleaning everything. After all, her mother was a perfectionist and everything had to be perfect. A few seconds later, Alex's phone buzzed with a text message. It was nobody else, but her mother who now decided to visit them tomorrow instead of today because she met an old friend of hers who convinced her to stay with her today. The sudden news immediately calmed the hard-working child down and plopped onto the white couch.

"What happened, rook?"

"Mom's not coming today. It seems like an old friend of her's convinced her to stay for tonight. But my mom's coming tomorrow which means it will give me even more time to organize something special for her."

"And the chocolate cake you baked? I won't eat that thing. I don't eat chocolate. Hey, why do we even have chocolate in our fridge?"

"Because I eat chocolate!! Dark chocolate. And relax, the cake's for tomorrow then."

"Alex, you're the one who should relax. Have you seen yourself the way you were running across our apartment as if the world's about to collapse? It's just Mother's Day tomorrow and I'm pretty sure Jacqueline will love whatever you prepare for her. She's your mom and pretty lucky to have you. Look at the things you're even preparing for her. Guess, the only mother who won't receive anything will be Lady Smoke.", Nik smirked.

"No, I don't think so. We all, including Vera, might have a problem with her. We don't like or support her, but... She's still Vera's mother. And mother is still a mother no matter what. A mother only wants the best for a child. Tonya raised Vera.", she tried to explain which surprised Nik.

A mother's a mother and always the first best friend someone could have. It's true and somehow made Nik think about his own mother. She was lovely, caring, always smiling and a total nature buff. He could still feel her warmth and embrace even though it was more than 17 years ago. A mother always wanted the best for their children and family. If only Nik's mom was alive, that would be perfect. He missed her and now missed her even more today. On Mother's Day. If their parents were somehow still alive, would he be also preparing gifts and surprises for them? The best breakfast in bed for Nik's mom was made by Nik and his dad. Picnic in their favorite place in the bayou. Buying gifts and the most beautiful flower bouquet. Thoughts of how life would have been if Nik's parents were alive made the young man a bit emotional and sad. If only they were with him.

"Everything okay, Nik?", Alex noticed Nik's absence and squeezed his shoulder a little.

"Uh, yeah. Just missin' my parents. Again."

"I'm so sorry, Nik.", she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulled him a little closer and met his silvery eyes.

"That's okay, rook. I got used to it.", he tried to smile a little to comfort her even though he was still very sad from the inside.

"Nik, I understand you. I lost my birthfather, Elric and my adoptive father too but it's nothing compared to your pain. You were so young and..."

Suddenly, Alex's phone buzzed with a text message. It was from her mother, Jacqueline. She opened the message and started to read. After a while, she got more relaxed and informed Nik about its content.

"Nik, we can relax. My mom will visit us tomorrow because it seemed like an old friend and not today, which means more time for preparing everything."

"Thank god, I didn't feel ready to meet her today. By the way, is Jacqueline the only one who's gonna get a gift?"

"What do you mean, Nik?"

"Don't you consider Lady Thalissa like a mother or what? I mean, Elijah may have adopted me but for me, he was like my dad."

"Oh, you're right!!! How could ever forget lovely Thalissa who's like a mother to me??!!! She considered me as her own child even though I was afraid in the beginning that she might turn into an evil stepmother. But I'm glad she's not and accepted me. I need a gift for her too. But what could I ever gift a duchess who probably has everything she needs?"

"Time.", Nik answered.

Even though he grew up all by himself, his words were wise ones. Because those were the things he wished for too. More time with his parents and loved ones before they left him alone in this world.

In the evening the nighthunter, Nik Ryder decided to visit Garrus at his bar downstairs. The Graveyard Shift.

After preparing his order, Garrus walked towards Nik and placed it on the table in front of him. A snake-tequila. A drink with an extremely sour taste which made Nik's eyes water a little when he drank it. It looked as if a dead snake was swimming inside it. And the hunter needed that drink with that nasty taste, to calm down his nerves.

"How are you, Nik darling?", the fae bartender greeted his friend.

"As always, Garrus. And you?"

"Well, I...", the fae suddenly stopped as his blue eyes landed on the woman who just entered his bar with a suitcase. Nik followed his gaze and got shocked just like Garrus. It's her!! Alex's mom is here??! Nik remembered her from the last meeting when he and Alex visited her in Wyoming during winter. The mother wore a light blouse and a short, black skirt with matching high heels. Earrings were hidden behind her black, shoulder-length hair. Her fair skin was covered with make-up. For her age, the woman has definitely held herself good.

Jacqueline was immediately surprised, when she suddenly recognized her daughter's boyfriend sitting in a bar with a strange-looking beverage in his hand. Not the best impression. He did once better when he and Alex came prepared to Wyoming.

"Jacqueline?!"

Garrus and Nik were startled by her sudden appearance, and then both were shocked at each other.

"You know her, Nik?"

"Of course, I should be askin' you? How do you...?"

"You're my daughter's boyfriend, Nik. Right? Excuse me, is that a dead snake in your drink?!!", the woman snorted who seemed very disgusted about Nik's choice of drink. She analyzed his strange clothing style, and weapons and immediately got alert.

"Where is my daughter?!!", she commanded to know and glared at him, like a protective parent would do in these circumstances.

"She's at home. But Jacqueline... I mean, Misses Fontaine... Weren't you supposed to arrive tomorrow? Tomorrow on Mother's Day."

"I came immediately after Alex texted me the address you both are living in and I... I can't believe it. You're living here?", she felt disappointed and hurt as if remembering something from the past. The over 200-year-old fae knew exactly everything. Her whole story, especially now...

"Wait, Jacqueline Fontaine is Alex's mother??!!! You had an affair with my duke?!!!"

"It was no affair, Garrus. Thalissa was aware of me and my dear Elric would never cheat on me or her. Mind your words!!", she felt insulted.

An emerald-green-colored snake smoothly revealed from under Jacqueline's sleeve to greet the two boys with an aggressive hiss.

"Shhhh... No, no, my Slitter. Don't be afraid, Mama is here with you and won't let anyone turn you into a nasty drink.", she sweet-talked to her pet snake called Slitter while glaring at Nik. He was hoping to impress his girlfriend's mother again and get back to her good side again. He had to do something.

"Actually, I don't serve the Snake Tequila to my customers. That's just Nik's special order."

"Wait Garrus, I... I... You know Jacqueline... I mean... Misses Fontaine??!! How?", Nik asked his fae friend.

"It's a long story, darling. I'm sorry but you and Alex...", the fae didn't dare to continue and hoped that Jacqueline would explain everything herself.

"Mom!!! You're here!!!", Alex excitedly squeaked and ran towards her mother for a hug as she entered the bar. Both mother and daughter reunited and gently wrapped each other for a long time while Slitter, the snake glided back under Jacqueline's sleeve.

"Alexis, baby... How are you?", she lovingly kissed her cheeks before they parted.

"I'm good. And you? I hope your journey was comfortable. Weren't you supposed to visit us tomorrow?", she asked her mother while taking her suitcase which Nik hadn't thought about doing it since he was since he was still trying to progress everything.

"I was. But after finding out where exactly you live, I just decided to take you with me. We're both heading back home to Wyoming"

"What??!! But why?", Nik and Alex panicked at the same time.

"Because you're my daughter. I missed you, Alex dearie."

"But Mom, I can't leave my friends. And what about Nik?", she asked her mother who had no words. Jacqueline turned her attention towards Garrus and Nik. That's when her eyes discover the crossbow which caught her attention. She took a few steps towards it and decided to hold Nik's weapon. The black crossbow. Her manicured fingers stroked the initials engraved on it. The letters E.R.

"Nik, you said you're a nighthunter. May I ask where you got this crossbow from?", she suddenly asked which surprised the young nighthunter.

"It's my dad's."

"And who is your father?", she dared to ask and clenched her grip with her eyes fixed on the weapon as if she was relieving an old memory.

"But why? What does it...?"

"Who's your father, Nik?!!!", she almost yelled.

"Elijah. Elijah Ryder."

"So that means your full name is... Nik Ryder. You're... You're Elijah's child??! And who's the mother?", Jacqueline set the crossbow back on the table and disappointedly took a few steps backward.

"Jacqueline, calm down. Elijah is not Nik's real birthfather, he just adopted him because a mysterious creature killed his birthparents when he was a little child. Elijah saved him and took him under his wing.", the fae explained.

"Mom, what is going on? How do you know about Nik's adoptive father?", Alex asked and Nik was also curious to know the answer.

It took her a few seconds to collect herself before she answered in an angry tone.

"Alex, that man, Elijah is a jerk and..."

"Woah, there cut your tongue before you dare to say anything wrong. That's my dad you're talkin' about, ma'am!!! ", Nik freaked out and couldn't just let anyone insult his father. The man who raised him.

Jacqueline felt insulted by his sudden behavior while Garrus tried to calm him down. That's no good impression in front of the girlfriend's mother he made which made Alex worry now. She only wanted her mother and boyfriend to get along with each other. Their last meeting was a success and they really got along with each other. Nik surely knew how to impress her, but now...

"The son is just like the father, I guess. And I can't see my daughter dating such a man. What if one day he chooses his father and the hunt over my child?"

Well, if only Jacqueline knew Nik once broke up with her because of the life lessons of his adoptive father, Elijah.

"Mom, Nik loves me and I love him. You liked him too and approved our relationship. Please, I apologize regarding Nik. He had a hard life. Please forget all this and let's spend some family time together.", Alex begged her mother which made Nik's heart melt. He felt bad for her.

"My Alexis, it's not your fault. Just be careful, not all men can't be trusted. Except for Elric. Let's say a Ryder can't be trusted.", she explained on her way to the bar's guest washroom.

While she was gone, the three were left alone. Quiet and shocked about what just happened.

"Garrus, explain. You know about this, right? What's going on?", Alex crossed her arms and expected an answer from her fae friend. It took him a few seconds before he replied. Alex and Nik, both waiting for an explanation.

"Folks, it's a long story before you two were even born. I'm sorry, but..."

Garrus tried to calm down before explaining but was too scared about his friend's reactions. But they deserve to know. Everything. Taking a deep breath, he continued.

"Nik, Alex, I'm sorry. I didn't know. I didn't know that this woman was your mother, my fae friend. I didn't even notice by your surname or by your similar features... Sorry, but I know her. Elijah knew her too because..."

"Garrus, just spill the beans!!", Nik got impatient.

"Elijah knew Jacqueline because they were both partners..."

"Impossible!!", Nik angrily slammed his fist on the wooden table hard.

"Wait, they're weren't thaaat kind of partners. Calm down!! They were just a nighthunter duo."

"What??!!! My mom as a nighthunter??! Are you sure?"

"No, it can't be!! Dad would never!!! He was hunting alone and taught me to do the same. To stay alone.", Nik explained in a harsh tone.

"Yes, Nik he works and hunts alone. But before that, he had a hunting partner until..."

"Until I realized that Elijah didn't care about me. Always focused on the hunts, the missions and to save lifes. A man who thought with a brain and no heart. Old-fashioned and single-minded.", Jacqueline set foot out of the washroom after she finished and marched with clicking high-heels back to the three of them.

"Mom, you sound like you wanted his attention. Were you both... more than just work partner?", Alex dared to ask without wanting to know the answer. Even Nik was afraid of the answer and how it might affect his relationship with Alex.

"More than just partners??! Never!!!", she answered dramatically while petting her pet snake which was now sliding from her arm to her thigh. She loved Slitter like a child of her own. Her answer wasn't finished. Taking a deep breath, she continued as her expression softened.

"Alex, Nik, Garrus, I must confess. Elijah and I may have been work partners, but I do have a small crush on him in the beginning."

"Ewww, mom!!! Noooo!!!", Alex reacted which made her mother laugh a little.

"Don't worry, it was just a tiny crush. Nothing happened between us and didn't last long. Elric is the one and not Elijah. Elric is loving, caring, gentle and respects women. Look, Elijah is a good man too, but thinks I'm weak, helpless. He belittled me just because I'm a woman and not a man. Just because of his old-fashioned thoughts and annoying behavior. A woman can do the same things a man can do. Look at me, I'm a successful accountant and businesswoman because I believed in myself. While he didn't. I don't want to see that man ever again and neither this place which holds some memories of my past life."

"Oh, you won't see him anymore. He's dead.", Garrus sadly spoke.

"What??!"

"Elijah is dead, Jacqueline."

"That's impossible. Elijah can't be..."

"Garrus is saying the damn truth. My dad is dead. I lost him forever.", Nik sobbed. The young nighthunter let a single tear run down his cheek without noticing as he was thinking about him, reliving some old memories in his mind. He definitely didn't want them to know that right now there was like a whole tornado of emotions inside him. Not to look weak and reveal them in front of his girlfriend's mother.

After hearing the news, Jacqueline felt devastated and sad. She may not like that old man anymore, but hearing about the death of the most experienced and best nighthunter in New Orleans shook her.

"No, it can't be. The powerful Elric and skilled Elijah? How? Was it also the bloodwraith behind Elijah's death like it was behind my Elric's."

"No, mom. I told you about the bloodwraith before, that it was after the most powerful supernatural beings. But Elijah's a different story which happened 17 years ago.", Alex explained while stepping closer to Nik to comfort him. She took his hand in hers and gently squeezed for comfort while trying to make eye contact with him as their gaze was fixed on the wooden floor.

Jacqueline regretted and felt sorry for Nik. Seeing an innocent child growing up alone in such a dangerous world was unexpected for her, but was also really impressive. She realized that perhaps Elijah wasn't a bad man after all. If only the dead man could hear her thoughts of saying sorry to him. The woman stepped closer and placed her hand on Nik's shoulder to get his attention. Her pet snake returned back under her sleeve after it finished crawling on her leg.

"Poor Nik, I didn't know. I really didn't know but I can understand your pain and what you went through. That's just horrible and I have no more words left... You don't deserve this, especially not at such a young age. Elijah and I may had a problem, but... but now I feel... Elijah didn't deserve this. You don't deserve it either, Nik. I'm sorry. I'm sorry for my behavior and everything. It's just... The life of a nighthunter is filled with danger and I'm worried for my daughter's future with you.", she apologized.

After a few minutes, Nik finally spoke after calming himself down. He turned around to face them.

"We're not here to remember old memories, okay. Today's Mother's Day, so you and your daughter, Alex should spend some time together. You two enjoy upstairs, I'll join you later. Maybe. Now if you'll excuse me.", Nik suggested and then left. When Alex and Garrus shouted where he was headed, he was already gone. He left the building in which the Graveyard Shift and his apartment were and went outside. Garrus decided to go after him, leaving Alex and Jacqueline alone in his bar. Both mother and daughter were the only ones now.

"Nik..."

"Alexis, give him some space."

"But Mom, today's Mother's Day and we're all supposed to be together and have fun."

"I'm not Nik's mother, but yours. And please don't ever consider me one day as Nik's future mother-in-law. It's our Mother's Day, darling. I'm here to see you and spend some time with you again."

"Oh, I'm pretty sure you were excited to see my boyfriend like every curious parent is. I think. But after finding out more about Nik... I can't believe how..."

"Dear, I just want the best for you. Dating a man who's involved in dangerous work which includes bloodshed, risks, injuries and... Oh, you can't imagine. Oh, you can't imagine what I've been through. My nighthunter life was short, but Nik's been involved since childhood. I don't want anything to happen to you, Alex. He must have so many enemies and rivals. Besides, he was Elijah's child. I don't hate poor Nik, but he's been through a lot. I feel sorry for him and he seems nice, but... I have a bad feeling about your relationship with him."

"But mom..."

"He even lives in the apartment where I once lived about 30 years ago. I immediately came after recognizing the address. There are just too many old and unpleasant memories for me. Please, come back to me. New Orleans is dangerous.", Jacqueline begged her daughter and held her by her shoulders.

"Mom, I know what I've signed up for and don't worry. Nik won't let anything happen to me. Not even a single thing and I know it. He'll even die for me. He loves me and I love him. We're like bounded. As if Fate brought us together. And now I'm here with Nik in New Orleans."

"Very well, dear. I respect your decision, but I have warned you. Just stay safe."

"Don't worry, I will. Nik takes good care of me.", the daughter confirmed, took her mother's suitcase and went with her upstairs to the apartment.

When they finally entered the apartment, Alex placed the suitcase in the living room while her mother went into the bathroom to freshen up after a long flight. When she finished, she returned to face her daughter.

"A little chaotic in here, but that's manageable. I'm sure that you'll take care of everything well, darling."

"Are you hungry, mom?"

"No. On my way, I met an old friend of mine and we had a grand dinner together with her daughter, so I'm not hungry. Thank you. By the way, where's the room where I'll be staying?", Jacqueline asked.

"Uhhh... Well, as you know it's a small apartment with only one bedroom, a living room and Nik's office. Not big like you're used to now."

"Ah, right. Such a small life I had before. I hope you're not sharing one bed with your boyfriend already, dear. You both aren't married. And you know my story about my sudden pregnancy with your father, Lord Elric.", she raised an eyebrow which made Alex a little nervous.

"Uhhh, Nik suggested that you sleep with me in the bedroom and he'll take the couch. So, Mom, I'm sorry for the upcoming question, but I was wondering... Do you regret or ever regret that I was born? Your one-night stand with my father, Elric?", she hesitated without meeting her mother's brown eyes. After a little silence, Jacqueline spoke.

"To be honest, when I found out that I was having you, I got worried and almost panicked. Having a child from a person you just met was unexpected. I felt terrible and not ready, but thanks to your adoptive father, my work colleague, I made it through. He helped me, supported me, raised you and loved us both. A true man. He was in love with me and I just never noticed until you got born, Alex. You're a ray of sunshine and my everything. The only one I have left now in my life.", the mother confessed while remembering the death of the adoptive father too.

Three important men in her life were now dead. Elijah, her hunting partner. Elric, her first true love. And Alex's adoptive father, her lover.

"Mom... And here I always thought you didn't love me. That I was a burden to you and... I always tried to make you proud and still think it's not enough. Thanks for telling me. I love you too. Happy Mother's Day.", Alex felt loved and hugged her mother who hugged her back.

"Thank you, dear.", she gently kissed her forehead before they parted from each other.

"Mom, I made something for you. Tomorrow's actually Mother's Day, but I think every day should be Mother's Day because a mother is the first best friend of a child and I love you. I'm so happy to finally feel loved by you.", she confessed and showed Jacqueline the pink Mother's Day card she created for her. It was a handmade craft created by her which even included some sweet childhood pictures of her with her mother.

"Oh my, that's so beautiful. I love it, dear. Thank you.", she admired the gift as she held the card in her hands and was truly delighted by her daughter's creation. She felt even more impressed when Alex mentioned that Nik bought some flowers for her. Not her favorite cactus, but the roses were indeed beautiful.

A few hours later, Nik Ryder quietly entered the apartment without wanting to wake up Alex and her mother sleeping in the bedroom. But to his surprise, he found his girlfriend sitting lonely in the living room. Her eyes met his as he entered.

"Rook, why are you here? I told you that I'll take the couch and..."

"Nik, where did you go? I was worried about you.", she sadly confessed and hugged him.

"Just went to visit Elijah's grave. I can't believe he never told me that he had a hunting partner once and here he taught me to hunt alone and stay alone."

"Nik, don't blame your father. He just had a reason to do this and we don't know. Please, don't be sad. We already have each other and I'm glad that we became a couple."

"But your mom..."

"Hey, don't worry. She'll love you too, Nik. We'll be able to convince her, I know it. Besides, you know how to charm people.", she answered with a warm smile before planting a loving kiss on his cheek.

"Well, about charming people... On my way back, I bought a cactus for your mom. Her favorite. Luckily Luc could arrange one for me at night.", he smirked and pointed at the little gift bag he just brought which Alex hadn't noticed before.

"Nik, that's great!! Thanks. And tomorrow we'll visit Thalissa too. Because she's just like a mother to me and to her I'm like her own child. Best stepmother ever!!"