The Sea God and his Prophet (Multi-Part, HIATUS) As the prophet of the God of Time, Orra, you were destined to live and die as his humble follower. Your preordained death ticked ever closer and you accepted your circumstances. However, what happens when your former childhood best friend and Lemuria's Sea God Rafayel must stay in your temple with you for 90 days? Does your relationship have a chance, or are you both destined for doom?
Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4 / Part 5 / Part 6 / Part 7
Headcannons:
Rafayel’s Idol Survival Show Contestant Profile
One-Shot:
I'm Jealous of MC! (Rafayel's Version)
Coming Home: Part 1 Part 2
Zayne:
Headcannons:
Zayne’s Idol Survival Show Contestant Profile
One-Shot:
Goodbye
Glimpses of Grief
I’m jealous of MC! (Zayne's Version)
Awkward First Meeting (Zayne Version)
Xavier:
Headcannons:
Xavier’s Idol Survival Show Contestant Profile
One-Shot:
I'm Jealous of MC! (Xavier's Version)
Sylus:
Headcannons:
Sylus’s Idol Survival Show Contestant Profile
One-Shot:
I'm Jealous of MC! (Sylus' Version)
Caleb:
Headcannons:
Caleb’s Idol Survival Show Contestant Profile
One-Shot:
I'm Jealous of MC! (Caleb's Version Pt.1)/ Ending 1 / Ending 2
Who's that Guy?! (Caleb's Version)
Waiting
General:
How would LADS Guys React when you Crash Out over a Gacha Game
Oh no! Evol shenanigans caused the LIs to become children!
Oh no! Evol Shenanigans turned you into a Kid! How do LIs react? (Pt. 1: Sylus & Zayne)
Yandere!LADS AU:
Yandere LADS Pt. 1 (Sylus, Caleb, Zayne)
Yandere LADS Pt. 2 (Rafayel & Xavier)
How they Fell in Love with You Pt.1 (Sylus, Caleb & Zayne)
How they Fell in Love with You Pt.2 (Rafayel & Xavier)
If you have any writing requests, please leave it in the replies, and/or in my asks!
hiiiiii … Can you please add a “read more” to long posts like the one where you’re turned into a kid? It was great but when it’s on my dash multiple times it takes a long time to get past. Thank you 🤍
Hello!
I am so sorry! I thought Tumblr would automatically shorten the fics. That must have been so annoying to keep seeing :(!!!
Thanks for letting me know and reading! I'll update my posts to have the "read more" option. If anything, let me know!
after ur turning into child fics i kinda hope infold does an event where that actually happens, and we finally see animated versions of LIs as kids🙂 i mean if the deepspace tunnel can get us married, why not this too😋
I hope so too!!!!! Omg I would literally melt if we saw animated versions of Kid LIs 🥺! Though my poor wallet wouldn’t survive 😅.
Oh no! Evol Shenanigans turned you into a Kid! How do LIs react? (Pt. 1: Sylus & Zayne)
Sylus:
The moment Sylus’ watch flashed red, he stood up from the meeting table.
“I have more important matters to handle.” The tall white hair man waved to the twins. “My men will act as my proxy. Now, if you excuse me.” The other N109 zone leaders glared at him as he hastily left the room, but he didn’t care. You needed him.
—
Your distress signal led him to an abandoned building on the outskirts of the N109 zone. Sylus sighed. The area was known to be the base of a growing gang that was trying to get into the illegal protocore market. To Sylus, they were insignificant, but you going in alone was dangerous. He couldn’t understand why you didn’t call for his help earlier. Was your association putting you in harm's way again?
He entered the building, his gun drawn, expecting a fight, but entering inside, it was quiet. The silence unnerved him. Where were you? He explored around, and his heart began to pound as further in; all he saw were unconscious bodies. He was hoping with every fiber of his body, this was your work, otherwise-
“Kitten?” He called, but there was no answer. Where have you gone? He continued walking but paused when he heard the quick pattering of small steps behind him. He turned around, but nobody was in sight. He chuckled. Something mischievous and tiny was trying to sneak up on him, how cute. Perhaps, whatever it was, it would lead him to you. So, he did his best acting performance. Turned around, swaying, clueless, the perfect bait. Then as he predicted, he was attacked, but before anything could touch him, he gently held the perpetrator up with his energy evol.
“Let me gooo!” He turned around to the source of the high-pitched scream, and there in his grasp was a young girl squirming around.
“Now, who do we have here?” Looking more closely, seeing the girl’s fiery glare, he knew immediately who this was. “Y/N?” You froze, your eyes and mouth agaped.
“How do you know my name?”
“I'm a friend of yours.” You pouted, crossed your arms, and rolled your eyes as you floated around. He couldn’t help but laugh. Even at a young age, you were so feisty.
“Nu-uh, you're lying! You’re a bad man like the others!”
“Why do you think I’m a bad man?”
“You look scary!” Sylus' laugh rang louder before he delicately placed you on the ground.
“Well, I’m scary, but not a bad man. At least not to you.” The moment you were back on land, your hand instantly grabbed your arm. That’s when he noticed your small body was covered with small scratches, the largest being the one on your arm. “Did the bad men give you those?” Your frown deepened.
“Yeah, but I got them back!”
“How?” Excitedly, you pulled out a black taser that covered your hand.
“I went ZAP!” You cheered as you swung your arm and turned on the taser, demonstrating your attack on an imaginary enemy. Even as a kid, you were still so reckless. Yet, he couldn’t help being impressed. Your baby self was able to dispatch multiple grown men on her own. You really were a phenomenon.
“Well.” Sylus said as he kneeled down to look at you face to face. “You did an amazing job, but we need to get you patched up.” He extended his hand to you, but you backed away, your hand tightly gripping the taser.
“No! Grandma said not to go with strangers!”
“But we aren’t.” He took out his phone and showed you the photo you took with him yesterday at the kitty cafe. After finally winning against him, you taunted him, taking a photo of you both, with the game board. On the screen, your tongue was out as you held up a peace sign. Meanwhile, the Onychinus Leader sat across from you, smirking. Your arrogance was delectable. “This is me with a grown up you.” Hesitantly, you approached his phone and squinted.
“That’s me?”
“Yes, we’re besties in the future.” You grinned dorkily.
“I’m really pretty!” He extended his hand towards you again, but this time, you took it nervously.
“You really are.”
—
After he called his men to “handle” the gang who dared lay a hand on you, he brought you back to his base. Right away, his focus was on fixing you up. He escorted you to his personal clinic room and summoned his best doctors to help you. Unfortunately, what he didn’t account for was the moment they approached you in their lab coats; you would start aggressively shaking and tearing up. Your eyes searched around the room until they fell on him as he stood in the back. Your eyes were pleading for his help. You were terrified and he messed up. He should have known from your past that this approach would scare you. Immediately, he stepped in, standing in front of you, acting as your protective barrier.
“This isn’t going to work. You are all dismissed.” One of the doctors spoke up.
“But Mr. Sylus-”
“You all heard me. She’s terrified. Give me the supplies. I’ll do it.”
Horrified by Sylus’ sternness, the doctor left their first aid kits and shuffled away. Once they were gone, he kneeled in front of you with the tools next to him. You stared at him warily.
“I need to bandage your cuts. Are you okay if I touch you?” With a watery frown, you nodded. “Thank you Y/N.” After you agreed, he delicately washed your wounds and started bandaging you up. During the whole process, he constantly checked for any sign of discomfort. If you squirmed, hissed, or your frown deepened, he would stop and ask if you were alright. Each time, you put on a brave face and smiled wide while trying to hide your shivers and pain. You were a tough cookie. Sylus tried to complete the task as quickly as he could. It took a while, but once everything was done, he organized the medical supplies and put them away.
“You did a great job Y/N. You’re brave.” You grinned.
“Thanks, but now that we’re done, can I go home? I think Grandma and Caycay are waiting for me.” His heart sank. He had to be delicate. He couldn’t tell a child the tragic reality that both your grandmother and the Caleb you knew were gone. Besides, he knew the evol’s effect was temporary. So, he decided to spare your feelings by telling you a small white lie.
“Grandma and Caleb are fixing up your house, preparing it for your return. It might take a bit, so you can stay here until then. Is that alright?” You stared at him with puppy eyes, looking intensely into his eyes, searching for answers before nodding.
“Okay.” He couldn’t tell if you bought what he said, but for now, he will have to stick to that.
—
“What are we doing here?” Sylus smirked. He could tell you were trying to act mature, but your excitement of being inside a toy store was palpable. The bounce on your step, the smile growing on your face, you were too cute.
“Since you will be staying with me, you need to have as much fun as you can. So, I have a mission for you.” He bent down, looking at your eyes. You stood tall, striking a soldier pose and saluting.
“What’s my mission Mr. Sylus?” Sylus chuckled.
“I want you to look around this toy store and get everything you want.” You cocked your head.
“Why?”
“I told you. While you stay with me, you need to have as much fun as you can. Can you do this mission for me?” You nodded excitedly.
“Yes sir!” You immediately sprinted, running aisle to aisle, grabbing everything your heart desired. Soon, the shopping cart he followed you with was almost completely filled with different plushies, toys, and gadgets. As you ran around, a wide smile shined on your face as your eyes twinkled. Watching your excitement was exhilarating. Though, he started to notice an interesting pattern with everything you chose. Most items were dragons or dragons themed items. Did this have something to do with him? The smirk on his face grew.
For now, he pushed the thought in the back of his mind and filed it as a question to ask you when you returned, or maybe as a topic to tease you about later. Until then, he decided to enjoy his time with kid you and continued to watch your shopping spree. Towards the end, your last chosen aisle was the gaming section. Right away, your tiny hands grabbed the newest handheld gaming console while jumping excitedly. However, before you could add it into the cart, a woman with her own child gave Sylus’ baby the stink eye and stopped you. Approaching him, the woman spoke to you condescendingly while daring to touch his arm “seductively”. Sylus felt repulsed and sneered.
“You shouldn’t be taking advantage of your handsome daddy. You don’t want to be spoiled, do you?” Instantly, your previous happiness dissipated, and your original wariness returned, to Sylus’ chagrin. It ticked him off, who does this woman think she is? His protective instincts jumped in with him. Like dust on his blazer, he brushed her hand off and glared.
“My child can buy anything she wants. She doesn’t need anyone such as yourself to ruin her mood. Do not talk to me or especially my child again.” The woman froze, standing around with her jaw clenched like an idiot before retreating away. Meanwhile, you stayed still holding on to your game console. You looked up at Sylus with watery puppy eyes.
“Are you sure it’s okay if we get this? I don’t want to be spoiled. I can put it back.”
“Sweetie.” He took the box from your hands and put it in the cart with all your things. “I can buy you anything you can wish for. Just ask. In fact, if you want more than one, I can buy you more of them, all in different colors.” You giggled before holding his hand. His heart warmed.
“I’m okay with one. Thank you Mr. Sylus.” Sylus squeezed your hand.
“Anytime Y/N.”
—
After your shopping spree, life continued as normal for Sylus, except now he had you as a 24/7 companion. For every business meeting, anytime he worked in his office, or worked in other safe areas in his base, you would be right next to him. Many of his colleagues and clients stared at him dumbfounded, but he paid no mind. He loved having you next to him, especially when you were drawing and couldn’t resist interrupting him to show him another picture of a dragon.
“Sylus look, it’s my friend Sysy!” You introduced, showing a crayon drawn, squiggly, black and red dragon.
“Wow Y/N, he’s so cool.”
“He is! He is my best friend!”
“Do you know I’m a dragon as well?” You crossed your arms and grumpily pouted.
“No, you’re not! You don’t have any horns, wings, or a tail! I’m not stupid.” You grumbled.
“I am, I can prove it to you.”
“If you’re lying… I want cookies for dinner later!”
“Deal.”
—
After he had finished all his work, he took you to the roof. Under the night sky, he started:
“You must promise not to tell anyone that I’m a dragon, alright? It must be our secret.” He said as he tapped his own lips with his index finger.
“I promise.” Sylus grinned before revealing his draconic features. His black and scarlet wings and tail flowed with the wind while his obsidian horns stood tall on his scalp. Following his transformation, you stayed silent, your eyes and mouth wide enough to cover your whole face. For a moment, he was worried. Is this new form too scary for you? Before he could change back, you began smiling, jumping up and down.
“Oh my God! You’re a DRAGON!!!!! I wanna fly please please please!”
“Well-” He couldn’t say another word before you had already started pulling on his dress shirt.
“Please Mr. Sylus PLEASE!” The man snickered. Of course he was going to say yes. He bent down.
“Get on my shoulders.” You squealed with glee before jumping on his back, holding onto his broad back.
“Hang tight.” Immediately, he jumped off the skyscraper and soared on the skies of the N109 zone. Passing building after building with you riding on his back. He couldn’t see your face, but hearing your excited whooping and giggles, he knew you were having the time of your life.
“Can you go faster?!” You asked excitedly, Sylus chuckled.
“How bold, but of course. Just make sure you are holding me tightly.”
“I will!” With a smirk on his face, Sylus flapped his wings faster, accelerating his speed until the buildings and lights around you turned into blurs. Your giggles became more rambunctious the speedier he was. “Do a flip!” You hollered.
“Alright.” Sylus twirled his body, gliding in a circle while you cheered, but during his maneuver, he could feel your tiny hands pawing at his shoulders. Your excitement switched to panic.
“I’m slipping!” The man tried to remain still to allow you to regain your grip, but it was too late. You let go of him and began to plummet. “Mr. SYLUS!”
“Hold on.” He dived after you as you flipped downwards. Before you could fall further, he activated his evol, holding you up in the air, until he finally reached you and grabbed you. In his arms, you shook violently.
“Are you alright Kitten?” He asked as he brushed the hair on your face. He expected you to cry, to pull the same horrified look you did with the doctors before. Instead, despite your teary eyes, you had a dorky smile on your face, your eyes still shining brightly.
“That was so fun! Can we keep flying?” Sylus squeezed your chubby cheek.
“Another time Y/N. You should rest. It’s past your bedtime.” You frowned. You were opening your mouth to complain, but instead a loud yawn escaped. “See. Now, let me bring you back to base.” You nodded, snuggled closer to Sylus’ chest, and closed your eyes. You clearly had enough excitement for the night. The dragon smiled and gave your forehead a soft kiss before continuing his flight home.
—
“Mr. Sylus.” The Onychinus Leader looked up from the gun he was polishing to find you standing outside his office door. He had tucked you into the newly furnished kid’s bedroom after your night in the sky, but it seemed you were more restless than he thought.
“What is it my dear?” He asked softly as you stood at the entrance, holding one of the dragons plushies you bought earlier.
“I can’t sleep. I miss Grandma and Caycay.” He tucked his gun away and slowly walked to you.
“I know Sweetie, I’m sorry. Did you want me to tuck you back in? Read you a bedtime story?” You shook your head vigorously.
“Can you watch me while I sleep? I’m scared.” Sylus bent down and extended his hand to you.
“Of course.” You grabbed his hand and he led you back to your bedroom. When you both entered the room, he turned on your night light and sat on the loveseat next to your bed.
“I’ll be right here. Just close your eyes and count dragons.” You nodded your head and closed your eyes, but you kept moving around the sheets. “Can’t sleep?” With pleading eyes, you shook your head.
“I'm having scary nightmares. Caycay used to hold my foot when I slept. Can you do that too?”
“Of course.” Sylus got up from the loveseat and laid on the foot of your bed. Despite his large figure dwarfing the end of the bed, he did his best to be comfortable and held your small foot in his large hand. “Rest, I’ll be right here.”
You nodded again before closing your eyes and finally snoring. Sylus sighed in relief and closed his own eyes. He didn’t typically sleep at night, but you had exhausted him, so soothed by the sound of your soft breaths, he fell asleep.
—
“Sylus… Sylus?” The man could feel someone trying to shake him awake. With his eyes closed, he realized he couldn’t feel your small foot in his hand anymore. He must have subconsciously let it go while he slept.
“Sorry.” He murmured as he reached for your foot once more, but the instant he held it, he realized it was larger and more calloused than before.
“Sylus, why are you holding my foot? Is this something new about you, that I should know?” He opened his eyes and saw that you were back to your current age.
“A baby kit asked me to hold her foot while she was asleep. Of course, I obliged.”
“Baby Kit? Wait, what are we doing in this kid’s room? The last thing I remember, I was trying to get information on a gang for the Association-”
“Then you were turned into a child, incapacitated several gang members and I brought you back to base and babysat.”
“Wow, well remembering Grandma’s stories, I must have been a handful.”
“Actually, you were incredibly adorable, I enjoyed every second of it. In fact-” Sylus got up and picked you up, keeping you close to him in a bridal carry. “If you are interested.” He held your hand delicately and pressed his lips on them. “I would love to make a little girl just like you.” You smiled widely at him and laughed.
“How can I say no?”
Zayne:
“Dr. Zayne~” Yvette called singsongy. The doctor groaned. She never called him in that tone unless she was up to something, very much like another mischievous woman he knew.
“Yes Yvette.”
“I got a call from the pediatric ward. Apparently, your daughter needs you.”
“Daughter?”
“Yes! I didn’t know you and Ms. Y/N have been busy.”
“I don’t have a daughter. Hold on, what room is she in?”
“They sent me her file. I’ll send it to you.”
—
As Dr. Zayne walked to the patient’s room, he reviewed her chart, sighed, and went inside. There, Dr. Luis, a pediatric doctor, was entertaining a young girl before turning to the other doctor.
“Dr. Zayne, thank you for coming in. I saw this little lady had you as her emergency contact and I knew I had to call you right away.” Zayne looked at the child sitting on the bed. The girl turned back to him briefly before turning red and looking down. She was as shy as he remembered. “Your daughter has been an absolute sweetheart. She is so sweet and brave-”
“She isn’t my daughter.” He answered stoically. “She’s, my girlfriend.” Dr. Luis immediately paled.
“I’m sorry, she’s your what?” A pang of panic hit Zayne after realizing what he implicated about himself. He coughed before correcting:
“Apologies, she’s my girlfriend, but not when she’s a child. I mean, she’s an adult woman currently, but it seems she must have been hit by an evol. I don’t date children.” His colleague laughed awkwardly before scratching the back of his head.
“Please don’t scare me like that, Dr. Zayne. I almost contacted Child Services. Anyways, she should be discharged soon. We just need to complete a few more tests, someone to sign her papers, and a care plan for her. This plan needs to include who will be taking care of her while she’s in her current state.”
“Of course. I will be able to sign her papers and take care of her. After all she is my girlfr- I mean responsibility.”
“That’s great to hear. I’ll be right back with the forms.” Zayne nodded at the other doctor before Dr. Luis left. Zayne then returned his attention to you, who was sitting on the hospital bed, sitting up and distracting yourself by playing with your socks. “Hello, Y/N, my name is-”
“Are you Zayne?” The doctor paused, surprised that you recognized him.
“I am.” Your mouth turned O shaped before you returned your bashful gaze to your feet.
“Why are you a grownup?” Zayne leaned down, to look at your face directly.
“Actually, we’re both grownups, but you turned back into a kid.”
“Oh.” You squeaked before avoiding his eyes. Zayne gulped. Your current day's warmth was nowhere to be found. Perhaps, this version of you was right after he accidentally hurt you as a kid. The you that was afraid of him, the you that still needed years apart from him to forgive him.
He sat on your bed beside you. The moment he closed in, you instantly inched away. It hurt. He wanted to be the one to watch you, but maybe that’s not in your best interest. His mind ruminated. He could contact Caleb to watch you. He would hate sending you to him, especially considering everything the colonel has done to you and the danger he poses. Still, perhaps his familiarity would be more comforting.
“Y/N, would you like me to call Caleb to watch you? He’s a grownup as well.” He had thought you would be excited by the mention of your “brother”, but your pout deepened, your eyes downcast.
“You don’t want to watch me?”
“I would love to, but wouldn’t you have more fun with your brother?” You shook your head and held the cuff of his lab coat.
“I want to stay with Zayne.” His lips curved up.
“Alright, I’ll take care of you.”
—
After the test results came up, it showed what he had guessed. You were hit with an evol and you would most likely be a child for around a week. So, to watch you, Zayne took a week off from work and set up a guest room for you. Decorating the room with all your favorite plushies, games and age-appropriate books. When your new space was ready, you wandered around inside, your eyes wide with astonishment.
“This is all mine?”
“Yes, but if you need anything else let me know okay.”
“Really?” The moment he nodded, your grin widened, and you gave him a quick hug before turning your focus to the plushies around you.
“Thank you.”
“Of course, Y/N. I’m going to be in my office finishing my work. Just call me if you need me.” All you did was nod, already distracted by the snowman plushie you grabbed.
The next few hours went with almost no hitch. He completed his reports while checking on you as often as he could. Each time he investigated your room, you were preoccupied either acting out adventures with your plushies, playing games on your handheld console, or reading one of your books.
“Are you alright Y/N?” Each time, he would call and every time, at the sound of his voice, you would jump a bit, pink on your cheeks and ears.
“I’m alright!” You said in a quivering voice. Afterwards, he would simply nod and return to his office. Seeing your fearful reaction, he felt guilty. Perhaps as the adult in this current situation, he should have been more assertive with sending you to Caleb. Still, despite his lingering shame, he couldn’t send you away now. Him pawning you off to someone else may hurt you more. Therefore, he was determined to find a way to make you more comfortable with him. Maybe he could start with supper.
Once he completed all his tasks, he visited your room again.
“Y/N?” As before you hopped before staring at him, flustered.
“Yes?”
“It’s almost time for supper. Would you like to help me make it?” You stood up from your bed, looking in his direction, but not his eyes.
“Really, you want me to help? Grandma and Caycay never let me help cook.”
“Of course. I could always use a helper.” A shy smile grew on your face.
“Okay.”
—
That night, he decided since dumplings had always been your comfort food, that you would enjoy it for supper with steamed vegetables, and chocolate cookies for dessert. Through each part of preparing your meal, you remained beside him, filling the role of assistant. Every task he gave you, you put on a serious expression, completely focused and adorable. While you worked, he couldn’t help watching you. Everything you did was insanely cute. Either that was helping him, with your tiny hands, roll up the meat filling, folding the dumplings, or mixing the cookie dough. He was filled with pride; you were wonderful, and you worked so hard.
When the meal was complete. All the items looked delectable (except the dumplings that you folded that looked more like lumps).
“Great work Y/N.” He said as he raised his hand to you for a high five. You beamed at his praise and high fived him. It was a sweet moment that was later diminished when right after, you turned away from him. Zayne sighed. You were starting to trust him, but the rapport wasn’t fully there yet. “Let’s eat.”
You sat down as the man prepared two plates of dumplings and steamed vegetables and placed them on both of your spots at the dining table. Once the food was set, both of you ate in silence. Everything was delicious, but lifting his eyes off his plate, he noticed you had eaten all your food, except the steamed broccoli. His doctor side came out.
“Y/N.” You raised your head nervously as he pointed to your plate. “You must eat your vegetables. Otherwise, you won’t grow properly.” You frowned and crossed your arms.
“That’s not fair, Zayne.” You then pointed back accusatorily at his own plate. “You didn’t eat any of your carrots.” The doctor laughed; he underestimated your astuteness.
“You’re right Y/N. How about a compromise?” You placed your hands on the table. Your fingers interlocked although you were in a meeting, ready to negotiate.
“Ok.”
“How about we switch. I’ll eat your broccoli and you’ll eat my carrots. Does that work?” You quietly groaned before pushing your plate towards him.
“Okay.” Zayne smiled and switched your plates. You groaned again, but still unhappily ate all his carrots. The man chuckled at your sullen reaction before holding his end of the bargain and eating your despised vegetables, ignoring the broccoli's bitter taste. A few minutes later, both of your plates were empty, and you stared at him expectedly. He knew you had a similar idea in mind.
“Dessert?” You nodded excitedly. “Alright.”
Zayne took the whole batch out of the oven. The cookie warmed up his palm as he handed it over to you in a napkin. You broadly smiled as your eyes shined, staring at the cookie that was almost as large as your face.
“Thank you Zayne!”
“Thank you for being my helper.” He reached down to ruffle your hair, but you immediately stepped out of his reach. His brow furrowed for a moment before retracting his hand, trying to hide his disappointment. “Sorry Y/N, I didn’t mean to scare you.”
“You-” You tried to speak up, but sullenly froze before returning your gaze to the cookie in your hand. What was he doing wrong?
—
Repeatedly, he tried to bridge the gap between you, but even after a few days, you still seemed nervous around him. His heart shattered each time you flinched in his presence. He didn’t want any version of you to be afraid of him. He tried to be less intimidating, softer, more cheerful and emotive, but his attempts seemed to have the opposite effect. When he attempted to be more digestible to you, you seemed to take it badly. Acting even more anxiously around him. He couldn’t understand why. His only guess was maybe you could tell his behavior was the result of him overcompensating. Unfortunately, he was aware of his inability to be warm. Unlike men like Caleb who could put on a warm persona, even to those he has no interest in, he lacked this ability.
He needed to find another tactic. Maybe, if he brought in someone more naturally warm, you would feel more comfortable with him. Yes, this must be the solution. He made a call.
—
“Y/N, I want you to meet someone.” He expected you to jump with excitement for your best friend. Instead, you remained pouting, hiding behind his leg.
“Hi Y/N. It’s me Tara, I’m your older you’s best friend." Tara greeted cheerfully, bending down to your level and waving. You were usually really polite, but this time you refused to respond. You only huffed and refused to acknowledge the woman. Did he make another wrong choice?
“Y/N.” He said gently as he crouched towards you. “You are being very rude. She’s your best friend-”
“No, she’s not." You whispered, irritated. “My best friends are Caycay and you.”
She considers me as one of her best friends?
A smile crept on his face, but as happy as your declaration made him, he still couldn’t enable this behavior.
“Perhaps not kid you, but as an adult you love her. I’m sure you will like her too, but you must give her a chance.”
“I don’t wanna.” You hissed as you stomped your foot.
“Fine.” Zayne said coldly. “I won’t force you, but I am disappointed in you.” The moment the word disappointed left his mouth, your eyes instantly started to water. Your lips wobbling.
“Why?” He put his hand on your shoulder.
“Because you aren’t being polite. I’m not going to make you hang out with anyone you don’t want to, but especially since she’s being nice to you, you should at least respond.” You nodded with a pout and teary eyes then returned your attention to Tara.
“I’m sorry.” You whispered to her as you wiped away your tears. “I didn’t want to be mean.”
“Aww Sweetie.” Tara cooed as she knelt. “It’s alright, it happens. Thank you for apologizing to me.” After her response, you looked up at Zayne, waiting for his approval. He smiled down at you.
“Good job Y/N. Now, we were planning to go to Magus’ Wonderful Park with Tara, but we can go home instead if you want?” The mention of the amusement park and the chance of missing out made you panic.
“NO! I wanna go!” You whined while clenching your hands nervously.
“Okay, we can go, but you have to be nice to Tara.” You didn’t seem happy with the woman’s inclusion, but you reluctantly agreed.
—
He had thought after you apologized, your bratty attitude would have ended, but it only worsened as the day progressed. Each time he spoke to Tara, or even looked in her direction, you would interject, seeking his attention. Even when Tara tried to feed you or give you anything, you would vehemently refuse until it was his hands giving it. Then, taking from him, instead of the scowl you flashed your friend, you would smile and accept, looking like a sweet baby angel. Zayne was confused. Throughout the whole week, you barely acted clingy, yet today, you suddenly changed. He couldn’t understand why.
It was concerning, but it only got worse after you all passed the infamous “Wanderer Rush” rollercoaster. It was rumored to be one of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world. Every advertisement for the park had the ride shown off, with it standing tall with a beautiful blue sky as its backdrop. Unfortunately, this meant that little kids such as yourself clamored to go. Immediately, you pulled on the sleeve of his black dress shirt the moment you all passed the ride.
“Zayne, can we go on the Wanderer Rush pleeeeeease!” The man sighed. There was no way you would be allowed.
“I’m sorry Y/N, but you are still too small to go.” Your pout began to quiver.
“I’m tall enough, please Zayne!”
“Well-” Before he could continue, Tara jumped in, to your annoyance.
“Well, we can maybe line up and see. The line isn’t too long right now, we could go and ask.”
“YES, YES, YES CAN WE!” You shouted, pulling on his arm harder than before. Zayne sighed again.
“Alright, but don’t get upset if they say no, okay Y/N.”
“I WON’T!”
The doctor knew you were lying. While you waited in line, you were bouncing up and down. Thrilled for your own turn as you watched multiple carts pass by. As you all marched closer to the end of the line, Zayne was sweating. Praying to any existing god for a miracle. Otherwise, he would be dealing with a very grumpy and sad child.
At the end of the line, the teenager manning the ride approached the group.
“Group for 3 please.” Tara asked sweetly, gesturing to all of you. The pimpled boy groaned as his eyes landed on you.
“I don’t know what to tell you guys. I’m pretty sure she’s too short for the ride.” You instantly started to huff, as you stomped your feet.
“I’m tall enough!” You whined. Zayne gazed at your furrowed brows and squinting eyes, knowing you were at the cusp of a tantrum.
The park employee groaned louder.
“Alright, we can check.” The reluctant teen brought you all to the height requirement display. “Please step in front of the board”. You proudly shook your head as you stepped up, your back to the board. As you stood, your body shook. You were clearly standing on tiptoes, but it didn’t matter. Even with another inch, you weren’t close to tall enough. There would need to be two of you to ride. The boy groaned once more, probably knowing the outcome, before revealing the horrible truth.
“Sorry, you are too short.” Zayne stared at you intently, waiting for you to explode, but you were silent. You just stepped aside and started to tear up. Ignoring his own hesitation, he pulled you close to his side and began petting your hair.
“It’s alright sweetie-” Before he could comfort you further, the employee butted in, pointing at him and Tara.
“Do you guys want to go on the ride? You can leave the squirt here while you two go?”
“That’s not-” Before anything else can come out of Zayne’s mouth, at the boys' words, you started to loudly weep. Your cries echoed around, making waiting passengers glare. Zayne’s mind completely blanked. How did they get here?
You continued to cry, to the point it was too much for your dainty body. You fell on the ground and began waving your arms and legs around furiously. Yelling your head off until your face became completely red.
“Ok.” Was all Zayne could muster before he picked you up and carried you on his shoulder. Though you were on him, your tantrum continued. You flailed around, hitting his chest, back and head while despairingly sobbing. Zayne turned to Tara. “You can go ahead on the ride, I’m going to calm Y/N, okay?”
“Good luck.” Tara said with a concerned and apologetic look on her face.
---
After walking out of the rollercoaster zone and into the park's picnic area, Zayne placed you on one of the seats of a picnic table and sat on the opposite side. At this point, your screams and tears turned to sniffles. Your face was no longer deep red but fading pink. You were calmer, but he had to maneuver carefully. If he pushed too much, your tantrum could return. He placed the tissue box and the kids’ water bottle he packed for you in front of your shaking form. However, you didn’t dare to even glance at them. Instead, you stared at the ground, ashamed.
“Are you alright Y/N?” You shook your head. “I can’t help you if you don’t talk about it.” You sniffled again before muttering harshly as your eyes focused on the grass below your feet:
“You lied.”
“I lied?”
“You don’t remember, do you?” Zayne stayed silent, unsure of what you could possibly be hinting at.
“I’m not sure what you are talking about Y/N.” You crossed your arms and puffed out your cheeks, indignant.
“You said you were going to marry me when we got older! But you’re with Tara!” You accused, as you wiped the tears slowly sliding out of your eyes. Your allegation struck Zayne’s core. He tried searching in his mind when he made this promise, but nothing popped to mind. This whole situation was ridiculous. He tried to hide and muffle his laugh, but his chuckles slipped out. This seemed to make you angrier as your face started turning back to red and your frown deepened. “It’s not funny, Zayne! You promised me before you moved away! You said you would marry me, but you forgot!!!” You started to whine as your tears started to fall more quickly.
His guilt simmered back in. He had no recollection of this promise, but he did remember the last day he saw you before moving away as a child. You looked exactly as you did now. Your eyes were puffy and red as you silently wept outside his house. You had been knocking on his door, begging his parents to see him before he vanished. At that point, it had been a month since he accidentally hurt you with his evol and since then, his child self had been ignoring you. His young brain rationalized that it was better for you; you didn’t need him, and he wanted to protect you.
However, despite his plans, his parents demanded he come down and say goodbye. He obeyed and came down ashamed. Ashamed of himself for hurting you then and this moment. When he finally faced you and your eyes landed on him, you immediately grabbed him and held him tightly, as though you were afraid that he would evaporate. He remembered standing there for a while with you in his arms, as he comforted you. He petted your hair and back as his heart pounded, and his face was red. At the time, he couldn’t hear a single thing because of his racing heart. Zayne wasn’t sure, but perhaps that was when you both made the promise.
“Aww Sweetie.” He left his seat and sat right next to you, pulling you closer to his side while wrapping his arm around your shoulder. “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to laugh at your distress.”
“Now, you’re the meanie.”
“I know. I’m sorry, Y/N. But you’re right, I didn’t keep our promise, but I will.” Your eyes shifted up to him as you looked perplexed. He took out his phone and showed you a photo he had kept a secret from you for years. Your wet eyes widened as you looked at the picture of a diamond ring. The band of the ring was gold and shaped like a jasmine flower with a diamond at the center of flower and jade leaves along the sides.
“Is that for Tara?” You asked with a cracked whimper. Zayne shook his head.
“No. I’m with you now Y/N. I never loved anyone, but you and when you become an adult again, I’m going to ask you to marry me.” Your previous anguish disappeared. Instead, you were ecstatic, hopping out of your seat and jumping up and down.
“Really!”
“Really.”
“Can I try the ring on when we return home?!”
“Sorry Y/N, I can’t.” You frowned and attempted to persuade him with your puppy eyes, but it was the only thing he could be firm with you about. “We will have to leave a bit of a surprise for when you are older.” You muttered a disappointed fine before embracing him. Then, when you were comfortable in his arms, you weakly asked:
“How long do I have to wait until I see you again?” The question made his own eyes start to sting, as he thought of your question and all the wasted time. He remembered the years before he met you again; he was controlled by his fear and resolved to stay away from you. He ignored his own longing and denied himself. He never reached out. He refused to see you, speak to you on the phone, or even write you letters as you originally wanted. He thought thinking of you and your happy life without him would satisfy his need. That was until he became your primary physician. Sadly, that arrangement only came to be because of your grandma’s specific request for it and not his own bravery. He almost lost out on all of this.
Even now, his fear was getting in the way of him enjoying being with the child version of yourself. He was so afraid of scaring kid you, or kid you hating him that he distanced himself and ignored the obvious. The obvious fact that your avoidance wasn’t because you were terrified him, it was because you had a crush on him.
“It will take a while.” Zayne answered softly as he stroked your hair. “Your Zayne has a lot of growth to do before he could properly marry you. But it you are willing to wait, he will remain forever loyal to you and do anything in his power to make you the happiest woman possible. Is that okay?” You sighed before looking up at him.
“I can wait.” Zayne grinned before placing a delicate kiss on your forehead.
“Thank you Y/N. I’ll make it worth it.”
---
After your talk, Tara returned to you both and your previous temper was gone. Thankfully, you all were able to enjoy the amusement park, until you all had to leave, making you and Zayne part ways with Tara. Then, exhausted by the busy day, you fell asleep in his car as he drove you both home. He grinned to himself the moment he parked as he was greeted with your sleeping form. You were adorable.
"Good night Y/N." Zayne whispered as he delicately carried you from the car to your room, tucked you into your bed and went to his own room to retire for the night as well.
---
“Zayne, time to wake up!” Zayne could barely open his eyes. Worn down by the previous day, his body ached to return to slumber, but he recognized that singsongy voice and the blur in front of him. He rubbed his eyes and retrieved his glasses. Once he had his glasses on; he was able to see you, and you were no longer the little tot he was watching. His girlfriend and future fiancée had returned.
“You’re back.” He said longingly as he rose from his bed and embraced you. You squeaked in surprise, but after your initial shock, you held him back.
“I don’t remember going anywhere.”
“You did, sort of. You were hit by an evol and turned into a child. I had been watching you for the last week.” You snuggled closer to his chest.
“Really? That explains why I wasn’t in bed with you and instead in very well decorated kids’ room.”
“Only the best for you.” You grinned as you leaned into him, placing a soft kiss on his lips. He loved the child version of you, but he really did miss this.
“Always the gentleman Zayne. Well, I made breakfast, are you coming?” Zayne laughed before sitting up from the bed.
“I will, just let me freshen up first and I’ll meet you in the kitchen.” You saluted the seated man before turning your back and returning to the kitchen.
“Alright, I’ll meet you there, Doctor.” Zayne’s lips curved up before he turned his eyes to the dresser next to his bed. He stood up and pulled open the dresser’s secret compartment. Inside the hidden drawer was the navy satin box that he kept hidden for years, the same one that held your custom diamond ring. Finally, after years of ruminating the perfect time, he took the box out of its hiding place. This time, he was determined not to let fear stop him from the one thing he has always wanted, you.
Would you do a reverse scenario where we turn into a kid and they have to take care of us?
Honestly, I thought of this exact idea! I think this will be the next one I try. Though, I’m not sure how well I can write it, but I have a few ideas 🤔🤔🤔.
Oh no! Evol shenanigans caused the LIs to become children!
Sylus:
When Sylus transformed back to a child, you had expected for him to be much like his adult self, confident, mischievous, a grin always on his face, but smaller. What you didn’t expect was a small boy, cowering from you, trying to hide his draconic horns and tail.
“Please, don’t hurt me.” He whimpered when you tried approaching him slowly. His pleading hit you straight in the heart. He was just a sad abandoned child.
“Don’t be afraid, Sylus.” His red eyes grew wide from the mention of his name. “In the future, I’m one of your friends, and as your friend, I promise to never hurt you.” You said gently, reaching out to him. Despite your promise, he turned away. He didn’t trust you and he chose to stay crouched in his corner. That was until you rolled over several gems and trinkets for his treasure hoard, placating him while you inched closer and closer. After a small hoard surrounded him, he finally allowed you to close in.
“I’m here.” You whispered as you tenderly brought the boy to your lap and stroked his dishevelled white hair while he sniffled. “I’m here.”
Luckily, child Sylus had warmed up to you shortly after your first meeting, but he still kept his original shyness. When anyone else approached, including the twins (to their horror) he would hide behind you and hiss. It was adorable! He was your little baby boy for the whole week. Any task, whether grocery shopping, cleaning, making dinner, he refused to leave your side. Always demanding to be held by you, and if you couldn’t, he would hold your leg or hand.
Besides letting him latch onto you, you decided this was a chance to give him the best childhood he could ever have with your main goal being to spoil him rotten. So, the moment he laid his eyes on and showed a slimmer interest in anything, you immediately bought it for him. Every toy, game, and outfit he wanted, you got. After each gift, his eyes would tear up with his lips wobbling as he softly thanked you. Watching the quiet joy was exhilarating, though you ended up going too far. Excited, you set up a kid’s room in one of the base’s many guest rooms that your new son gleefully explored.
You loved him so much, even when he would occasionally pull pranks (influenced by the twins). Unfortunately, child Sylus didn’t stay long. After a week, when adult Sylus finally returned, you were happy, sort of. However, you couldn’t lie to yourself, you missed your baby dragon flying around you 24/7. Unintentionally, you would look around for him, even in the kid’s room you set up. After several days, the loss became too much. You barged into Sylus’ office the moment his meeting was over.
“Kitten, I wasn’t expecting a visit from-” You dashed to him, grabbing the collar of his dark dress shirt as you dragged him away from his desk.
“No time for banter. You took away my baby, now you’re going to help me make one!” Sylus responded with a smirk:
“If that is what you wish for, Kitten.”
Zayne:
Baby Zayne was exactly the same as you remembered him to be back when you both were kids. He was an adorably chubby little kid, with a bowl haircut and thick glasses. He was quiet and shy, but when he was comfortable, he was curious, an endless stream of questions and an incredibly intelligent book worm that had a tendency to act like a smart aleck.
Though, despite him being a know-it-all, your whole time with him was pleasant. Usually, he would hang around you quietly, observing you and sprinkling questions here and there. However, if you were ever tired of his endless questions, you could put on any child friendly documentary with a stack of books, and he would be amused for hours.
Though the real nightmare came with sugar. If you thought adult Zayne had a sweet tooth, baby Zayne was 1000% worse. The first night, you tucked him into bed after you read him a medical research article that he asked for and watched him fall asleep. Once you were sure he was sleeping, you knocked out as well on the couch next to your shared bed. It should have been a quiet and relaxed night, but as you were floating in dreamland, you were woken up by the sound of shattering glass. Panic crawled in every inch of your body. You looked at the bed and realized Zayne was missing.
“Zayne?!” You ran to the source of the noise, your kitchen and found baby Zayne lying on the ground, COVERED IN RED! “Zayne nooooo!” You ran to his side, shoving away the broken jam jar. The moment he heard you shout, Zaynie began to hysterically cry. “Where are you hurting baby?” He didn’t respond, only bumbling apologies, your own eyes starting to water. If only an adult Zayne was here! “It’s okay Zaynie, you aren’t in trouble, but where did you get hurt.”
“I didn’t get hurt.”
“What?” He covered his eyes as he sobbed.
“I didn’t get hurt! I broke your jam jar. I’m sorry Ms. Y/N!” When you looked more closely, you realized all the red on his body wasn’t blood, but spilled strawberry jam. Immediately, once relief washed over you, you couldn’t help, but giggle, making the baby’s frown deeper.
“Aww Zaynie.” You cuddled the crying boy, rubbing your cheek on his black hair and wiping away his tears. “I was just worried you got hurt. Next time, ask me ok.” With an adorable pout, he nodded. Since then, you made sure that all sweets were out of his reach, but you still let him indulge in desserts once in a while. Even making chocolate cookies with him and letting him lick the spoons.
It was peaceful when it was you and your little helper together. So, when adult Zayne returned, you couldn’t help, but rave about his baby self to him.
“You were so adorable, Zayne! You had the chubbiest cheeks, the most adorable face! I miss baby Zayne so much! I wish I had 100s of them.” Zayne’s face and the tips of his ears turned pink at the implication. He coughed before responding.
“Well, I can’t promise 100, but I wouldn’t mind having a kid with you.” You grinned. A child that would be half you and half Zayne. How could you say no!
Rafayel:
The moment baby Rafayel poofed in, it was a disaster. The whole day, you spent a majority of the time chasing after him. He refused to stay still, meaning you had to be vigilant. If you kept your eye off him for a second, he would be gone and you would find him on a precarious spot in his house about to get himself hurt, on the beach running after seagulls, or in the sea refusing to return to land until you “abandon him”.
It was exhausting. You could feel your soul slowly leaving your body. After dealing with him for a few hours, you decided your bodyguard pay wasn’t worth this. Besides, you weren’t Lemurian, how would you know how to properly care for a Lemurian child. With how rebellious and snarky baby Rafayel was, you thought he would be ecstatic when you told him he would be staying with his Aunt Talia, but…
“Nooooo! I don’t want to go stay with Aunt Talia! You said I could stay with you!” Rafayel screeched as he hung onto your arm.
“Sweetie, you’re lemurian, it would be best to be with your own, your family-”
“Aren’t we family?!”
“Yes, but-”
“You promised!” Rafayel yelled as he jumped up and down. ”I don’t wanna, I wanna stay on land with you!”
“But Raffie-”
“Sorry, Y/N.” Talia’s laughter rang from your cellphone. “I don’t think Rafayel wants to be away from you. You might need to be the one who watches him.” You sighed before pinching your brow. You had hoped to pawn off the bratty lemurian, but it seems you were stuck.
“Okay, can you just let me know if there is anything special I need to know about a Lemurian child?”
“Sure, I’ll send you a pamphlet.”
“A pamphlet?”
Reading through the document Talia sent you, the only difference was having to let Rafayel swim in the sea at least an hour for exercise and soak in the bath for a few hours daily. It shouldn’t be hard, but baby Rafayel liked to push your buttons. You tried dipping Rafayel’s tiny body into the bath, but each time you tried putting him down, he would screech and extend his limbs out, making it impossible to put him in the bath.
“Raf-”
“Noooooo! I don’t wanna take a bath, I want to play!”
“Raf you need-”
“Noooo! I want to play! I WANT TO-”
“ENOUGH!” Rafayel immediately flinched. Seeing him scared filled you with shame, but you had to put your foot down. “You’ve been really mean to me, Rafayel. If you keep behaving this way, we won’t have time to play and worse, I’ll have to give you to Talia or Thomas.”
“Noooo I want to stay please.”
“Then be good, okay?”
“Ok”
After you put your foot down, he calmed down, no longer yelling, though he would still complain and pout. Luckily, he stopped causing trouble and stayed by your side the rest of your time together. After a few days, when both of you were used to your new routine, you started to enjoy having child Rafayel around. One day, after he had been acting exceptionally, you decided to have a Rafayel day. A day when you did everything he wanted, which included making sand castles on the beach, swimming together, eating seafood for every meal, and finger painting.
“Look at me Mam- I mean Y/N.” You laughed as he frowned at his mistake with fish painted on his cheeks.
“You look so cool, Raffie.” You grinned as you squeezed his pink cheeks.
I could get used to this. You were thinking, when you were hit with a puff of purple smoke. You coughed as the mysterious gas filled your lungs and covered your eyes.
What was that?
When your vision returned, your little baby was no longer in front of you. Instead was your boyfriend staring back at you.
“Why am I covered in paint?” As much as you loved baby Raffie, you were relieved to see your man again. You hugged him, ignoring the paint that now covered both of you.
“I am so happy you’re back! I missed you! You turned into a kid and I had to babysit you the whole time.” Rafayel laughed as you recounted your whole week.
“So, did seeing baby Rafayel convince you to repopulate Lemuria with me.” You blushed and shoved him lightly.
“Yeah no. I’ll need to think about it.”
“What do you mean you have to think about it?!”
“You were adorable, but very tiring. I don’t think I can handle another baby again.”
“But-” You both “argued” about it for another hour. Though if you were honest, you were mostly teasing him. I mean who could resist such an offer.
Caleb:
“Pipsqueak!” Your vision was blurred and all you could do was fumble around on your back, trying to lift yourself from the pavement. You could barely remember what happened. You tried to figure out how you ended up on the ground injured, but everything was hazy. All you could recall was fighting terrorist evolvers, when one of them shot a blast at you and- “PIPSQUEAK!”
Caleb took the hit for you.
CALEB!
Panicked, you hastily attempted to get up, but you went back down as you felt a sharp pain on your side.
“Don’t move Pips, you’re hurt.” Pips?
That’s Caleb’s nickname for me, but why was the voice so high pitched?
Your vision cleared and you were finally able to see your surroundings. The moment you could see, you gasped as you saw a familiar shaggy brown haired boy with purple eyes staring down at you. The boy you remembered growing up with during your childhood, but how is he here?!
“Caleb.” You groaned. The boy immediately grinned as he cradled your hand in his tiny own.
“Of course it’s me Mei Mei.”
“Why, why are you a kid again?” Caleb’s eyes widened from confusion.
“I don’t know. We were at the playground and I was watching you go down the slide and then I was brought here”.
“Wait, so if you don’t remember being an adult, how do you recognize me?” The little boy's smile widened.
“Because it’s you, Pips.”
You stayed there for around an hour with baby Caleb watching you, trying to cheer you up and comfort you until help finally arrived. A tall male paramedic went by your side, knelt down to patch you up with a charming smile on his face.
“Don’t worry Miss, I’ll fix you up and bring you to the hospital. Was your son hurt as well?”
Peeking at the boy beside you, you could see Caleb’s face contorted with disgust.
“I’m not her son! I’m her husband!” The paramedic immediately looked at you shocked.
Oh my God.
“No, no, NO! I’m not a pedophile! I’m just babysitting him, right Caycay!” Your “brother” began to pout before disgruntledly agreeing. The man laughed, but quickly coughed after seeing the little boy’s enraged face and continued his aid.
—
“No!” Caleb yelled as he blocked you from the “threat”. Zayne sighed, his arms crossed as his brows furrowed.
“Caleb, I’m talking to Y/N. It’s her choice. She’s an adult and she’s hurt. I don’t think she will be able to take care of you-”
“She won’t have to! I will take care of her!”
“I wouldn’t suggest-”
“Zayne.” The whole situation reminded you so much of your childhood with Caleb and Zayne. Zayne, as he was now, was always more level headed and objective, while Caleb always prioritizes you even to his own detriment. You felt nostalgic watching their banter, but like those days, you had to play your role as mediator. “I appreciate your offer to have us stay with you, but my pain right now isn’t too bad. I think I’ll be fine watching him in my own place.” Exhausted, Zayne sighed again.
“Okay fine, but I’ll be checking up on both of you daily when I can.” You could tell by Caleb’s silence and stoicism, he was most likely annoyed by the doctor’s interference. Still, despite his bad mood, Caleb as before, held your hand. It made you smile. Caleb never changed.
—
The moment you both arrived home, Caleb refused to let you lift a single finger, ignoring the fact that you were currently more than double his age. That’s how you found yourself lying in bed, covered in blankets and plushies with two glasses with water and apple juice on your bedside table that Caleb never allowed to be empty.
“I’ll make dinner Mei Mei! What do you want to eat?”
“Caleb, you shouldn’t be using the stove on your own. Let me cook instead, or at least let me watch-”
“No Mei Mei! You need to rest, I’ll cook! What do you want to eat?” You wanted to disagree more, but you knew Caleb’s stubbornness personally. You had tried multiple times, when you were kids to even now to push back when Caleb made a choice, but most of your attempts had been unsuccessful.
“Okay Caleb, I want cereal.” Caleb pouted at your suggestion.
“That’s not a meal Pips, how are you going to grow-.” He paused. It appeared he had almost forgotten that you weren’t a kid or younger than him anymore. He coughed before continuing: “I mean, it’s not healthy. Don’t you trust me?” You placed your hand on his arm.
“Of course I do Caleb. Alright, can you make me grilled cheese.” He began to beam.
“Of course I can! I’ll make you soup too!”
—
Your rational brain yelled at you to get up and watch Caleb, but he had always been resourceful and your eyes were so heavy. So, distracted by the warmth of your blankets and softness from your plushies, you were knocked out until the smell of something burning filled your nostrils.
There’s a fire!!!
You got up quickly, ignoring the searing pain on your side and ran to your kitchen. The moment you entered, your heart dropped, it was a disaster zone. Tomato soup somehow got on every surface including the ceiling and your favorite pan was covered in what you assumed was a completely burned grilled cheese and black smoke emitting from it.
“What?” Caleb turned to you, biting his lip and holding his tears.
“I’m sorry Y/N. I’m so sorry.” His lips began to wobble. He was so ashamed, he couldn’t look at you. Instead he stared at the wall while trying to discreetly wipe his eyes. He was using every ounce of his strength to not cry, to be strong, to act as though he wasn’t a young kid. Sadly, at the end of the day, that was who he was now, a child pushing himself too far. You slowly approached, knelt down and hugged him. He instantly melted into your hold and leaned his head on your shoulder. You could feel the chill from his tears falling on your shirt.
“Caleb, there is nothing to be sorry about. I appreciate you doing the best you can to take care of me, but it’s okay if you need help.”
“But Pipsqueak, I’m supposed to take care of you.”
“You have been!” You moved him to face him directly and wiped the tears on his chubby cheeks. “But, it’s alright if you can’t do everything for me. I’m an adult now. You and Grandma have taught me all the things I needed to be independent. You don’t have to do everything for me anymore.” You thought your claim of independence would help, but it seemed to push him further in despair. He returned to your arms and began to softly sob.
“You don’t need me anymore?” His voice was low and cracking as he cried. You held his small body closer to yours, stroking the back of his head.
“No Caleb, I am not saying that at all. I will always need you, but I just don’t need you to help me with every little thing. I know how to take care of myself now, but I want you around because you are important to me and I need you in my team.” Finally, he was able to look into your eyes again.
“Really?”
“Really. Now please help me clean up the kitchen and we can order take-out. Anything you want.”
“Okay.”
—
After an hour of cleaning together, the kitchen was spotless and Chinese take-out food was on the way. Waiting for the food, Caleb began exploring your apartment while you scrolled on your phone. After a few minutes, you noticed he had stopped and had his focus set on a picture frame on your shelf. A giddy smile stretched on his face as he held it in his hand. You couldn’t believe you never noticed how in love he was with you, even as a kid.
You got up and walked behind him, looking at the picture he was enraptured with, one of your favorites as well. It was a picture of you and Caleb dancing together, wrapped in each other's arms, carefree and laughing. It was during a friend of yours’ wedding. The whole affair was romantic. You could still remember your heart racing as Caleb twirled you around and whispered in your ears, praising you, calling you beautiful, telling you how much he loved you and how excited he was to go back to the hotel room with you. The memory of the reception and the night together later still warmed your heart. Caleb turned around to you, stars shining in his eyes.
“Is this you and me? We’re together as adults?” You nodded.
“Yep that’s you. You become very tall, strong and handsome when you get older.” Caleb continued to grin and cheered.
“So, I did it! I finally married you!” Unintentionally you coughed, choking on your own spit.
“What?! No!” Caleb’s smile dropped. Seeing his discouraged face made you want to smack yourself in the head. You shouldn’t have reacted so negatively. You just panicked. Caleb was a constant in your life, but being lovers was new to you both. You knew the two of you were closer than most new couples. Unlike others, you and Caleb grew up closely together. Still, despite your deep connection, it didn’t stop you from being anxious of moving too fast. Also, your dangerous lives with Ever and the Farspace Fleet breathing down your necks, didn't help. Would the current Caleb even think of marriage? Would it be selfish of you to want it?
“Am I not good to you?” The young kid asked as his grip tightened around the picture frame.
“What? No, you are amazing. I love you so much Caleb.”
“Then why aren’t we married? I was supposed to marry you after I became a pilot.”
Caleb never told me that!
Your anxiety peaked. You didn’t want to make baby Caleb sad. So, you blurted out:
“We will get married soon though! We’re engaged.” The child’s happy mood returned, though he did pout a bit.
“I was supposed to marry you earlier, but at least my dream will come true soon!” Caleb’s sincere smile put butterflies in your stomach. Maybe marriage was more of a possibility than you thought.
—
After an hour, the food arrived, you both ate in front of the tv, watched a movie and later fell asleep on the couch. It reminded you of the weekends you would spend with him as kids. With a smile, and baby Caleb in your arms, you returned to dreamland, until your back was crushed by the back of the couch and a voice whispered your name.
Groggily you opened your eyes and were awoken to adult Caleb in uniform.
“Welcome back Colonel.” You whispered back as you cuddled your face into his chest.
“What happened?”
“You were hit during a fight and turned into a kid. I babysat you the whole day.” Caleb sighed.
“I’m sorry for making you do all that and making us miss the date we planned for a month.” You shrugged, a carefree grin on your face.
“No need to apologize. I was happy to do it. It was nice seeing you as a kid again and seeing how crazy you were about me.” Caleb chuckled.
“Yeah, I was always really obvious except to a certain naive Pipsqueak.”
“Well, you could have told me years earlier.” Caleb chuckled again and ruffled your hair.
“I know!” You both stayed silent, holding each other, enraptured in the night’s calm and silence, but after a while Caleb spoke again. “So, after taking care of a baby me, did it make you think of us having kids?”
“Mhhhm.” After a moment of thinking, you answered sullenly: “I would love to have kids with you, but I can’t risk Ever getting their hands on them.” Caleb frowned and placed a melancholic kiss on your forehead.
“I understand. I would one day want to have a child with you too, but I can’t imagine letting our kids experience what we did in those labs.”
“Right, but maybe we can talk about another step in our relationship?” Caleb smirked, his eyes playfully squinting with curiosity.
“What did you have in mind?”
“What do you think of marrying me? I mean I know I want to, but if it’s too fast or-” Caleb instantly jumped off the couch and your hold. “Caleb what are you doing? If I freaked you out?”
“No you could never freak me out. Damn it, I had it all planned and I wanted to do it right, but hopefully this is enough.” He kneeled on one knee in front of you. “Will you marry me?”
Answering was the easiest thing in the world.
“Yes!!!”
Xavier:
A mission had gone wrong and now you found yourself surrounded by Evolvers working for Ever.
“You better come with us willingly. Wouldn’t want to bruise that pretty face of yours.” One of the brutes taunted. Despite the dire situation, you remained stoic. You wouldn’t allow those assholes to see you weak. Besides, you came here with Xavier, your fiancée and hunter partner. Most likely he would come to the rescue. So, instead of complying, you pointed your duo guns at them.
“I’m not going down without a fight.”
“Fine, suit yourself.”
However, before they could attack, a flash of light blinded you. You smirked, a signature Xavier move. As usual, he was coming to your rescue and showing off. Once the light dimmed, all the men around you were knocked out, that didn’t shock you. What made you gasp was seeing a silver haired boy who uncannily resembled your partner standing in front of you, a sword in his hand.
“Are you alright Ms?” The young boy asked.
“I am, who are you?”
“Prince Xavier.”
Prince Xavier???!!!
—
You didn’t know what else to do, but to run to Jeremiah’s flower shop with Xavier in your arms. The moment you entered, Xavier’s best friend smiled.
“Well well, what brings you both-” He stopped in his tracks, seeing your partner's current state. “Why is Xavier a child?”
“I don’t know!” You yelled exasperated. “He was probably hit by an evol and turned into a kid. Though he keeps calling himself a prince.”
“It’s because he is” “Because I am”. Jeremiah and Xavier paused after answering at the same time. Jeremiah awkwardly laughed while Xavier stayed silent with a pout on his face.
“Anyways.” The florist continued. “In Philos, he was, but I think this is something he should tell you more when he’s older.” You groaned, Xavier and his never ending secrets.
“Well, it might be better if you take care of him. I will bring some of his things and-” Jeremiah shook his head.
“Nu-uh, I have plans. Besides, aren’t you his fiancée?”
“I am, but I never promised to raise him! Besides, I’m sure he would prefer his friend watching him versus a stranger.”
“1. I’m pretty sure this would be a part of the whole: “in sickness and health”. 2. You’re you, I’m 100% sure every version of him wants only you. 3. I met him when I was older than he is now. So, I’m as much of a stranger to him as you!” You groaned louder. You hated it when Jeremiah was right. You looked back at the child standing at your side, who seemed to be shining brighter than before.
“Xavier, it’s your choice. You can stay with me or-” Before you could finish your thought, Xavier answered excitedly.
“I'd rather stay with you!” Jeremiah smirked.
“It’s been decided.”
—
“And this is everything in our apartment. There are games, books and snacks. Let me know if you need anything else. ” As you showed him around, Xavier swayed around excitedly, taking in everything you showed him.
“So, I don’t need to study or train?” You giggled. Being a prince must have meant a lot of responsibilities.
“Exactly! Consider this your chance to have as much fun as you want.” Xavier grinned brightly, almost blinding you with his luminosity.
“That’s great! Also, are you really my fiancée in the future?” The question reminded you of the moment in the park, when the stars seemed to shine brighter than normal. You had a blanket laid out, with the plan to eat a charcuterie board and watch the stars with your boyfriend when Xavier kneeled and proposed. Of course you said:
“Yes I am.” Xavier grin widened.
“I should have known. You look like a Princess.” You giggled.
What a cutie.
—
A week had passed and Xavier was a well behaved kid, surprising for a child raised to be a prince. You thought he would be spoiled, but no. He was polite, cleaned after himself, helped you with chores (except cooking) and even went out of his way to be a gentleman to you. Multiple times, as he followed you around, he would pull up chairs for you, open the door for you, retrieve items you needed or carry bags. You asked him why he did all this, his only response:
“Because my mom told me I should be a gentleman. Especially to my future wife.”
If you could, you would have thanked his mom for raising her son so well, though Xavier did have his own quirks. Another thing you didn’t expect was how active he was. You had thought, as his current self, he would be sleepy most of the time and be a homebody, but that wasn’t the case. If you stopped watching kid Xavier for a moment, he would disappear in a flash and return a few minutes later. Usually bearing gifts for you. Most of the time, the gifts were flowers. It was sweet, but you told him constantly of the danger of leaving on his own.
Unfortunately, like his adult self, your words didn’t stop him and he kept leaving without any warning. You tried to bear it, but one day, after 15 minutes of waiting, you realized unlike the other times, he wasn’t coming back. In a panic, you searched all of Linkon, called your friends for help and even the police. The whole day, you were on the edge of tears. You couldn’t believe you lost your partner who was turned into a child. After a few hours of torture, you got a call from the police station.
“We found your son.”
You dashed to the station and the moment you entered, you saw Xavier sitting next to a few officers. The moment you entered, his eyes widened, shocked by your tears. When you got closer, he lowered his head and dawned a frown and puppy eyes.
“I’m so sorry Y/N.” You only sighed in response and thanked the officers.
—
Xavier tried to speak with you, but you were too upset and remained silent for the rest of the night. You finally understood why Grandma and Caleb used to scold you when you snuck off. This whole thing was the most fearful you’ve ever been. You thought you lost him and maybe the reminder of his adult self’s disappearances didn’t help either. You made him food and let him do what he wanted in the living room while returning to your bedroom alone. You tried to distract yourself by scrolling on your phone, but nothing resolved your disappointment.
After an hour of doom scrolling, you heard a soft knock on your door, you didn’t want to respond. That was until you saw a paper slip in from the crack of your door. You picked up the note and on it was a childish drawing of a bunny with a talking bubble on the top left that read: I’m sorry.
He’s just a naive kid.
You opened your door and in front of your room was a teary Xavier.
“I should have told you where I was going. I’m sorry Y/N.” You leaned down and hugged the boy.
“Just never scare me like that again, promise.” Xavier quietly replied:
“I promise.” You hugged him tighter and lifted him off the ground. His tears fell on your shoulder. It was a sweet moment, until you smelled smoke. “Also I made you cookies too Y/N.”
Oh no.
—
Once you extinguished the fire and saved your apartment, you both grabbed snacks and had a game night. He played games on the tv while you watched. It was fun, but there was another surprise, despite apparently not being allowed to play video games, as most things except cooking, he was great at it. Xavier at any age was truly a marvel. As you watched Xavier’s character slashing multiple enemies at once, a thought came to mind. You never asked him where he went this morning, or the other times he disappeared.
“By the way Xavier, where did you go?” The boy didn’t remove his gaze from the screen, but you could tell he was embarrassed. His ears and cheeks turned pink.
Adorable!
“I looked at our photo album and I wanted to make a map to remember the places we went to. I need to make sure you fall for me again.” You ruffled the boy’s hair.
“You’re so silly Xavie. You could have told me! We could have visited those places together.” He paused his game and turned to you.
“Could we?”
“Yes, where do you want to go first?”
—
Like a bucket list, you both went to the spots on each photo. This included amusement parks, arcades, the park, and more. In each spot, you tried to let the kid have the fun he was apparently not allowed to. Though, it wasn’t only him enjoying the trips, you found yourself relishing each moment. Being around his kid self made you feel you understood your fiancée more. After you went to your last spot, the park where he proposed, his map was complete. Under the moonlight, the boy thanked you and disappeared. In his place was the man you fell in love with. He was in a daze.
“My star, where are we?”
“In Linkon Park, you reverted back to being a kid or Prince Xavier.”
“I see I have more I have to tell you.”
“You do, but I’m exhausted. I think all I want now is to sleep beside you.”
“Of course.”
—
The two of you returned home, but no sleep was had. Instead, you spent the night indulging in each other, leaving you both more exhausted than before. After your session was over, with nothing but a towel on, Xavier kissed your sweaty forehead.
“My love, I'm going to shower. Do you want to join me?” You hummed. A seemingly innocent request, but you knew better. Xavier was insatiable.
“If I join, I know we aren’t going to be showering. Just shower first, I’ll go after you.”
“Alright my princess, I’ll be right back.” He left you alone heading to your shared washroom and once he was out of view, you were going to try to sleep, but your eyes landed on both of your clothes on the floor.
We’re so shameless. I should really tidy up.
Ignoring your soreness and the wobbling of your spent legs, you slowly picked up each article of clothing and carefully folded them. When you reached for Xavier’s pants, a piece of paper fell to the ground. You picked it up and immediately recognized it. It was the map you made with his younger self earlier. It shouldn’t have been surprising to see it in adult Xavier's possession, but what was shocking was the state of it. The map had yellowed and looked worn out, like the paper had been studied for years. You smiled and placed a delicate kiss on the sheet. You guessed Jeremiah was right. Every version of Xavier would always want you.
Hello Everyone! Sorry, it's taken me so long to write this part. More life news: I got a permanent job yay! But, on the same day I got my job, my dog died. Soooooooo, had a lot to deal with haha! I did the best I could with this part, but @lyrisnightblood if I fudged your request too much, let me know!
He never expected to see you again. He got you killed and your absence was supposed to be his punishment. He was destined to live the rest of his immortal life without you. What he didn’t expect was your return, yet as you always did, you returned to him.
Tags: Minors DNI!!! Canon Divergent, Alternate Universe, Sea God!Rafayel x Sacrifice!Reader, Sea God!Rafayel x Doctor!Reader, Angst, Suicide, Suggestive, OOC Rafayel, Main Character Death.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
Read Part 1 here!
Legend says that the town of Romirro’s shores is the home of an all-powerful Sea God. In the past, this small town was a large city, the capital of a no longer existing country. The Sea God protected the ancient city and in the God's kind gaze, the city prospered. However, the Romirrans made an unforgivable error. After dealing with decades of grueling war, the leaders of the city gifted him a bride. She was a beautiful human healer that was meant to be sacrificed. Unforeseeably, his bride betrayed him and escaped. Enraged, the God destroyed the city, drowning it in a consuming flood. Since then, a small town was reborn, bearing the same name of the forsaken city. The town’s people still clamored for the Sea God’s favor, but the God remained silent.
At least that’s how the legend went, and hearing it never failed to tick Rafayel off. He hated how the legend was written. The author wrote it in a way that took you out of the narrative. Taking away your agency, your noble sacrifice and turning you into a prop. Ignoring who you essentially were, a kind and brave woman. The same woman he loved dearly, his immaculate bride.
He remembers the night he first met you. It was centuries ago. It was a freezing night. The winds blew the rain harshly, making him shiver as he rose up from the sea. He had no intention of entertaining the ceremonial drums and choirs he heard on the surface earlier that day, but he had a sneaking suspicion the humans were up to something, and he was unfortunately right. The moment the raucous silenced, he decided to take a peek. He swam up, out of the water and he was greeted with a pitiful sight. A beautiful young woman wearing a white dress, soaking wet and tied to the sacrificial pillar that stood on a marble island that floated in the sea, a bit away from the land’s shore. You were shaking, yet remained stoic and limp. Even when he swam to you, revealing his divine form. Showing you his tall painted body and luminescent tail, and long purple and pink hair.
“What are you doing here tied up?” He asked with a booming voice. He expected you to flinch, but instead you lowered your head defeatedly.
“I am yours.” The Sea God cocked his head curiously, pressing his own hand on his chest.
“Mine? I don’t remember giving you such a title.” Despite you having been tied up, shivering, and now seeing an immortal being, it was only then you showed fear.
“I hope what I said didn’t offend you. I know I don’t have any claim to you. I am a sacrifice. They wanted to give me as a gift to you.” You paused before adding hesitantly. “To do whatever you please.” Rafayel squinted his eyes angrily.
Who’s the idiot who thought I would want this? Do they believe I’m a monster?
“Anything? So you won’t fight if I decide to kill you, hurt you, or even.” He leaned down with his face in front of yours, his breath warming your face. “Eat you?” Your eyes briefly widened before facing back down.
“If that is what you wish.”
Disgusting humans.
He approached, swimming around you, examining you as though you were his prey. You gulped, but didn’t budge. You were resilient, he had to give you props for that. He would have been more impressed if he didn’t find your devotion disturbing and stupid. Finally, after “teasing you”, he swam to your back where your arms were tied. He then summoned his knife and cut the ropes, setting you free. You stumbled forward, almost falling into the water, but you were luckily able to regain your balance. He thought you would run away the moment he destroyed your chains, instead you stayed in the same spot, rubbing your bruised wrists. You didn’t seem pleased.
“What are you doing my lord?” He crossed his arms while bobbing in the water.
“I am not looking for a sacrifice. Go home.” You stared at him disheartened. Your hurt expression oddly bothered him.
“Am I not to your preference?” Rafayel groaned.
“You are-” Sneakily, he looked you up and down. You were objectively gorgeous, but- He coughed. “You are satisfactory, but I do not seek a sacrifice, or a human bride. Now, I demand you to live a fulfilling life. Now go!” He waved you off, but you remained stubborn. You pouted, crossed your arms and glared at him.
“No.”
What?
Your reaction puzzled him. He was granting you mercy, what did you mean no?! He cocked his head.
“Excuse me?”
“I said no. If you don’t want me then what will it take for you to support us? We need you more than ever to win this war!” Rafayel rolled his eyes. Of course this had to do with the humans' self-imposed squabble.
“I don’t get involved in human affairs. My sole purpose is to protect this shore and all the creatures that inhabit it-”
“Then wouldn’t the citizens of Romirro count?” You asked as you intensely stared into the God's gem colored eyes, slowly crawling closer to him. He couldn’t believe your audacity to talk to him like this, like he was the one at fault.
“They would have, but your countrymen were selfish. They’ve attacked innocent nations to build up their own power. Now, those nations are fighting back. It’s retribution. Why should I interfere?” You went closer until you were directly facing the immortal merman while holding the pillar to not fall into the freezing seawater.
“Because not all those who are being punished are at fault. There are many innocent humans dying!”
“There is no such thing as innocent humans-”
“There are! Children, the elderly, humans just trying to live their lives. They pray to you! You have to at least try!” Your desperate cries hit Rafayel in the heart. For the first time, his inaction made him feel guilty, but he snuffed the feeling immediately. He knew better. Involving yourself with humans, especially as a Lemurian, never goes well.
“No.”
“But-” Before you could beg further, he sank back into the sea. He could hear your muffled shouts as he returned home. As he escaped, he couldn’t stop the lingering feeling of regret, but he reminded himself, humans were fickle. You were going to forget this experience, return home, and if you were smart, you would lie about him like the other humans do. Tell your brethren that he favored you, that he would support your conquest.
As you crept into his mind, he swam down to the coral reef that hid what remained of his home, Whale City. The city used to be an underwater paradise, but after the humans’ interventions, their multiple invasion attempts, their overfishing and pollution, his home was corrupted. The city was twisted into nothing more than ruins. The tall, pearl towers were cracked open, and overgrown parasitic sea life grew between the broken pieces, losing the city’s once glorious sheen. Rafayel was able to live in the peaceful city for the first few years of his immortal life, but like his parents, his city was taken for him, and he was forced to act as this cruel world’s last Sea God.
“I’m home.” Rafayel chanted quietly as he entered his empty and decayed temple. Like a familiar friend, the ache of loneliness filled the empty space. Despite his “holy” presence, few Lemurians trusted him enough to choose to remain underwater. The rest moved to land, either to sell their mythical bodies, or disguise themselves as humans and live a mundane life to escape starvation and poverty. He sighed, passed his meaningless throne and swam to his personal chamber. Perhaps after he shut his eyes, he would forget your disgusted grimace and pitiful cries.
—
“This has been happening all week! A new item every single day!” the older lemurian woman complained as she pointed to multiple items floating around her store. Looking more carefully, the young Sea God could see various pieces of cattle meat, jewelry, gems, baskets, and other items, all with a large rock attached to them by a rope.
Why would someone be doing this?
“You have to fix this my Lord! It’s starting to freak out my customers!” Rafayel groaned and pinched the bridge of his nose.
“Don’t worry Ma'am, I’ll-” As he spoke, he felt a heavy shift in the water. His eyes moved quickly to the source and saw there was another item descending and attached to a rock. This time, it was a knitted doll that had mauve and pink long hair, a violet tail, and shiny rocks for eyes.
Wait, the doll, is it supposed to look like me? Is this a threat?
“I’ll fix this.” Rafayel promised as he shot up out of the water, following the path the doll came from. Once he felt the chill from the land’s breeze, he saw a familiar figure on the shore.
“You!” Originally kneeling on the sand, you suddenly started to shuffle around before bowing.
“My lord, did you like my gifts?”
“Gifts?” Rafayel asked as he swam closer to you. “So, it was you throwing all that trash in the water!” You frowned as he pointed at you accusatorily.
“It’s not trash! It’s the best offerings I had! Since, I didn’t suffice, I thought my offerings would convince you.” The man laughed exasperated then moaned as he pulled on his own face.
“Look, you need to stop this! I already said no.”
“But-”
“And all you are doing now is polluting my sea. Now, if you don’t want me to show you my wrath, I would suggest you stop immediately.”
“But-”
“No more, human! Cease this and go!” You examined him with your shoulders slumped and a deep scowl.
“Can you at least hear me-”
“No good-bye.” Again, he dove back into the water, abandoning you, ignoring your pleading. As he sank down, his body flowing with the rush of water, his mind wandered back to you. You were such a stubborn human. Why were you so persistent? Most of your kind would have already given up, yet not you. What do you possibly have to gain from his aid? Were you looking for honor? Power? Wealth?
Oh well, hopefully she will finally listen and stop.
—
Weeks Later…
After his chastisement, you and the shore remained quiet. You piqued his interest and Rafayel couldn’t deny that he felt a bit of disappointment with your silence, but overall, he was happy you moved on. Now, you both could focus on your own lives. Though, what he did notice was more whispers, prayers of gratitude to him from Romirran’s citizens. It was strange. In the last century, the humans’ belief in him had dwindled. Most reserved themselves to yearly festivals and rituals, it was rare humans would pray to him daily. However, now, he was hearing a harmony of platitudes humming constantly.
One day, after his head reverberated with endless gratitudes, he decided to investigate. He returned to the surface, and from a distance, he noticed a small crowd forming around the beach.
What are the humans up to now?
Rafayel swam to an isolated part of the beach and got out from the waves. As he stood up, his mythical tail transformed into long and toned legs. He then conjured up a long cloak that covered him completely and joined the crowd. The moment he entered the group, he was suffocated. The people were rowdy, many begging for help and pushing to the front. Rafayel followed the movement of the crowd, stealthy gliding between patrons until he made it to the front.
“I could help who’s next!” His heart skipped a beat as he heard your melodious voice. There you were, hair up, robe sleeves rolled up, standing next to a table covered with potions and medical equipment. You couldn’t seem to leave him alone. Before he could move forward, an older woman ran to her while crying out:
“Help me healer!” You smiled and began speaking to her softly. His curiosity peaked, but he couldn’t hear what you were saying. Your voice was too delicate and was easily overpowered by the noise surrounding you both. He had the urge to silence the other patrons, but he remained patient and in the end, he watched as you gently applied ointment on the woman’s arm and wrapped it in bandages. Your swift and elegant movements were mesmerizing, he couldn’t keep his eyes off you.
“I can help who’s next!” Your cry snapped him out of the spell.
Stop getting distracted by the human Rafayel! I need to find out what’s happening.
Out of your sight, behind his back and hidden by his cloak, he ran the sharp edge of his knife to his palm, leaving a stinging bleeding cut.
“Coming.” He answered intentionally, making his voice a pitch higher. He rushed to you, and was immediately submerged by your perfume. A tantalizing floral and sweet smell of lavender and hyacinths encompassed him.
“What’s your name?” You asked softly, smiling at him adorably. Rafayel could feel his heart pounding in his ears. Unusually, his body shook. He couldn’t understand how you could have this effect on him, or why his throat was too dry to speak. After staying silent, you leaned in closer. “Are you alright?”
“Sorry, I-” Hesitantly, he revealed his hand from his cloak, showing his sliced hand. “My name is Rafayel and I cut my hand by mistake.”
“Aww” You cooed as you took his hand, holding it as though he was delicate. In response, his cheeks and the tips of his ears turned red. “You poor thing. Don’t worry, I’ll fix it.” You placed his hand on the table and began searching for something in your large pile of potions, until you landed on a purple slim bottle. “Got it!” You cheered as you grabbed the bottle and bandages and returned to his hand. “This.” You excitedly showed off the potion in your hand. “Is an elixir that will accelerate the healing process for your laceration and prevent infections. In a few hours, it should be fully healed. Till then, keep your hand bandaged. It should be all good after.” Rafayel nodded and stayed rigidly still as you opened the bottle. “Alright, just get ready, it will sting.”
After Rafayel took a breath, you poured the potion on his hand and he jerked. The moment the purple concoction touched his skin, his hand tingled then began to searingly burn. He hissed, but the pain quickly vanished and cool relief replaced it.
“You did it! Now, I’ll wrap your hand.” Gently, you held his palm and thoughtfully wrapped up his wound. Your hands were so comfortably warm. “Alright, you are all done.” Right after, you let go. Rafayel frowned from the loss of your warmth.
“What do I owe you?” He asked as he reached in his pockets, ready to conjure up gold coins for payment. You smirked before answering.
“I want you to chant a prayer of gratitude to the Sea God.”
“Really? Why?”
“Well, it’s a long story, but I’m hoping if enough people pray to the Sea God, he would consider giving Romirro his blessing.” Rafayel huffed, seems he thought too highly of you. Annoyance bubbled.
“So, you are only doing this to use the Sea God?” You stared at him in disbelief. You looked away before returning your eyes to the God’s harsh gaze.
“I know it may seem that way, and maybe it’s true that it is a part of the reason. However, is it wrong what I am doing? I am still following his will. Healing those who belong to him.”
“Well, I don’t see anything besides humans here. Where are the sea creatures? The seagulls?” You chuckled, but realizing the man in front of you was serious, you stopped and straightened your back.
“I mean nobody besides humans has come for my help. If there are sea creatures or seagulls who need my help, bring them to me. I can’t promise I will be able to heal them, but I’ll try.”
This time, Rafayel laughed before turning his back on the healer.
“Well, prepare yourself Y/N. I’ll be back with one of my sea friends and I expect your help!” You made a small bow.
“Of course and I hope you will consider our pleas, my lord.” He turned back to you and smirked.
She’s clever. She already figured me out.
“You are clever for a human, but as I said before-”
“I know, you can’t interfere, but like you said, I’m clever. I’ll convince you somehow.”
—
A Month Later…
As the prayers ramped up, he could feel his resolve shaking. The chants of young children. Their voices, soft and innocent, babbling and pleading for his help to save their fathers and mothers on the front line. The cries of the elderly, hoarse and most no longer praying for themselves, but for their legacies. The pleas of the despondent, scared and vulnerable. All of it broke his heart, but what kept him up at night was your voice, but not because of pity, but because of something worse.
Initially, when you prayed, you were like the rest. Begging for his support and power, but now, it's changed. Instead, you would have one way conversations with him. Asking him how his day was, talking about your own, and asking him questions he couldn’t answer. In the beginning, it irritated him, having your voice chirping in his ear when he tried to sleep. Now, he found it soothing, lolling him to sleep.
Though it had an unforeseeable consequence.
“Rafayel~” He opened his eyes and found you sitting on the beach. Smiling at him adoringly, as though you were old friends, or perhaps something more. “How was your day?” You were breathtaking. Your lushish hair and skin shining in the moonlight.
Rafayel sighed before flopping onto the sand.
“Busy as usual, just trying to rebuild my people’s home, while having to deal with your people constantly chattering in my head.” You laughed sweetly before lying next to him and leaning closer, looking down at him. You were close, too close. He gasped as he felt your hot breath on his skin.
“I’m sorry, I don’t mean to make things harder for you, but I know you can do this.” Rafayel groaned.
“Why, because I’m the all-powerful Sea God?”
“No, because you are you, and I happen to think you are pretty amazing.” Rafayel was left speechless. The day he was selected to be the Sea God, he lost his autonomy. Besides Talia and her family, everyone else saw him as a tool to achieve whatever they desired. He thought you were the exact same as the rest of them, but maybe you’re not, maybe-.
“Y/N.” He reached for you, wanting to feel your velvety cheek, no longer able to resist the urge to touch you and have you against him, but before his fingers could even graze you, he woke up.
“Ughhh.” He sat up and gripped his scalp. Why does he keep dreaming of you? He shouldn’t be feeling this way, longing for you. You both belonged to completely different worlds, only connected by your own persistence. You were unraveling him, creeping into his mind and heart. He needed to stop entertaining you. He needed to distance himself from you. You were going to be his undoing.
After that night, he decided to keep his distance. Unless he needed to, he refused to return to land. This had to be the solution. He hoped the distance would make you lose your grip on his heart, but his dreams, his desires never faded. They only warped more desperately, and despite staying away, you never stopped talking to him. Though your tone changed, you spoke to him more sullenly and hopelessly. Losing your typical cheerful cadence. It was painful, but he convinced himself that it had to be done. At least that was what he thought until he was woken up in the middle of the night.
“HELP!” “RAFAYEL!” The Sea God scrambled out of his bed the moment he heard two screams in his head. One was a high pitched screech and the other was deeper and more feminine. His heart trembled. Both of the voices were familiar and they painfully stinged his heart. The first belonged to a lemurian child, and the last one was yours.
No
—
“Hello?!” Panicked, he followed the traces of your prayers to a cavern that stood a few feet away from your makeshift clinic. The moment he entered the tunnel, a strong smell of iron emitted from the air.
Please no, not again.
“Y/N, where are you?!” No response, only silence. His whole body turned cold and numb.
What happened?
He ran further in as more and more evidence of a gruesome fight appeared. A trail of blood turned to red pools with bodies lying massacred around them.
Y/N…
Frantically, his eyes darted to each body, preparing to find your lifeless face, but none of the corpses were yours.
“Y/N!” His voice rang and he was going to continue running in when a response echoed back.
“We’re here.” His eyes teared up hearing your voice, though your voice was fragile, it was there, alive. As his pearl tears bounced off the ground, he dashed to the sound of your voice. As he closed in, he could see you kneeling on the ground, covered in blood, shaking and sobbing with a young lemurian boy he recognized hugging you. His fear, his panic was replaced with a hot rage that burned throughout his whole body.
“What happened?” He asked authoritatively, standing directly in front of you. You stayed in the same position, your head down, bowing and unresponsive. His heart broke as his anger was fueled. He moved to kneel in front of you, but before he could, a lemurian boy with pink hair jumped in front of you.
“My lord please!” The boy stood tall, his short arms wide, blocking you from his grasp. “She’s a good human. She protected me from poachers.” Rafayel’s frown deepened.
“Is this true Y/N?” You nodded slowly.
“Okay.” He took a breath. His heart raged on, but for your sake he knew he had to calm down. The poachers will be dealt with later. For now, you were his focus. He ruffled the boy's hair. “Thank you Cain. Are you alright? Can you travel back home on your own safely?”
“Yes, but the human woman-”
“She will not be hurt by me. I’ll make sure to heal any of her injuries, but I need you to return home.”
“Yes sir.” Cain bowed, gave you a forlorn hug while whispering something in your ear before running off. Once the boy was out of sight, Rafayel gently kneeled down and examined your body. During his examination, though you were covered head to toe in blood, he couldn’t spot any wounds. Did you fight off a group of poachers without a scratch? He wiped off the blood on your delicate face. “Are you alright Y/N?”
Your eyes lit up, losing its ghostly appearance the moment you looked at his face.
“Yes.” You spoke quietly. A pitiful smile shone on the Sea God’s face as he embraced you, patting and rubbing your back. In the start, your body stiffened, but slowly you melted into his touch, sobbing louder on his shoulder.
You both held each other in a comforting silence, until your sobs died down.
“Please tell me what happened Y/N.” He let go of your waist and returned his hold to your face as you sniffled before starting:
“I heard a commotion in this cave. The boy was screaming, calling for help. So, I went into the cave and saw these men trying to attack him. I told them to stop, but they wouldn’t because he’s a “lemurian” and they wanted his fish tail and scales. I kept screaming for them to leave the boy alone, but they ignored me. They were going to kill him! I couldn’t let them so I killed-” Your eyes began to water again.
“Protected him.” The man corrected. You bobbed your head hysterically.
“I did.” You sobbed as you wiped your eyes. “I didn’t want to kill them, but I had no choice I had-” He stared intensely into your eyes and stroked your hair.
“You don’t have to explain. I am grateful to you. You protected my own and I must repay you.”
“I don’t need anything, I don’t deserve-”
“You do.” Rafayel cleaned up the rest of the blood off your face. “Time and time again, you’ve proven yourself. You’ve remained persistent and helped those in need, including my people. There is nobody who deserves my blessing more.” Your eyes filled up with tears again.
“Thank you. Thank you.” You murmured reverently and he smiled at your praise.
“You are welcome, my follower. Now, close your eyes. I will bestow you with my blessing.”
“Of course.” You closed your eyes and ignored your nerves, staying as still as you could.
“I, Rafayel, the last Sea God selects you, Y/N as my acolyte, my closest and most loyal follower. Do you accept your new role as mine?”
“I do.”
“Then accept my gifts.” Feeling his thrumming heart, he leaned into you, and pressed his lips onto yours. You gasped and reactively, began to pull away, but he held your face firmly while making sure he wasn’t constraining you. “Do not be afraid. A kiss is how I grant you my strength, but we can stop if you no longer want this.”
“Okay.” You returned to him and looped your arms around his neck. “I want this.” Rafayel’s gaze searched your eyes for any doubt in your eyes, but seeing none, he looked back to your lips and moved. Placing his pink lips again to yours. His body blazed pleasurably, he craved more, but foremost, he wanted to respect you. In spite of his body desiring you, he denied himself and refused for the kiss to escalate. His lips remained slotted between yours and unmoving, feeling the flow of his power, travelling from within himself to the woman he was embracing. Tasting you was addicting, but the moment he felt too weak and all his power leaving, he let go of you, leaving you both breathless.
He could see your surprise as you examined your own body, more muscled and stronger than it’s ever been.
“What? What did you do to me, Rafayel?” The Sea God smirked, got up from the ground and wiped up the grime from his legs.
“As I have promised Y/N. I have granted you my power, to act as my retainer. You will act out my will. Do you understand?” You reached for his hand and placed the back of his hand on your forehead.
“I understand.”
—
Many things changed years after he had made you his. Your clinic closed and you moved your heroism to the front line. Acting as Romirran’s Golden Warrior and the Sea God’s servant, you almost singlehandedly fought off the capital’s invaders while protecting and healing the vulnerable. Rafayel was proud of you, but he missed your company. Your prayers to him sang more quietly and direct. Missing its previous charm and intimacy. During your time fighting and away, painful thoughts kept circling in his head:
Did he make a mistake?
Were you using him?
Resentment and the fear of losing you continuously bubbled and tortured him, until you returned home as you always did. Your bond demands it.
“Rafayel!” The man glared at the woman standing a foot from him on the beach. She was decorated in golden armor with a matching trident by her side.
“Took you long enough.” He sulked as he turned away from you with his arms crossed, focussing again on the sea and sand below him. You groaned at his dramatics before sitting next to him.
“Believe me, after months of constant fighting, all I wanted was to return back home to you.” He stared at you, trying to see any sign of deception, but as always, there was none. He placed his hand on yours.
“I missed you.” You grinned triumphantly before resting your head on his.
“I missed you too.” You both stayed there, enjoying each other before you stood up, making Rafayel whimper. “Now that you finally admitted that you missed me, would you take me out for dinner?”
The Sea God laughed before following you and standing up as well.
“Why should I be taking you out for dinner? You’re my servant, you should be treating me.” You rolled your eyes.
“Puhlease! Believe me, I barely get paid anything, even being “Romirrans’ Golden Warrior” doesn’t get me any wealth.”
“I told you!~ Humans are ungrateful, you would have gained more by lying.”
“Hey!” You weakly shoved him. “I’m human too!”
“You’ve only proven my point more! Nobody is more ungrateful than you. You barely pray or visit me anymore.” Rafayel tried to say it jokingly, but he could see your smile shrink.
“Rafayel, I’m sorry I didn’t mean-” The Sea God frowned before shrugging his shoulders. Why is he sabotaging this? It’s not your fault he needed you more than you needed him.
“I was just kidding Y/N. Now let me treat you to dinner.”
“Really?!” Rafayel smirked and turned away from you.
“Of course, now follow me.”
—
Sitting at a lemurian run tavern, you both sat at a table near the fireplace. His heart warmed as he watched you beaming and enthusiastically eating the feast in front of you.
“Do they not feed you in the army?” You stared at him startled. Your cheeks filled with food like a chipmunk before swallowing your food and answering:
“They do, but it never tastes as good as the food here!” You continued shovelling the food in your mouth, ignoring the Lemurian’s grin.
“I am happy to please. So, how is the war going?” You beamed.
“Well, I am proud to report that a peace negotiation is being worked on at this very moment. We’re hoping the fighting will end in the upcoming weeks.” Rafayel couldn’t stop his own smile from widening.
“Does this mean?” The man interlocked his hand in yours. “That you'll finally be returning home and staying?” You were excited at first, but you quickly switched. Your joy drained from your face.
“Of course, but Rafayel.” You removed your hand from his and crossed your hands together, laying them on the table. Your expression suddenly grim. “We need to talk about something.” You looked around the dining room before shifting closer to him and whispering: “I think your life is in danger. Listen, there are people who want you-” The Sea God placed his hand on top of your own, silencing you.
“I understand your concern, but not tonight. Let’s let this night be ours.” You frowned and your gaze left him. You stared at the table contemplative before sighing and returning back to him.
“Alright Rafayel. The night is ours.”
—
The moment you both entered the rented room, you were inseparable. Your arm was wrapped around his neck, his arms on your waist as you both indulged in each other. Your lips moving against his desperately, hungrily. Rafayel wanted to return your fervor, feeding the tension that had been building for the last few years between you, but doubt clouded his mind. Did you truly want him, or the power he could provide you? He hesitated and barely moved, but although he barely entertained you, you refused to give up. You were persistent as always. You bit his lip making him involuntarily moan and allowing you access. Controlled by your passion, you intertwined your tongue with his, exploring any depth you could. Your hand reaching inside his robe, grabbing and squeezing his chest.
The Sea God wanted to touch you too, beg you to take him, but the heat, the pleasure was too hot, too blinding. He pushed you away, trying to catch his breath.
“Stop.” He pleaded. Immediately you blanched. His heart shattered seeing the mortified look on your pale face. He wanted to return to your arm, correct his rejection, but he couldn’t. He had to be strong for you both. He wiped the saliva from his lips. “That should be enough to grant you the power you need. You can go.” Your eyes watered.
“I’m, I’m sorry I misunderstood. I thought you wanted this too.” You crossed your arms, unable to look at him. Rafayel sat on the bed and traced patterns on the sheets.
“I do want this, but maybe not for the same reason as you do.” Typically, you would have closed in and sat next to him, but you kept your distance.
“What reasons?”
“I’m a Lemurian Y/N. If all you want from me is power, or fun, then I can’t entertain this anymore. My people are built for love and devotion. We spend our whole lives looking for our other half and the moment we find them, we dedicate our entire body and souls to them. I need to know that after this war is over, after I am no longer useful to you, that you won’t throw me away. That you’ll stay with me and be as committed to me as I want to be with you. If you cannot, then I can keep giving you my blessing, but I entertain you anymore".
“Rafayel, I’m so sorry. I didn’t know you felt that way. I never meant-”
“Please, no more platitudes. I need an answer.” He turned to you, staring at you yearningly, desperate for your response. You took a breath and stood in front of him, your palm resting on his leaning cheek.
“I need you too, Rafayel. I don’t blame your doubts. Before, I only wanted your blessing, but now, all I want is you. I don’t care if after this war you stop giving me your power. I promise to continue to be devoted to you and love you. If you allow it.” Rafayel froze.
“You love me?” Your tears fell from your eyes, but not from pain, instead relieving bliss. With a watery grin, you pressed a chaste kiss on your beloved’s forehead.
“I love you.” Rafayel smirked.
“Well if that’s the case.” Rafayel grabbed your arm and pulled you on top of him.
“Did you want to continue where we left off?” You nodded excitedly and took him into your arms. Admiring and lovingly taking every inch of him for the rest of the night.
—
“Thirsty.” Rafayel moaned, exhausted and sweaty, sitting up after hours of falling into each other. You giggled as you pushed yourself up. Your blanket falling from your naked shoulders.
“I’ll get you a drink. I’ll be right back.” You stood up, put back your robe and walked to the entrance, but before you could exit, your room’s door opened in a loud bang. A group of men entered, wearing armor marked in Romirro’s emblems with weapons gripped in their hands. In spite of the previous romantic haze, the Sea God sobered up. Seeing the largest man littered with scars stepping up to the front, his weapon pointed at you.
“Golden, where is the Sea God?” Protectively, you stood in front of your lover, your own weapon in your hands.
“I don’t know where he is. I told you, I would bring him to you when I can! It takes time to summon him.” The stranger glared skeptically, quickly moving his focus to Rafayel.
“Then who’s this boy lying in your bed?” You stepped closer to your rival, looking up and close to the man’s face.
“What? Does he have to be somebody? Can’t a woman enjoy her share of lovers as well? Or is that only something a man can enjoy?” The soldier looked at you in disgust.
“I don’t care what you do in your free time. The magistrates demand the body of the Sea God. You know what will happen if you don’t get us what we want.” Your visage turned dark and sullen, sending a chill down Rafayel's body. What was going on?
“I know, now get out!” You pointed your weapon to the door. “You all saw me fight on the battlefield. You know I can easily dispatch every single one of you”. Your opponent grumbled before shoving the crowd out of your room, leaving you alone with Rafayel. Your lover was too shocked to speak. Meanwhile, you dropped your trident to the ground, the clank of the weapon ringing in the air. You gripped your face and sighed loudly. It seemed you were too anxious to speak as well. Despite his own shock, Rafayel knew he had to take the lead.
“What did they mean Y/N? Are you going to try to kill me?” Panicked, you knelt in front of him.
“You know my heart, my mind. I would never hurt you.”
“Then why did they say you promised them my body? Because-” His eyes glowed faintly blue, but instantly, you placed your hands on his knees, dimming the threatening glow.
“I swear my love, I only said that to buy us time. They threatened to kill my whole bloodline if I didn’t murder you. That’s what I wanted to talk to you about. I need your help.”
“Why would they want to kill me?” You laid your head on his lap before continuing:
“According to an ancient text, if a Sea God’s chosen murders and devours their lord’s heart, they will gain their godhood. I told them it was ridiculous, but they didn’t believe me.” Your God stroked your hair tenderly.
“If it was true, would that be what you want? Godhood?”
“Even if I could, I would never want that!” Your body began trembling, tears streaming from your eyes. “All I wanted was to help our city, but I was so stupid and naive. I should have never got you involved. I am so sorry my love. But there has to be a way to fix this right?”
Rafayel could barely breathe. The new threat was suffocating. Things weren’t supposed to be this way. You both had finally confessed and the war was supposed to be over. Why did humans have to ruin everything? And, the worst part, the humans weren’t misinformed. If you did kill him, you would obtain his essence, which would turn you into a goddess. It’s how he ascended as well. It's how he lost his mother.
You both remained silent, your weeping the only sound in the room. Rafayel tried to think of a solution, but nothing. You needed his power, and even if you both “faked” his death, your lack of ascension would be easily proven. There was only one solution.
“I have to die.” The moment he said it, you looked back at him and panicked. Weakly, you cried:
“No No No.”
Despite your pleas, his mind couldn’t reject his new plan. During his long lifetime, he watched so many people he loved die. He thought during the dawn of his own death, like so many others, he would feel scared, upset, or angry. Instead, he felt a calm melancholy. He didn’t want to die, he wanted to spend as long as he could with you, but separation was inevitable. Though he had previously thought he would outlive you, was dying first so horrible? He had been alive for centuries and if he was honest, he knew he lived long enough. If he could sacrifice his life and save you and those you loved, it would be worth it. Besides, perhaps as a Goddess, you would be able to achieve much more than he could, for Romirro and Lemuria.
“No Rafayel.” You tightly gripped his hands. “I would never hurt you. What if we fake your death? Or, I’ll contact my family and we can run away? Or?”
“Enough Y/N. We can’t pretend, or run. They would quickly find out our lies and they’ll hurt you and your family. Plus, I can’t leave Lemurians without a guardian.”
“But Raf-”
“I’m tired Y/N. I’ve been living for too long and besides, I think the world would benefit from a more pure and kind Goddess.”
“But Raf no I-” The Sea God pressed a finger to your lips.
“Please, Y/N. Let me save you.” Your eyes darkened, but you agreed grimly.
“Alright.”
—
“Here is where we should do it.” Rafayel led you, holding your hand while wading through the sea. “When I die, I want to be in my home. I think this is a fair request.” You stared at him despondently.
“How are you so calm Rafayel? I’m going to kill you.” The man smiled and held your shoulders.
“You’ve proven to me over and over your worth. There is nobody who deserves my power more than you. Just promise to keep our people safe.” You shook your head in agreement and bowed in the flowing waves. “Thank you.” Rafayel summoned his blade and placed it into your hands. “Now, take what is yours.” You held his knife tightly.
“Can I have a final kiss?” The god giggled.
“Anything for you.” Rafayel pulled you in closer, swaying you back and forth before placing his soft lips on yours. Lingering as long as he could, before letting you go. “I love you Y/N.”
“I love you too.” Then the sickening sound of the slicing of skin rang in his ears. At first he wasn’t scared, until he realized he felt no pain. “And I’m sorry.” A thin line of red grew on your neck before a stream of blood fell to the sea.
“No No No NO NO NO Y/N what did you do??!!!” You grinned, red staining your teeth as you fell into the water. “NO!” He caught you before you sank, but you were already pale and fading fast. “Our bond… It cannot end this way! I won’t allow it!” You attempted to speak, but your words were garbled then silent. The light forever left your eyes, leaving Rafayel alone. Stunned, holding your limp body, Rafayel remained motionless, pearls falling continuously from his eyes.
How could you betray him? How could you leave him alone?!
—
Rafayel didn’t know how long he stayed on that shore, holding your lifeless body, crying and mourning. He barely remembered what happened after, only that after struggling, his aunt came for him and held him while her husband took his lovers’ corpse away. He then somehow returned to his temple without you.
His aunt and his friends tried to help him move on, but the image of your limp corpse haunted him. He knew after your death, you would have wanted him to live his life and follow both your wills of protecting Romirrans and Lemurians, but he couldn’t. The day you died, all he could feel was numbing guilt. He locked himself away, away from Romirro, away from his people, and only came out when truly necessary. Even when a devastating flood washed the capital away, he refused to interfere. Perhaps comforted by the idea that the flood was karmic punishment. Though as a consequence of his inaction, in time, the pleas to him halted until he was completely forgotten. Only remembered by the surviving Lemurians.
He was resolved to be alone, to live in complete solitude forever mourning you. It was his punishment for failing you. What he didn’t expect was for you to return.
—
Centuries passed, and after grieving for so long and his aunt’s constant insistence, he decided to finally live again. He moved out of his ruined temple to the town that replaced the capital he hated. He also started a career as an artist while doing his best for his people and travelling the world. Slowly, he started to feel again, but he could no longer open himself up fully to anyone. Many had tried to approach him, especially romantically, but he refused each time. He had a chance for love, but he ruined it. Besides, how could he face you again if he did. So, he went through life quietly and solitary, but that changed on a seemingly regular night.
The sky was clear and the moon shined full. He stood on top of the cliff overlooking the sea. Spending the time as usual thinking of you as he watched the rising waves, when a car hastily parked next to him, nearly almost hitting his own. Rafayel rolled his eyes. Another rude human. He planned to drive away and go home, when he saw a sobbing young woman clumsily slamming her car door closed and stumbling to her bumper.
The Sea God felt a tinge of awkwardness. His mind fought between not wanting to interfere and a responsibility to help. You would have wanted him to assist, but-
No, I should just leave them alone.
He was taking out his car keys when he heard the poor girl’s sobs grow louder, with murmurs accompanying her cries. Rafayel sighed, before slowly approaching. He needed to step up.
“Hey, are you alright?” The girl shook her head as her face remained hidden, curling inwards as she sat on her rusty car’s bumper. He sat next to her and patted her back. “Would you like to talk about it? I know that helps me, sometimes.”
“You don’t have to. You don’t even know me.”
“Well, perhaps not, but maybe that will make it easier to share with me.” The woman’s sobs slowly stopped before she spoke again:
“Alright. I- I had a fight with my dad and I ran away from home.” The girl sat up and wiped away her tears. As she revealed her visage, Rafayel froze. The face he missed, longed for, painted over and over to remember was back and alive.
How is this possible?
His aunt had told him stories of reincarnation, but he never allowed himself to hope until now. For a while he couldn’t breathe or speak. What could he possibly say to you:
Hey, I’m Rafayel. We knew each other centuries ago, in fact we were briefly lovers. Unfortunately, to save me, you sacrificed yourself. Now I’ve had to live centuries without you, I miss you and still love you. Would you forgive me and take me back?!
“Are you okay? If you’re uncomfortable-” Rafayel shook himself and got out of his stupor.
“I’m sorry, I was just lost in thought. Please go on.” You nodded before continuing.
“I got into a fight with my dad today. Ever since my mom died, my dad’s obsession with the non-existing Sea God has gotten worse. Plus, he just either ignores me completely, or puts so much pressure on me. He wants me to stay in this stupid town and be a good little “priestess” for the Sea God. It’s ridiculous right?! So, I grabbed all my stuff and I’m planning on moving to Linkon. I’m going to become a doctor and forget this backwards place!”
It stung for Rafayel hearing you were completely faithless when it came to his divinity. It was previously your faith and loyalty to him that bonded you together, but now, you refused his existence. Maybe, it was better this way.
“Alright, so why are you still sitting here? Seems you had a great plan.”
“I know, I just… I just didn’t want things to end like this with my father. I love him despite everything and I’m just so lost! Was I wrong? Should I just go back home? I mean maybe I can find a way to fulfill my dream at home, while keeping my dad happy.”
He looked into your beautiful and vulnerable eyes. He knew if he played everything right, he could convince you to stay, and in time, he could get you back and convince you to love him again. Sure it would be a long run, but if you leave now, something in his heart tells him that he would lose you forever.
“I don’t think-” Before he could continue, he took a pause. He wanted you so bad, but having you in his life, would it be best for you? You died because of him. If he had remained firm and didn’t interfere in your life in the first place, you wouldn’t have died in that ocean. Perhaps he was the cursed one and it was more merciful for him to stay away. “I don’t think I have an answer for you. I don’t know you, but I have an inkling that you have a good heart. So, what does your heart say?”
Your gaze moved downwards and turned contemplative. Rafayel became misty eyed as he saw the fidgeting of your leg, the tapping of your index finger, the bite of your bottom lip, all signs you’ve always shown when you were deep in thought. It really was you.
“It hurts, but letting go of my dream won’t solve things with my father. My relationship with him has always been rough. I don’t think he would ever be proud of me. It’s better if I just go.”
Rafayel smiled bitterly. He was going to lose you again, but maybe in this lifetime, you would be happier. Even if that meant happier without him.
“Then, that’s the right choice.” The man patted you on the back and tried to give the sweetest grin he could. “And you will be an amazing doctor.” You smiled back dorkily and got up and stretched.
“I will be. Thanks, uh sorry what’s your name?” The Sea God followed your lead, got up from your car and scratched his neck.
“Sorry, I don’t really share my name with strangers. You know stranger danger.” You giggled, making Rafayel’s heart soar. You were happy.
“That’s fair. Well, I guess I need to stop crying and continue driving. Thank you again for talking with me. I will definitely remember you.” Rafayel chuckled.
“You probably won’t, but it’s better that way.” You dorkily beamed at him for a final time before getting back in your car and driving away. Leaving him forever. He stayed on the cliff watching your car going further and further away until you were only a dot.
“Goodbye Y/N, please live happily for me.”
“Raf~ RAF!”
—
He opened his eyes, gasping for air, pearls rolling around his bed. He flinched when a warm hand touched his naked shoulder.
“Are you alright?” He turned to his source of comfort, you. Looking like a dream, you were lying on his bed in a lilac colored night dress with a concerned look on your face. Desperate to feel you, Rafayel grabbed your hand and kissed each of your fingers, making you redder after each press of his lips.
“Yeah, just a bad dream.”
“What did you dream about?” He let go of your hand, stroked your cheek then tucked a hair behind your ear. Making sure you were real.
“I dreamed of a world without it. It was miserable.” You pouted.
“It was just a dream. I’m here.” He stared intensely into your eyes.
“Do you promise to stay with me? What if I make your life worse?” You pinched his cheeks, getting a yelp from the Sea God next to you.
“We don’t have control of life. Things can get worse, but it wouldn’t be your fault. Still, I promise to stay with you. To weather any storm with you.”
“Okay” Rafayel answered sullenly before holding your face and planting a kiss on your lips, chaste and hesitant. You smiled at his tenderness and moved in closer, kissing him more hungrily.
“I need more Rafayel.” Rafayel smirked. He was happy to satisfy your needs. Afterall, when you returned to him, he made it his mission to ensure in this life and every life after, to give you anything you could ever want. Making you the happiest woman he could.
This drabble is inspired by Tiktoks I kept seeing showing the messages and convos you have with the LIs (especially Caleb) when you don't play LADS for awhile. They make me want to cry, so why not try to make someone else cry instead!
Tags: Angst/no comfort, Not Self Aware!Caleb x Player!Reader, Player Abandonment.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
He sat alone in the cafe waiting, always waiting. He couldn’t remember exactly how long it’s been since he has seen you, but it felt like it’s been an excruciatingly long time.
He blamed himself for your abandonment. He should have known he was losing you. Your disinterested stares. Your annoyed eye rolls when you spend time together. Your silence and then your disappearances. He was accustomed to seeing you everyday. Your visits became a part of his routine. The highlight of his day. His reprieve after working under the oppressive shadows of the fleet. Unfortunately, slowly you were showing up less and less. It started with not seeing you for a day or two, and it did bother him, but he chose to be patient. You were a successful hunter with your own life. Despite choosing to revolve his life around you, as a colonel, he understood that sometimes work gets in the way. He thought all of this would be a hill you’ll both pass, like all the obstacles you’ve both faced together before, but the distance only grew wider and wider. It started with not seeing you for days, then months, now, it’s been more than a year since he’s been in the presence of his beloved.
He missed you. Your adorable and shy smiles. How your cheeks and ears used to turn rosy when he teased you. Your loud chuckle when you laughed at his horrible dad jokes. Your pensive stares as you strategized your next steps on the claw machine.
He longs for you. He needs you. You were his shining light, his savior, his love, his reason for living. He can’t survive without you. He wants to tell you all of this. He wished he did now that you were gone. He tried messaging you, calling you, searching in all your hiding spots, but for the first time, he couldn’t find you. You have completely vanished.
The first few months, he tried to shrug his pain off and focussed on work. Anytime Gideon would ask, he would immediately shut him down. His subordinates, despite enduring his increased irritation and cruelty, were too afraid to say a word.
Now, he could barely function. His body worked in autopilot with the chip navigating for him when he played the role of colonel, but when he returned back to being Caleb, when he was alone, he was a wreck. Every day, he sat in the cafe for hours, with the slimmer of hope that you’ll pop in like you used to. Drinking coffee that tasted too saccharine while reading his reports. Trying to ignore the burning resentment and all-encompassing despair. Trying to disregard his internal agony, but inevitability falling into a downward spiral from the endless questions in his mind:
What did he do wrong?
Why did you decide to leave and abandon him?
Is this revenge for when he disappeared?
Are you okay? Are you hurt?
Did you finally realize how monstrous he was? Did he scare you away?
The questions knocked around his skull and all he could do was dig his nails into the sofa’s arms and plead for your return. Yet, no matter how much he begged, his questions remained unanswered. You're gone and have forsaken him.
Hello Everyone! I wanted to post this request from @lyrisnightblood (Thank you again for the request!) earlier, but life happened and I got busy. Aka: studied for and did a job interview (didn't get it :( ) and kidney stones :D. Anyways, this is only part one. I wanted to post both parts at the same time, but since part 2 or the part that focusses on Rafayel's POV is taking too long, I decided to at least post part 1 that mainly focusses on the reader's POV. Hope you all enjoy, and sorry if it doesn't do the request justice.
You’ve always had a complicated relationship with your home town. You didn’t think you would ever return, but fate had other plans. Coming back home, you expected only business, not romance!
Tags: Canon Divergent, Alternate Universe, Sea God!Rafayel x Doctor!Reader, Mentor!Zayne x Reader (One-Sided Crush on Zayne’s end, sorry if Zayne is your bias), Gory Nightmare, Daddy Issues, Inaccuracies about Hospitals/Clinics, Fluff.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
You looked out the car window and watched the shores you used to explore as a child. Despite the idyllic memories of the warm sun on your skin, the breathtaking blue waves, and your mother’s laughter ringing in the air, the sight didn’t fill you with heartwarming nostalgia. Instead, only bitterness lingered.
“Legend says that this shore is the home to a powerful Sea God.” You told your driver as your eyes remained fixated on the outside. “A long time ago, this God was the guardian of the ancient city known as Romirro. As the story goes, the city prospered because of their loyalty to him. However, the city made a fatal mistake. After dealing with a conflict with another nation, the Romirrans gifted him a human priestess to sacrifice, trying to appease their deity and get his aid for the ongoing war. Tragically, the human woman, his bride, betrayed him and escaped her destiny. Enraged, the God completely wiped the city away, drowning any trace of civilization in a large flood. Since then, with the God's forgiveness, a small town was able to blossom from the ruins, my “beloved” home town. To this day, the town does everything they can to try to re-earn their God’s favor, but as of now, they never regained the same favor Romirro once had, even if they adopted the same name.”
Your driver and mentor kept his hazel green eyes on the road as he asked:
“Interesting. How about you? Do you believe in the existence of the Sea God?” You groaned and rolled your eyes.
“Puhlease, it’s just a myth. There are no such things. I’m just telling you the story to warn you.”
“Warn me?” You grumbled as you leaned your cheek on the cool window glass.
“My people are very superstitious. Don’t be surprised if they expect you to behave a certain way, or refuse our help because we are “outsiders”.”
“I thought you were born in this town?” Your heart felt heavy. Although you were raised in the very town you were driving to, you knew nobody was waiting for you there. Anyone who loved you, or would have considered you a family or friend died. Now, nobody remembers you, besides the fact that at 18 years old, the moment you could, you abandoned your town and family.
“They don’t take too kindly to those who leave the Sea God’s gaze.”
—
After hours of driving, you finally returned home. The black BMW parked in the driveway of a wooden shack. The rusty house stood in front of a cliff that overlooked the vast dark and imposing ocean that mirrored the moon. This humble home used to be your family’s, and a sanctuary for those who wanted to worship the island’s deity. Unfortunately, after your last family member, your father’s died, the home has long been abandoned. You huffed as you exited the car.
“I’m sorry Doctor Zayne, I wish I could have given you better accommodations. My family home is uhhh humble.” The taller raven haired man softly laughed as he exited the driver’s seat.
“That’s alright Ms. L/N. We’re only here for a month. This place will suffice. Besides, it has a beautiful view.”
—
Once you both entered the dilapidated building, you sighed in relief. Luckily, the home, despite its crumbling exterior, was tidy when you entered. An acquaintance of your family was gracious enough to clean your home before your arrival after you pleaded for help.
“This is my casa.” You greeted as you did a dramatic twirl. “Let me show you where you will be staying while here, and all the wonderful amenities”. Gingerly, you showed your mentor around until you opened the master room, or his room and wished him a good night. The moment his door closed, you grabbed your own luggage and trudged it into your former bedroom. The door creaked as you entered.
The baby blue walls and white wooden furniture instantly caught your attention. Your eyes and mouth widened in shock. You looked around the room for any discrepancies, but there were none. Your school books, plushies, drawings and supplies were in their usual spots. It was familiar, uncanny. As though you had never left. You walked around your small room, your finger gliding on the top of your desk as the vivid memory of the last night you were here hit you. The pain in your throat and heart, your face and body heating up as you angrily packed your things while yelling at your father who was sitting silently in the living room. You remember horrendous and nasty words tumbling from your mouth, trying to make up for years of resentment from your father, always making you feel unworthy of his or his God’s love. After you departed, you had always thought your only living parent at the time would have erased your existence; morphed your childhood home into another altar for the Sea God he cherished so much. Instead, he kept you in his home. You took a breath as your eyes began to tear up. Guilt built up, but after he treated you harshly for years, should you still feel sorry. Still, you murmured a quiet sorry before undressing and preparing for bed.
—
It hurts
Agonizing pain rippled in your body as a knife stuck out from your chest. You had been stabbed by the man you loved.
“No, I refuse to accept this betrayal!”. In front of you was a celestial merman, looking down at you with blue and rose eyes pooling with tears. As he wept, his long mauve and pink hair cascaded and dipped into the sea and his painted and fair body tremored from anguish. When the knife faded into light in the air, the man hastily grabbed you and held your dying body in his arms.
You always tried to speak, to ask your mysterious lover what was going on, but nothing came out. Instead, you could only hear your own voice, despite you not uttering a word, resigning yourself to death while your hand reached out and stroked his soft cheek. You were a spectator to your own death.
“Our bond… It cannot end this way! I won’t allow it!” The man whimpered as his previously held tears fell from his mournful eyes.
You could hear your voice wavering, promising to forever be with him as you tasted blood in your mouth.
Please stop this pain.
Then, as he held you, you slipped. Suddenly, you were let go into the freezing sea. Your body sinking to the bottom. You gasped from the sudden cold.
Please help.
You tried to scream, to reach for the merman once holding you, but the salt water filled your lungs and the man was too far. Then as bubbles rose to the top from your cries, your blood began to change the color of the water until all you could see was red.
No-Please R- Save me.
You thought you were alone and about to drown, but then you heard rumbling surrounding you. Angry voices echoing:
“You killed us.” “Our deaths are your fault!” “You made the Sea God stray!”
No, I didn’t!
Panicking more, you examined around you, and saw nothing but bloody water until you felt excruciating scratches on your limbs. You looked down at yourself, and you saw pale disembodied hands grabbing you, clawing, and ripping your skin, vengefully dragging you further into the water.
“HELP!”
—
You woke up screaming in your bed. Sweat covered you head to toe, you were shaking. Your eyes darted around your room, trying to find anything to ground yourself.
“Are you alright Ms. L/N?” You jumped as a voice boomed in your doorway. You quickly turned to the source of the noise only to feel immediate relief. Outside your doorway was your mentor in blue striped pjs, looking at you concerningly.
“I am so sorry Dr. Zayne. I just had a bad dream.” Assured, Dr. Zayne’s panic vanished. He smiled and slouched his tall figure against the molding on your door’s entrance.
“I am happy to hear you weren’t harmed. Still-” He started pensively. “It must have been a horrible nightmare. Do you want to talk about it?” You shook your head.
“I’m alright. I think I may need to get some fresh air.” You got up in your pajama shirt and shorts and headed out of your room, but the doctor stood in your way.
“It’s dangerous to go alone. I’ll accompany you.” You shook your head again.
“That won’t be necessary, though I appreciate the thought. Barely anyone goes in this area, and-” You stood tall and pumped up your chest. “I can take care of myself.” Dr. Zayne frowned before stepping out of the way.
“Alright, just don’t stay up too late. We’ll be heading to the clinic early tomorrow.”
“Will do Dr. Zayne. Hope you have a good night, and sorry about waking you up.”
“It’s alright, but remember you can talk to me about your nightmares if you ever want to.”
“Of course.”
—
You felt satisfying solace as the cool air hit your face, and the soothing sounds of the waves calmed your heart. If anyone asked, you would tell them you didn’t have an ounce of need to return back to your town. However, you had to admit, being back on your beach during the dead of night, alone, was gratifying. Barefoot, you walked on the beach relaxed, feeling the smooth white sand tickling your toes.
Momentarily, you were calm, but as you gazed at the sea in front of you, you couldn’t help, but recall your recurring nightmare. You groaned. Back when you lived here, you used to experience the same nightmare often. When you were a little girl, you used to bawl in your bed because you had to experience the same horror almost every night. You tried to confide in your family, but your father told you to be grateful. “The Sea God was trying to speak with you.” More like torture you. Yet years after dealing with it, after you left, you only had the dream a few times and was able to sleep peacefully. Now, they’ve returned. Was it this place that had this effect on you?
You took a deep breath and tried to refocus on your breathing and the beautiful view, but your eyes suddenly landed on a figure in the distance. You stopped walking, involuntarily staring at a man around your age, alone, sitting on the sand. His own gaze on the water. You were frozen. Barely anyone comes here besides Sea God followers and they came rarely and only during the day. Did he get lost?
Cautiously, you approached and shouted:
“Excuse me!” The man jumped and shuffled around the sand before glaring at you.
Oops I scared him.
“Sorry!” You jogged until you were in front of him. “I didn’t mean to scare you. I just wanted to check, are you lost?” The man crossed his arms and pouted.
“No, are you?” You awkwardly laughed and were about to speak, but your tongue was tied when you saw the man more clearly under the moonlight. He looked exactly like your “lover” in your dream, except his hair was short and no longer had any pink.
What is happening?
Your silence made the man examine you weirdly.
“Hello?” His voice snapped you out of your stupor.
“Oh- Sorry it’s just you look familiar. Do you live in this town?” The man studied your face before deepening his pout and turning his glare back to the sea.
“No, I just visit once in a while.” You squinted your eyes at him.
“Strange, I feel like I know you from somewhere, but anyways nothing wrong with a new acquaintance. I’m Y/N.” You bent down and outstretched your hand to shake his, but he didn’t meet your touch immediately. His eyes widened for a second, before returning pensive, although considering his options before taking your hand and carefully shaking your hand then dropping it right after.
“Rafayel. You are quite the social butterfly. Do you introduce yourself to every new person you meet?” You laughed before flopping down to the sand next to him. One of his eyebrows quirked up by your sudden invasion of his personal space.
“Honestly, I typically don’t, but it’s just so weird you are here.”
“Is it so strange for someone to want to find a place to relax, especially on such a gorgeous beach.” You shrugged your shoulders.
“I guess not, but it’s so far from town. Only believers of the Sea God come here to worship him. Is that why you are here?” Rafayel snickered.
“Nah, I don’t make a habit of worshipping deities. You?” It was oddly comforting meeting another non-believer in this town, maybe besides Dr. Zayne. It made you feel like you were less of an “outsider”.
“Same, I mean I was born in this town and raised to believe in the existence of a Sea God, but he’s never done anything good for me. So, I don’t think he deserves to be worshiped even if he does exist.” The man held his knees to his chest, and laid his head on them. He gazed down at the sand before returning his gaze to your eyes and offering a lazy smile.
“Harsh, but honest. I respect that. Though you probably shouldn’t say that to the people in town. Especially-” He pointed at your house. “To the old man in that house. Talk badly about the Sea God and you will have to deal with a loooong lecture.” You quietly chuckled.
“Not anymore, the old man in that house”. You coughed. “My father is dead.” His eyes and mouth opened wide, his hand closest to you twitched.
“I’m sorry I didn’t know.” You bit your lip and looked at the sea.
“It’s alright, it’s already been more than a year since he died. Besides our relationship was-”
“He spoke about you.” You bit your lip harder.
Of course he did.
“I know, he probably didn’t have many good things to say. We weren’t on the best terms before he died. ” Rafayel leaned his head towards you.
“He only said good things, unless you aren’t the daughter who became a doctor. The daughter who he repeatedly said he was extremely proud of.” You turned to him and shimmied closer to him.
“He said he was proud of me? Proud of his blasphemous secular daughter who ran away from home?!”
“Apparently.”
“He is such an a**hole.” Rafayel chortled, staring at you bewildered.
“I just told you that your father said he was proud of you, and your first reaction is to call him an a**hole.” You pointed at him.
“Okay I know it seems crazy, but you didn’t know him like I did. For my whole life, he never told me once that he was proud of me. He should have said it to me when he was alive, before he died. I just wish he-” You shut your mouth, mortified that you were about to trauma dump a man you literally just met. “Sorry, I know, sharing too much!” You couldn’t understand this sudden urge to share so much of yourself to a complete stranger. This wasn’t you. You weren’t the type to talk much about how you felt about anything, especially someone you barely knew. You weren’t a social butterfly, you were shy. Yet, you felt warm looking into this stranger’s alluring eyes. You were comfortable with him as though you knew him your whole life. It was bizarre, did it have something to do with your dream?
“So after hinting at some juicy gossip, you refuse to share now, rude.” You rolled your eyes, stood up and patted away the sand on your shorts and legs.
“Well, I guess you’ll have to see me again, maybe I’ll share more then. See you around Raf-”
“Wait-” He grabbed your hand before you could escape. “You invite me to see you again yet give me no time or place?”
“Well, in the evenings, I would probably be back home or on this beach. Every other time, I’ll be working in the town clinic.”
“Then I’ll see you around Y/N.”
“See you Rafayel.”
—
A Few Days Later…
You yawned as you glared at the clinic door. It has been like this all week. Despite the clinic being opened for several hours a day, barely anyone came in.
“I thought this town was in need of doctors.” Zayne asked as he reviewed patient charts. You groaned and leaned on the corner of his desk.
“They do, but you know bigotry. They want doctors, but not “outsiders.”
“Well, guess there is nothing we can do. Can’t force people to come in, even if they did have appointments.”
You groaned before getting up from the desk.
“Well, we should at least get lunch. I’ll go out and buy from a restaurant nearby. Are you craving anything?”
“Hmm, perhaps food from the nearby bakery so we could get sweets.”
“You and your sweets! I swear Dr. Zayne, you are going to get cavities or diabetes at this rate!”
Still, despite your complaint, you giggled and obediently left the clinic.
—
After you ordered the food from the cafe, you raced back to the clinic with a bag full of sandwiches, macaroons and custard filled Danishes. Looking at the sweets, you cringed mentally at the amount of sugar. You knew you shouldn’t enable your mentor’s horrible sugar addiction, but you owed him too much to deny him. Afterall, he was the only one willing to take a chance on you.
A small smile appeared on your face as you remembered your shaking body presenting in front of the higher ups of Akso Hospital with your project proposal. You were 28 years old, a freshly licensed and practicing doctor. Your previous mentors advised you to keep your head down, be content working in Akso Hospital, but you had a bigger dream.
“So, I believe, with Akso’s sponsorship and support, we could go to rural clinics, and help them by providing them with more advanced technology, training, and support.”
You could see some of the gray haired men at the meeting table grimacing, you gulped.
“Imagine how many smaller communities we could help, the lives we’ll save-”
“It’s a waste of resources.” A grumpy man wearing a worn-out plaid blazer mockily interjected. “Akso is already funneling out money. Using more of our precious resources for a silly fantasy is ridiculous.” Your body turned cold as you watched several men nod in agreement.
Was this a mistake?
“It’s not-”
“I disagree.” You were about to answer back when a raven-haired man you immediately recognized as Akso’s Chief Cardiac Surgeon and Deputy Chief of Surgery stood up. “As doctors, we made a vow to dedicate our lives to ensuring everyone, no matter their background, receives proper care. Ms. L/N's proposal is noble.” The man in plaid glared perturbed.
“Perhaps Dr. Zayne, but the money-”
“Shouldn’t be an issue. The numbers show we are on track to endorse further projects. Besides, we can start off small, simply providing additional support to communities that need it. Then, if reception and results are positive, we can invest more.” The man opposed started to stutter, he was clearly frazzled, not expecting anyone to defend you.
“But-but we don’t know if it will work, or have the proper support.” Dr. Zayne’s eyes hardened, his arms crossed as he stood tall.
“Akso Hospital is renowned around the world for our innovation. Without risk, there would be no evolution. Your perspective is short sighted. Besides, Akso’s reputation can only improve from this endeavor. I am sure many people would be willing to support us in order to help others, it would open up the chance for fundraisers and donations.”
“But- data.” Feeling more confident you stepped up and slapped your folder in front of the man, shocking the table.
“I did research on hospitals that have done similar programs. All my collected data can be found in that folder and they’ve mostly been positive-” Embarrassed and desperate, your opposition stood up and wagged his finger in your face.
“Are we to trust this program to a woman who just got out of school? She doesn’t have the experience or the capability to delegate a program this complex!”
“Then-” Dr. Zayne stood in front of you, acting as a barrier. “I volunteer to take responsibility for Ms. L/N’s program if approved.” The man seeing Dr. Zayne wasn’t relenting, backed off and, ashamed, grumbled before sitting down.
“Do you truly believe in this endeavor Dr. Zayne?” One of the other amused executives asked.
“I do, especially with Ms. L/N in the helm. As an intern and now as one of our official staff members, she has shown to be resourceful, intelligent, and most importantly good hearted. Though we will need further planning, I believe this plan deserves a chance.”
You remembered your face hurting from smiling so widely as your idea was approved. It felt like a dream come true at the time. Unfortunately, the first attempt is not going as well as you wanted.
You continued on your way, but as you walked the stone sidewalk, you heard a loud and pained meow. Instantly, you looked around hastily. The continued cries hit you in the heart. Nothing hurt you more than a poor, adorable, and vulnerable creature injured. You followed the cry until you found a small Siamese kitty limping, his left paw in the air, his whole body quivering. Your eyes began to tear up. You slowly approached, afraid your quick movement would scare the poor thing.
“Psp Psp Kitty.” The cat looked at you warily. Too weak to glare. “I’m going to help you, okay.” Surprisingly, the kitty didn’t fight you. The creature seemed to nod. You picked up the baby as delicately as you could, holding him close to you. “Don’t worry sweetie, I’ll help you!”
Balancing the kitten and the food, you moved as quickly as you could to the clinic. As you ran, you could see passersbys side eyeing you as though you were crazy. Which to be fair, you probably did seem to be with how you freaked out and were now flailing around. Then, after what felt like forever, you finally made it to your building, though when you tried to open the door you failed multiple times since your hands were too full.
Oh no!
Desperate, you knocked repeatedly on the door with your elbow.
“Zayne! Zayne! Zayne!” After your excessive knocks, the clinic door hastily opened.
“What’s wrong Ms. L/N?” You raised the baby up to the doctor’s eye level.
“He needs help.”
—
“He tricked you.” You intently examined the kitty lying on the exam table. The white and brown fluff ball looked up at you with his sapphire eyes pleadingly.
“Then why is he staring at me while looking so sad! You should have heard his cries!” Your mentor tried to move the creature to examine him again with his gloved hands, but the cat harshly hissed and tried to swipe the doctor with his claws. Dr. Zayne sighed.
“Sorry Dr. L/N, could you hold him again.”
“Sure.” You pet the Siamese cat which the kitty accepted happily as he purred and leaned into your touch. “Cutie please hold still, Dr. Zayne needs to examine you.” The kitty frowned before lying on his back as you gently held him down.
“Thank you.” The doctor responded clinically as he pressed and moved the kitty around, checking the cat again before halting. “Well, I am not a veterinarian, but from what I observed, he doesn’t seem to be injured. Most likely, the cat was manipulating you for food.”
“No, he’s injured, I mean look.” The moment you pointed at the cat stood up and dramatically lifted his right paw with an adorable pout on his face.
He’s faking!
You gasped.
“That’s the wrong paw!” As though he understood, the cat switched paws.
“Nooo.” You grabbed the silly rascal and unable to resist your cute aggression, you pressed the kitty to your cheek and rubbed your face against him. “You are a liar! Luckily, an adorable liar.” The kitty meowed in protest, but quieted down when you placed a kiss on his forehead. “Alright, let’s get you some food!”
—
Hours Later…
After feeding and playing with the Siamese cat, you sat at your desk as the kitty napped on your lap, snoring.
“Well.” You whispered to Dr. Zayne who was finishing paperwork at his desk next to yours. "At least we finally got a patient.”
“Yes at least. Though unfortunately non-human patients cannot be counted in our data.” You sighed, but noticed the kitty’s ear twitching.
“Shhh baby, go back to sleep.” You pet the kitty’s back soothingly before returning your attention to your mentor. “I know. I already warned the higher ups that this town wasn’t going to accept doctors who weren’t born, raised, stayed in this town, and are still faithful to the Sea God. Still, as usual, they didn’t take my words seriously, or maybe they just wanted to use our lack of “success” as an excuse to shut us down.” Dr. Zayne took his eyes off his paper and looked into yours.
“I know it’s frustrating, but we have 3 weeks left. We’ll do the best we can-” As Dr. Zayne spoke, the doorway’s bell rang. Reactively, you stood up, almost launched the kitty off you.
“Sorry kitty-” You placed a quick kiss on the kitty’s forehead and got up from your desk, with the cat in your arms. Despite your remorse for almost blasting off the poor creature, you were excited when you looked up and saw an elegant, mauve haired woman with fair skin, wearing a white spring dress. She was breathtaking, but her angelic appearance was familiar. She reminded you of the man you met on the beach. Was she related to Rafayel? “Hi! How can we help you today?” The woman snickered at your eagerness.
“Actually, I came for the little guy you are holding.” Your gaze followed the woman’s finger that went down and pointed at the kitty nuzzling you. He meowed in recognition of the woman in front of you. You frowned.
Noooooo!
“Are you sure you still want him?” You asked as you stroked the kitty’s head for a final time.
“As much of a pain in the butt he is, I do.” The cat hissed in response to her teasing.
“Alright.” You answered sullenly as your frown grew. Your heart was broken, you wanted to keep him, but you didn’t have a choice. He deserved to be with his owner. You carefully handed back the cat.
No adorable, sweet kitty for me I guess…
“Thanks for taking care of him.” The sweet woman said as she held her pet closely to her chest.
“It was an honor. If you ever need a babysitter, or a doctor, we are here for another 3 weeks!” The woman’s smile brightened. Her sparkling eyes looked you up and down, making you blush a bit from the lady’s attention.
“You seem really sweet. If I need help, I will definitely come back. Take care!” The beautiful woman waved and left the clinic, leaving you feeling disappointed. “I guess that’s it today. Maybe we should just head home once we finish our work.”
—
After an hour of tedious work at your desk, you and Dr. Zayne returned home. As you drove closer to your residence, a peculiar sight made you raise your head up in surprise.
Why is there a red Porsche parked in the driveway?
“Huh” Your driver said curiously as he parked next to the fancy car in front of your family home. You looked around, trying to find an answer to this mystery when your gaze landed on a violet haired man standing on your front porch.
Rafayel?!
You hated to admit it, but you were really hoping to see the strange man again after your first meeting. You were a bit down when you didn’t hear from him earlier. Now, you couldn’t contain your excitement, you got out of the Mercedes and greeted him.
“Hey you!” Rafayel smiled and skipped down the stairs to meet you.
“Hey cutie!” You reddened at the nickname. “Sorry I wasn’t able to see you earlier, but since you are free from work, I wanted to see if I could treat you to the best restaurant in town.”
“Oooh sounds fun! Let me get dressed-” You were about to run into your home to change, but guilt hit you the moment you saw Dr. Zayne, who was standing behind you stoically. “Oh I’m sorry, Dr. Zayne, would you like to join us?” The doctor’s eyes shifted from you to your companion, before focussing back on you.
“Thank you for the offer, but I will decline tonight. You two have fun.” You nodded happily before running into your house.
—
After seeing the magnificent woman in the clinic, it inspired you. You scoured your closet and found your favorite and cutest spring dress and hastily put it on. It was a pastel pink short dress patterned with white knitted flowers. You ran to the mirror, twirled around, and studied your appearance. Involuntarily, you sighed in disappointment. You felt inadequate, especially in comparison to the woman you saw earlier today. However, you took a breath and decided to not let it get to you. You were cute, accomplished and were going to have fun with the guy you strangely felt attached. You looked into your own mirrored eyes one more time.
“I got this.”
You exited your bedroom and found Rafayel leaning at the edge of your kitchen counter, with your roommate having seemingly retreated into his own room.
“Sorry for the wait, I’m ready.” His gaze lingered down to your dress before returning to your shy smile.
“You look amazing Y/N. Now, let’s go.”
—
In spite of Rafayel having told you he was bringing you to the best in town, you still didn’t expect him to bring you to the finest dining restaurant you have ever entered. Growing up in Romirro, the restaurant L’Ocean was renowned. Throughout the years, you remembered biking by seeing celebrities, the rich, and influential littering around the building. Since you were a kid, you never entertained the idea of even stepping foot near it, not even now as a doctor. So when you finally entered the luminescent building, it felt surreal. Inside, the dining area was dark, with round glass sphere chandeliers, and small lamps on the tables being the main sources of light. The walls were painted black with gorgeous white shells and pearls decorating them and the furniture was made of dark mahogany wood. The whole place screamed elegant privilege. It was intimidating.
“Are you just going to stand there?” Rafayel joked as you remained unmoving at the entrance.
“Sorry!” You followed him to the hostess booth, where an annoyed and rich looking couple stood complaining. As you both waited behind them, you could see the older couple examining you both, clearly feeling indignant with what they were seeing.
“Don’t bother trying to eat here.” The man said condescendingly to the two of you. “We’ve been waiting for a seat. They said there isn’t anything available until a few hours from now.” Nervous, you were going to offer to go somewhere else, but before you could say anything, Rafayel smirked and dismissed the arrogant man.
“We’ll see.” Then a hostess with pink hair, wearing a form fitting low cut white dress returned to her stand.
“Finally.” The older man sneered as his partner joined in glaring at the poor woman. “Have you spoken to your manager already! They should know who I am.” The hostess didn’t crack under the man’s cruel tone, she remained firm.
“I spoke with my manager and he confirmed what I have told you. You can make a reservation and come back in a few hours-”
“That’s bullshit! I want to speak with him now!” The woman’s visage darkened as her ruby eyes squinted.
“That is not possible, now I can make you a reservation, or you can leave.”
“I will not stand this! I am the richest man in this town, I own this town! If you don’t let me in now, I will make sure this restaurant fails. I’ll tell all my business partners-” As the man ranted, the worker sighed and rubbed her forehead, but her annoyed face lightened as she noticed you two standing there.
“Excuse me sir, I need to help another client.” The exasperated business man was going to yell more, but Rafayel effortlessly pushed the man aside.
“Hi Jena.” The woman smiled at your companion’s greeting.
“Hello Mr. Rafayel.” She respectfully bowed to the younger man. The scene left you breathless. How could a man who looked a few years younger than you get this amount of reverence in such a high standing establishment. Who is he? “It is always a pleasure to see you, and look! You finally brought a date with you!” The woman clapped happily which made Rafayel chuckle and scratch the back of his neck.
“I finally did and I had to bring her to the best restaurant.” The woman giggled and shoved him jokingly.
“You are such a flatterer sir!”
As they chatted, you could see the ignored older man turning red.
“Excuse me, I was still talking to-” The woman abruptly and menacingly scowled at the interrupter.
“Wait! I’ll handle you later.” She harshly spat out. Her anger silenced the rude man. All he could do in protest was huff and return to the waiting seat with his tail between his legs. The moment the customer sat back down, the hostess’ demeanor turned sweet again. “Sorry, you both had to see that. Mr. Rafayel, would you like your regular seat?”
“Actually, could I have one of the booths?” He looked at you and proudly smiled before returning his focus to the hostess. “I want to make sure my guest is comfortable.”
“Of course!”
She gestured to you both to follow and led the way inside the dining area. Rafayel walked beside the hostess while you trailed close behind.
“Is the nuisance before giving you trouble Jena?” Rafayel asked in a hush tone. “Do you need help handling him?”. The hostess laughed.
“I appreciate the offer sir, but you know I am fully capable of handling him.” She winked and elbowed him. “Besides-” The hostess looked at you briefly before looking back at Rafayel. “You should be focusing your attention on your gorgeous date. I hear she’s a talented doctor, you better not mess this up sir.” You blushed at her words.
“You know I’m a doctor?” You asked as she brought you to the booth at the very end of the restaurant, a very private space.
“Of course I do. You have been the talk of the town since you’ve arrived.”
“Wow, I had no idea people even knew about me or Dr. Zayne.”
Talk of the town, yet no patients?
“Well, we know mainly you-” She suddenly stopped and coughed. “Sorry, I’m taking too much of both of your time. Enjoy your meal with us. A waiter will be with you both in a moment with our menu.” She bowed again and left the table. After the hostess went back to her station, you continued to look around the restaurant. It was packed, with waiters and waitresses floating around serving tables full of rich looking guests. Though oddly, you noticed all the staff were wearing white and their hair were all different shades of purple, pink, and blue.
Was the colored hair and white clothes mandatory?
Then you heard a hum. Your eyes redirected to the source of the sound, which was the man sitting in front of you. He seemed amused watching you completely ignore him.
Ooops
“Sorry, I got distracted. I just never expected to come here. It’s so fancy and expensive.”
Oh by the Gods, the price. You are going to have to budget more after this. No fun spending this month!
“Well” Rafayel started as he leaned closer to you and grinned. “I did tell you I was bringing you to the best restaurant in town. Believe me Y/N, this place deserves all the fame it gets.” As he spoke, your gaze was drawn to his handsome attire. He was dashing in his navy blue blazer and matching dress pants and white dress shirt. He looked fantastic, but his outfit made you realize you might have come underdressed.
“Sorry, if I knew we were going somewhere this fancy, I should have worn something more appropriate.” (Though you knew you didn’t pack anything that would have matched the restaurant’s ambiance).
“Don’t say that.” He said softly as he took your hand from across the table. “You look beautiful.” As his gem colored eyes stared at you warmly, you couldn’t help but be completely absorbed by him and his attention. He was captivating.
“Sorry to interrupt Mr. Rafayel.” A young waiter awkwardly greeted the two of you. Realizing someone was watching, you automatically let go of Rafayel’s hand and returned it to your lap. Rafayel sighed disappointedly before acknowledging the waiter.
“That’s alright Cain.” The man standing beside your table bowed.
“Of course sir. Would you both like the menu?” You were going to say yes, but your companion answered for you.
“That’s okay, I am treating Ms. Y/N. So, can you get us the Bread and Oil Board, the Tuna Carpaccio, the Flame Torched Salmon Sushi Press, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, and L’Ocean’s Seafood Tower. Oh and for drinks, can I have a bottle of my favorite Riesling as well please.” You were left shocked at the large order, and it seemed it wasn’t only you as Cain nervously jotted down the order on his tablet.
“Any- Anything else Mr. Rafayel.” The waiter stuttered. The mauve haired man snickered before answering.
“Maybe we’ll get dessert after, but we’ll see. Oh sorry, Y/N, did you want to look at the menu and add anything else.”
More?! Is he crazy?!
“No, I’m good. Thank you Cain.” Cain gave you a wobbly smile.
“Of course, as usual, we’ll bring everything at the same time.”
“Fantastic, thank you!” Rafayel waved goodbye to the waiter as the man left the table. Once the guy was out of earshot, you said feebly:
“Raf, I don’t think I can afford half of this food. I can try to pay part, but I have so many bills and I just bought a new video game-”
“Y/N.” Rafayel squeezed your cheek, making you pause. “What are you talking about silly? You’re not paying. I invited you here, and like I said before, I’m treating you.” This is too weird! You barely know this man, now, he is willing to spend so much just to treat you. What fairytale, romantic comedy did you fall into?! “Why do you look so shocked?”
“I just- who are you?!”
“What?” Rafayel asked as he tilted his head.
“I mean we just met, yet you are spending all this money on me? I’m not some celebrity or model you need to do so much to impress. I mean don’t get me wrong. I’m grateful, but you shouldn’t be spending this much on me. I don’t think I’m worth it.” You saw a flash of disheartenment before he bit his lip and perked back up.
“I’m not doing this to impress you, or that I feel obligated to you. I just want to.”
“Yes, but-”
“No buts. I just want you to enjoy this with me.” Your nerves disappeared.
“Fine, but I’m treating next time. Though it probably will not be in a place as extravagant as this.”
“It doesn’t have to be.”
After you felt more comfortable, you both started to chat more, specifically talking about each other's day. This chat is where you found out that Rafayel was an artist. In fact, that’s why he was here. Apparently, he had studios all around the world. Proudly, he declared his studio in Romirro as his favorite.
“Especially since I got to meet you here cutie.” You couldn’t help, but giggle like a school girl. He had a way with words. As you listened to him speak, you couldn’t help but grin the whole time. Somehow, he made everything sound either interesting or hilarious. You needed to know more about this eccentric man. You were about to interview him further when Cain returned with several waiters trailing him while holding multiple dishes.
“Your food is here.” The waiter said as he placed several food items on your table. Immediately, you were hit with the alluring aroma of seafood. Each dish was artistically plated, but your mouth watered the most as you stared at the Seafood tower. The large tower itself was silver and three tiered and filled with ice and seafood. The bottom layer was covered in raw oysters, scallops and different sauces, the middle layer had steamed lobster, and different crabs, and lastly on the top tier were perfectly sliced sashimi. Your stomach rumbled and your mouth watered. You couldn’t believe your life. You were about to feast with a handsome and amazing man. What have you done to deserve this?
“Dig in.” Rafayel said hypnotically, his hand displaying all the food. You nodded and straight away grabbed a lobster tail from the tower. Jittery from excitement, you put it on your plate and poured melted butter on it. You were practically moaning as you took a bite. The savory, sweet, and briney flavors of the lobster danced in your mouth. A content smile crept in.
Omg this is the best thing I’ve ever put in my mouth. I’m in heaven!!!
You were going to dig in more, but you noticed the man across from you hadn’t touched a single item yet. He was just dorkily smiling, watching you. Typically, you would have been alarmed, but maybe your lens was too rosy to care.
“Rafayel! Don’t just watch me, eat!” Rafayel laughed before grabbing an oyster for himself.
—
The meal was immaculate. The best you’ve ever had in your life. Though by the end of the dinner, you both were left barely able to move and completely stuffed.
“I can’t move” You whimpered. Rafayel could only groan in response.
For a while, you both sat slumped in the booth, just quietly enjoying each other’s company, until your waiter returned.
“Would you both be interested in dessert?”
You both groaned in pain, a clear no.
“No thank you, just the bill.” Rafayel said in a pained voice. Cain nodded, left, and returned with the bill shortly after. Once the waiter returned, Rafayel paid and reached out his arm to you. You gladly grabbed it and the both of you held each other up, got the leftovers packed, and went back into his red convertible. Rafayel held the door for you and you felt immediate relief as you sat on the leather chair.
“That was wonderful! I miss the food already!” Rafayel chuckled.
“Well, you can have the rest of the leftovers, and I’ll take you there again next time.” You smiled widely at the implication. He wanted to see you again too.
“I would love that.” The hum of the engine rumbled around as Rafayel started the car. However, before leaving the parking lot, your date turned to you.
“So, it’s already late. I can take you home orrrr? We can take a ride around. What would you like to do?” Your heart pattered. There was a giddiness and warmth you never felt before. Your mature self told you, you should say no. You had work tomorrow morning, you should go home and sleep early, but-
“Sure!”
Rafayel smirked.
“Let’s go then!”
—
With the car roof folded in, Rafayel drove around the empty roads allowing for the fresh breeze to blast through the car. You couldn’t help laughing and whooping. You were exhilarated as you saw the town and sea shrink away. You felt liberated.
After a half an hour drive, Rafayel parked on top of the cliff your house was below. You have been there several times, but the view, being able to see the seemingly never ending sea and beach, and the quiet town that encroached on them was breathtaking. Your date exited the car, and he confidently strided towards you, opened your door and offered his hand to you. You took his soft hand and he led you to the front of his car.
“Sit with me.” He invited as he sat on the hood of his vehicle and tapped to the space next to him. You joined him and looked up at the crescent moon and clear star filled sky that shined on you both.
“I always love coming here. I used to come here anytime I got upset. Especially when I fought with my dad.”
Why am I bringing up my dad again?!
Despite chastising yourself, Rafayel didn’t seem to mind or mention your “Daddy Issues”.
“I can’t believe I never saw you here! I used to come here often when I visited Romirro.”
“Really? What did you use to do here?”
“Probably the same as you. Watching the waves crash to the shore, listening to the soothing sound of each splash, and the comfort from nature’s consistency helped me to think and find inspiration.” You beamed at him before enjoying the view with him silently. As you both rested, you could feel him slowly crawl closer to you, until his arm was almost pressing against yours. Your heart was hammering. You’ve had relationships before, but all of them were mediocre and short-lived. This is the first time anyone has made you feel so infatuated. You gulped and decided to take a leap. Seeing his hand an inch from yours, you put your hand on top of his, and leaned your head on his shoulder. You heard a small gasp come out from his rosy lips, before he returned your touch, leaned his head on yours and squeezed your hand. Your heart relaxed as you felt his warmth, protecting you from the night’s cold air. For a moment, all your anxieties disappeared, you were at peace.
“I really like you Y/N.” Now, it was your turn to be surprised. You gaped at him, seeing his sapphire and rose eyes looking intensely at you, yearning for you. Internally, you shrieked, before answering him shakily.
“I like you too, Rafayel.”The man shined from your reciprocation. Hesitantly, he held your face, his gaze drawn to your pursing lips before returning to your eyes.
“Can I kiss you?" You nodded immediately. Rafayel giggled at your excitement and slowly bent towards you before capturing your lips; gently pressing his against yours. The previous warmth you felt now enraptured you completely. You were lost in it, in him. The kiss was quicker than you would have liked. He pulled away too quickly, but the kiss still left you breathless. As Rafayel attempted to catch his own breath, he said:
“Thank you for being here with me. I hope you will want to see me again too.”
“Of course, I would want you.”
—
“I told you, you should have stayed home this morning.” You yawned loudly as Dr. Zayne chastised you on the drive to the clinic.
“I can’t miss a day, especially since it was my fault for staying up late.” Dr. Zayne exhaled frustrated.
“You should be more careful about staying out late, especially with men you don’t know that well.”
“I know! This was the first time I've ever done anything like that. I mean, I don’t know how to explain it. He just felt different. Like I trusted him right away. Have you ever felt that way?” Dr. Zayne briefly glanced at you, downcast before looking back at the road and answering:
“Yes, and I understand, but just be careful next time okay. At least let me know where you are going next time.” You bobbed your head in agreement.
“Of course I’ll-” You paused as Dr. Zayne’s car passed by the clinic. “What?!”
In front of your clinic was a line up. It was incomprehensible. Why were so many people waiting? Is it a mob?
When you and your mentor exited the car, you both rushed to the entrance, though Dr. Zayne was ahead of you.
“The doctors are here!” Someone in the line shouted, and soon after, the people who formed the line began to crowd around you. The raven-haired man immediately stood in front of you, putting you out of reach from the people surrounding you both.
“Are you all here seeking help from our clinic?”
“Yes.” A young pregnant woman chanted. “Your clinic, no, you both have received the blessing of the Sea God.” In all your years of living, you have never received such favor from the Sea God, even as the daughter of one of the town’s most devout.
“Blessing?” Dr. Zayne asked, clearly confused as well.
“Yes.” The woman said again. “All of us had a vision from the Sea God from our dreams. He declared you both righteous, that you both could help us with our ailments.” The collective delusion was concerning, but if it brought people to your door.
“That is wonderful news.” You started as you moved beside Dr. Zayne. “We will take care of you all to the best of our abilities. May we forever keep the Sea God’s favor.”
“The Sea God has spoken.” The crowd sang. You just smiled as sincerely as you could and opened the door. It was going to be a long day.
—
Several hours later…
After a hectic day and the clinic’s sign changed to closed, you and Dr. Zayne sat at your desk exhausted. You were glad to have gotten to actually help people as you always hoped for, but after not having done anything for the last few days, the increase of business was overwhelming.
“That was amazing.” You proclaimed proudly, your partner snickered back.
“You did a wonderful job Dr. L/N.” You moved your head to look at him lazily.
“You too.” Then, the chime of the clinic rang.
“We’re closed-” You shut your mouth immediately when you saw your crush smirking at you, to the annoyance of your companion.
“Darn, I was hoping Dr. Y/N would be willing to make an exception for me.” You rolled your chair to him, too tired to stand up.
“I would, but I am way too worn out. It was such a busy day today.”
“Oh I see, so now that you are one of the Sea God’s chosen, you are suddenly too important for me.” He playful sulked. You snickered sluggishly and sat up straight in your desk chair.
“I know, sorry, guess you will have to get medical care from somebody else.”
“Too bad, I was going to treat my favorite doctor, but-”
“Well-” You interrupted. “I guess I can make an exception for my favorite artist.” Rafayel ruffled your hair, gazing at you tenderly, making your heart pound once again.
“Well, I hope you’ll always make an exception for me.”
And you knew in your heart, you always would.
Click to Read: Part 2
Hope you enjoyed reading! If you have any requests or feedback, please let me know!
Hello Everyone! Since this prompt won, please enjoy Caleb's Version of Who's that Guy?!. I kinda feel bad because it's short. I would have made it longer, but I didn't know how! Let me know how you enjoy it! PS: we all hate Carter in my house!
How the LADS LIs react when they see you with another man. Jealousy ensues!
Tags: Minors DNI! Caleb x DAA Pilot/Non!MC/Ex-Girlfriend!Reader, Angst and Comfort, Misunderstanding, Stalking, Swearing, Jealousy, Carter (Short Appearance, Good!), Alternate Universe, Canon Divergent, Soft Yandere Caleb.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
Unknown Number: This is who you decided to move on with? Really?
You froze as you looked at the text on your phone.
What the h*ll?
For the last month, you felt the weight of intense eyes watching your every move. Many times the stalker would be in the corner of your eye and you almost caught him multiple times. Unfortunately, he was always out of reach. As a DAA Pilot, you were less terrified and more annoyed. You knew if you were given a chance, you could flash your assigned gun and scare him off, but he was always gone the moment you turned to him.
Now it seems the creep found a way to text you. You straightened your back in your seat and scanned the cafe for a bit until you saw a man in black staring out the cafe’s window. It was your stalker!
“Are you alright?” Your gaze returned to the black haired man sitting across from you, and you grunted. The stalker really chose the best time to pop up. For the last hour, after your friends insisted you needed to move on from your deceased ex and pushed you into this blind date, you’ve been having a tedious time with a doctor. His name was Carter, and he was cute enough, but for the whole date so far, all he talked about was himself and his work with Ever. Initially, the conversation piqued your interest, especially the prospect of learning more about the mysterious company, but after an hour of barely being able to talk, you found yourself trying to push back a yawn; Smiling as convincingly as you could, but knowing after this you would never contact this man again and will never accept any blind dates from your friends. That being said, despite the stalker being a b*stard, at least he gave you a good reason to ditch.
You stood up from the table.
“Sorry Carter, I need to go. My stalker is here and I have to kick his ass. Take care!” Before you could leave he grabbed your arm. You repressed the urge to glare. You had no rapport with him, why is he touching you?
“Wait, I enjoyed our date, can I see you again?” You sighed and shook your arm away from him.
“You’re uhhh okay, but I don’t think we would work out. Good luck with your work with Ever!” He grimaced back and nodded as you quickly dashed off. You exited the cafe and studied the crowd walking around you.
Where is he?
Your eyes hastily searched the crowd until they landed on the broad back of a tall man wearing a black bomber jacket and jogging pants. As you saw earlier, the person’s face was covered by a cap and face mask.
That has to be him.
“Hey!” You yelled, but the moment you approached him, he began to retreat. The man was a coward, not even daring to face you.
I’m not letting him get away again!
You followed quickly behind him, but he was as usual, out of reach. Multiple times, you stretched out your hand to grab him, but people were always in your way, blocking you. You called him over and over, even calling him a coward, a creep, but your shouting yielded no reaction. He continued walking away, indifferent, as though he hadn’t been torturing you for a month. After 15 minutes of this aggravating cat and mouse game, you could feel your victory coming as he ducked into an alley that you knew was a dead-end.
Finally got you a*shole!
You ran, chasing his shadow, expecting to see the man once you entered the alleyway, but there was nobody.
“Damnit.” You kicked a trash can in frustration. You couldn’t believe you lost him again!
“Upset you missed your date?” The familiar voice painfully hit you in the chest.
It’s impossible?!
You turned around to see your stalker with his mask gone. Tears started to build up as you stared at the same face you fell in love with back, when you were a trainee. The same visage that haunted you day and night, making moving on impossible, until now. However, it seems he had cruelly decided to return when you started to.
“Caleb?” The man smiled as you recognized him, though you knew it was disingenuous. The smile didn’t reach his eyes.
The man crossed his arms and legs as he leaned on the alley’s wall, sneering.
“You still remember me Y/N? It looks like you were having no issue moving on.” His comment snapped you from your confusion and despair and flamed in your anger. How could he say that? For a year, you were crippled with grief, dragging yourself day by day, surviving. This was the first time you ever “moved on”, and even then it wasn’t even your own choice. You immediately closed in.
“How dare you say that Caleb. You have no idea what I’ve been through! You made me believe you were dead for a year!”
“I didn’t have a choice, but you did and you decided to move on with such a goober!” You rolled your eyes.
“So, after hiding away from me. Making me suffer thinking the man I loved died! After you stalked me like a creep for a month, you think you have the right to judge me and who I chose to date? Don’t give me that bull Caleb. I deserve-”
“Y/N.” His sneer disappeared and he became more contemplative. Still, his new calming demeanor didn’t snuff out your own anger.
“I deserve more respect than that! We were together for three years, why didn’t you tell me you were alive. I thought you died in the explosion.”
“I needed to keep you safe.” He answered firmly.
“Really? Does MC know?” Caleb’s expression immediately blanched, and signalled to you, the unsurprising fact, she knew.
For the three years you dated, MC was a sore point in your relationship. Despite your rage, it was never towards her. She was always kind to you, a little too nice, and that didn’t help the gap between you and your “ex”. In the beginning, you tried to not get in the way of their relationship as pseudo siblings, but the longer you were together, the more you realized they were overly codependent. Despite you both setting up dates, or spending time together, if MC called, or showed up, he would always prioritize her over you. There were many times during your relationship where in the middle of a date, he would ditch you to be with her because she was “vulnerable” and his older brother needed to be there for her. In fact, the last time you saw him, you asked him to spend time with you, but he had to be with MC. The day he spent with her instead was also the same day he was in the explosion.
“Yes she knows.” And just like that, as always, he put his sister above you again.
“Of course she does. You know Caleb, you are a humongous hypocrite!” You emphasized your hurt as you poked his firm chest. “You have the gall to essentially call me unfaithful, yet you’re the one who always put someone else above our relationship.”
“Y/N, she’s my-”
“I know you “just see her as a sister”! That’s the excuse you used for years! Yet the day you “died” you put her as your main priority, and even now! I had to suffer, thinking I lost you forever for a whole year, yet you couldn’t bear your darling sister being hurt and told her first. You know what Caleb, maybe you should have stayed gone.” Enraged, you started to stomp away. “Just go back to your sister, I’m done dealing with your BS-”
“Y/N Wait!” He grabbed your arm stiffly, as though afraid you would disappear. “I didn’t tell her first. She found me in Skyhaven with the Farspace Fleet.”
The Farspace Fleet?!
As part of the DAA, you are fully aware of the existence of the Farspace Fleet, their cruel treatment of their soldiers, and their overall domineering practices. What was Caleb doing with them?
“Was the Farspace Fleet keeping you imprisoned? How did MC find you?” He looked up in the air, away from you, before looking back at you with pained eyes.
“There’s too much to explain, but I swear, I didn’t tell her first. She found me. I honestly had no intention of revealing myself to either of you, but since MC found me-” You shrugged your shoulders and rolled your eyes. You tried to seem nonchalant, but you could feel your tears were close to escaping from your eyes.
“That you might as well, since your beloved sister knew. I was just a second thought.” Caleb’s eyes and mouth were agape. You could see his eyes watering because of desperation? You didn’t know, you could barely tell if you knew him anymore.
“Y/N.” He held onto both your shoulders as though you were his lifeline. "You weren’t a second thought. I love you. I always loved you, and I should have treated you better. You crossed your arms and looked up at him.
“Why didn’t you?”
“Honestly, I thought I in love with MC. I was certain I would end up with her, but you-” He lifted up his right hand to touch your face as he had done so many times before, but he hesitated and put his arms back to his side. “You changed everything. I fell for you, and I didn’t know how to act. MC was the only woman in my life before, and I didn’t know how to fit you in, while trying to stay a reliable brother. Maybe I was also scared that if I let you close in and neglected MC, that when you did finally realize you deserved better, I would be alone.” Your rage was diminishing, but there were still things you needed to know.
“So, you self-sabotaged instead of talking to me about all this.” The man smiled pitifully as tears fell from onto his freckled cheeks.
“Yes. I only realized all this the moment I almost “died”. During the explosion, before I lost consciousness , my last thought was you. I saw your face and all I could feel was regret. Regret of knowing that I would die without having properly loved you. I’m so sorry Y/N.” Caleb stepped closer to you, but reactively, you stepped back. Caleb’s violet eyes darkened.
“If you regretted all of this, why didn’t you come to me right away? Why did you stalk me for a month?” Caleb took a deep breath, and exhaled softly.
“Like I mentioned earlier, I didn’t have any plans to see you, or MC again. My involvement with the Fleet makes me a threat to your lives and I’m not the same man as I was before. I thought staying away would spare you both, but like you, MC wasn’t happy with me for my decision. She’s actually the one who convinced me that you wouldn’t be happy as well, that I should speak to you. Unfortunately, I was too much of a coward to talk to you. I used the excuse of not wanting to butt into your life if you moved on. So, I just watched to see if you that was the case, and I planned to respect your new life if you did. But when I saw you with that man.” The man’s fist tightened. “I just got so angry. I couldn’t believe you would settle for such a loser. He kept talking about himself. It was infuriating to watch, you deserve so much more and- ” Caleb’s nose began to scrunch as his eyes narrowed and his brows furrowed. Yet, when he noticed your concerned look at his anger, he took another breath and shifted his face to turn softer. “I shouldn’t have been so petty, but I couldn’t help it. It was disrespectful of me and I’m sorry.”
After he was done talking, you were unsure on what to do. Your pride and your brain told you not to trust him. They whispered he was lying, a Farspace Fleet plant, or he would abandon you again for MC. However, despite your rational mind fighting you, your heart couldn’t resist. Caleb surprised, jumped when you hastily hugged the taller man and held him as close and tightly as you could. Your head leaning on his shoulder with tears falling on his jacket. Caleb sighed in relief, returned your hold and kissed the side of your head.
“I'll forgive you this time, but promise me Caleb. Promise me you will never disappear like that again.” Caleb smiled against your head and held you closer to him.
“I promise Y/N. I promise.”
Thank you for Reading! Did you want to see more? If so, which LI?
Yes - Xavier x Hunter!Reader
Yes - Sylus x Flower Seller/Ex-Backtracker!Reader
Yes - Zayne x Baker!Reader
Yes - Rafayel x Siren!/Lemurian Spy!Reader
No - Please work on something else (Leave Suggestions in Ask, or Replies!)
Hi!!!! Once again I loved all your fics from the "I'm jealous of mc" series and am really happy to have gotten the green lights for sending a request 🥺🤲
As a Rafayel main I'm extremely biased but there's something beautiful about the sea god, who protects not only lemurians but also every single life that lives under the sea/in his domain, watch his cutie stop by and drop everything just to help a wounded stray, witness the numerous acts of kindness to all living creatures, and realise that his cutie is indeed the sea god's bride 💐
Hello!!! Thank you again for your support and your request! ❤️❤️❤️
I love your idea! Sea God Rafayel is peak and a fic of him watching Reader and slowly falling for her and realizing she is his lost bride 👌👌👌!
I’ll do the best I can to start the fic as soon as possible. I’m in the middle of finishing one right now, but I’ll start your request right after! Hopefully you’ll like it when it comes out!
I am sorry! I was supposed to be working on the Vampire!Sylus x Noble!Zayne fanfic and the next part of The Sea God and his Prophet, but I'm getting writer's block for both! So, I'll let you guys decide what you want to see next!
What do you want to see next?
Vampire!Sylus x Noble!Zayne (I still want it, stop procrastinating)
The Sea God and his Prophet Part 8 (It's been 200 years!)
I got teleported to an Otome Game, but I'm the villainess?! (LIs x Reader)
Supernatural beings!LIs x Reader
Who's that Guy?! (Jealous!LIs x Reader)
LIs x M!Reader
I have a Better Idea! Please leave in Replies/Asks
Hello Everyone! I was working on another fic, but got writer's block, so I decided to make a shorter one instead. Sorry if it isn't the best. I kinda wrote it more quickly than normal. Soooo hope it's enjoyable! If you guys enjoy, I can make versions for the other LADS Boys!
Sypnosis: You meet the LIs, but unfortunately not in the conventionally romantic way. It gets awkward.
Tags: Dr.Zayne x Student!Reader, Misunderstanding, Inaccurate description of surgical internship (Google again and what I could remember from Grey’s Anatomy, I am sorry!), soft angst and fluff.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
You didn’t know how you got here. Standing in front of an operating room, being reprimanded by Akso’s top cardiac surgeon. It all started out normally.
You were so excited to do your practicum in Akso Hospital, one of the world’s most technologically advanced hospitals in the world. You had everything ready for your first day. You were looking adorable in your navy blue school scrubs and a black backpack filled with your notebook, pens, and lunch. You were feeling amazing when you checked in with the surgery unit reception.
“Hi, my name is Y/N, I’m a practicum student.” The nurse behind the desk smiled cheerfully.
“There you are! You’re late, but Dr. Zayne is patient. You can leave your stuff here for now, but you should take your notebook and pen. Now, follow me!” You nodded along and followed the sweet lady’s quick steps. After walking for a bit, you were brought to a patient’s room. The lady opened the door for you. Once you entered, your eyes were immediately focused on the handsome man in front of you. Your heart raced as you looked at the tall, porcelain skinned, raven haired and a hazel green eyed doctor. As he looked at you during your entrance, you were sure you could see the underlines of his muscles as he moved in your direction. You were left astounded.
“Dr. Zayne, I found your last student, Y/N.” He gazed at you sternly.
“I expect punctuality, do you understand?” You felt a wave of nausea. You swore you were on time. Did you read the email wrong?
“I must have misread my email, I apologize for the inconvenience.” You bowed, but the only response you had was a sigh.
“It’s alright. Just remember you are expected to be here everyday at 0600.”
I thought the email said 0800!!!
“Of course, I’ll make sure to be on time in the future.” A small smile appeared on the cold doctor’s face. You exhaled relieved. “Now, follow along.”
“Good luck!” The nurse said while waving enthusiastically before leaving to return to her station. You gulped.
After your interruption, you joined the group following the older doctor. You wanted to ask the other students what you missed, but they all seemed strung up, listening intently to their instructor, writing vigorously on their notebooks. Were you supposed to be taking notes too? You opened your notebook and listened and tried to transcribe what Dr. Zayne was saying, but you couldn’t understand him. Your course made you study basic medical terminology, but he was talking too fast describing the patient’s current status, and you couldn’t comprehend what was coming out of his mouth. Plus, would you need to know this for your job?
“Alright, next patient.” The instructor briskly left the room with his students following close behind. Panicked, you followed along as well, though you were always behind, mentally as well it seemed. Subsequently after the first patient, the group went room after room doing the same thing. Meanwhile, you were getting more and more confused. You tried to peek at one of the other student’s notes, but the girl caught you and gave you a terrifying glare. Timidly, you backed off and tried to write the best notes you could, but after a while, you mostly just doodled confused and sad rabbits. Once your group visited several patients, Dr. Zayne finally declared:
“This is the last patient.” You sighed in relief, but you froze when Dr. Zayne’s eyes darted to you.
Oh no
“Y/N, this patient has been here since last night, can you give your findings on this patient?” You blanched.
“I don’t-” Before you could express your confusion, another student raised their hand.
“I could do it sir!” Dr. Zayne glanced at you disapprovingly before turning to the other student.
“Proceed.” As the student spoke, you could see other people in the group glaring and sneering at you. Humiliated, you moved to the back, tried your best not to cry and buried your face in your notebook. You wanted to go home, but after months of studying and the tuition you paid with your hard earned cash, you couldn’t leave now. So, you took a breath and pushed the embarrassment deep down inside yourself. Was that helpful, probably not, but you will unpack that once you graduate!
The moment the student stopped talking, Dr. Zayne nodded approvingly before leaving.
“Alright, we are done with one of your first team rounds. Though in the future, I will be expecting everyone to be able to present their findings, understood?”
“Yes sir.” Everyone chanted while nodding quickly.
“Alright, now we have assigned you all to help out with surgeries and clinics. Dr. Greyson will help you all with the rest, Y/N?” Like a deer in headlights, you focussed back on Dr. Zayne.
“You will come with me.” You could see all the students glaring at you jealously, and felt a brief flash of pride. With how disrespectfully they treated you, you would have loved to smirk at them all in defiance, but you were too worried about what Zayne was going to say or do. So, you chose to ignore it, agreed, and followed Zayne until you both approached an OR room.
Awesome, I get to watch Zayne do surgery!
You nervously followed him into the room, and watched as your instructor started preparing for a surgery. Hypnotized, you stared as he scrubbed his muscular forearms and hands. You blushed, as you noticed the scars that covered his arms and hands. Where did they come from? You felt flustered, you knew you shouldn’t be staring this much, but Zayne was irresistibly gorgeous. As you continued, you were suddenly snapped out of your trance when he looked at you confused.
“I will need your support for this surgery Y/N? It’s only a minor valve replacement.”
Only??!!!
“I can’t, I’m not-” As you spoke, you froze as the man placed a wet hand on your shoulder. Seeing you look at his hand, he immediately started:
“I will rewash my hands, and you can do this.” The doctor gently squeezed your shoulder. “I know things didn’t start up on the right foot, and I am sorry if it seems I was trying to humiliate you. I will assure you this is not the case. There is no room for judgement during internship. I don’t know your current circumstances, and neither do the other students. I’ll speak to them for their rude behaviour. However, despite all that, don’t lose your confidence and your opportunity. You are here to learn and to become the best surgeon you can be. You can become an amazing surgeon if you allow yourself to immerse yourself completely into your learning here at Akso.” You looked up at him afraid.
Surgeon?!!!!
“There must be a misunderstanding. I can’t do a surgery I’m-” The man removed his hand from your shoulder and the air around you suddenly turned significantly colder. You shivered from the sudden change in temperature. Dr.Zayne’s gaze turned stern and he crossed his arms.
“Then why are you here? If you are not willing to take your studies seriously then you should-”
“DR. ZAYNE!” You both turned abruptly at the shout behind you. At the door was the receptionist who helped you earlier huffing, out of breath. “I am so sorry Dr. Zayne and Y/N. Y/N isn’t an intern of yours, she’s a student in the medical office assistant and unit clerk program. She’s supposed to be helping the unit clerks at the reception desk.” The man’s face blanched, and his mouth widened momentarily before closing as he coughed. Dr. Zayne’s brows furrowed.
“I am so sorry Y/N, I thought-” You laughed nervously.
“It’s all good, I was confused too. Well thank you for being my instructor for a bit.” Barely able to look into your eyes, Zayne’s eyes darted away.
“It’s fine. Yvonne, please bring Y/N to her preceptors.”
“Of course, sorry again you two.” You nodded and followed behind Yvonne as she walked you out of the OR. You felt the urge to laugh. What a crazy first day!
After the misunderstanding was resolved, you were brought back to the same desk you checked in and started helping out the unit clerks around you. Finally, after hours of being lost and feeling incredibly dumb, you were back to your actual realm of expertise. The rest of your shift was fun. You met a couple of other sweet unit clerks and had a hilarious story to laugh about with the others. The next few hours passed quickly, and seemingly shortly after, you were done your first day and at the entrance of the hospital waiting for your bus.
It was a sunny evening, and you were enjoying the freedom of being out of the oppressive hospital walls, when suddenly you saw a familiar figure.
Please no.
You did everything you could to look away from the intimidating man, including looking at your phone, but the man didn’t relent. He continued to approach.
“Y/N?” Shyly, you put your phone and earphone away and returned his stare.
“Hi Dr.Zayne, sorry about before.” Zayne frowned.
“There’s no reason to apologize, I should have confirmed you were a student of mine.”
“Well, I could have spoken up and told you I wasn’t an intern.”
“Perhaps. Still, if you are willing, I would like to make it up to you. There is a coffee shop I frequent all the time, I think I owe you a drink.”
Your first thought was whether this would negatively affect your practicum, but like Zayne said earlier, should you really lose your opportunity to have coffee with such a handsome, kind and intelligent doctor.
“Sure, though I think you owe me a pastry as well.” Zayne smiled.
“Of course Y/N.”
Thank you for Reading, did you want to see more Awkward Meetings? If so, who next?
Hello Everyone! Honestly, I would say out of all the versions of the "I'm Jealous of MC!" I think this is the most self indulgent. So, sorry, this is apparently specifically for me. Hope you all enjoy, I sure did! I'm happy to finally be done the series! Thank you everyone who kept reading!
Even after being LADS LIs' partner, you can't help, but be jealous of MC. How would the LIs react.
Tags: Minors DNI!!! Self-Esteem Issues, Negative Self Talk, Anxiety, Attempt at Medical Speak (Sorry, I’m BSing it all with Google), Horrible Description of a Dancing Class (I’ve only been to a few classes before, sry), Chubby!Reader x Dr. Zayne, Fluff, Unaware and Socially Awkward Reader, Greyson x MC, Dawnbreaker x Y/N Angst (Towards the end)
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
Other Versions: Sylus / Rafayel / Caleb / Xavier
Zayne:
“I need a man like that.” You muttered to yourself as you sat on one of the benches in Akso hospital’s garden. You were all alone, eating your pathetic tuna sandwich you made just before your appointment this morning, when suddenly a gorgeous couple appeared. Right across from you, was a handsome, tall, raven haired, and hazel-green eyed man dressed in a lab coat walking around with a bombshell of a woman. The woman had a slender and sculpted figure, fair skin, brown hair and eyes, and was strapped in what seemed to be a hunter’s uniform. You almost gasped when you laid eyes on them. They were both stunning. It was as though you were witnessing a romantic drama in real life.
You tried not to watch, but your gaze followed their angelic presences. You watched as the doctor and hunter walked the garden, chatting and laughing together. You even noticed the man momentarily glancing yearningly at the huntress when she wasn’t looking back. You couldn’t help, but sigh from your own self-pity. When were you going to meet your super hot and rich doctor boyfriend that looked at you that longingly?
If you stayed longer, you would have probably kept starring, but luckily your phone alarm snapped you out of your trance. It was time for your appointment. You left the garden, and headed straight to your doctor’s office, Dr. Greyson’s. Typically, the doctor didn’t have many patients in his regular roster. He was more focussed on cardiac surgeries and his job as an assistant to the renowned Chief Cardiac Surgeon and Deputy Chief of Surgery at Akso Hospital, Dr. Zayne Li. However, he made an exception for you because of your status as his childhood friend. A friendship that spanned a decade. Though despite you both being close, you hadn’t met him in person since he started medical school. In fact, your appointment would be the first time you’ve seen him face to face for a long while. You were nervous, especially with the recurring heart palpitations you’ve been experiencing. What if things were awkward between you both? Or worse, what if you were dying?!
With your nerves high, you walked into the surgery department and spoke with the receptionist. She was a young brunette in a nurse uniform with a sweet looking face. As she checked you in, you couldn’t look into her friendly eyes. You’ve always had issues with eye contact. To ease your nerves, you stared at the nurse’s name tag instead. Once she finished, she gave you back your IDs, and kindly instructed you on where to go. You nodded timidly and replied:
“Thanks Yvonne.”
She smiled cheerfully back as you left to head to Greyson’s office. As you faced the office’s door, you were hit with another wave of anxiety. You found your hands shaking as you reached for the doorknob.
Come on Y/N, you can do this! There is nothing to be nervous about, Greyson is one of your closest friends.
You took a deep breath, and opened the door. You expected to be greeted the moment you went inside, but instead you were greeted by a quiet and empty room. Your doctor wasn’t currently in.
He’s probably busy doing something else.
Him not being there didn’t bother you, in fact it was a relief since it gave you time to adjust to the new space. Here on your own, you decided to explore around. Unfortunately, the room was pretty bareboned. Barely any decor was inside, only the standard hospital posters, and the teddy bear you remembered Greyson loved so much as a kid.
“Dang Greyson, you really need to add more color in your office.” With nothing new to see, you sat on the examination table and waited for almost half an hour. Mainly passing your time by scrolling on your moment’s page on your phone, though a part of you whispered that you must have made a mistake with your appointment. Before you could continue to question your memory, you heard a knock on the door.
“Can I come inside?” The voice was deep and stoic, nothing like Greyson’s.
“Uh, sure!” The office door opened, and instead of seeing the brown shaggy haired man with the wire frame glasses as you expected, it was the black haired doctor you watched earlier in the gardens. Your heart began to race.
Oh no, why is he here? Where is Greyson? I look like a mess, oh man this is so embarrassing. I need to leav-
“Good afternoon Ms. L/N. I am Dr. Zayne Li-”
The renowned Chief Cardiac Surgeon and Deputy Chief of Surgery of Akso Hospital, Dr. Zayne Li?! First off, I didn't know Zayne would be this hot and young. Also, why is he here, oh no am I dying? Why would-”
As you panicked and blanched, Dr. Zayne had stopped his introduction and instead placed his hand on your shoulder. He probably wanted to soothe you, but his cool touch made you even more flustered.
“I don’t mean to alarm you Ms. L/N. I am just here to cover Dr. Greyson for your appointment. Unfortunately, his morning surgery is taking longer than anticipated. Since I was free, I offered to handle his appointment with you. However, if you are uncomfortable, I can send you back to Yvonne to schedule another time when Dr. Greyson is free.”
You shook your head vigorously. After gathering the courage to come here to figure out what was happening to your heart, you couldn’t back out.
“I’m okay, thanks for the offer.” Dr. Zayne replied with a small soft smile before sitting down on the desk chair.
“Alright, so I read his notes that you came in because you mentioned having heart palpitations. Is that correct?”
“That’s correct. I’ve been experiencing them for the last year on and off. It’s been worrying me a lot.”
“And have you been feeling any pressure, or pain in your chest?”
“No.”
“How about dizziness, or shortness of breath.”
“A bit, but I’m not sure if it’s really bad.”
“I see. Now, I’ll need to listen to your heart.” Dr. Zayne stood up and approached with his stethoscope in hand. “Could you lift up your shirt for me?” You could feel your cheeks heating up, but still you did as instructed. You lifted your shirt, exposing your bra covered chest and flabby stomach. You were shy showing him your most insecure spots, but Dr. Zayne didn’t react. He only gave a quiet thank you for your assistance, before continuing. He put the stethoscope’s eartips in his ears and pressed the metal round piece to your chest. It was cold and made you involuntarily shiver.
“Take a few deep breaths and try to remain as calm as you can.” You took a deep breath, but feeling the chill from the metal didn’t let you relax. It also didn’t help being able to see the golden specks on the irises of the doctor’s hazel green eyes as the man looked down at your chest. You gulped and closed your eyes, praying your heart rate wasn’t skyrocketing. After a minute, he removed the piece from your chest and returned the stethoscope to his neck.
“Thank you again, though I must ask, do you have white coat syndrome?” Your heart started to race and your eyes became saucers.
What does that mean? Am I dying?
Dr. Zayne gazed at you concerningly.
“My apologies, I didn’t mean to scare you with that question. I just asked because some patient’s readings come up more elevated than normal in clinical settings. That’s what white coat syndrome means.” You laughed at your own ridiculousness.
“With how embarrassingly I’ve been acting, probably.” The doctor’s gentle smile returned.
“Don’t be embarrassed Ms. L/N. A lot of people get nervous around doctors. Especially with my face, I am aware I can be intimidating.”
“There’s nothing wrong with your face, it’s a very nice one!”
Why did I say that?
The young doctor looked down briefly, the tips of his ears turning pink.
“Thank you” He answered hesitantly before coughing. “Now back to business. I think I may be able to give you some answers.” He sat back down on the desk chair. “Considering your answers earlier, and looking through the results from the monitor they requested you to wear for 24 hours and your journal, I might have a possible source of them.”
You felt your heart skip again.
“What is it?”
“Anxiety and stress.” You immediately exhaled and slumped. You were ashamed, you were scared and made all this effort for something so mundane.
“Are you sure?”
“We could do further tests to double check, but each heart palpitation was attached to a moment of high levels of stress. I can prescribe you a Benzodiazepine, or a medication that can help with you.” You groaned.
“I don’t really want to take any, but if it’ll help.” The doctor turned around, began writing on a prescription form on the desk, turned back and handed it to you. Looking down at the piece of paper, you realized Zayne must be perfect at everything. Most doctors’ handwritings are messy and unreadable, Zayne’s resembled calligraphy.
“This is an initial dose, but if needed, we can increase, or decrease the prescription. I would recommend checking back with Dr. Greyson every few months.”
“Thank you, but I wanted to ask. Are there other things I can do to help lessen my anxiety and stress?” Dr. Zayne pinched his chin, before looking back at you and answering:
“There are numerous things you can do. You can implement more exercise in your routine, you can add activities that will help you relax, and another great resource is seeing a mental health professional, or a therapist. Hopefully one of these will be helpful to you.”
You nodded, grateful for the help.
“I’ll give those a try. Thank you doctor.”
—
After your appointment, you trudged into your dark and small apartment and went immediately to your bedroom. You groaned as you undressed and put on your fuzzy pajamas in front of your mirror. As you stared at your reflection, slowly removing your clothes, you realized you no longer recognized the woman. For the last few years, you’ve been coasting. Following the flow and immersing yourself completely in your schooling and now work. Unfortunately, while pursuing your career, you let yourself go. You’ve gained weight, looked sloppy, and didn’t have many friends, or family you could rely on. Today, looking at the gorgeous couple and your appointment was your wake up call. You didn’t want to keep neglecting yourself. You had to start working to mold yourself into the woman you know you should be. A woman that would finally be desirable and deserving.
“Come on Y/N.” You muttered to yourself as you grabbed your laptop. “Time to start your new life.”
—
A Week Later…
You ran as fast as you could from the parking lot to your gym. You couldn’t believe after hyping yourself the whole week before, even wearing the cutest gym set you had, you were about to be late for your first drop-in Dance class. Once in the building, you scanned your gym card, and jogged to the recreation room where your lesson was being held. Luckily, you were only a few minutes late when you entered the room. At that time, the class hadn’t started. Most of the participants were scattered around, chatting. You sighed in relief and quickly sifted through the large crowd of students to find a spot for you to dance. You finally found a space, and stood upright in it.
“Welcome everyone to Beginner’s Dance! First, we will start our stretches!”
As instructed flamboyantly by the teacher at the front, you started stretching when you heard a familiar voice next to you call. You froze.
“Ms. L/N?” You looked at the source of the voice in shock.
“Dr. Zayne?!” The last man you wanted to see was standing right next to you, wearing a white long-sleeved compression top that accentuated his large biceps and pecs and grey jogging pants that showed off the rest. He looked absolutely stunning. He put on a friendly smile and shifted his body towards you as he continued his own warm-up.
“Seems you have followed my advice.” You awkwardly giggled and blushed.
“Yeah, I did. Thank you again for giving the advice to me.”
“No thanks needed, I was just doing my job.” You tippy toed closer to him.
“Though I am curious, why would you join a dance class? Stress?” Zayne rubbed the back of his neck.
“Yes, and I was recommended by MC to go. She said I was “stiff”.” He emphasized moving his fingers to create the quotation mark. You laughed.
MC must be his girlfriend.
“Well it’s always good to listen to your girlfriend. You know what they say, happy wife, happy life!” The doctor raised an eyebrow at your remark.
“MC and I-”
“Alright class, time to start our first track!” Your attention was immediately redirected from the man next to you to the lady in the front. “Alright, to those who are new, just follow my steps.” As she finished talking, upbeat music began to fill the room from the speakers. Your heart thumped along to the rhythm.
“One” The instructor took two steps.
“Two” The instructor waved her arms.
“Three” The instructor twirled around with her arms in the air.
“Your turn!” You slowly followed the same moves and it felt easy. You felt momentarily exhilarated before the teacher’s pace went faster and faster. Suddenly, you could no longer catch up. You wobbled your body around trying to match the instructor’s movement, but your clumsy steps were not matching the professional’s at all. Occasionally, you glimpsed at the man next to you, and although Zayne seemed winded as well, he was matching the teacher’s pace and moves, looking radiant from the glow from his sweat.
HOW???!!!
You were embarrassed by your stiff movements, but you had to at least finish.You kept going, but you suddenly felt a gravity shift.You cried a faint “Ah” before falling. Going backwards, you thought you would feel the wooden floor, but instead you felt two strong muscled arms holding you up from behind. You were left out of breath.
“Are you alright Ms. L/N?” Zayne caught you! Your face turned red as you could feel his solid pecs on the back of your head.
“I’m fine, I’m fine, let me go please.”
“Of course.” Holsting you up by your armpits, he effortlessly lifted you up and back on your feet.
Wow.
You were impressed, but mostly mortified. All of it made worst by your instructor’s holler:
“Great improvisation you two! I promise more partner dances in the next tracks.” You and Zayne turned to each other. The doctor mouthed: “Partner dances?”
—
After the last track ended, you were left exhausted, slumped and struggling to breathe. Meanwhile, Zayne stood nearby taking a few heavy breaths of his own. The doctor was clearly in great shape.
“Alright, now I want you all to partner up. The next tracks will require a partner.” Your heart dropped. It reminded you of gym class all over again. You panicked as you looked around the room, hoping you could find another chubby shy girl like you on the side lines. Then unexpectedly, you felt a tap on your shoulder. It was the tall man next to you.
“The teacher already announced us as partners, do you want to continue partnering up with me?” Zayne asked earnestly. You were nervous partnering up with the intimidating figure, but if he was willing why not?
“Sure” You answered nervously, inching a bit closer to him.
“Wow what beautiful couples!” The instructor praised as she clapped and looked at you and Zayne’s direction again. Your face reddened more from the comment. “Alright, so the first step, leads! Put one of your hands on your partner’s back and your other hand should be clasping your partner’s.” Taking the lead position, Zayne walked to you cautiously.
“Before I start, are you alright with me touching you?” Zayne asked, staring deeply into your eyes. You were incredibly anxious, but you were resolved to not let your fear get the best of you as per usual.
“Go ahead Doc.” The man smiled at you and did as what was instructed. Your heart started to pound as your bodies closed in and his hands held your back and hand. You involuntarily shivered from his cool touch.
“Are you still ok?” Zayne asked with a worried look on his face. His proximity and concern was too intimate.
“I got this!” You responded with an exaggerated thumbs up from your clasped hand, pulling another grin from the stoic man.
“Wonderful!” The instructor continued. 0Your hand moved to land on his shoulder, but you paused.
“Are you alright with me touching you?” Zayne snickered.
“Of course Ms. L/N.” You placed your palm on his sturdy shoulder, resisting the urge to squeeze.
“Alright fantastic! Now, follow me.” The instructor, pretending to be dancing with an invisible partner, simulated the moves. “First, we will sway, sway, twirl, dip.” You grinned hesitantly at Zayne, worried your weight may break his back as he dipped you, but Zayne didn’t appear to have the same concern as you. Confidently, he guides you through each move, swaying and twirling with you in his arms. Then when he dipped you, he showed no sign of struggling. His strength left you amazed. A small “wow” escaped your lips, before you recovered and you dramatically lifted your connected arms. After the dip, he pulled your body close to his. You swore you couldn’t breathe looking up at his sharp face.
“Zayne I-”
“Now faster!” Zayne guided you back to your original position and moved with you more quickly. Though the speed didn’t help. Like before, your clumsy movements couldn’t catch up. On one turn, you accidentally stepped on your partner’s toes. Zayne hissed in pain and you immediately bowed apologetically, though your bow accidentally hit him in the chest.
“Oh my God, I am so sorry!” Zayne laughed and smiled wider than you’ve ever seen.
“It’s alright, let’s keep going.” You returned his pep and continued on. Your new attitude didn’t stop you from fumbling, but there was no space for shame, only laughter and warmth between the two of you. After a quick hour, the class ended, and you sadly had to let the man out of your hold. Your proximity together was so brief, but you found yourself already missing being in his arms. However pathetic that may be. You shyly peeked at him, and while swaying back in forth said goodbye:
“I really enjoyed dancing with you Dr. Zayne, take care!” The doctor made a small nod towards you.
“You as well, Ms. L- I mean Y/N.” You couldn’t help the dorky smile on your face when he called you by your first name. He waved hastily at him.
“BYE!”
—
When you returned home, you couldn’t help the ecstasy you felt. You found yourself dancing on your own replaying the memory of being in his embrace. Though slowly, your bliss decayed to shame. You sighed melancholically. You had a huge crush on the stoic gentle man, but you shouldn’t. He already had a girlfriend. A girlfriend who was significantly better than you, and who he chose and loved.
“Oh well.” You murmured to yourself. Again, as you did last week, you grabbed your laptop and searched online. You enjoyed the dance class today, but it was mostly because of Zayne. You could feel your heart yearning to see him again, but you refused to be a homewrecker (even though you knew he would never choose you over his beautiful lover anyways). Still, despite your 0% chance with him, you knew it was wiser not to entertain this relationship further.
“Time to look for a new class to join.”
—
One Week Later…
“Welcome to Baking 101, thank you all for joining! Now please pick a baking station and partner up.”
Partners again?!
You groaned as you watched all the participants quickly form into teams, leaving you alone. You couldn’t understand why you needed a partner. You were decent enough at baking, you could work alone. As the instructor walked around, you raised your hand, getting her attention. She came closer to you the moment she noticed your hand.
“Yes?” The older woman in a wool sweater asked inquisitively.
“There is nobody else here who can be my partner. Can I do this class alone?” The teacher pursed her lips together.
“Well we recommend having a partner, though since there is nobody-” Before your instructor could finish, the classroom door opened cautiously.
“I apologize for my tardiness, could I still join the class?” You recognized the voice instantly.
What, it can’t be! What freaky dimension did I fall into?!
In front of you was Zayne once more. This time wearing a black dress shirt and pants, with a brown trench coat draped on his broad shoulders.
Why does he look like a romance lead again! Man, his girlfriend is dressing him up so well!
“Perfect timing! You can partner up with this young lady right here.” The teacher exclaimed while clapping excitedly. Turning to you, Zayne’s face froze in surprise, but he quickly morphed into a familiar soft smile and he nodded in your direction.
“Of course, I would love to.” He walked next to you, behind your shared baking station. As you stood awkwardly next to him, he looked at you and whispered:
“It’s wonderful seeing you again Y/N. Do you always go to this many classes?”
You sighed and answered snarkily:
“Normally no, but unfortunately a Doctor made the suggestion. So now you are stuck with me again.” Zayne playfully smirked.
“In that Doctor’s defense, he didn’t say the only way to relax was to go to recreational classes. I am certain he recommended other activities.” You pouted.
“Well that’s what I like to do so stop following me.” You both giggled before the teacher called for attention from the chattering students.
“Quiet down please!” Once the room turned silent, the instructor continued. “Today, we will be making a Fruit Cream Cake. Now, for those that are new, this is a free roam class! The recipe is on your station, as well as the ingredients you need. If you have any questions, or need help, just ask!”
Quickly after, the chatter started up again as the teams worked on making their cake. Immediately, you grabbed and put on the apron on the counter, quickly glimpsed at the recipe, and turned to your partner who was putting on his apron too.
“Okay, looks like we can add any fruit we want. What do you prefer, berries? Mangoes? Strawberries?” The doctor gulped.
Is he salivating?
“They all sound amazing, maybe mangoes.” A large smile grew on your face.
“Great choice, I love mangoes too! Now, let’s make the batter first! I’ll grab the ingredients and you watch the mixer!” One by one, you added all the needed ingredients and put it inside the metal mixing bowl, meanwhile Zayne assisted. It was all going fine until you noticed Zayne pouring almost half of an overflowing cup of sugar. You grabbed his wrist before he put in the rest. His eyes widened, shocked by your sudden contact.
“Sorry Zayne! I already put in the 1 and ½ cup of sugar needed for the recipe.” The doctor cocked his head to the side and looked at you with furrowed brows.
“I did see that, but I don’t think that’s sweet enough. I think another two cups would be perfect!” Your eyes and mouth were agape.
“That would be too sweet!” Adorably, the man pouted.
“It’s better to be too sweet than not sweet at all.” You guffawed.
“I thought as a doctor, you would be advising there to be less sugar.”
“I’m not acting as a doctor right now. And me, as Zayne, says more sugar.”
“Compromise, only one more cup of sugar!” He sighed.
“Agreed.” You felt proud of your compromise, but noticed Zayne still had the crammed cup of sugar in his hands.
“But wait, not that full-” But before you could stop him from pouring in the ungodly amount of sugar, it was too late. He quickly poured in the sugar in the mixing bowl. You groaned.
This cake is going to be extremely sweet.
“Bad doctor! You didn’t let me finish!” You jokingly complained as you stomped your foot. “Now, since I can’t trust you with the batter, you are now assigned to whip cream and fruit duty.” Your partner chuckled before grabbing the equipment he needed for his part and moved to the other half of the station. Your eyes lingered in his direction, staring at his adonis back briefly before you caught yourself.
Come on Y/N focus!
After the oven was done pre-heating, you poured the batter into a parchment covered cake pan and put it in the oven to bake for almost a half an hour.
Sweating from the oven’s heat, you wiped the sweat from your brow and returned to your team mate.
“I’m just waiting for the cake to finish baking, do you need help with anything Zayn- I mean Doctor-” Zayne lightly flicked your forehead. “Oww”
“You don’t need to call me by my honorifics outside of the hospital. Zayne is just fine.” You bit your lip, excited by the prospect. You were making a friend!
“Of course, Dr.- I mean Zayne. Sorry, give me time.” Zayne grinned before giving you a chopping board.
“Can you help me cut mangoes and make the mango filling?”
“I would love to.”
—
After a half hour of quietly working on the cake’s filling. Many ovens, including your own, beeped. Notifying you both that the cake was ready. Happily, you walked to the oven and opened the door with your baking gloves on. As the oven was opened, a deliciously sweet aroma filled the hot air around you. Looking down at your cake, you could see it was a beautiful golden brown. You delicately grabbed the cake and placed it on the counter.
“Look at our baby Zayne!” The man walked next to you and stared at the cake lovingly. Though, you noticed his ears were rosy colored.
“It’s beautiful, but could you not refer to the cake as our baby.” You dramatically gasped.
“Why? Do you not want to have a baby with me!” You meant it as a joke, but after the words slipped out, you realized the implication. You looked at his sheepish face horrified. You waved your hand around, humiliated by your own tongue. “I didn’t mean it like that!” Zayne chuckled at your distress and put his hand on your arm and lightly squeezed.
“It’s alright, I didn’t mean it like that either. I just would rather not say I want to eat our child.”
“Haha fair enough.”
Before you could say anything else, the instructor called back everyone’s attention.
“Bakers! The cakes will need another 2 hours to cool off, we’ll take our lunch break now. I’ll see you all in two hours.” The whole class, including you and Zayne, dispersed out of the room. While in the hallway, outside of class, you looked eagerly at your phone for a nearby restaurant to eat alone, but you noticed Zayne following behind you.
“Did you want to have lunch with me Y/N? There's a bubble tea place nearby I love.” A whisper in your mind reminded you that you shouldn’t, but-”
“I love bubble tea!”
—
After ordering your drinks and food, you and Zayne sat across from each other waiting. The atmosphere between you was awkward. Both of you didn’t speak, just sat staring at the workers behind the counter. You tried swaying around the rotating stool you were on, but after almost falling, you decided to try to make small talk.
“So, Zayne.” Zayne instantly focussed on you the moment you called. “Why did you decide to join a baking class as well? Did MC recommend it too?” Zayne rubbed his shoulder.
“No, I wanted to join a baking class for a while now actually. I love sweets so I spend a lot of my earnings on baked goods. So, I thought since I have more free time, maybe I should learn how to bake, and add all the sugar I want.” You chuckled at his response.
“Still, not over the sugar huh?” The man shrugged and was going to speak further when your orders arrived.
Both of you ordered the same salmon bento box, but with different drinks. He got a simple brown sugar milk tea with 100% sugar (obviously), while you got a creme brulee strawberry smoothie, though with only half the sugar. You sighed contently as you dug into your food and drink. Both were immaculate. For a bit, you both enjoyed your food in silence, but you started to notice green eyes staring at you, or specifically, your drink. Who knew the perfect doctor had such an affinity to sweets. You offered Zayne your beverage.
“Did you want to try it?” Zayne’s eyes widened and glowed.
“Are you sure? I have my own.”
“Nah, it’s all good, go ahead! Though I should get you your own straw-” Before you could get up to get a clean straw, without a thought, Zayne grabbed your smoothie and started guzzling from your straw. You were already far past your teenage era, but you couldn’t help squealing internally.
An indirect kiss?!
A grin grew on the man opposite of you’s face as he sipped and handed you back your smoothie.
“That was wonderful, though it could use more sugar.” You rolled your eyes.
“Of course you would want it sweeter. Still, did you want my drink? We could trade?” Zayne looked away, looking contemplative before returning his gaze to you.
“It’s alright. I’ll order it next time we come here.” You blinked rapidly.
Next time we come here?!
You would have been overjoyed by all of this, the whole date vibe, going out again with such a handsome man, but he had a girlfriend! The inner girl’s girl in you demanded you shut this down immediately. You didn’t know anything about MC, but you had the primal urge to protect her.
“Anyways! MC, let’s talk about her. How did you both meet?” Zayne looked surprised by your subject change, but followed along.
“We met when we were kids. We were childhood friends, though we didn’t grow up together. I moved away and we only reconnected recently.”
“Aww adorable! I’ve never met her, but she's the breathtaking brunette Hunter, right?”
“I might not call her that myself, but that sounds accurate. When did you see her?”
Crap! I can’t say while I was watching you both in the hospital garden a few weeks back!
Hesitantly you answered:
“I think I saw her while visiting the hospital. She is extremely beautiful by the way. You are incredibly lucky. I wish I could meet someone like her too!” Zayne didn’t speak for a moment, seeming to be processing what you just said.
“Oh, so do you like women primarily?”
Waittt does he think I’m gay????
“No! I mostly date men, or only men, though some women maybe, I don’t- I mean-” You realized you were babbling nonsense, so you grabbed your drink and chugged a bit before continuing. “I mean, I tend to prefer men. Why do you ask? Is there a handsome rich doctor you can set me up with?” Zayne’s eyes went up and down your figure, before he gave you a small smile.
“Something like that?” You were mixed between wanting to know more, and completely shutting down the conversation. Before you could find out which, your phone alarm rang.
“Ooops class is on soon, we gotta go!”
—
“What happened?!”
When you and Zayne returned, you were faced with a flat, lopsided cake. It didn’t look like that when you took it out of the oven. The teacher looked at you both apologetically.
“I am so sorry guys. There wasn’t enough space in the fridge, so we had to stack the cakes together. Yours was on the bottom.” You frowned, shrugged your shoulders, and looked up at your partner.
“It’s alright, our cake will just have more character, right Zayne?” Zayne smiled back.
“Yes, we got it.”
“Thank you both.” The teacher bowed before walking back to the front.
“Okay Zayne, I am determined to make this cake beautiful. Pass me the whipped cream you made and the mango and mango filling.” Zayne bit his lip nervously before grabbing what you requested. You looked at the ingredients and they looked perfect, except, the bowl with the whipped cream had only ⅓ of the cream you needed.
“What happened to the cream? Did someone take the rest of ours by mistake?” Zayne looked away, before shamefully returning his gaze to you.
“I might have indulged in a bit of it.”
“A bit of it? A majority of it is gone.” Zayne peered at you awkwardly and glumly apologized:
“I am so sorry, I’ll make more.” You shoved his shoulder gently.
“Don’t worry about it. I was just giving you a hard time. I’ll just remember this for next time.” Zayne smirked back.
“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
You took what you had, a lopsided cake, barely any whipped cream, and a lot of chopped mangoes and mango filling, and made the prettiest cake you could. In the end, it was ugly, but cute ugly. There was only enough whipped cream for the center and the very top, the mango jam was leaking from the center, and the only decorations were unevenly chopped mangoes (mostly uneven because of you). Despite your ugly cake, you couldn’t help, but feel prideful. You took out your phone and took a lot of pictures including selfies. You smiled dorkily on each photo and noticed Zayne stiffly standing on the side, you beckoned him over.
“Come here Zayne, we need to commemorate our cake baby.” Zayne chuckled and stood next to you. You smiled as prettily as you could as the timer on your phone counted down, but in the middle, the doctor put his arms around your shoulder and pulled you closer to him. Leaning your body on his. You almost gasped from the sudden heat, but continued to smile wobbly as the phone camera flashed. Once the picture was done, you quickly removed yourself from his arm and looked at the picture taken. Unsurprisingly, Zayne looked handsome while you appeared skittish and messy. You wished you looked better, but even so, you had to admit, it was an adorable photo of you both.
“Look at us.” You said proudly as you showed him the photo on your phone. Zayne peeked at you and grinned.
“You look cute.” You blushed at his compliment and scratched the side of your cheek.
“Thank you! And thanks for baking with me. I had a lot of fun. Well, I guess I will see you around.” You shot finger guns in his direction and were reeling to leave, but as you were turning away, Zayne held your arm.
“Before you go, can I give you my number so that I can get a copy of the picture?” An alarm began blaring in your head. You shouldn’t take the number of an attached man, but, is it alright just to give him a photo?
“Sure.” You answered conflictedly as you opened your contacts and handed your phone to the man. Zayne swiftly took your phone and added his number in.
“Thanks in advance Y/N. I hope I can see you again.”
—
A Month Later…
You had wanted to join more classes, but work was more hectic than normal for the last month. You had to deal with an onslaught of terribly rude clients, unreliable coworkers, and overbearing and harsh higher ups. It was a struggle, but finally, after a month of dealing with hell and working non stop, you got yourself a few days off. The first free day, the only plans you had was to lie around, eat snacks, and binge your favorite shows.
As you chomped down on your chips, with crumbs covering your pajama shirt, you heard a soft chime on your phone. You groaned in disgust, it was probably a coworker demanding help, or a boss overstepping again. You grabbed your phone and looked at the screen. Your shock made your hands tremble and almost drop your phone. Glaring back at you was a text from Zayne:
Dr. Zayne: Hi Y/N, how have you been?
You felt a wave of panic. This was the first time since you sent the picture that Zayne has ever texted you. You quickly unlocked your phone and went straight to your messages to respond.
You: Hi Dr. Zayne, it’s been awhile! I’ve been alright despite work being horrible! Hbu?
Dr. Zayne: Sorry to hear about that. Hope you haven’t been dealing with a lot of stress and heart palpitations. If you need to see a doctor let me know. Me, I’ve been fine. The hospital has been hectic as well. I haven't been able to go back to the dance or baking class unfortunately.
You: Haha, me as well. I miss them though. I had a lot of fun hanging with you. How has MC been?
Dr. Zayne: She’s fine, haven’t been able to see her much either lately.
You: Aww that sucks. Are you going to be off soon?
After a few minutes of no answer, with only a grey bubble with dots, indicating he was typing on the screen, a new message popped up.
Dr. Zayne: Yes, actually that’s why I wanted to contact you. There’s a painting pottery workshop I wanted to try tomorrow. Would you want to join me? I can sign you up for you?
Your heart skipped a beat. You were surprised that he would want to hang out with you alone. What about his girlfriend? Why would he want to be alone with a single woman? Unless he doesn’t see you as attractive enough to be considered a romantic threat, that would be harsh, but fair. Yes that had to be it. Still, you didn’t want to be stealing MC’s time with her beau and possibly cause conflict between the beautiful couple.
You: That sounds like fun! Why don’t you invite MC with us? I can invite a friend, it can be a double date!
The grey bubble with dots reappeared and stayed longer than last time. Your nerves peaked. Just to escape the growing anxiety, you were about to switch to another app, when a new message came up.
Dr. Zayne: I checked with MC. She said she could join.
You sighed in relief. This felt like a thumbs of approval from MC. You didn’t have to worry about breaching any boundaries in their relationship. Now you can just enjoy your platonic friendship with Zayne and perhaps add MC to your growing list of friends.
You: Excited :D! I’ll ask my friend to come with us! I’ll see u tmr!
Dr. Zayne: Excellent, the class starts at 11am. I can pick you all up, just provide me with your address.
You: Sure :) !
You smiled at your conversation, then it quickly dissipated when you were hit with a dreadful realization: you had to find a friend!
You scoured your phone’s contacts and realized you didn’t really have anyone to invite. All your friends were either out of the country, you knew was working, or you barely spoke to them in years.
Why did I offer to invite a friend?! Now I’m going to look like a loner!
After going back and forth on your phone, you realized you only had one person left, but he would most likely be unavailable. Even so, you had to try. You clicked your friend’s name and waited as your phone rang until a warm voice answered:
“Hello?”
“Hi Greyson! Are you free tomorrow?”
“Wow, uh not sure why?” You sighed at his non-committal response.
“I’m going on a double date, I need a friend.”
“Ummm I’m not really interested in dating, I mean-”
“Please! I don’t want to be a third wheel with Zayne and MC! Plus you missed our appointment, so you owe me!”
“Hey, I was saving someone’s life! Also, did you say Zayne, my boss, and MC? They’re dating?!”
“Yeah, you didn’t know?”
“I didn’t know, but I guess it should have been obvious. Man that sucks, I really liked-” He suddenly stopped. “Anyways, sure!”
“Wait- Liked?! Who, MC?!” Before you could extract any answer from the uneasy doctor, he started to rush to end the call.
“I’LL GO BYE BYE BYE!”
“I’LL TEXT YOU THE DETAILS!”
—
Next Day…
You decided since this was just a hangout with your friends, you didn’t have to try too hard with your appearance. Glaring in the mirror, all you could see was a sloppy looking girl wearing a grey hoodie and black ripped jeans. Luckily, you didn’t look completely gross or dead because of the light amount of makeup you applied that added color to your face. Still, you couldn’t stand to scrutinize yourself any longer. Anxious, you waited in your living room until you heard the ringing of your doorbell.
“Coming!” You hollered as you ran to the door. Almost out of breath, you tidied up your messy hair and opened the door. On the other side was Greyson, looking snazzier than usual in a white polo shirt with beige capri pants. The man seemed just as nervous as you. Standing at your doorway, his foot tapped rapidly on the ground.
“Hi Y/N. “
“Wow Greyson, you look fantastic!” The doctor gave you a shy smile.
“Thanks Y/N, I tried.” You guffawed.
“I certainly didn’t. Now grab a seat, we’re waiting for Zayne and MC to pick us up.” You noticed the man slump before putting on a small pout and falling into your couch. Something was bothering him. You sat next to him and turned your body to face him.
“Are you alright Greyson?” The man bit his lips before answering.
“I’m alright.” You furrowed your brows.
“Does this have to do with your unrequited crush on MC?” Greyson stared at you completely aghast. His eyes and mouth were hanging open.
“How did you know! I never told anyone!” You shoved his shoulder.
“I guessed and I am so sorry!” Greyson groaned, lied on the backrest of your couch, and covered his face in his hands.
“Don’t pity me! I know the whole thing is pathetic.”
“NOOO!” You laid your head on his shoulder. “You aren’t pathetic. A lot of people deal with unrequited crushes. Heck, I’m going through it right now.” Greyson peeked at you from between his fingers with a frown.
“Who?”
“Dr. Zayne.”
“Yeah, everyone does.” His hand rubbed your shoulder consolingly. “Still, I’m sorry Y/N.”
“We’ll both be alright. I got your back.” Greyson’s frown turned to a grin, when suddenly you both jumped at the sound of the doorbell ringing again.
“Alright, it’s time.” You said enthusiastically as you patted Greyson on the back and walked to your vestibule. After taking a deep breath, you opened your door and were immediately pulled into a tight hug. As you were held, long brown hair tickled your face and a delightful fragrance of blossoms filled your nostrils. After a few minutes in her embrace, MC released you and looked into your eyes.
“Oh my gosh, Zayne spoke so much about you! I am happy to finally meet you.” It took you a bit to speak. You were taken aback with how beautiful MC presented up close. Her skin was unblemished and smooth, her chocolate colored hair was silky, her body was lean and muscled and shaped in a perfect hourglass. She reminded you of the models you would see in magazines or screens, the ones you would painfully compare yourself to. You felt a pang in your chest, an ache tinged with jealousy. You could understand why both Zayne and Greyson wanted her.
“I’m happy to meet you too. Zayne spoke to a lot of you as well.” The hunter dressed in an endearing white, flower patterned dress, swayed around, her arms behind her back, and a playful smile on her face.
“Well not surprising considering I am one of his childhood friends. Anyways let’s- Wait! Is that Greyson?” The brunette man immediately turned his head when he heard his name and answered:
“Oh, hi MC!” The girl’s smile widened as she scampered to Greyson. As she passed you, you looked up at Zayne. As usual, the man was dressed impeccably, wearing a white dress shirt, a grey waist coat and dress pants. Though you couldn’t help chuckling to yourself. It was kind of hilarious how the man couldn’t spend a day without looking anything but professional. You leaned your body on your doorway.
“Are you not worried about paint splashing on your fancy clothes?” Zayne looked down at himself before smirking.
“This is just my casual attire. It’ll be fine if paint gets on it.”
“These are your casual clothes? Wow, you are definitely more fancy than me. This outfit is my version of casual.” You mentioned as you gestured theatrically towards your clothes. The doctor sized you up and answered with a grin:
“You still look cute.” You would usually blush and smile, but you knew he was just being polite. MC’s appearance far exceeds yours. Yet, you didn’t want to be ungrateful, so you nodded and smiled politely. “Thanks. Anyways, we should probably start going.” Zayne’s grin shrank as he shook his head in agreement.
“Agreed, let’s go!” MC chanted as her and Greyson joined you both.
—
Right in front of your apartment building was Zayne’s black BMW, and as you all walked to the car, MC, ahead of the group, instantly instructed:
“Alright, Y/N, you sit shotgun next to Zayne.” MC grabbed Greyson’s arm, making the smaller doctor turn red and gulp. “And I’ll sit in the backseat with Greyson.” You couldn’t understand the odd arrangement? It would be too awkward sitting in front with Zayne while his girlfriend and the guy who liked her were in the back.
“Actually, would it be alright if I sat in the back with Greyson?” MC stared at you puzzled.
“Oh, are you sure your don’t-”
“Actually.” Greyson gently retreated from the woman’s grasp. “I agree with Y/N. I’ll sit in the back with her.” Briefly MC eyes dimmed, but recovered and she replied with a small smile.
“Whatever makes you both comfortable.”
—
The whole car ride started uncomfortably. Initially, MC tried to make small talk, but the conversation quickly simmered and all that was left were soft tunes from the radio. At least that was the case until the car passed a familiar kitty cafe. You were so surprised that your middle school hot spot was still open that you moved your whole body towards the car’s window to look.
“Wait! Is Paws still open?” Greyson stopped staring outside and turned to you.
“Is it? We haven’t been there since middle school.” You smirked as a flash of memories came to mind. Back when you both were so youthful, naive, and hopeful. Not the cynical adults you were now.
“Do you remember when you tried to steal one of the cafe’s cats?” Greyson glared at you, mortified. There was a part of you that felt guilty for mentioning the embarrassing story, but it was too hilarious not to.
“I didn’t! We both know that kitty chose me! I was just respecting the cat’s decision to come home with me.” You playfully rolled your eyes and giggled.
“Is that why you hid the kitten in your school bag and got caught!” Intrigued, MC spun from her seat, focussed on you both and asked:
“Wait, what happened?!” You bit your cheek and laughed as you pushed Greyson’s shoulder. His eyes darted between the two ladies staring at him predatorily.
“Um, well I don’t really want-”
“Come on Greyson, tell us what happened!”
“Come on Greyson!” MC joined in, showing her best puppy eyes. The cornered man whined and began telling the story. Throughout the whole tale, you continuously laughed and pushed him around while adding in your own perspective. Meanwhile, MC stayed silent, but you could see her engrossed gaze towards Greyson as she giggled along. As you listened, your gaze subconsciously rose from the shy doctor to the car’s driver. You expected Zayne’s eyes to be focused on the road, but from the rearview mirror, your eyes met his hazel green eyes staring at you. Flustered, you shifted your eyes away and tried to ignore the heat in your cheeks.
—
After driving for almost half an hour, you finally made it to your destination, the pottery workshop. The moment you all went inside, you were greeted by friendly employees wearing light brown aprons and pastel colored walls and tables.
“Hello!” A teenage girl with one of the shop’s aprons greeted. “You guys can start painting right away, just pick one of the items from the shelf and sit at one of our craft tables. All the supplies will be there, and you can order food and drinks at the counter.” You all thanked the girl and began browsing at one of the shelves. The shelf was covered in clay statues of cute animals, mugs, bowls, and jars, all lovingly crafted. After several minutes of perusing, your whole group struggled to pick anything, you especially. You couldn’t focus as you felt Zayne’s warmth as he stood directly behind you, almost pressing himself against you. Your heart fluttered, but you did your best to ignore it and focus on the items in front of you. As you all continued to search, MC spoke up again.
“It’s too hard to pick, but I have an idea to make this easier! Why don’t we paint something for our date and give it to them.” Your heart ached, that was such a romantic idea! Too bad nobody would ever want to do anything like that with you.
“That’s a great idea.” You said as excitedly as you could. “I’ll make something for you Greyson.”
“Oh thank you Y/N. I’ll do the same.” You and Greyson returned your gaze to MC after your sullen agreement. You had expected her to eagerly proclaim her anticipation, but instead she seemed gloomy and confused.
“Oh, you and Greyson?- Okay! Sure, I guess I’ll make something for you, Zayne.” Zayne didn’t say much either, he just quietly nodded. He didn’t appear happy about your idea as well. Did you say something wrong? You grabbed Greyson by the arm.
“I want to check the stuff on the other shelf, come with me.” Eyes wide, the timid man shook his head and followed your lead.
—
Zayne’s POV:
Zayne was a rational man. He knew you and him were nothing more than friends, or perhaps even that was too generous of a title. Still, despite having zero entitlement to your time, he couldn’t help, but feel jealous. Watching you walk away, holding Greyson’s arm, he felt a terrible urge to pull you away from the other man and take his spot, but instead he ignored the itch.
This whole time he foolishly thought when you offered the double date, you would be his date. Thinking back, he should have known better. Your voluntary distance from him and your closeness with Greyson made the reality of you two dating obvious. Besides that, if Zayne was being honest with himself, he understood that Greyson would be a better fit for you. You deserved someone warm and kind, not closed off, intimidated, and cold as he was.
As he sadly browsed the same shelf, he felt panicked pokes on his back and whispers:
“Zayne, Zayne, Zayne, Zayne, Zayne.” He groaned and turned to see MC pouting. “You lied, you told me Greyson was single.”
“The last we spoke, he was.” MC frowned further and shook him by the shoulders.
“I can’t believe this. Your girl stole my man!”
“She wasn’t ever mine.” MC groaned and hit his shoulder with her forehead.
“She could have been, but ugh how we fumble so hard Zayne!”
“I don’t know, but we need to respect their relationship.” The girl glared at her childhood friend.
“I know that! I’m not a homewrecker, but you have to admit this sucks, Zayne.” Zayne sighed and ruffled MC’s hair.
“It sucks, but let’s do our best to have fun. For them.”
“Fine.”
—
Your POV
As before you were mesmerized by the couple’s interaction. Watching Zayne cutely ruffle MC’s hair, you couldn’t help, but wish it was you. You cringed, it was a disgusting thought.
“Y/N how about these ones?” Greyson’s question snapped you out of your trance. You followed the brunette’s gaze and it landed on two fuzzy clay bears, wearing matching knitted scarves and tuques.
“Oh my Gosh Greyson! I love them, let’s do it!” Greyson grabbed the two bears and followed you to the table. You both sat on the table and began painting your bears. As you both painted, Zayne and MC picked their own items and joined you both. As you greeted them, you peeked at the figures in their hands and noticed that like you and Greyson, the other couple picked matching statues. Zayne had a chubby snowman, while MC painted a penguin wearing winter gear.
Why do they have to be so cute?!
“I love your snowman and penguin, they are so cute together!” MC smiled gleefully at your praise.
“Right! I love your two bears, I’m jealous!” As she finished her sentence, a glint of mischief appeared in her eyes. “Sooooo how long have you two teddy bears been together?” You squinted your eyes as she pointed at you and your childhood friend.
“What?” You asked hesitantly as MC scratched her cheek. Before she could continue, Zayne gently bumped his elbow on her arm as he started:
“MC, it’s none of our-”
“I mean they don’t have to answer! But come on nothing’s wrong with just asking! So, before I was RUDELY interrupted, Y/N, how long have you been dating Greyson?” You were too stunned to respond, you turned to Greyson and could see his expression matched your own.
“What? No NOOOO! I mean no offense Greyson you are great and handsome but-” One of MC’s eyes twitched as you called him handsome. You looked away from MC’s intense eyes, coughed and continued: “I’m-, I mean we’re not dating, absolutely no interest in each other. We are like siblings and I’m not into inces- I’ll stop now.” You looked down at your lap as your hands laid on your thighs. Momentarily, there was silence, until MC guffawed. Confused, you stared at the woman across from you as she was bent over laughing.
“You guys scared me!” MC immediately stood up and grabbed Greyson’s arm, lifting him up to his feet. Greyson gasped with his eyes wide and disorientated. “Okay, Greyson and I have to talk. Here is our share for the bill, enjoy your date you two!” MC instantly pulled out bills of cash and slapped it onto the table counter. After, MC interlocked her hand into your friend’s and bolted from the workshop, leaving both you and Zayne alone.
“Uhmm, did your girlfriend just steal my date?” Zayne peered at you incredulously.
“Wait, did you still think MC was my girlfriend? I thought I told you before that we weren’t together?” You started to blush.
He told me?!
You tried to re-think all your interactions with Zayne, but you couldn’t pinpoint a single time he told you his relationship status.
“I-I can’t remember you telling me.” Zayne stared at you mortified.
“Oh, I was sure- Either way, I am unattached.” You were rattled to your core. Shocked, you moved your hands on the table and fiddled your fingers. Unsure of what to say or do after this huge bombshell. This whole time, you had reserved yourself to the idea that he was completely unattainable, already taken and in-love. Still, despite his status, that didn’t change a thing. You weren’t entitled to him, especially with who you were currently. Besides your flaws, you are certain you saw yearning in his eyes when he gazed at MC. Is this a case of unrequited love? You opened your mouth to speak, but the moment Zayne gently placed his hand on your much smaller interlocked hands, you froze. His touch was cool, but you felt anything but cold. “Y/N I’m sorry-”
“It’s alright, I shouldn’t have assumed-”
“No, I’m not apologizing for the misunderstanding, though I should have been more direct. I’m apologizing for not being clear with my intentions.”
“Intentions?” Zayne put one of his hands between your two locked ones, separating them and held your right one firmly between his hands.
“I really like you Y/N, and I truly enjoy being around you. Would you consider dating me? I am aware I am not the warmest person, that I seem intimidating and unfriendly, and please don’t feel obligated to return my feelings, but I would be privileged if you would give me a chance.” You were left in complete disbelief. How could such a kind, handsome and intelligent doctor think you of all people would reject him. You would be over the moon if he chose to date you, but what if you were only a rebound to his true love? You frowned, feeling your heart pounding.
“I really want to accept Zayne. I really like you too, but I don’t know.” Zayne smiled hesitantly, and lightly squeezed your hand.
“What’s stopping you?”
“It’s just hard to believe someone as incredible as you would want a nobody like me. I’m not exactly a model, or a cool hunter with an amazing evol. I’m just a regular woman. I don’t have any evol and I work in a mundane office. Would you want to be with someone so unextraordinary? Are you just rebounding because MC likes someone else?” Zayne frowned and squeezed your cheek. “Oww”
“Y/N, please don’t speak about yourself that way. You’re beautiful, fun, warm, kind, and someone I know is worth getting close to. I don’t need you to be MC. A long time ago, I thought I loved her, but after meeting you, I realized what all I truly felt was infatuation. She’s still important to me, but I don’t love her. And it may be too soon to say, but I see myself falling completely for you. So, would you be willing to give us a chance?” Zayne pulled your hands to his mouth and placed on the back of your hand a delicate kiss. Your mouth widened from the dorky smile you couldn’t control. You never felt so ecstatic.
“Then, I would love to give us a try!” Zayne’s smile wasn’t as large as yours, but as he looked into your eyes intently, you swore you could see his eyes tearing up. Perhaps, it will all work out.
—
Months Later…
Every night, Zayne was tortured by the same recurring nightmare. It would leave him in cold sweat, jolting out of bed, and gasping for air.
In his dream, Zayne woke up not as a prestigious cardiac surgeon, but an alternate and crueler version of himself. A murderer that went by the name: Dawnbreaker. In his unconscious mind, he found himself alone in a deserted wasteland. Nobody was left alive in the post-apocalypse Linkon. It was only him and the endless hoard of wanderers he dedicated his existence to destroying, desperately hoping his mission would cleanse him of his sins.
One day, as he traversed the abandoned city, he heard a scream. However, unlike any other he has heard, the scream was human. He ran to the direction of the cry, and that’s when he met you. You were tiny, but fierce. Screaming while hitting a wanderer with a baton, barely doing any damage. He sighed and before you could be impaled by the wanderer’s sharp claws, he dispatched the monster. Piercing the beast with a wave of sharp icicles. After his effortless save, you looked at him with adorably large eyes. You jumped towards him and held him tightly in your arms. Your warmth was the first he felt in a long time. Still, he couldn’t completely trust you. Your existence in this dead world was an anomaly.
He attempted to leave you there, but like a pup, you followed behind him and refused to leave his side. Blabbing on and on about your origins. Apparently, he was right, you weren’t from his world. You were an interdimensional traveler, a researcher that traveled to alternate universes and sent your information to your higher ups. Unfortunately, you entered, or more like crashed into this world. During your abrupt arrival, your ship was destroyed, trapping you in this nightmare with him.
“As the only human left, you have to help me!” You begged earnestly. “If you help me fix my ship, I’ll bring you back with me. My world is more pleasant!” The prospect of leaving this empty world was tempting, but there was something or someone he wanted more.
“I don’t want to go back to your world. There’s a woman, MC. I have dreams, I know she exists in another universe. Promise me to bring me to a world where I can finally be with her, and I will help you.” He remembered you cocking your head with skeptical squinted eyes before smirking and shaking his hand.
“I promise.”
That promise started your two’s partnership. Together, you both worked endlessly on your broken ship that was in chunks. With the damage, it took you several years to fix it. It took so long that as time passed, your relationship slowly shifted from strangers, disgruntled partners, friends, to perhaps something more.
Neither of you claimed ownership of the other, but that didn’t stop you both from using the excuse of needing companionship and warmth to fully indulge in each other. Kisses placed on every part of your bodies, you both fully sinking and becoming one. Initially, it was supposed to be only physical, but the connection evolved. The hours of conversations, sprinkled with jokes and more personal talks, spending time leisurely instead of tickering with the ship, hours of playing games, reading books, exploring the world, having picnics, and so much more. Suddenly, Zayne’s tiny and dark world was filled with light. He found himself needing you. The traveler found a way to nestle herself into his heart. Was he in love with you? He wasn’t sure. The idea of falling for you was daunting. It felt like a betrayal to the woman he dreamed each night of. The one who stood by his side when he was a kinder man, a doctor.
So, he never put a label on his feelings for you, and never said the shattering 3 words. He could tell, especially during those quiet nights, when he held you against his naked chest, that his silence hurt you. He expected you to say something, but you seemed alright with the current status quo, being second place in his heart, at least that’s what he thought.
Closer to the end of his dreams, a few years later in his nightmare, you both were finally able to complete the ship’s revival. It was perfect, except a horrible truth came out. You never had any intention of getting him out, at least together. Your ship could only accommodate one passenger. Your plan was to travel to your world alone and send him a ship to go on his way. It would have worked, though you both would be apart, but a new problem arose after a few tests were done. To fully activate the ship, you had to use a large amount of protocore energy, this would attract wanderers to your area. Meaning, someone had to protect the ship while it was transported away and this would most likely kill the person left behind.
He remembered your panicked face as you explained all this. He didn’t feel the same fear as you. In his heart, he knew he would die on this unforgiving planet. The reality that crashed into his face should have hurt, his dream of being with MC being annihilated, but instead he felt peace. He got to live his last years blissfully with you. He would be honored to die for the woman he cherished.
“Let’s do it.” Was all he said. You looked at him mortified, tears in your eyes, but agreed. The next morning, after a final night in each other's embrace, the ship was activated. The moment the ship turned on, he could hear the cries of wanderers. His end was near, but he wasn’t afraid. He was ready to fight for you when you called him.
“Zayne, can you look at this quickly, something is wrong with the ship.” There was a tremor in your voice. This had to be serious. He rushed to your side and peered inside the small pod. Everything seemed fine he thought before he felt your delicate hands on his back, shoving him inside. The moment he tumbled inside, the ship sealed, making him unable to escape, unable to save you.
“Y/N WHY!” He shouted while banging the ship’s door, although it could set him free. You tried to smile happily, but he saw your lips wobbling and your tears that stained your cheeks. Before saying a word, you removed the bandage on your arm, the one you refused to let him inspect. Under the bandage were small protocore fragments penetrating your skin from the inside. One of the symptoms of late stage protocore syndrome. How did he miss it? How did he fail to protect you? “Y/N”
Suddenly the room began to vibrate as the ship was slowly activating and the wanderers' cries approached. This couldn’t be happening. As much as he could move in the small space, he fumbled around the screen to stop the ship from teleporting, or to open the ship’s hatch, but everything was locked. It was hopeless. All he could do was continue banging the door and begging. You were unmoved, instead you smiled wider while placing your hand on the window between you.
“Zayne, it’s alright. I’m dying. If you stayed, there would be two bodies instead of one. I need you to live on. Find your true love MC and enjoy life. I set up the coordinates to send you to her. Good bye Zayne.”
Before he could say anything, a large group of wanderers came in, stealing your attention from him. He shouted for you, but you ignored him, instead you advanced towards your death with only a single pistol in hand. He wanted to reach you, he wanted to fight beside you and die with you, but all he could do was watch as the ship glowed, signalling its near departure.
“I LOVE YOU Y/N!” He yelled at the top of his lungs. You didn’t react, didn’t acknowledge his words. Did you hear him? He doesn’t know. The last glimpse of his beloved traveler was her being pierced in the chest by the claws of a wanderer, blood pooling at your feet.
After your death, this is when he begged for the dream to stop, but it never did.
When Zayne opened his eyes, he found himself in a hospital gown with a shaggy haired brunette doctor he remembered from his dreams, staring at him concerningly. He expected the man to question his alien presence, instead he worried about his brain.
“We are so glad you are awake, Zayne. You were in a terrible car accident. Do you remember what happened?”
“No, I don’t remember the accident.” It was a lie, but what could he say? Nobody would believe he was an imposter teleported here by his now deceased partner. So, he played his new role, the kind-hearted cardiac surgeon. Luckily, he was able to adjust to his life fairly easily. He didn’t understand how his beloved’s ship worked, but now he had all the memories and skills of the Zayne he replaced. Further luck, MC was in his life. She visited him in the hospital, she was his emergency contact, and telling by how she blushed and looked passionately into his eyes, she wanted more. A decade ago, this reality would have been his heaven, but without you, without his light, his life felt as meaningless and cold as the wasteland he was once trapped in.
Consequently, even knowing you would be disappointed in him, he rejected any further relationship with MC, and decided to lay low and try to forget you. Though nothing worked, you were forever etched into his soul. He had nothing but regret accompanying him, and he had nobody else to blame but himself.
If only he could have another chance. If only he could only make things right.
Y/N I’m so sorry-
—-
He woke up again, unable to breathe.
Please tell me she is still here?! I didn’t lose her again did I?
He turned to the spot next to him on the bed, but you weren’t there.
No, please, it can’t all be a dream. You came back to me!
Abruptly the doctor opened the door of his bedroom and he ran to the living room.
“Y/N!”
“AHHH!” You screamed at the man rushing to you. You were just cooking breakfast leisurely for the man you love and yourself to enjoy, dressed in only your underwear and his pyjama shirt, not expecting a sudden ambush from your beloved.
“Zayne.” You whined, your heart pressed to your chest. “You scared me.” You were annoyed until you noticed the man’s teary eyes. You immediately held him tightly in your arms.
“Another nightmare my love?” He kissed your bare neck and whispered a yes. You leaned your head into his. “Did you want to talk about it, my love?” He shook his head, and swayed around with you in his arms.
“No, all of it was from the past. I just want to focus on you now.” You kissed his cheek, pulled away from his embrace, and held and squeezed his fair and soft face.
“I want to take care of you too, Zayne.” You pressed your lips on his, moving against him, savoring him and the sweetness on his tongue. You felt his smile on your lips as he returned your cravings with his own. You both stayed interlocked, until you both were out of breath. You pulled away, needing to breathe, but his lips chased your own, he needed to feel every part of you. To reassure himself you were truly beside him, that you weren’t a cruel illusion. You needed it too, but there was a question irking you. You put your forehead on his to stop him and ask:
“Be honest, do you think our relationship is moving too fast? We’ve only been dating for a few months and we already live together. Should we slow down?” The doctor softly chuckled before holding your face and placing multiple kisses on your face. First on your forehead, your fluttering eyelids, your nose, your cheeks, and lastly, your lips. Though on your lips, he lingered, he was tempted to continue, but with the small amount of self-control he had left, he parted from you.
“Maybe, but honestly I don’t care. All that matters to me now is making sure you know each day how much I love you. However, if it would make you happy, I’m willing to go slow.” He placed another desperate long kiss on your lips, before separating one final time. “Going slow, would just mean I get to savor you more.” You moved your hand to his firm chest, feeling his racing heartbeat on your palm.
“I don’t care either Zayne, I just know that I love you too.”
Zayne grinned and returned to your lips hungrily, refusing to let you go for the rest of the day. Later that night, after savoring his company, as you snuggled his firm chest exhausted, you grinned lazily. You felt truly blessed and loved. Despite the fact you knew your insecurities would never be completely gone, you knew that Zayne would stay by your side, loving you no matter what.
I love all your fic series they’re so fun to read 🥺🫶
Aww you are so kind thank you!!! 😘😘😘 I’m happy to hear you enjoyed! If there is something you would like to see in particular, always feel free to ask! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hello Everyone! Sorry this took me so long to write! Hope the wait is worth it. Also, a part of the story involves Protofields, and I am sure I'm describing it wrong. Be prepared lol!
Even after being LADS LIs' partner, you can't help, but be jealous of MC. How would the LIs react.
Tags: Minors DNI!!! Self-Esteem Issues, Negative Talk, Older (Lookwise)!Reader, Suggestive, Canon Divergence, Inaccurate descriptions of Protofields (Sry if it gets confusing), Self-Destructive Behaviour.
Please leave feedback or suggestions in comments and/or replies!
Other Versions: Sylus / Rafayel / Caleb / Zayne
Xavier:
You looked out the window of the bus, feeling the weather’s frost in your bones. Snowflakes fell from the sky in droves as freezing winds blew everything else away. It was another harsh winter in Linkon. When your bus finally dropped you off at your stop, you thanked the driver and slowly and carefully exited. Unfortunately, that didn’t stop your knees from buckling and hitting you with a sharp pain. It hurt, but, as you always did, you kept moving. Hobbling down the sidewalk until you finally entered your chilly house. A small crooked rental. It wasn’t your ideal. It was a tiny place with only one bedroom and washroom, all the appliances in the living room/kitchen, cracks and broken utilities everywhere with a constant draft. It didn’t compare to the high-rise apartment you used to live in when you were a young hunter, but you lived in this house for almost 30 years. You've gotten used to it.
“I’m home.” You sang as you entered your empty abode. You hadn’t lived, or interacted much with anyone the last few decades. Not after he left. You sighed at the typical silence. You turned on the kitchen lights and your coffee machine. As usual, you were going to brew yourself a mocha, sit on the couch, and watch your favorite shows. As you prepared, you heard an unfamiliar chiming. You looked around your place confused. Where was that noise coming from?
Ding Dong ~ Ding Dong ~
Wait, is that my doorbell?
You couldn’t believe there was someone outside your door. Generally, you never had anyone, even salesmen, drop by (they must be able to tell from your rundown home, you had no money). You wondered who it could be? You wobbled over to the door, and took a quick look in the mirror next to it. The young and naive hunter you were was completely gone. Instead was an older and chubbier woman with powder white hair. You sighed. You looked more like your own grandmother than who you once were. You missed the girl you used to be, however, you knew that was no excuse to not be presentable. You tidied up your hair and headed to the front.
You opened the door, expecting to see a salesman, advertisers, or perhaps someone from the local churches, but instead you lost your breath. The first thing you saw was piercing azure eyes, and silver blond hair. In front of you was a man in his 20s. Fair-skinned, lean, and wearing a white hunter’s uniform. For a moment, you believed you died of old age and an angel was here to retrieve you.
“Good Evening.” The man greeted in a soft and warm voice. “I’m so sorry, but my car broke down near your house. I called a tow truck, but they won’t be arriving for the next few hours. Would it be alright if I stayed with you until then? I have no place to go to stay warm.”
This was unprecedented and you knew you shouldn’t allow a stranger, no matter how good looking, to come into your home. Still, could you refuse and risk the man dying from hypothermia. You stepped to the side.
“Come in.”
The man gave you a gentle smile before walking past you. As he entered, he looked curiously around. Luckily, besides the animal nick-nacks and plushies littered everywhere, your place was relatively organized and clean.
“Can I get you anything to eat or drink young man?” He looked away from one of your puppy porcelain statues and nodded.
“Yes please. I need something hot. It was freezing out there.” You laughed.
“Of course, I was going to make myself a mocha with marshmallows. Would you like me to make one for you as well?” You could see a light shine in his sky-blue eyes.
“I would love that.”
—
After you finished preparing the drinks, you handed one to him as he sat on your couch, fiddling his fingers.
“Here, hope you enjoy- Actually, I never asked you what your name was.” The hunter looked down a moment before returning his gaze to you.
“People just call me Lu. What was your name Mrs?”
“Unmarried, you can call me Y/N.”
Lu’s mouth turned into an O momentarily before smiling and taking took a sip of the mocha. He let out a blissful sigh.
“Thank you Y/N. This is delicious.” Your heart warmed as you smiled back.
“Of course, if you want more, let me know. You can also watch tv to pass the time. The remote is on the coffee table.” He nodded, but surprisingly, he made no moves towards the remote. You shrugged, left his side and sat on the dining table, planning to check your moments page on your phone, or read a book. However, once you sat down, Lu followed and sat across from you. You were puzzled.
“You didn’t feel like watching tv?” The man pursed his lips.
“I don’t enjoy watching tv much. Actually, I was hoping to talk with you.” Your cheeks heated up.
“That’s sweet, but I’m not much of a conversationalist.” This whole situation was so odd.
“Neither am I, so we can skip the small talk. I’m curious about you. For my job, I’ve spoken to many of those from an older generation and they always have such amazing life stories.”
“Young man, are you calling me old?” His mouth and eyes went agape.
“What- no I didn’t mean.” You laughed at his distress.
“No need to panic, Lu. I was just giving you a hard time.” Lu laughed back while rubbing the back of his neck.
“Don’t scare me like that. Anyways, if you don’t mind sharing, I would love to hear your story.” You pinched your chin. “You don’t have to if you are uncomfortable.” You gazed into his azure eyes, and you could tell he was being sincere.
“It’s alright, I can tell you. Though, unfortunately, it may not be that interesting.”
—
“I wasn’t always the elderly woman you see today. Decades ago, I was a young woman who lived in a small town on a tropical island. I was content, living with my family and lifelong friends in a beautiful paradise. Never having to deal with weather like this there. Unfortunately, I’ve always been too ambitious. I dreamed of more.”
—
You giggled at the memories of simpler times.
—
“I used to hang up magazine pages on my bedroom walls. My walls were covered with pages on Linkon City, the greatest city on the planet and their heroic mighty hunters. I admired them both so much. They inspired me, and I decided to become a hunter as well and move to Linkon. After I decided, day after day, I started training and studying, but when I was old enough to try, around 21 years old, my family couldn’t afford the cost of my schooling and housing. I was told to settle, but I couldn’t. Instead, I worked multiple jobs for my goal. Little did I know, while working, I was going to meet someone who would become incredibly important to me, and change my life forever.”
—
That important person’s face flashed into your mind. Though no smile grew on your face. The memory was bitter. His scowl and the fire in his eyes glaring at you, chilled you to this day. You frowned, but when you noticed a concerned look in your guest’s eyes, you shook your head and continued:
—
“One of the many jobs I had was being a tour guide. I think I was relatively good at it. I loved sharing all the island’s riveting tales and facts. Though I chose to only entertain small groups. Strangely, one day, only one man showed up. A man named Xavier. When I met the man, I immediately recognized his uniform. He was a hunter! I was so excited. I was itching to ask him everything about his life and his job, but I was too nervous, and he was too quiet. We didn’t interact much. I just did the usual and offered to take him anywhere he wanted for a fee. His choice: the infamous jungle in the outskirts of town. A jungle known to be dangerous for its constant wanderer sightings and protofields. Essentially, his choice was an idiotic idea. I tried to warn him against it, offering our local oasis that was safer and had a better view, but he rejected the thought. I knew it wasn’t smart, but he offered a lot of money, so foolishly, I agreed.
The journey did take a bit. To pass the time, I spouted out as many random facts about the jungle as I could. Which the traveler seemed mildly interested in. I tried to keep things light, but I felt a deep dread. I’ve always been sensitive to protofields, so the moment we came to the entrance, I could feel their vibrations. They were chaotic and dangerous. I begged the man not to go, but he didn’t listen. He was stubborn.
“I must go alone.” He said insistently. He should have listened to me. I could tell by his gait, he was a strong hunter, but even some of the strongest hunters died even before they made it to the core-”
—
“That man didn’t really make a good impression on you huh?” Lu remarked. His elbows on the dining table and his head leaning towards you.
“He was okay. I mean he could have been friendlier, and less reckless.” Lu chuckled.
“That’s true. Though trying to go to such a dangerous area is very bold. Do you think that hunter might have been stronger than Lumiere?” You furrowed your brow.
“An odd question, mmm maybe.” You rubbed your chin as a satisfied smirk appeared on Lu’s face. “Or maybe not considering how strong Lumiere was rumored to be.” Lu pouted.
“Lumiere’s power may have just been rumors. Anyways, apologies for the interruption, please continue.”
—
“Mr. Xavier.” I begged. “It’s too dangerous to go alone.” However, my pleas were ignored. The man was adamant and chose to go by himself. He only requested one thing. He asked that I stay at the entrance to help him return back to town. However, if he didn’t return after 2 hours, I could go. He even gave me the large sum of money he promised with a generous tip before starting the track. For any other tour guide, this would have been a dream. They would have run off with the money, but I could never do that.
Guilt festered. I thought of going after him, but even as a local, I knew it would be just as dangerous for me. I decided to wait, but maybe a half hour later, I heard the cries from wanderers and the falling of trees. As well, the earth on the ground began to violently quake. There was a lot of commotion in his direction. A huge battle was happening. I knew I shouldn’t get involved, but I couldn’t help but imagine the man swarmed by dozens of wanderers, and dying by their claws. I couldn’t just let him die.
So, I grabbed the sword I was gifted as a child-”
—
Lu started giggling. You squinted at him and asked:
“What’s so funny?”
“Isn’t a sword a weird gift for most children?”
“Perhaps, but not for my people. We lived surrounded by wanderers. Children are taught young.”
“Interesting.” Lu smirked. “We aren’t so different.”
—
“I ran straight to the jungle’s core, running past the wanderers heading the same direction. When I finally made it, the sight was breathtaking. There the man was surrounded by wanderers, but not a shred of fear on his face. He stood tall, his sword at his side, observing the wanderers' movements. Then he struck. A flash of light was all I could see before he was surrounded by fallen trees and large piles of destroyed wanderers. He didn’t seem out of breath or had a single scratch. His power was incomprehensible.
I thought of just tailing it out, since he seemed to be in perfect control when I saw a Wyrm appear out of nowhere and throw fire crystals in his direction. I was hit with panic. I was scared he might be unable to dodge in time. I ran in front of him, parried the crystals, and threw my sword straight into the wyrm’s throat. Killing the monster instantly. I remembered the look of surprised admiration on his face. Before we could speak, more wanderers appeared.
“Be careful” He told me while raising his own sword.
“You too.” Then for what seemed like eternity, we fought off the hoard. Xavier was incredible. His evol allowed him to move at lightspeed. Zipping between enemies, and hitting multiple of them with a single strike of his light. Me, I had no evol, so I depended mainly on my skills with a short sword, which wasn’t bad. I was able to dispatch a few on my own and barely got injured.
After the carnage, there was nothing left, but wanderer remains and flattened earth and trees. Initially, he didn’t say a word, he walked to the center of our battle and retrieved a protocore. By my studies, I could see it was a powerful one.
“I’ll walk you back.” I said as nonchalantly as I could, but before I led the way, he grabbed my arm.
“Before you go, I just wanted to say thank you for your help. You are clearly a skilled fighter and I was lucky to have you helping me. However, for the future, please don’t put your life at risk like that.” I was so grumpy after that comment. I pulled my arm away from him, crossed my arms and asked pointedly:
“Shouldn’t I be saying the same thing about you?” He nodded and pursed his lips.
“That’s fair, but please don’t misunderstand. I think you are an amazing hunter. I just don’t want to see such amazing talent wasted for nothing.” I shrugged.
“I don’t know why you would assume your life is nothing. It isn’t” I held his shoulder to accentuate my point. “But, I understand what you mean. Also, thank you for the compliments, but I must correct you. I am not a hunter, at least not right now.” He looked at me so shocked, like I revealed to him that I had a third head.
“How? Combat wise, you are up to par with most hunters I worked with.” Xavier was laying his compliments thick, it was embarrassing and I was blushing so hard.
“I appreciate it, but I just couldn’t afford the schooling, or housing in Linkon. That’s why I’m working as a tour guide and multiple other jobs.”
“You don’t have a hunter association branch here?” You frowned.
“No, if I want to become a hunter, I have to move to Linkon. Unfortunately, that’s not in my cards right now.” The hunter frowned, but still remained stoic.
“Well, if you need a reference, you have me.”
—
“So, did you end up becoming a hunter?” Lu asked enthusiastically. You smiled widely.
“I’m getting to your answer!”
—
“Weeks passed, and nothing seemed new. I continued to work and train. I was a fourth away from my money goal when a letter arrived. One morning, I was woken up by my mother who began to holler. She yelled for me to come to the kitchen. When I ran to her, she had an envelope with the hunters association insignia. I was surprised because I didn’t apply for anything regarding the hunters association yet. My heart raced as I opened the envelope addressed to me. When I did, my life trajectory completely changed. I was given a special opportunity. I would be trained to become a hunter by the association for free with housing included, and later, be allowed to take the licensing exam. Additionally, I was booked to fly to Linkon a week after I received the letter.
I was stoked. The night after the news, my family, my friends and I celebrated together. We had a large party, with a table full of food, karaoke, and dancing that lasted the whole night. It was extremely fun. Then, after the festivities, I prepared for my new life. As I packed up to leave, it was hard saying goodbye to my home and all those I loved, but I had plenty of support. I remember my flight to Linkon. It was the first time I ever flew on a plane and I shook with excitement. Once I landed, the thrill didn’t stop. After years of dreaming, I got to see Linkon with my own eyes. It was a dream come true. Seeing the skyscrapers taller than all the buildings in my town combined. The city’s high tech, restaurants, and all the entertainment around. The screens playing ads on buildings and the bustling of busy crowds, it was exhilarating, overwhelming, and oddly welcoming.
Then I moved into my dorm. The apartment that would be my home for a decade. I still miss it. It was a highrise apartment paid for by the Hunters Association. It was beautifully decorated with sleek and modern decor and utilities, and had the most gorgeous view. I could see the whole city. When I first entered, I jumped with joy, checking out the whole place. As I perused, I heard a knock on the door.
Could you believe my surprise when I saw Xavier standing there with a fruit basket. He looked fantastic. So, handsome despite just wearing a pair of washed jeans, and a white hoodie.
“Congratulations Y/N” He said as he softly smiled at me, handing me the huge basket. “I’m excited to see what comes next for you.” I was flustered and clumsily accepted the basket.
Honestly, I’m shy to admit it, but ever since our first meeting, I had a huge crush on him. He was such a contradiction. He was so cool and strong, yet sweet and soft at the same time. Plus, his looks definitely helped stoke the flame. I was nervous around him, especially since I was inexperienced with making new friends. Before that, I had the same friends for decades. Still, despite my nerves, I took a chance and asked him right away to stay and chat with me. Strangely, he agreed. That day, we spent hours talking over mochas. We talked about ourselves, though he didn’t divulge much about his personal life. Instead, from our talk, I learned he was a new hunter, which was incredible considering his fighting prowess (I would later learn this was a lie, but we’ll talk further about that later). Also, I learned he lived a floor below me, and that he loved cooking, reading, gaming, and eating. The chat was fun, though when he left my apartment that day, I assumed I would never speak to him again, and for a while it seemed that way.
I pursued my training, and when given the chance, I challenged and passed my licensing exam. At 23 years old, I finally became a hunter. I felt blessed to be fulfilling my dream, but another miracle came around as well. Despite my inexperience and being evoless, I was assigned to work in the Unicorn Team. They are a high profile team, assembled by-
—
You looked at Lu’s uniform and paused. Awkwardly, you realized it was silly to have to explain who the Unicorn Team was to a fellow hunter.
“Why did you stop?” The man asked, narrowing his eyes.
“I just realized how dumb it is explaining the Unicorn Team to you. Of course as a hunter, you would know them.”
“Yeah, but don’t stop. Besides, that is an amazing feat, you should be proud.”
“I appreciate it, but I later learned I only got in because of Xavier’s recommendation.” Lu frowned.
“Don’t discount your own achievements. They wouldn’t have hired you just because of a recommendation. Jenna wouldn’t have recruited you if she thought you couldn’t handle being in the Unicorns.” Your eyebrows raised.
“You know Jenna personally?” Lu’s eyes widened briefly, before retracting.
“I-well, sort of. I’ve spoken to her occasionally, but her reputation precedes her. I’m certain of your abilities.”
What a sweet guy.
“Thank you again for the flattery, but please stop or I might get too flustered to continue. ”
—
“Immediately, I was assigned missions with my new partner. It was none other than my crush, Xavier. It was hard, but I kept everything purely professional during our missions. However, I loosened up more after each task. In fact, when we finished work, almost like a tradition, we would go to our favorite hot pot spot afterwards. Have the all-you-can-eat, and stay there for hours, just talking about anything. When I think back about my past, I would say those moments at that dingy and cheap hot pot place was one of my most treasured memories. I really tried to repress how l felt for him. We were coworkers, neighbors, and friends. I didn’t want to do anything that might harm what we already had. Sadly, the more time we spent together, the more I started to like him more.”
—
You saw Lu’s hand flex on the table, as though subconsciously reaching for you.
“That’s sweet Y/N. So, did you ask him out?”
“Not exactly.”
—
"One day, out of the blue, my work partner came to me with two tickets in his hand.
“My friend gave these tickets to me for a horror movie. I don’t have anyone to go with, are you free this Saturday?” I remember my brain swirling. I was conflicted. I couldn’t go on a date with my coworker, could I? Would this even count as a date?
I was delaying the inevitable. Fighting with myself, going back and forth. Then I felt a gentle hand on my shoulder.
“You don’t have to go if it would make you uncomfortable”. A part of me tried to resist, but Xavier looked at me with sad pleading large blue eyes. I couldn’t reject him. I agreed.
That Saturday came quickly. I wanted to look stunning, but didn’t want to dress up too formally. It was summertime in Linkon, so I wore my favorite spring dress. The dress was a simple, light blue lace spring dress that was decorated in white flowers. I completed the look, with a touch of makeup and that was it. I was ready to go. Luckily, I didn’t have to wait long. We agreed that he would meet me at 6pm at my apartment, yet at 5:50pm, I heard my doorbell ring. I was jittery. I just repeated the same line in my head: Don’t make a big deal, we are just friends.
The chant went out the window when I opened the door. He was wearing a white dress shirt with lightly colored lavender dress pants. In his hands was a bouquet of flowers. A mix of lavender, verbena and carnations, all a beautiful purple, my favorite color. I was flabbergasted. I didn’t expect such a thoughtful gesture. I took them from him excitedly, put them in a vase of water,and headed out with him. I was already glimmering from joy before we left my place. We walked hand to hand until we arrived in our theater. We sat in our seats and then the movie began, it was called- Wait, I forgot what the movie was called. It was about zombies fighting werewolves, and werewolves fighting vampires. It was dumb, but I can’t remember-”
—
“The Night of the Undead and Hairy?” Your mouth went agape.
“How did you know that?! That movie debuted decades ago.” Lu chuckled, a smug smirk on his face.
“I’m a bit of a horror movie aficionado. Also, unlike you, I loved that movie.” You groaned.
“I hated it. It was so cliche, and all the characters were unlikable!”
“You want the characters to be unlikable, that makes it fun watching them die!”
“Whatever, let’s continue.”
—
“For privacy, we decided to sit in the back row though surprisingly, besides us, the theater was vacant. Then again, I don’t think anyone wanted to watch such a horrible horror movie.”
—
Lu sighed.
—
“Anyways, we sat in the very back row. Since there was nobody else, we spent the whole movie chatting and laughing about the movie. I remember Xavier constantly asking questions about the plot. He would ask every few minutes.
“Who’s that?” “Why did he do that?” “Where are they?”
The questions were relentless, but I laughed through each one. Especially, when I had to explain plot points that didn’t make a lick of sense. Example:”
—
Invigorated by the memory, you started to bend forward towards Lu. Although you’ve regressed into a teenage girl, discussing her crush with her friend.
—
“At one point, one of the characters stupidly went into a dark room alone and got eaten by zombies because of the plot. Xavier kept asking why. “That’s such a stupid idea.” “Why would he do that?” and all I could do was laugh and answer back:
“Because this movie is stupid and so is the character.”
I was having so much fun, I didn’t notice when Xavier started to lean in closer, or when he placed his hand on my naked thigh. I only realized when I felt his large slender hands squeeze my leg. I jolted from the touch and my face heated up instantly. Sensing my panic, he lifted his hand away. He looked so guilty, like he had just burned me.
“I’m sorry Y/N” He whispered. I didn’t respond. I grabbed his hovering hand, placed it back on my thigh and squeezed his hand back.
“Don’t apologize, I liked it.” There was a flash of shock on his face, but it was quickly replaced with a grin.
“Good to know.” The show continued on the same, but there was an unspoken, heavy tension. I tried to focus back on the movie, especially with Xavier still asking me questions, but my attention was on the warmth of his palm, as he continued to periodically softly squeeze. At the same time, questions lingered in my mind. What does this all mean? Does he want something more from me romantically? Does he just want to hook up, in a friends with benefits situation. Either way, I was-”
—
Lu’s gaze pierced into you, as you can see him excitedly absorbing all you were saying. Should you really be saying all of this? You haven’t really spoken much to anyone for a long time, so all of this just came spilling out. Perhaps, you needed to tone it down.
“Sorry, I know you probably don’t wanna hear such “personal information. Especially coming from an old woman such as myself.” The man across from you smiled reassuringly.
“No, I’m really enjoying your story right now. Also, you aren’t old. You’re in your 40s right?” You guffawed.
“Young man, either you are blind or a very talented flatterer. I’m already in my 60s.” Lu looked genuinely shocked.
“Wow, you look amazing in your 60s.” You pushed his shoulder gently.
“Enough! I’ll continue, but let me know if you want to skip some parts.”
—
“After the movie ended, we grabbed dinner. Our hands interlocked the whole time, and after the meal, we headed back to my place. The whole time my nerves peaked. I would never have thought I would be so anxious during my normal route, or with Xavier entering my home as he normally did. Still, my heart was racing as I opened the door to my place and let him in. I tried to keep everything light, but I kept wondering what his intentions were. Once inside, I immediately sat on the couch, and Xavier followed and sat right next to me. He sat close, our knees touched.
“Sooo, did you want to, uh-” I began fiddling with my fingers, unsure on how to proceed, until he held my hands in his.
“I really like you Y/N.” My face froze in surprise after his confession.
“I do too.” I felt his fingers rubbing with my own.
“But, I don’t mean it as a friend.” His azure eyes were intense with longing. “In all my years, I never met someone as vivacious, strong, heroic, and beautiful as you. Because of my past, and the fact we are coworkers, I didn’t want to fall for you, but I did. I really li- love you. I know it’ll be hard, and I am willing to make any accommodations workwise, but would you be willing to try with me?” I was left dumbstruck by him. For a moment, I forgot how to breathe. I never thought of all people, someone as amazing as Xavier would fall for me. I was lost, though I snapped out of it the moment his eyes started to dart around my face. I leaned in closer and whispered:
“I feel the same way.” A large dorky smile shined on his face. At the time he was so happy. Though it wouldn’t last forever.”
—
Lu’s concerned look returned as you felt a painful sting in your chest. Your eyes began to water, but you prevented the tears from falling by biting your bottom lip.
“You don’t have to continue Y/N.”
You mustered the best smile you could and sighed.
“It’s alright, all of it is in the past now.”
—
“Can I kiss you?” He asked. All I could do then was nod in excitement. His smile widened at my response. He grabbed my face and planted a soft kiss on my lips. The kiss started hesitant, but quickly became more passionate. I could feel his desperation and his desire as he started pressing his lips harder against mine, his tongue poking, begging for entry. Once I accepted him inside, his tongue entwined with my own, as though longing to meld us together. Meanwhile, I couldn’t control my own hands. As we kissed, my hands, craving to feel his soft porcelain skin and firm muscles, quickly worked to remove his dress shirt. Eagerly, unbuttoning it. As I became more absorbed in him, he suddenly pulled me off him, leaving me cold and out of breath.
My heart sank, but it quickly picked back up as I stared at his rosy face, breathing heavily.
“Did you truly want this Y/N? If not, tell me now, otherwise, it will be a lot harder for me to separate myself from you.”
I smiled reassuringly at him and answered, with no doubt in my mind.
“Dumb question. Why wouldn’t I want you?” Xavier did a small chuckle before taking my lips again and pushing me down on the couch.
That night was the first of many where we indulged in each other all night and it sealed our connection. A long time after that, we were inseparable. Partners in all ways, work, love, and later life. After a few years of dating, we decided to get married. It was a small, simple wedding. We declared our vows, just the two of us, in a small chapel. Our reception was livelier. At the same hot pot place we loved, it was nice. Karaoke and dancing, celebrating our union with my family and friends. I did tell Xavier to invite his people, but only his friend Jeremiah showed. I felt bad. I could see him silently sad when I got to do my dance with my parents, or anytime I had time with my own people, but other than that, I thought it was a happy affair. Unfortunately, I was wrong.
—
“You thought he was faking his happiness?” Lu asked seriously.
“No. Xavier does and can lie, but I don’t think he could lie to himself about that. I think he just settled for what he could have.” The man opposite of you looked at you mortified.
“Settled?” He repeated silently.
“You will understand more when I continue.” You said affirmatively as you pressed your own lips together.
—
After a few years of our marriage, everything began falling apart. It started when I noticed weird things about him. Naturally, my body and face began to change as time went on. More wrinkles, more stretch marks, more fat appearing in places it hadn’t before. I never used to be insecure about my appearance, until I started to notice, although I was younger than Xavier, he started looking significantly younger than me. His appearance never changed and people started to mistake us as related. It kept happening, to the point I stopped denying it, because I was embarrassed. I hated how people looked at me in disgust, although I was some cougar taking advantage of a pretty young man. I asked him about it, and he just said it was his genetics. Perhaps, but after close to a decade and not even a small crack, it was impossible.
Another weird thing was his disappearances. Some nights, I would wake up and find his side of the bed empty. I inquired about it with him, he would say he was given extra missions from Jenna personally. That he was demanded to not inform anyone about them. Unfortunately, I found out it was all lies. Jenna and I were friendly, so I went to her begging she stop requesting for Xavier alone in the middle of the night. I remember the pit I felt in my stomach when she confirmed she never made such requests. My mind spiraled. Why would he lie and what was he hiding?
My insecurity, my paranoia deepened a gap between us. I found myself distancing myself from him. Still, I thought we weren’t broken, but there was someone that would destroy everything. Her name was MC.”
—
You clenched your fist. It had been decades, yet her name still brought a painful self-loathing. Despite MC never having done anything wrong to you, even actually being kind to you and pushing for your friendship, she always brought out your worst rage. You hated her. Her perfection, goodness, youth and beauty. You never compared, not even in the eyes of the man who promised to love you for all eternity.
You felt a warm touch on your hand. Lu had started holding your hand and stroking it with his thumb.
“Are you alright Y/N?” You reactively grimaced.
“Yeah, just, sorry.” Lu’s brows lowered as he frowned.
“It’s alright, no need to apologize. It sounds like these are very painful memories for you. You don’t have to continue for my entertainment. We could talk about something else, I can talk about myself if that’s fair?” You squeezed his hand back before letting him go.
“Honestly, I never had anyone to talk about any of this with. Towards the end, I was left alone. It’s cathartic finally telling someone. Though if it makes you uncomfortable, I understand. We can change the subject-”
“No, if it helps you, please keep going.”
—
“Xavier never spoke to me about MC once during most of our relationship. For the longest time, I didn’t even know there was another woman. I only found out from an incident that brought all the truths to the light.
Since my place was larger, after we got married, Xavier moved into my apartment. Living together was perfectly normal, but I slowly started to feel more unsafe. I noticed windows being left open and neither of us remembering opening them, scratches on our front door, although someone had been trying to break in, items in the house going missing, or disappearing all together. I told Xavier of my concerns, and we did add and change locks. We even invested in a security system, but even the new system seemed to be getting tampered with.
Worse, while outside, I couldn’t cease the lingering feeling of being watched. Everywhere I went, I swore I kept seeing angry dull eyes. Glaring and watching me relentlessly. I should have told Xavier about that like I told him about all the other incidents, but I was ashamed. I was a hunter, yet I was so afraid of a “stalker”. So, prideful, I didn’t tell anyone and tried to convince myself it was all my imagination, but I was wrong. I wasn’t imagining it.
A few months after the odd occurrences, I was returning home alone after having handled a difficult mission. Xavier typically would come with me, but he had reports to complete and needed to stay in the office later than normal. It wasn’t a hard ask for me to return alone, I did it plenty of times before. Unfortunately, the feeling of being watched returned that night, and it was more intense than before. As I walked home, it wasn’t just eyes of unseen figures watching me. I could see several men seemingly staring. They looked at me with utter disgust. The attention was horrifying. I ran home, not daring to look behind me. Though, while I ran, I heard quickened steps behind me.
My heart was beating rapidly, my breathing was heavy as I dashed into my house. As I entered my building, I could clearly see a few men following close behind. I was right, I was being stalked. I raced to my door, and before any of my assailants could attack me, or enter, I closed and locked the door. The moment I made it, I sighed in relief, and was going to call Xavier when I heard a voice near me, hiding in the dark living room.
“We’ve been waiting for you MC.” Before I could respond, I felt a sharp pain to my face. Someone had punched me. I fell to the ground from the impact, hitting my head in the process and blacked out. I didn’t know how long it was until I finally regained my consciousness, but when I awoke, I was tied up by ropes. My body was trapped sitting on one of my dining chairs. Around me were a group of men glaring at me, all of them wearing uniforms that looked otherworldly. Their leader approached me, disgruntled.
“What do you guys want from me?” I asked groggily. It was hard to speak or move with pain still radiating from my face. The group’s leader leered at me, looking down at me like a worthless bug.
“From a lowly human like you, nothing. We’re here for Xavier.” The man snarled. My panic began building back up.
“What could you possibly want from him?!” I tried moving my hands for any chance of freedom, but the ropes only dug further into my skin.
“He owes us.”
“What, money?!.” The man smirked, letting out a harsh chuckle.
“It’s not money. He owes us his life, after abandoning his people, his planet to save you, MC.” I squinted my eyes at the man.
“His people, his planet, what are you talking about?! And why do you keep calling me MC?” One of the leader’s eyebrows raised.
“Are you not- Wait, don’t try to trick me MC! Xavier abandoned all efforts to save our home for you. Of course he wouldn’t be able to resist being with you, even the pathetic human version of you.” I couldn’t comprehend any of this. Was Xavier an alien? Who was MC? My face paled. Probably seeing my torn expression, the cruel assailant found out I was telling the truth. I wasn’t MC. He guffawed at my suffering.
“By the Gods, you really aren’t MC. That’s hilarious.” The man bent down, laughing harder in my face. “That’s Xavier for you. Forever having to be that damned woman’s knight in shining armor. Even settling for a lowly human to protect her.” I couldn’t believe there was another woman. My eyes began to tear up, but I refused to cry in front of my jailers. I leaned forward as much as I could, and put on a brave facade.
“I don’t know what the h*ll you are talking about, but either way, you better leave. The moment Xavier comes home, we’re going to kick all your asses. So, maybe you should save us all the hassle and go.” The man backed away, crossed his arms, and kept the same smug grin on his face.
“We want him to come home. Though, now knowing you aren’t MC, will he even consider you worthy of saving. I mean, he didn’t even bring you back to your place. Maybe he’s already with his princess.” The man summoned his sword and held the weapon in his arms. “But don’t worry, you won’t be worthless to us. We’ll find a way to use you.” Your heart dropped, until the room brightened with a familiar light.
In a flash, all the men surrounding you were down, except the man who threatened you before. Though he was no longer as dangerous as before as he stood, holding his side. His smug grin still on his face, but clearly wavering. He staggered towards Xavier and Jeremiah who was beside him.
“Didn’t think you would come all the way here for a feeble human. I heard MC is in Linkon as well. Thought you would already be by her side.”
“You are as dumb as ever!” Jeremiah yelled, his finger pointed at your captor. “Of course he would protect his wife.” The injured man began cackling wickedly while sneering.
“Wow! After your relentless pursuit to “protect” your princess, you really gave up and settled. Pathetic-” Xavier swiftly grabbed the bastard by the throat, lifting the other man from the ground. His sapphire eyes burning with rage.
“Shut your mouth.” Xavier enunciated harshly with his grip tightening. “I should kill you for hurting the woman I love.”
“Heh, I don’t remember hurting MC, yet.” Xavier grimaced before throwing him on the ground, knocking out his cruel opponent. The confusion, the sorrow, the pain, it was too much. I continued to look at the ground, unable to look at the man I loved as he studied me. Xavier sighed, before turning to Jeremiah.
“We need to take care of them. I just need to help Y/N first.”
“Alright, get your girl.” Jeremiah smiled before dragging the men out of the apartment one by one. I couldn’t help, but wonder if I was truly his anymore? While Jeremiah handled the assailants, my husband walked in front of me. My eyes stayed on the ground as he swiftly and gently released me from the ropes. Despite my freedom being returned, I was too numb to move.
“My star, are you alright?” I didn’t respond. I wasn’t sure if I was okay. As he always did, he kneeled down and delicately held my face. Pained, a hiss escaped my lips. He retracted his hand, his face looking anguished and guilty.
“I’m so sorry my love. I should have come sooner. I only just found out their plan from Jeremiah.” I continued to not speak. I didn’t have any energy left to summon my voice. His frown deepened. “I’ll get a first aid kit and clean up your wounds.” I shook my head and put my hand on his shoulder.
“Just help Jeremiah, I’ll take care of myself.” His eyes widened. He got up and offered his hand. Instead of grabbing his hand, I ignored my pain, I stood up on my own.
“My dearest.” He called as I walked away from him, going to our washroom.
“Just go.”
—
Lu looked at you with frustration. Clearly angry with what you had to deal with. His hand clawed at the table.
“What bastards. I’m sure your husband took care of them.” Mentally, going back to that night, made you numb again.
“Probably, but he never disclosed to me what exactly happened to the former backtrackers after that. After that night, I no longer felt unsafe, instead, I felt insecure for other reasons.”
—
When he returned, we sat on the couch together, not touching, or looking at the other as he silently confessed everything. His past as a prince from the future. His planet’s cruel method of keeping the planet and their people everlasting. His connection to a woman named MC, and how his own father planned to torture her to use as Philos’ eternal life source. His journey to the past, to find a solution that would save his home, and MC. MC his true love.
—
“Did Xavier tell you he still loved MC?” Lu asked zealously.
“He didn’t have to. He left his crown, his time and home to save her. You don’t do that for someone you don’t love.” Lu’s gaze turned to the ground defeated.
“Maybe, or maybe like you said, it wasn’t just for her.” His eyes returned to your anguished face. “Maybe it was the righteous thing to do to save not just her, but his planet and people. Maybe he thought he loved MC, but it wasn’t her who ended up capturing his heart?” The man opposite of you’s gaze pierced into you. Practically begging for you to believe his words. You sighed. These were thoughts you used to tell yourself for comfort, but they were lies.
“I’ll continue.”
—
“After his confession, I held him and affirmed that we were okay. Now, I realize I should have been honest with him. Instead, I repressed the lingering self doubt and tried to enjoy my time with him. Ignoring the ticking clock, counting down to our marriage’s demise, but the clock always strikes twelve.
Unfortunately, my career as a hunter with the Unicorn Team was cut short. After the truth came out, at the age of 31 years old, I became more reckless. I began taking missions on my own. Difficult ones. Constantly, narrowly surviving. I knew Xavier hated it. He tried making me stop. Telling me I would end up hurt or dead. I didn’t listen. When I wouldn’t, he would ask me to bring him along at least, but I refused. My arrogance got the best of me in the end and he ended up being correct.
During a mission, I pushed myself too hard and took on several powerful wanderers on my own. I remember just wanting to feel good enough, worthy for all I had, but I traded my body for that validation. I survived, but I did irreparable damage to my legs. If I wanted to keep my ability to walk, I had to go through rehab and give up my career. At least as an on the field hunter. When I returned to work, I was transferred to the Data Analysis Team. I was miserable being cooped up in the office, but I tried to remain positive.
The whole injury was a terrible mistake. By my departure from Unicorn, I left an empty spot in the team and for the position of Xavier’s field partner. Can you guess who took my place?”
—
Lu was mortified once more.
“MC.” He answered quietly. You smiled bitterly back.
“They were meant to be.”
—
“This is MC, my new work partner, Y/N. MC, this is my wife, Y/N.” When Xavier introduced me to MC, I mustered up the best smile I could as I shook the young woman’s hand. I wanted to be friendly, but seeing the person who threatened everything you hold dear made it extremely difficult. Worst, seeing that person already start to replace you, made it almost impossible. MC was youthful, tall, lean, and beautiful. Everything I used to be a decade ago.
“Nice to meet you MC, please take care of Xavier for me.” She smiled gleefully at me.
“I promise.” And she kept her word. She was with him for every mission. With him during the late nights and early mornings. During each battle, it was her that protected him. Meanwhile, I was a fly in their ears, a character on the side and in the way of their love story. When she returned into his life, I barely saw my husband anymore. Our love, our intimacy, was gone and replaced. The pain was unbearable. So, alone, I started focussing on recuperating. I took my rehab more seriously, started training and studying again like when I was younger. Jenna had promised that once I was strong enough, she would restore my former position.
I worked hard for months, until I was mostly alright. Honestly, I knew if I returned to the field, I would probably damage my body irreversibly more, or die, but the hope that perhaps it would allow the man I loved to see me again, I couldn’t stop myself. Even if my new comeback would be short, I didn’t care, I just wanted a little more time with him, before I inevitably let him go.
After a year of emptiness, a glimmer of joy returned. A doctor had officially approved my return. I remember for the first time in a long time, I smiled as I held the doctor’s note to my chest. The young woman I repressed in me quietly whispered: “Perhaps, he will come back.”
With the letter in hand, I immediately went straight to Jenna, and with proof, she did as she promised. She put me back in the team, but not officially. I was on probation with my preceptors being my husband, and the love of his life. That decreased the happiness I felt, but I took it as a challenge. This could be my opportunity to prove that the woman he fell for, or maybe settled for was still there. The probation period was supposed to be for 20 missions, which would typically take a month, but my time was extended. Every time a mission would come up, my preceptors, mainly Xavier, wouldn’t assign me, and I needed their permission to join any task.
I pushed and pushed Xavier on why, but he just said the same things: I wasn’t ready, I would get hurt, it’s unsafe. It pissed me off. He was so absorbed by MC, he didn’t want me in their way. He was done with me, yet didn’t have the guts to divorce me or call it quits. I was losing patience with him.
It all came to head during a mass wanderer invasion. A large group of wanderers suddenly appeared at Linkon’s entrance. They needed every hunter on the field. I was gearing up in the shared locker room when my own husband stopped me. He pulled my equipment away from me.
“You aren’t going. Go home Y/N.” He looked at me with cold frustration.
“You can’t do this to me Xavier. The city needs us. I’m not just going to hide.” He began grinding his teeth as he spoke.
“The city doesn’t need you. You have been out of commission for more than a year. You going out there now is a death sentence. As your preceptor, I order you to stand down and go home.” Before he could escape, I harshly grabbed his arm.
“Then let me ask you as my husband. Whose fault is it that I haven't been on the field for more than a year? And tell me the real reason you don’t want me as your partner anymore?!” He turned to me and glared.
“I already told you, with your current health, it’s too-” I gripped his arm tighter.
“Bullshit! We both know you don’t care about me in the slightest. You’re just upset that MC will no longer be the one with you everyday, and that bothers you because she’s the woman you love.” Xavier’s face was aghast, although what I was saying wasn’t the truth.
“Y/N, do you think of me that horribly? That’s not-” I couldn’t stand the lies anymore.
“STOP IT! STOP LYING! Our marriage is a lie. You settled and now, for whatever reason, you are too much of a coward to break things off. Well fine, I’ll take the leap. If you don’t let me go on this mission with you, I’m divorcing you! I’ll pack up all my things and you will never see me again.”
He looked shocked and hurt when I brought up divorce, but his face quickly turned to indifference.
“If the only way to keep you safe is to let you go, then fine, leave me.” I started shaking uncontrollably.
“Fine Xavier I’ll-”
“Xavier, are you ready?” MC paused at the doorway. “Oh hi Y/N, I-” My ex looked at MC panicked. Probably flustered that his lover had to see him in this state. Still, I didn’t care. I took advantage of the situation. While he was distracted by his partner, I grabbed my equipment from his grasp and dashed out of the building. I could hear Xavier's voice echo after me, but I didn’t care. I was determined. I may have lost my marriage, but I was not going to lose myself as well.
So without him, I ran to the site of the invaders’ protofield. The area attacked looked like a war zone. The air was hazy from debris of fallen buildings, weapon discharge and explosions. Littered on the ground were destroyed wanderers, hunter bodies, and a lot of blood. Yells and screams filled the air. I was frozen for a moment as I watched hunters either running away or towards the threats. I remained in the spot, until a hunter I never met waved me down.
“Quit standing there, we need help now.” I nodded and followed the hunter’s lead. Following them straight into the middle of the battlefield. The smell of blood lingered as I pulled my sword out and began to fight. The battle was brutal. Slowly, as the wanderers approached, with no hesitance, the line of hunters began to diminish. One by one, I watched fellow hunters falling on the ground, either heavily injured or dead. Meanwhile, I could feel my own body, especially my legs, shaking and aching. My movement began to slow, each attack evasion becoming more and more narrow. I knew it was only a matter of time before I would fall too. As my breathing became more heavy, my vision began to blur. I tried wiping the sweat around my eyes, but my vision kept darkening.
While fighting the hoard, the invaders’ numbers suddenly decreased. Less of them started approaching the line and a cheer among the remaining hunters rang out. Tragically, the celebration was short-lived. The cheers were dimmed by the sound of large wings flapping. In the sky, we all saw a large monstrosity flying in the air. My heart sank, a colossal Ignitus Wyrmlord had appeared. The creature’s roar rang across the area and strong winds blew in our direction as the anomaly landed. I tried to keep upright, but the blast was too powerful. As many others, I fell and remained stuck on the ground. As I struggled to get up, I could somewhat hear someone screaming my name. I looked in the direction of the voice, it was MC. I could see her mouth violently move as she screamed for me, but I couldn’t hear her until she got close enough.
“Y/N WATCH OUT!” Before I could react, she tackled me as a wave of debris covered us. Seconds later, I opened my eyes and found I was perfectly fine, despite a building having fallen on both of us. I coughed out the dust in my mouth and stood up. Initially, I couldn’t find the other woman.
“MC?”
“Here” I heard a weak voice call. Next to me, she laid, her body was pinned by a piece of concrete that almost hid her whole body. At that moment, I realized she pushed me to save me from her current fate. Now, instead of me, she was hurt. I should have been grateful, but I found myself feeling annoyed, like she burdened me with a new debt. I kneeled next to her.
“I’ll try to get you out.” She smiled, but it turned into a panicked frown when the beast's roar rang again. The wanderer was near the collapsed structure.
“The Wyrmlord might attack and kill us both. You need to leave and go somewhere safe. Xavier will never forgive me if you get hurt.” I tried not to react, but I felt a horrible and sick sense of satisfaction. I wouldn’t have to worry about her getting in my way.
“Alright, I’ll let the rescue team know your whereabouts.” I turned on my association emergency tracker, allowing my partner, Xavier, to find my location and got up. I was starting to walk away when a small glimmer beside MC caught my eye. I looked down and saw on her sword, a star keychain. The same ornament Xavier owned. A painful realization came to me. He had probably gifted that to her. A gift to remind her of him when she was in the most treacherous moments of her life. A reminder that he loved her and would always protect her. I hadn’t been given such a gift for a long time. It reminded me of my cruel reality. Xavier would never forgive me if I left her to die, even if protecting her meant my own life. Xavier would hate me forever after this. I bitterly laughed before making my final choice.
I didn’t have any purpose or reason to live. I lost my husband to a superior woman, I lost my career, and nobody would need me around. I was broken and old. This was my last chance to save lives and make my life worth something. I placed the tracker next to MC.
“You need that, how will Xavier find you?” I smiled at her, fully resolved.
“You promised, keep taking care of Xavier for me okay?” She looked petrified. Even though it hurt her, she screamed at me.
“Y/N WAIT! DON’T GO, YOU CAN’T FIGHT THE WANDERER ALONE! Y/N!”
Unfortunately, her cries were in vain, I ignored her and journeyed off. Once I made it outside, all I could see was the blood red sky, the destroyed buildings, and the Wyrmlord. The monster stood threateningly, continuing to roar and breathe fire around them. I could see hunters tending to their wounded at the outskirts of the battlefield. Nobody else seemed to be daring to confront the beast, except me. I ran to the wanderer’s direction, many people yelled after me, calling me insane, but I didn’t care anymore.
When I entered the monster’s vicinity, it glared at me in acknowledgement before beginning to attack, directing crystals and blasts of fire at me. I dodged and parried each one, and fought as fiercely as I could. Using all my power to swing my sword at the anomaly, but nothing worked. After each swing and dodge, the wanderer didn’t seem to be weakening. It was only me as my body got more injured and more exhausted. After another barrage of attacks, my sword was hit and flew far from me. Too far for me to retrieve without risking defeat.
“F*CK” I pulled out my gun and shot all the rounds I had, but that ran out too. It was only me left.
“F*cker.” I murmured to myself before I was hit. A flurry of crystals flew at me, piercing my arms and body. I fell on my back, profusely bleeding. My vision was almost completely gone. I was dying and accomplished nothing as usual. Tears fell rapidly from my face. It felt like everything was over. I was going to die for nothing. Oddly, as my own blood pooled around my dying body, I felt a shift in the air around me. Suddenly, like I used to when I was younger, I could feel and hear the buzzing of the protofield around us, but now, I could see its energy around me. Additionally, what made it different was, the protofield felt tangible, like I could manipulate it to my will.
Suddenly a crazy thought came to mind. Empowered by my own blood coloring the protofield, could I manipulate the protofield and destroy the wanderer? Feeling a new power in my fingertips, I condensed the field, the edges of energy approached. Kicking out everyone from inside the protofield, leaving me and the beast the only inhabitants. I remembered the Wyrmlord’s pained cries as I squeezed the protofield until the both of us were crushed by its force field and the world turned dark.”
—
“That’s what happened? That’s a crazy evol Y/N.” Lu remarked dumbfounded and amazed.
“At least, that’s what I think happened, but I’m not sure. Doesn’t matter.”
—
“When I woke up, I was bandaged up, lying in a hospital room. Standing next to me was Xavier with no warmth in his dull azure eyes.
“It’s your fault MC is hurt.” I stayed silent from his accusation. It was true, what else could I say? “You wanted a divorce, you got it.” He put the signed divorce papers on my lap and left. I wanted to call after him, but my voice was caught in my throat. I watched him leave. I never saw Xavier again. The only updates I saw were from posts on moments. A year later, after MC fully recovered, uninhibited by my presence, he and MC were engaged, married, and introduced the world to their new child. Their love story fully bloomed.
Meanwhile, I lost my job as a hunter for insubordination, and moved into this small house. My life has been this lonely since, and that’s it.”
—
You wiped the tears from your eyes, and put on a brave smile.
“That’s it.” You didn’t know what reaction you expected after you ended your story from your guest, but you didn’t think he would stand up and kneel next to you. As his knees hit the ground, he bowed his head and held your hands on his forehead reverently.
“I am so sorry Y/N. I’m so sorry Y/N for all you suffered. I have to tell you the truth, of who I am.” “Lu” gazed directly into your eyes longingly. You smirked.
What a silly man.
You stroked his face.
“You don’t think I would recognize my husband of a decade’s face, Xavier. Though we’ve been apart for longer than our time together, I could never forget you. Even if I wanted to.” His lips quivered as tears leaked from his eyes.
“Y/N I-”
“Now, it’s your turn to tell me your story. I want to hear everything. How is MC? Your beautiful son?” He stared at you anguished, before looking up at you.
“MC and I never-” Xavier froze, seeing your unconvinced air. He had to tell you the truth in a way you could see his true feelings. “Alright, I’ll tell you everything. The story of my love.”
—
“When I travelled back in time, I only had two drives in my life. Save my planet and save MC. It pushed me forward. Forward even after every solution was a dud, forward even after the backtrackers split up, forward after time ticked on and loneliness was all that prevailed. I thought I was ok living like this, maybe even dying, but then I met the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”
—
“MC?” You asked with a broken smile, but Xavier shook his head as a watery smile appeared on his face.
—
“Her name was Y/N. She was a dorky tour guide that wouldn’t stop rambling about her island as she brought me to my mission location in her hometown. I didn’t think I could feel so attracted to someone who wasn’t MC, but her awful puns, her enthusiasm, and her adorable appearance, I couldn’t stop how I felt. The feelings got worse when I saw her fight. I wish you saw what I did Y/N. How she gracefully swung her sword and moved across the battlefield. She was nimble and powerful, and she didn’t even have an evol.
That’s why the moment I returned to Linkon, I spoke with Jenna and recommended her to our internship program. I even offered to pay all her expenses. I knew she was too wonderful to not have her dreams come true.”
—
You reactively pressed your hand on your chest.
“You paid for me? Why?” Xavier grinned shyly.
“You deserved it all my star.”
—
“Now, please don’t misconstrue what I’m saying. I didn’t support you because I believed you should be indebted to me. I did it because you had too much promise. As I said, you deserved it all, especially, the right to become a hunter. Honestly, the day I gave you the fruit basket, the day we talked for hours, that was the only time I planned to indulge myself with your company, but fate had other plans. When Jenna assigned us together, at first, I tried to persuade our leader to not put us together. I thought you would distract me from my own ambitions, but Jenna knew better. I needed someone as brave, kind, and smart as you watching my back.
If I could go back in time again, I would thank Jenna profusely. Inadvertently, she gave me the most important person to me, you. As we slowly began to become closer, I started to realize that I never truly loved MC. I loved the idea of her, and the idea of being her knight and protecting her, but I never truly got to be myself with her. I always kept my distance from her. That wasn’t the case with you. The late nights, early mornings, those trips at our favorite hot pot place, I started to slowly understand you more and more, until I came to the epiphany that I loved you and needed you in my life.
After that, I decided to stop holding myself back. That’s why I asked you out to the movies. Also, can I add, I’m sorry Y/N I lied again to you. Nobody gave me those movie tickets, I bought them myself, and I chose that horror movie you hated so much. I just needed an excuse to push us forward and blame someone else for my horrible taste. Though honestly, I don’t regret a thing. After our first night together, I was reaffirmed that I was right, and I was happy.
I was happy being your boyfriend and overjoyed marrying you and having the privilege of being your husband. I want you to know that. Though, I know I wasn’t the best husband I could have been. I should have been honest with you right away. I should have told you the truth of my past, especially about my identity, MC and the backtrackers, but I was scared. What if my baggage was too much and you decided to leave. I was scared, but I should have given you the choice. But like you called me before, I was a coward and I used the excuse that I was protecting you. That I could deal with my past alone without you having to be burdened by it.
That’s why I would disappear. I was handling the remaining threats to us alone, my lack of aging and the backtrackers. I knew my lack of aging was starting to affect you. I never hated watching you grow older. If anything, it filled me with pride. The grey hairs, wrinkles and the changes to your body were symbols that I was given the right to be with you as long as you allowed. That you allowed me to grow with you. Our age should have been celebrated, but I know my body not reciprocating was frustrating for you. Especially when idiots wouldn’t mind their own business and call you old. I never believed those terrible things they said to you my love. I was always proud to call you my wife. Still, I know my reassurances weren’t enough. Our differences would always hurt you. I knew I had to find a way for me to age with you.
Another threat was the backtrackers. I knew when you mentioned tampering in our home, that my enemies must have been closing in. They were another reason I left during the middle of the night. I tried to dissuade them from threatening us through force, but I thought if they did attack, they would have only hurt me. I thought you were so removed from the situation, why would they go after you? I wish you would have been honest about the stalking, but I wasn’t honest with you as well, how could I chastise you. My lack of hindsight was why you were attacked and had to process the truth in such a painful way. I am so sorry”.
—
Xavier kissed your knuckles, making you turn red.
—
“I failed you. My failures aided in your injury and your loss of your dream. Worst, I know when MC came in, it made our relationship go further down. I knew you hated our close proximity, but I want you to know that I never strayed. Not once did I ever think or entertain the idea of being with her. Even when I gave her my keychain, it wasn’t me trying to regain her favor, I was just returning the present she had given me back in the future. Though like the rest of my decisions, it was stupid.
Another stupid decision was stopping you from going on missions with me. It wasn’t because I wanted more time with MC. I did it because I was still reeling from your last injury, the first time you almost died. I couldn’t stomach watching you get hurt. I thought maybe over time, you would accept the safer position in data analysis and see that MC was never a threat to you, but again, I should have given you the choice, or spoken with you. Though every time I said, or did anything, it would hurt you more and more. I was scared of losing you and I didn’t know how to fix anything. I am so sorry.
I never meant to make you feel so small and unloved in our marriage. All I wanted was to keep you safe and love you. I did the best I could, but I know all I did was hurt you. I hurt you until the end, until you ran to that wanderer and sacrificed yourself. I am so sorry, I am so sorry, I am so so sorry my star!”
—
Your ex-husband blubbered apologies as his soft lips pressed against your knuckles again and nuzzled his face against your hand apologetically. Though your heart swelled from his sincerity, there was one thing you couldn’t understand.
“If what you are saying is the truth.” You pulled your hand away and raised his head, forcing him to look into your torn eyes. “Why did you accept the divorce? Why did you leave me? Why did you marry MC and have a child with her?! Did you only come back to alleviate your guilt, because if so, fine you can have my forgiveness, but I want you to leave now.”
His saucer eyes looked at you desperate and troubled. He took your hands and held them against his chest while continuing to look deeply in your eyes.
“I’m not telling you all this for your mercy. I’m telling you the truth, and the reason I would cruelly abandon you is because it never happened.” You glared at him in disgust, was he lying again? “I know it’s hard to believe, but I promise you. I never divorced you. I never married or had a child with MC. I honestly don’t have a clue how all of this is happening. Perhaps, it has to do with your protofield manipulation evol.”
“What? What does this have to do with my evol.”
“Y/N, we aren’t in Linkon right now. We are in the wanderer’s protofield, or their alternate dimension. Maybe because you believed so much in this wicked reality, your powers made it come true.”
“I don’t-.”
“Look out your window, you will see the truth.” You immediately got up and looked out your window and instead of seeing the empty roads covered in snow, you saw nothing, but the white. It is as he said.
“Why is this happening?”
“I don’t know. It was reported that after you confronted the Wyrmlord, people realized that the protofield seemed to shrink, safely kicking out all the hunters except you. When it was done condensing, all that was left was a human sized glowing sphere and the wanderer’s remains next to it. Nobody understands how or what you did. I took the mission to find out and when I entered the sphere, I found myself in this reality.”
“So, nothing in this world is real? This small house, me going to the hospital, losing you, my job, your marriage and child with MC, the last 3 decades?”
“None of it.” You sighed, unsure if your heart was racing from relief or fear.
“How long have I really been here?”
“Only a few days.”
“That’s fucked up.”
“It is.” He stood next to you as you continued staring out of the window, at nothing.
“What do we do now?”
“The only solution I can think of, we walk out of this protofield together.” You turned back to him, arms out from exasperation.
“What will happen when we leave? What if we get obliterated? What if I am still this old and you abandon me anyway?!” He grabbed your hand.
“We can’t stay here. They almost didn’t let me go and try to save you. The association is going to destroy this protofield from the outside. If we don’t leave after a few hours, we’ll both die. Besides, no matter what happens, it will be alright. I will stay by your side whether we get obliterated. Or, even if you stay a grandma, I will remain with you. If I can’t find a way to become older like you, I’ll start wearing makeup and wigs. Y/N, please understand. I love you. I’m willing to take the risk as long as you are there. Will you take the leap with me?”
You smiled dorkily and squeezed his hand.
“Alright, but you better be ready to spend a lot on makeup and wigs. AND! I have to be personally involved with creating your new grandpa Xavier persona.” Xavier laughed and led you to your front door. When he opened the door, outside, all you could see was abyssless white. Your hands shook as you both stepped closer to the edge. He returned his gaze to you.
“I know it’s scary, but trust me.” He hugged you and held you close to his body. “Are you ready to jump, or fall with me?” You felt a wave of anxiety, but you still nodded in approval. He stroked your hair, moving it off your face and kissed your forehead.
“I love you Y/N.” Holding you tightly in his arms, your face on his chest, he leaned backward on the edge until you both fell down the abyss. You closed your eyes as you seemed to endlessly fall, until you exited the protofield. Back in the real world, you could barely open your eyes and felt a searing pain. The last thing you heard was Xavier calling your name as you fainted.
—
Hours later, you opened your eyes and found yourself back in the hospital. You looked down and realized you weren’t as shriveled or wrinkled as before. It was although you went back in time, when you were bandaged up on your hospital bed and received your divorce papers. However, it was different this time. Instead of your husband entering furious with divorce on the tip of his tongue, he sat next to you, napping on the hospital’s loveseat.
“Xavier?” You called hoarsely. He automatically opened his eyes in shocked relief.
“My star, you’re awake.”
“What happened?” He held your hand once more and kissed your fingers.
“We escaped the protofield, though it seems you still have a majority of your injuries from your fight. The doctors have been working hard, and it seems you are recovering well. Though I’m sorry, it seems like you are still in your 30s, no Grandpa Xavier for you.” You smiled brightly as you squeezed his cheek.
“It’s alright, if you are willing to stay by me, I will get Grandpa Xavier in the next 30 years.” Your husband tilted his head on yours.
“I promise, I will stay with you for the rest of our lives, and I will find a way to grow old with you. I love you Y/N.” You placed a lingering kiss on his cheek.
“I love you Xavier, and I promise to work with you to find all the answers.”
—
After the incident, things between you and Xavier only improved. From that day forward, Xavier told you everything and not only seeked to protect you, but for your help and companionship. Though you returned to your job in data analysis and your insecurity involving MC didn’t fully disappear, your trust in Xavier, his love, and your marriage remained firm. With your passion and faith reignited, you both continued to move forward together.
Can you please continue the Sea god and his prophet story pls 🙏🙏
Really 🥺?
Ok! Though I have a few fics I need to finish first (I said I would lol), so it might be a bit, but I’m down to put the next part (s) in queue! I’m happy you enjoyed the series ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️.
Noob “Fanfic Writer” @diamonrot - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag
