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jasmariswonderland · 8 months ago

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Harmony In The Dark ~ VilxOC

Synopsis: It's Vil's birthday and Pomefiore's resident songbird has prepared a very special gift for him. Something that speaks to all that she holds in her heart for him and has the potential to change the nature of their relationship forever.

A/N: This is intended to be the FINAL chapter of my VilDani anthology even though I'm still writing it. Hence there will be a VERY minor spoiler for how the plot will unfold. I intended to have this ready for Vil's birthday but here it is for Dani's instead. 💙

Anyone familiar with my twst-oc verse is probably already aware of this but Curse of the Winter Rose is supposed to be an in-universe version of Beauty and the Beast. And the song I imagine Danica singing is How Does a Moment Last Forever from the live action film.

Pairings: 👑/🦢

Word Count: 6250

Warnings: Lots of fluff that may or may not be cringe. I literally thought up this idea less than 2 days ago and it wouldn't leave my head until I wrote it. 😅

~~~

A small silk drawstring bag sat in his bed, its delicate gold hand embroidery shimmering in the morning light. Vil had just returned from his morning jog, the hour was still quite early but he was never one to forgo daily routine, even on a special day like this. As he entered the lounge he found the intricate little bag lying on his sacred jeweled throne, with the card attached addressed to him. With just a glance at the handwriting, he could already tell who it was from without having to read it.

A gentle warmth stirred in his chest but he opted to wait until he was back in his room to open it. It was a birthday gift no doubt, and such a peculiar way to give it, he thought. But then again, it was just that peculiarity that made Danica so charming to him. And it was a comforting thought to know that after a week of not seeing each other, he was still very much in her thoughts.

But what was more peculiar still was what he found inside when he emptied the bag’s contents into his hand. He inserted a small blue flash drive into his computer with equal parts curiosity and anticipation. There was only a single file on it, titled: “For Vil - 4/9”

“Happy Birthday, Vil-san,�� a video recording of Danica’s smiling face appeared when he clicked on the file. Eliciting a fluttering in his heart that he found somewhat embarrassing. But he didn’t mind. “I must admit, I was a little conflicted about what gift would be best for you. I’m certain, being a celebrity and all, you have everything you could want or could acquire it with ease.”

Silly little potato, nothing could be further from the truth.

This amused him, though he shook his head. There were quite many things that Vil wanted but did not have. Unfortunately, most of them couldn’t be given. He harbored many desires that lay beyond his grasp, the greatest of which he was staring right at. So engrossed was he in his pensive thoughts that he almost missed what she said next.

“Still, I wanted to do something special for you that I thought you might enjoy.”

She stood up, showing off the gorgeous details of the gown she was wearing. It was a soft sky blue with an elegant golden brocade. Her hair decorated with red roses. A very exquisite look, Vil thought, though strangely familiar. Behind her, Farron sat poised at a piano, giving a subtle little wave to the camera.

“I remember talking about old films a while back, and you told me how much you loved Curse of the Winter Rose.” Danica’s smile widened. “Well, with Farron’s help, I practiced very hard on this. I hope you’ll enjoy my version of the film’s love theme.”

Farron’s fingers danced along the keys on cue, playing the first notes. Danica closed her eyes, drawing a deep breath in as she began to sing. The mixture of the nostalgic notes and Danica’s heavenly voice immediately struck a chord in Vil’s soul. It was true, Curse of the Winter Rose was a film that held a special place in his heart. A romantic fairy tale steeped in the legends of Shaftlands depicting the transformative power of love. Vil found himself drawn to the story not only because his father played the lead role but also for its enchanting narrative and underlying message of acceptance and redemption.

It told the tale of a beastly prince who was turned human after learning to love and be loved in return. Vil couldn’t help but see parallels between himself and the prince, both longing to be recognized for their true selves beyond outward appearance. Usually, Vil prided himself on his pragmatism, dismissing the allure of fairy tales as fanciful delusions. His core belief was that success came only through hard work and not wishful thinking. Yet paradoxically, it was that very pragmatic outlook that drew him to the film. While the story was set against a backdrop of magic and romance, the prince’s journey was not one of passive enchantment but of active self-improvement. It was a narrative that resonated with Vil’s belief in the power of self-determination.

And in the prince’s happy ending, Vil found validation of his convictions, that true fulfillment could only be found through perseverance and effort. In a sense, it was a fairy tale Vil could easily relate to and a connection that deepened his appreciation for Danica’s thoughtful gesture. Still, their discussion about the film had been some months ago, back in November, but it was now April. That Danica remembered this little detail about him spoke volumes of her consideration for his interests. In her heartfelt performance, Vil could feel the depth of her affection. An affection he understood now, more than ever, he had taken for granted.

A week had slipped by since Vil resolved to confront his feelings for her, yet he found himself just as apprehensive as when he first began. The truth in his heart was undeniable, but so was his fear of shattering the fragile balance of harmony between them. He cursed his hesitance yet his fear of the potential consequences of bearing his soul to her was very real. Self-reproach gnawed at him as he reflected on the passing days, every missed opportunity, and the conflicting counsel of those closest to him did little to help his uncertainty.

While Yuulan urged Vil to have the courage to seize this chance of happiness, Rook cautioned against risking further pain to Danica by opening old wounds. Both perspectives held equal merit to his mind. Leaving him torn between his desire for her love, his concern for causing her harm, and his fear of her rejection. But as he gazed upon her gift to him, a sudden surge of clarity washed over him. The video ended with Danica smiling at the camera and again wishing him a happy birthday. Such a simple gesture, yet months ago, she would have panicked at the idea of singing solo for anyone, let alone him. It was a testament to her growth, a gift more precious than any material offering, and a depth of feeling that, truthfully, Vil always knew was there.

Today was the day. The moment was now, while the hour was still early. If Vil found Danica’s gift for him in the lounge, it stood to reason that she was awake and still in the dorm since classes wouldn’t start for another ninety minutes. The atmosphere was sure to soon become livelier with birthday celebrations for him. So, while the dorm still lay quiet and undisturbed, he would find her and finally bear his heart to her. Regardless of his fears, he owed Danica the truth, and the chance to decide for herself whether she could reciprocate his feelings. So be it.

~~~

The gentle knock at the door echoed throughout the quiet hallway, met only by silence. After a few minutes, Vil tried again, once more going unanswered. He thought he heard some movement in Danica’s room, but it could very well have been wishful thinking on his part. It seemed that way when no one came to the door. Another knock, this one firmer than before, again received no answer.

“Danica, Little Potato, are you there?”

Still nothing. It was possible that she could have gone to campus early, maybe even stopped by Scarabia to visit Taima or Kalim. Even so, anxiety began to bubble again under Vil’s calm exterior. If this was going to happen, it had to happen soon before he himself had to prepare for the eventful day ahead. He looked down at his phone, scrolling past the array of birthday wishes and magicam comments already flooding his inbox, and went to Danica’s number. Heart pounding as he began to write out a message to her.

“Bonjour, Roi du Poison! Bon anniversaire!”

Vil subtly clutched his phone with irritation at the familiar, jovial sound of Rook’s voice. He bit on his tongue, quickly fixing his face back to his regular stoic expression, stuffing his phone back into his pocket for good measure.

“Good morning, Rook.” Despite his more tumultuous feelings, Vil managed to give a warm smile. It’s quite early to see you up and awake at this hour.”

“Ah, I could say the same about you, Vil,” Rook returned Vil’s smile with a knowing glint in his eyes. “What brings you to the freshman wing of the dorm so early?”

Vil’s lie was swift and effortless. “I was looking for Epel, I wanted to ask him something.”

“Oh?” Rook arched an eyebrow, his keen gaze assessing Vil with playful scrutiny. “Well, if that’s the case, I’m sure you’re aware that Epel’s room is further down the hall.” Slyly narrowing his eyes, he continued, “The room we are currently standing by belongs to…”

“Ah, yes! You’re right!” Caught off guard, Vil’s façade wavered for a moment before he quickly regained his composure. Silently, he cursed himself for the slip-up. “I must have gotten turned around.”

“No worries, I’m glad I was able to find you, dear beautiful Vil!” Rook laughed off Vil’s embarrassment, clasping his hands together with joy. “I’ve been looking forward to celebrating your birthday all month. Your birthday fete is sure to be a dazzling occasion befitting your radiant grace!”

“Oh, Rook, ever the enthusiastic one,” Vil laughed softly.

“Oui, today is a day of grand celebration for our dorm! And how my heart swells with anticipation at seeing you take to the skies for your birthday flight! Your gorgeous figure cut against the elegant night sky will undoubtedly be a feast for the eyes!”

Vil listened to Rook’s musings, though couldn’t shake away the growing sense of unease gnawing at him. Where was Danica? Could she really have left for class already? Rook, sensing apprehension in his dorm leader, steered the conversation in a new direction.

“Speaking of celebrations, would you like to see the gift I’ve prepared for you? I do believe you will appreciate it.” Rook’s tone was warm and ever-inviting. Vil looked at him curiously, but when he didn’t respond with words, he added, “If you’re looking for Epel, you’ll have to wait until later, I’m afraid. I saw both him and Danica leave for classes some time ago.”

His words had the desired effect and Vil nodded in agreement, albeit reluctantly. Though Vil sensed something amiss in Rook’s words, perhaps he was right. After all, Epel and Danica were in the same homeroom class, and it was always easier to acquiesce to Rook’s persistent nature than try to put him off further. And Vil had to admit a genuine interest in seeing what Rook had in store for him. He couldn’t deny that Rook never spared any effort in anything he did. That might be a welcome distraction to his current anxiety. Yet even as he and Rook walked way from the door further down the hall, Vil silently vowed to finally find the time to speak to Danica before the day was complete.

~~~

Scarabia Dorm - Taima's Room

A few hours later...

Iman knocked on Taima’s door but was greeted with what she thought was the sound of crying. She didn’t wait for a formal response and turned the knob and walked in. The scene she was confronted with was a somber one. Danica lay on Taima’s bed, trembling with her face pressed against a pillow as the latter tried to comfort her. Yuulan sat with Grim in her lap at the foot of the bed, tapping Danica’s leg to indicate they had company.

“Dani, what’s going on?” Iman gazed at Danica with an uncharacteristic sense of sympathy washing over her. “Why are you crying?”

Danica’s response was drowned out by her sobs. Taima and Yuulan exchanged a knowing look before the latter decided to fill in the gaps, “It’s about her present for Vil, the one Farron and I helped her record. She…”

At the mention of Vil’s name, Danica’s sobs intensified, and she gripped the pillow, prompting Taima to stroke her back gently. Iman looked at them curiously.

“What about her gift? Did he dislike it? Did he…”

“We don’t know,” said Taima. “Dani left it for Vil early this morning, but intrusive thoughts kicked in during the day and she got cold feet. She’s embarrassed now and is worried about how he’ll respond. So she’s been here ever since class ended and won’t go back to her dorm.”

“Despite the fact a big party is happening for Vil right now!” Grim grumbled, his tone laced with annoyance. “A big party with lots of food I could be scarfing down on!”

“Oh hush, you gluttonous cat!” Yuulan snapped, tugging at the scruff of Grim’s neck.

“I’m not a cat!” Grim batted her hand away with one of his paws.

“Guys, focus!” Taima snapped as well. “That isn’t important right now. We need to…”

“I don’t know what came over me!” Danica finally spoke up, turning around on the bed but still with her hands covering her face. “It was so personal, and the lyrics are…a thousand times deeper than what I wrote for him in middle school!”

“But you sang it so beautifully. The dress Farron gave you for the video was very nice too,” Yuulan smiled. “And after everything you two have dealt with, it makes sense that…”

“No! No! No! It was a mistake! Just after everything that happened, I…I…I was feeling so bold!”

“BOLD?!” While Iman might have felt genuine sympathy for her, Danica’s statement furrowed her brows with disbelief. “After everything that’s happened, after you’ve all but confessed that you love him more than a few times to us! What’s so scary about finally sealing the deal?!”

“But I…I…”

“No buts! Just tell him the truth! You’re just hurting yourself for nothing! You don’t even know how he’ll respond he might actually…”

“That’s enough, Iman!”

Iman’s blunt words only heightened Danica’s distress, and Taima interceded before things could get worse. She gently stroked her friend’s head before shooting Iman an irritated look.

“If you think being open about romantic feelings is easy, then why don’t you just tell Jamil how you feel about him, hmm?” Iman bristled at the suggestion but bit her tongue rather than saying something potentially even harsher. Taima smirked. “Yeah, that’s what I thought!”

A hot red flush came to Iman’s cheeks, but her sympathy returned when she looked again at Danica’s tear-streaked face. She sighed; encouragement was still difficult for her, and she hesitated, not knowing what to say.

“Danica, look,” she began, softer than before. “Vil isn’t the easiest person to please. But he’s also the kind of guy who would appreciate any gesture that speaks to his interests. And he already thinks well of you, so I’m sure he will be very touched.”

“She’s right, Dani,�� Yuulan nodded in agreement. “I’ve lived at Pomefiore for the last month while my dorm is being repaired. And in that month, I’ve had a front seat to your dynamic with Vil—even more than when we were preparing for the VDC. It’s clear to anyone who sees you two that you love each other. You two are the only ones who still seem to be in the dark.”

Danica listened to their words, her mind whirling with conflicting emotions. Despite their past disagreements, she couldn't deny Vil's support and guidance, which had helped her find newfound confidence. Yet, the thought of confronting her feelings head-on filled her with uncertainty. Taima pulled Danica into a comforting embrace, her voice gentle yet firm.

“You’re braver than this, Danica,” she whispered. And you’re no longer invisible to him—you never were. So it’s time to stop acting like it.”

“Kalim and I were just on our way to Pomefiore for the party,” said Iman. “That’s why I came here. How about you guys come with us? I feel it might be easier for Dani if she had two of her fellow swans to support her.”

“I like that idea!” Grim suddenly jumped up. “Let’s go to the party so I can finally stuff my face with cake and other tasty things!”

“Damnit Grim…” Yuulan didn’t even bother to reproach the creature and only rolled her eyes.

“I…I want to go,” Danica admitted, her voice wavering. “I’m…just unsure. I’m still not sure if I’m ready.”

“Then how about this: Yuulan and Grim will go ahead to the party with Iman and Kalim.”

At this, Taima looked up at Iman and Yuulan, giving them a look they both understood well. They nodded silently, understanding what they were expected to do. And when they closed the door behind them, Taima gave her friend’s hand another reassuring squeeze.

“It’s okay if you aren’t ready yet, I’ll stay with you until you are.”

~~~

It was a lively affair, though still elegant and refined, well suited for Vil’s taste. He sat at the center of his birthday celebration, basking in the attention of well-wishers and admirers. Everyone offering gifts, expressions of congratulations, and countless compliments of how gorgeous he looked in his formal mage’s robes. Vil accepted all of this with trademark grace, and his smile was one of genuine gratitude. He was usually one to prefer more quiet gatherings but he couldn’t deny that his dormmates had went well out of their way for him. With Rook in particular being especially ardent in his celebrations.

He was happy and grateful; still every now and then, he glanced around the room at the many faces. Loath he was to admit it, a sense of disappointment was brewing in his chest as he found that one face in particular was missing from the festivities.

Surely Danica hadn’t forgotten his birthday. It was impossible after creating such a heartfelt presentation for him in his honor. And classes had now been over for a few hours. So where was she? Why wasn’t she present? Despite his attempts to dismiss his concern, Vil couldn’t shake the lingering worry that tugged at the corners of his mind. He masked his disappointment by feigning nonchalance as he engaged with his guests. But deep down, her absence left a void in the celebration that dulled the sparkle of the occasion. Soon the party would conclude with his traditional birthday flight and with each passing moment, his unease only increased.

“You seem troubled, Vil-san,” Farron approached his dorm leader with a glass of punch that he had requested. “Is everything alright?”

Vil took the glass with a feigned smile. “Of course, Farron. Things couldn’t be better.”

But Farron wasn’t convinced and could easily guess what was bothering him, and truthfully, it worried him as well. He saw Vil’s glance wander around the room before landing on the door. Both silently hoped that Danica would walk in at any moment, but still, nothing. Vil took a sip of his punch and closed his eyes in thought.

“Vil-san…”

“Everything is fine. I’m just enjoying the festivities.”

Before Farron could say anything further, a knock interrupted their conversation. Vil’s heart fluttered with anticipation, surely the moment he had been waiting for had finally come. However, his hopes were dashed when he saw Yuulan, Grim, Iman, and Kalim instead. Still, he greeted them warmly.

“Hey there, birthday boy!” Kalim offered him a cheerful smile.

“Another year older and another year more radiant!” added Iman.

“I hope you’re having a wonderful day, Vil-san,” said Yuulan. Adding, “You look incredible. That outfit is so gorgeous.”

Vil quickly swallowed his disappointment and smiled at Yuulan.He gave a graceful little turn, striking a pose and prompting her to pull out her ghost camera.

“Thank you, Spudling. This mage’s robe is even more formal than our ceremonial robes. It’s only worn during the most auspicious occasions at NRC, and I’ll only wear it once more when I graduate next year.”

“Really? I didn’t know any of that! Well, I must say, it suits you very well!” she took Vil’s photo, grinning slyly. “And I’m sure Danica will think so too when she sees you!”

A glimmer of hope suddenly went off in Vil’s heart. Just what Yuulan had intended with her words.

“Oh? Does that mean she’s soon on her way?” Vil tried to maintain a nonchalant tone, but his eagerness was palpable. “I mean… I would hate for her to miss out on her chance to pay tribute to her dorm leader on his birthday.”

But before Yuulan could respond, Grim caught sight of the refreshment table and made a quick beeline for it. She cursed the creature under her breath and excused herself to go retrieve him. Vil’s annoyance surfaced briefly, but Iman assured him that Danica would arrive soon.

“She’s back at my dorm, Taima is helping her get ready,” she said. “Naturally, she wanted to be sure to look her best for you, so just be patient a little longer.”

Iman’s words once again reassured Vil and as he watched as she excused herself to talk with Farron, he decided that there was no use in worrying. It was time to fully immerse himself in the festivities everyone in his dorm worked so hard to arrange. After all, further stress would only mar his looks and there was no use in stressing something that wasn’t even in his control.

This is what he told himself and objectively, it made sense. Unfortunately, as Vil was slowly learning, what was objective in his mind and what he felt in his heart were not always in alignment. He looked over at the door one last time and in a moment of impulse, thought about searching for her himself. But he knew he couldn’t, his birthday interview would be starting soon and to abandon his own birthday party would be the height of rudeness.

At this point, all Vil could do was continue to wait and hope beyond hope that the one thing he wished for his birthday would finally be granted.

~~~

Danica and Taima stood outside the Hall of Mirrors, the latter offering her some final words of encouragement before they made their way to Pomefiore. She felt as though she’d soon be sick, but she ignored this. It was time to finally confront her feelings. To face the truth she had been avoiding for too long.

And that truth was that she loved Vil with all her heart. She created her gift not only because the song was from one of his favorite films but also because the lyrics spoke clearly to all that she felt. Her love was one of strength even when things appeared bleak. Resilience even when all hope appeared lost. And care in the most vulnerable of moments. It didn’t matter what anyone said; if the world wrongfully viewed him as a villain, Danica knew better. Behind his harsh exterior, Vil was a kind, gentle, caring, and captivating human being. Whatever his faults, whatever his fragilities, she wanted to love them all. And it was her deepest hope that in spite of all that had transpired between them, he would understand.

“Are you ready?” Taima asked.

Danica took a deep breath and nodded. “Yes, let’s go.”

As they entered the Pomefiore gateway, a sudden flash of light drew their attention, indicating someone was leaving the dorm. They were briefly blinded by the brightness but when it faded, they found Farron standing beside them.

“Farron!” Danica exclaimed, surprised by his sudden appearance. “What are you doing here?”

He explained that he had come at Iman’s request, concerned about Danica’s absence from Vil’s party, which was drawing to a close. The celebrations would conclude soon with Vil’s special birthday flight. Danica’s heart sank as she realized she had missed out. As well as guilt for keeping Vil waiting for most of the day. Farron sighed.

“It’s a pity you couldn’t be at the party, Cygnet. And it’s even more a pity you cannot see how much you and Vil are truly alike.”

“Hmm? What do you mean by that?”

In response, Farron brought up her and Vil’s first meeting on orientation night, so many months ago. Though Danica looked back on that night with profound embarrassment, Farron reminded her of Vil’s promise to her that night: that she while in Pomefiore, she would learn to carry herself with confidence.

“Vil is never one to waste his time on someone or something he sees no value in. But he is happy with how you have blossomed and has come to not only value your growth but cherish it. So why do you still waver, my dear? And besides,” with a playful wink, “How do you know Vil hasn’t been agonizing over his own feelings for you as well?”

“What?!” Danica jumped, blushing intensely. “You don’t think that…that maybe…”

“Come with me, and you can find out for yourself.”

Farron took her hand and led her down the hallway with Taima following close behind them. When Danica asked why they were not returning to Pomefiore, Farron smiled again. Telling her she would understand why soon enough.

~~~

As Farron led Danica and Taima outside, they were met with a breathtaking sight. The night air was crisp, with a waning moon casting its gentle glow on the sky. Stars twinkled like diamonds strewn across velvet, creating the perfect atmosphere for flying. There was a clear sense of excitement flowing through the air, and it helped erase the final bits of lingering anxiety in Danica’s heart.

They hurried down the main street of the campus, leading to a crowd gathered around around a striking figure that stood out among them. Illuminated by the moonlight, Vil glowed with the air of one well aware of their radiance, his face giving no indication of his anxiety within. In his arms, he held his special floral broom crafted especially for today, adorned with vibrant flowers of red, pink and purple. A vision of perfection. Danica’s heart skipped a beat as she laid eyes on him, her breath catching in her throat.

With a determined exhale, she pushed through the crowd with her friends following her, waving her arms to catch Vil’s attention. Her eyes not leaving him for even a moment. There were far more students gathered for this occasion than she thought but she continued pushing forward. He hadn’t caught sight of her yet but it was now or never.

You’re no longer invisible to him—you never were. So it’s time to stop acting like it.

Meanwhile, Vil forced his thoughts to focus on the flight ahead, giving a spectacular show for those watching him. He summoned a circle of magic to lift himself and his broom into the air, wind gracefully billowing the heavy fabric of his robes around him. Excitement from the other students increased and he heard many audible gasps and squeals as his broom began to levitate. And among the enthusiasm, a familiar, melodic voice cut through the crowd and briefly stopped his heart.

“Vil-san!”

He turned around and finally, after waiting for this moment the entire day, his and Danica’s eyes met. Her eyes filled with joy as they shared a secret smile of understanding. Despite her absence from his party, seeing her now filled him with a sense of anticipation. Now, he would capture her heart with his enchanting flight.

With a graceful flourish, Vil soared into the night sky, his broom trailing behind him like a cascade of blossoms. The crowd watched in awe, but none more so than Danica. It was as though the night sky, beautiful in its own right, had become just another stage for Vil to captivate those watching him. Commanding the sky with effortless grace. From his broom, glowing petals danced through the air, landing softly to the ground. Danica even caught one in the palm of her hand, but she never took her eyes off of Vil.

“Your eyes are sparkling, Cygnet.”

“Isn’t this amazing, Dani? Aren’t you glad you didn’t miss it?”

Farron noticed Danica’s enraptured expression and teased her while Taima asked if she was glad she hadn’t missed the spectacle. Danica nodded fervently, her cheeks flushed with emotion. At that moment, she realized that in her heart, Vil was the most beautiful person she had ever known.

~~~

As the last of the guests departed and the festivities wound down, Vil found himself finally alone with Danica in the lounge. Despite his initial worries, he had ended up enjoying his birthday celebration, and now, with Danica by his side, the evening felt complete.

She sat on one of the couches, looking up at him cheerfully and very much as she had in his beautiful silk-adorned dream. Sitting beside her, he felt a strange sense of relief washing over him. Somehow, Vil expected himself to feel far more nervous now that he was facing the supposed moment of truth. But instead, he felt calm, comforted even. Only Danica’s presence could do this to him. He could do this.

“Your flight was incredible, Vil-san,” she smiled. “I’m so glad I didn’t miss it. Whether walking on the earth or soaring through the sky, you are always so magnificent.”

Her words warmed his heart and further set him at ease. He sat his broom to the side, but not before plucking a few of the roses and arranging them into a small bouquet. Danica watched him do this but still felt surprised as he handed them to her with a gentle smile. She blushed, lowering her gaze as she thanked him.

“One should never avoid eye contact in a social setting,” he said, slipping his finger under her chin to return her gaze to his. “Do you recall? That was the first thing I ever said to you. So keep your eyes on me, I want to see how lovely they are.”

His tone was kind, too kind, and she bit her lip nervously as she maintained eye contact with her dorm leader. He nodded with approval.

“That’s better, now, do you know what pink and red roses represent in the language of flowers?” Vil asked. When Danica shook her head, he smiled wider. “They represent gentleness, admiration, and above all, love.”

“Ohhhh,” her blush deepened but she thanked him wholeheartedly again. “If that’s the case, then I will treasure these flowers all the more. Because they represent all that I feel for you, Vil-san.”

The words came out of her mouth so naturally that she could hardly believe she was able to say them. But Danica could be very astute when she wanted to be. Vil felt a sudden surge of emotion at her words, but what she said next caused his disappointment to resurface.

“I…hope you’ll forgive me for not being at your birthday party. I really wanted to be there, it’s just that…I…well…”

“Why weren’t you, Danica?” he asked. “I am not ashamed to admit that I was waiting for you, and more than a little disappointed when you never arrived.”

“Oh, Vil-san, I…I’m so sorry. Like I said, I wanted…”

“No, don’t apologize again,” his tone took on a slight sternness. “You’ve done that already. Just tell me why, Little Potato.”

“I…I…”

She hesitated, struggling to articulate her thoughts. With a deep breath, she gazed up at him, silently praying that he would finally understand.

“I was afraid, I…I didn’t know if you’d accept me expressing my feelings in such a…personal way. I didn’t think you would understand.”

“You’re correct on that matter; I didn’t understand.” Danica began to lower her head again before Vil continued, “I didn’t understand why you would be afraid.” He sighed. "I suppose that’s one thing I never understood about you, Danica. Why are you so unsure of yourself when everything about you, everything that you are, proves the complete opposite of whatever you feel about yourself?”

“I…I don’t know if I can really explain it, but I’ll try, Vil-san. If you’ll let me.”

Vil tilted his head with interest, quietly urging her to continue. She took another deep breath.

“Performing alone and in front of you has always made me anxious. I know you know this already. I’ve always felt inadequate, but there was a larger reason that I’ve never told anyone. The truth is, my emotions have always run very deep, and I never can be sure if I’m expressing myself properly. I’m always afraid of being mocked or judged. But when I sing or dance, I know I can express everything in my heart that words can’t always do. I feel confident in this form of self-expression but…”

Her cheeks burned a bright red, and she began to lower her gaze again. Vil gently slid his hand under her chin. Keeping her eyes on him, refusing to let her look away anymore.

“But?”

“When I’m around you, my feelings run particularly deep. And in the past, I was afraid of sharing those feelings with you. I admire and care about you; you’re always in my thoughts. And I…I…even if it was just performing, it’s always meant more for me.”

“Hmmm.”

Such honestly, such vulnerability, touched him deeply. Vil moved closed to Danica, hesitantly placing his arm around her. When she didn’t resist, he fully drew her into a tender embrace. All the while his heart raced with a realization almost too good to be true. Though he secretly always hoped for something like this, even as he planned for this moment, deep down, never did he allow himself to believe that this could happen.

Still, before Vil could finally bring himself to say it, there was something he first had to know.

“When you recorded my birthday present, what were you feeling then?”

“…I was happy at first, and I’m still happy with how it came out,” she replied, smiling a little. But I was also overwhelmed, knowing that…”

Emotion suddenly choked at her voice, and she shut her eyes. Shaking her head furiously, she forced herself to continue before it overwhelmed her.

“Knowing that you’d know how I feel about you, Vil-san. Everything we’ve gone through, and everything I feel…I…I…”

“Danica…” Vil felt her pulling away from him and realized that it was finally time. “Danica, what you feel, I…I also…”

“I definitely feel like I’m becoming more confident, but it’s still a struggle for me. But I know there’s no point in denying these feelings any longer.” She forced her gaze back to his. “I just hope that now, you’ll finally understand.”

The room went silent for a few moments after this and Vil contemplated what she had said. He remained still but inside, his heart swelled with emotion. That this sweet little potato, after enduring so much at his hands, could look at him not only with kindness but also with love was remarkable, to say the least. Finally, he let out a long sigh, but a smile spread across his face.

“Silly little potato, of course I understand,” he chuckled softly, cupping her face with great tenderness. “Because I feel the same way about you. I have for a very long time.”

“W…WHAT?” Danica’s eyes widened with a mixture of shock and, strangely enough, excitement. She could feel the burning of tears that she quickly blinked away. “Feel the same way, that means…Vil-san, you…”

He chuckled again, pressing her body to his so close that she could smell the fair scent of flowers on his clothing. In a soft whisper, he conveyed exactly what he wished he could a week ago, and even longer. All of his feelings finally set free.

“I love you, Danica.”

Danica heard him, but somehow she didn’t fully comprehend until she felt his lips gently brush against her forehead. At this, a choked gasp escaped her lips followed by several tears flowing down her cheeks. But for once, they were tears of joy. She even found herself laughing through them, her disbelief evident.

“I…I…is this real?” she asked hesitantly, causing him to laugh as well.

“Ara, I’ve just confessed my love for you and that’s the first thing to leave your mouth? Not ‘I love you too’ or something along those lines?” He tutted. “That won’t do, Little Potato.”

“I…I just can’t believe it,” she wiped her face with her hands. “I mean, I’ve always hoped, I’ve dreamed about it, but…”

“Should I pinch you?” he teased.

“No, no! It’s alright! No need for that!”

Danica shook her head, still laughing as Vil took both of her hands. He guided her to her feet, enveloping her in another embrace. She melted into his arms, her disbelief finally giving way for acceptance. In that moment, all their doubts and anxieties melted away. And the shadows of past horrors appeared to finally be buried. Leaving, at long last, only their love for each other.

Once again, Danica apologized for missing Vil’s party but he silenced her with a long and loving kiss. As different from their first kiss as night was different from day. He lifted her gaze to his, marveling at the remarkable girl before him. Savoring this moment with her for as long as he could.

“There’s no need to apologize, Little Potato. Not anymore,” he said. “I forgive you, but you must promise to be present at my birthday next year.”

Danica smiled, her eyes shimmering with happiness. “Yes, Vil-san. I promise,” she said before leaning in for another kiss. “I promise, and I love you.”

#twisted wonderland #twisted wonderland oc #twst oc #pomefiore #vil schoenheit #vil x oc #vil schoenheit x oc #otp: vildani #oc: danica #fairest after all #things i write

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