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At Your Service [Caleb ] —⋆｡°✩

Part 1 , Part 2 - Part 3 - FOUR- Part 5... [Main] Series Introduction: It is a tradition in their country to only call men by their first name if you fancy him, or you’re a family member. But what would she do if she fancy someone without even knowing who he is? Being a woman of noble family, would she be able to capture his heart before she was arranged to marry someone else?

Word Count: 20.4k

Heyaaa, it’s your fav engineer again! Wowzer, it’s been a while. So… where do I start? Okay, first and foremost, I really really am sorry for disappearing for soooo long, darlings. Engineering became very serious but I successfully won all the battles this semester. Engineering at the country’s top university is an insane roller coaster but it’s fun and very worth every second! Damn, I'm so grateful to be here, and thank you for all your support during my journey. Second, my band just won two championships in battle of the bands yay! TWICE IN A ROW, JUST THIS YEAR (Yes, I’ve been in the studio a lot if it isn’t the uni library) also, we've been on gigs a lot. It feels nice to reconnect with my soulmate-hobby. Was that surprising? I hope not. Third, tumblr got tagged as a gambling site in my country when I was about to update back when I had a pinch of free time and it was banned for so long lol, I also missed having bedtime stories with my fellow writers. I hope this chapter compensates for my absence! I will be updating more since summer break is here, this series will surely be done soon. I have read all your private messages w/ me btw! I can't respond to all of them since there's quite a lot! I do appreciate all your messages, greetings, requests, and thank you so much for waiting, enjoy!

also, don't be afraid to reach out if u want to be on the taglist!! I also post on ao3 but I always forget to update lol again, I hope you enjoy!

4th Year; Y/N Morzse, Age: 21 Soldier, Age: 25

The Morzse Family held a formal funeral for the young Victor, the young man they’ve adopted as their child and sibling, supposed to live in their manor by the time he was strong enough to be discharged from the hospital. Salvatore, who just turned seven, hasn’t stopped crying since the day they’ve heard about the news. How would you even explain the concept of life to a young man? Mostly when it concerns his older brother? He may one day outlive the memories but the sting inside would not differ ever.

Y/N Morzse on the other side…

On the day of his burial, she stood by the ground, six feet deep dug in front of her, shoveled down to give young Victor an embrace. Her face showed no emotion but a plain blank empty canvas, as if it’s been painted so many times, and erased as much. At this point, she doesn’t know what to feel anymore, nor to express that manner. She just stood there in her black long dress, her gloved hands on her side. For the first time in her life, she looked so lifeless, so colourless, so emotionless.

That’s my brother young Victor,

He’s just a boy.

Mrs. Morzse walked towards her, also wearing a long black dress, placing her gloved hand on Y/N’s back to caress it. “My darling, I know it’s not alright, and time flies. Young Victor will remain with us and he won’t ever leave.” She said, trying to comfort her daughter, with Salvatore’s crying voices behind them as he tugged onto their father’s coat. “You’ve taken care of him for so long, you did so well. Young Victor will forever carry you with him as well. Everyone’s so proud of you.”

Of course, three years with the young boy may sound like a long time, but it is one of the shortest lives she’s ever witnessed. “He’s just a boy.” Y/N responded with her grieving voice, with her mother patting her at the back. “He’s supposed to grow. He’s supposed to wear his uniform to school, finish his education. He’s just a boy.”

“Indeed, my darling.” Her mother hugged her.

In the next second, Mr. Morzse tapped his wife on the shoulder gently, leaning a little to whisper something in her ear. “Darling, the military is here and uhh… Ahem, the Colonel.” He said, making Mrs. Morzse’s eyes wide. “They’re paying their visit to deliver their sincere condolences.”

“What? The colonel?” Mrs. Morzse whispered in shock. “My, this is such an unbearable surprise. I-Uhh…” She then eyed Y/N before looking back to her husband. “Ahem, Y/N wouldn’t take it lightly— she wouldn’t be able to face that man right now, after everything. Everything is too sudden. Ask him not to approach her, if you may, for Y/N’s well-being. I will have Salvatore in my care for a while, darling.”

Y/N did not seem to hear that, her entire mind is focused on being blank. Mr. Morzse nodded on his wife’s request, walking towards the Colonel right away to inform him about such. Mrs. Morzse has already sat down, holding her youngest son who’s still crying out loud. Lots of people as well are standing around, all with their black attires to pay respects to the loss of the Morzse family.

However, it seems like money is not always on the lead of authority, nor age and manner. Mr. Morzse’s concerned face said it all, the colonel did not agree with his request. “But it is for my daughter’s well-being.” He repeated. “You have as well affected her mental well-being, and she wouldn’t be able to process things all at once as of the moment. So if you may, please colonel, do not interact with her.”

Caleb’s usual poker face looked at the man straight to the soul, before eyeing the back of the woman from the distance, still silently grieving. “Your daughter would respectfully need more than solitude, Mr. Morzse. I believe she has been looking for me for a while now, that might help ease her emotional well-being.” Caleb responded, taking his hat off to respect the older man.

Mr. Morzse made a confused face. “You think my daughter would feel better seeing you? Is that how you see her?” He asked, slightly showing dominance behind his mild anger. Caleb on the other side did not feel any intimidation, he just stood in front of him. “You think my daughter is a man-centered woman? Respectfully, you are not my daughter’s lover, nor are you connected in any way.”

Caleb paused for a moment. “Not yet.” He said, dropping the heaviest response he has ever said in return.

Mr. Morzse half-chuckled in disbelief. “You are not trying to do anything with my impression on you right now, colonel. My daughter has eyes on you.” He said in a low tone. “Either way, you’ve caused something. Stating something that shows your relevance is half-way egoistic.”

Caleb, still with the same face, stared at him. “Pardon me then, Mr. Morzse.” He said with confidence. “But this matter should be settled between the two of us. I respectfully have to initiate as the one who did the wrong. Any outcome of this action of mine will be under my responsibility, I do assure you.” He said before bowing a little. “May I have your permission for me to speak to your daughter?... I will approach your daughter regardless.”

Mr. Morzse half-chuckled once again before sighing heavily. “You…” He spoke with a calm, assuring tone. “You are just like your father.” He said before tapping his shoulder.

“You know my father, Mr. Morzse?” Caleb asked with a curious look on his face.

“More than you do.” He said, “Off you go.”

The Colonel was confused about that new knowledge of his but shrugged it off temporarily. He just walked towards their eldest daughter, throwing a flower down the shoveled hole and taking off his cap to pay his respects. He looked on his side, Y/N was still standing like nothing was happening around her, not even his presence woke her up. He cleared his throat, “My condolences… Miss Morzse.” He spoke, shocking the lady next to him.

For the first time since the funeral was held, she looked at another person with an expression on her face. Her eyes looked confused as she looked at him, her lips slightly parted, not sure what to feel. “Y-You…!” She said, pointing at him. “What are you doing here?” She whispered.

Mrs. Morzse looked at them with wide eyes before looking at her husband. Mr. Morzse then assured her right away, making her sit back down calmly.

He sighs. “I’ve come to pay my respects and deliver my sincere condolences to your family, and the military is here as well.” He responded, and Y/N looked away right away, not responding after. “You… You did well on putting colours on this young man’s life.” He complimented her, and she hummed in return.

And then there was silence.

The two of them just stood there, about a foot of distance in between them, both looking down the hole on the ground. No one seems to be interested in continuing the conversation… at least they don’t know how. Y/N doesn’t feel like talking, and Caleb doesn’t know what to say. Safe to say that it’s such an awkward and wrong timing for them to meet for the first time after a year. Well, Mr. Morzse already warned him but he insisted on this interaction so he should be responsible.

“Ahem. I’ve spoken to your father, it seems like he isn’t the kind of man that’s easy to convince.” He spoke out of nowhere, trying to initiate a conversation. “I might be just a different person then.”

“My father just doesn’t like you.” She said, immediately sending a weight in his stomach.

“Well, it seems like he knows–”

“Where have you been?” She asked out of nowhere with a tone he doesn’t recognize through her gentle voice. She sounded a little… different. Maybe it’s the emotions of the moment? “I looked for you for a year. Where have you been?”

He paused for a second before speaking, “I lived in the military camp, like how colonels would.”

“But where even is that?” She asked in disbelief. “Your family doesn’t know where you are, I don’t know where you are, everyone— no one knows where you are.”

For a moment, she sounded like a soldier’s wife, waiting for him to return as a whole. “Am I supposed to tell anyone?”

Of course he’d say that, even to her grieving soul, her love for him is still unrequited. After all, who is she to say those things even? He doesn’t think blood is thicker than anything, so why would a random woman even matter? But still, she shot her shot. “I attended all the weddings… the colonel is always not there.”

“I…” He paused, “Let’s continue this conversation some other time. Are you available by Sunday next week?” Her teary eyes went wide upon hearing that.

“Wha–” She swallowed her words, clearing her throat after. “Yes, I am.”

“Well then. I’ll pick you up at four.”

Unbelievable— just what does he have under his sleeves? What is that set date and time about? Well, he mentioned something about their conversation, but is it that relevant for them to go somewhere alone and planned for the first time? She doubts it, but she wonders. And four? As in four in the afternoon? That sounds like a dinner date to her.

Well, she wasn’t able to sleep for days because of that. Her mind is already stuck up with the idea of young Victor’s passing, along with her heavy heart— but it seems like this man just added another thing and she doesn’t know what to feel. For nights, she laid on her bed while staring at the details of her ceiling, thinking about many things.

Her friend and mentor, Dr. Zayne has been monitoring her a lot lately because of that. As a surgeon who has lost so many patients before, he can say that it’s always difficult every time— but a first time is always the hardest pill to swallow. Mostly when Y/N has stood as young Victor’s older sister, and they’ve made plans for them to be family.

Y/N on the other side is aware of her well-being. She is emotionally dragged most of the time since then, but she knows how to face things like normal… an eldest child’s thing, if it’s what they call it; always prioritizing everything over their well-being. Good thing Dr. Zayne is there for her, looking after her despite being outside the premises of their field.

The day arrived and she has never been so nervous. She wore her simplest yet elegant clothing, since she’s not even sure where they’re going. He just said he’d pick her up and that’s it. Well, at least it’s better than a man who doesn’t plan at all.

“Is it really true, dear darling? The colonel spoke to us a week ago, telling us that he is picking you up tonight.” Her mother asked her and she hummed in response. Wow, he even spoke to her parents like a man who’s courting a maiden. How bold of him to do that. “Wha— could it be? That you’re really fated to be together? Are you going to send your letters to him as well?”

Y/N sighed, shaking her head. “Mother, it isn’t like that, for sure. The colonel wouldn’t be that type of man. And I wouldn’t send anything to him.”

“Ah! Why not? You’ve written those for a year, for him to read–” Mrs. Morzse was then interrupted by a sudden knock on their front door, with a housekeeper opening it right after. “Ah, it must be your evening’s lover.”

Y/N sighs. “Mother, don’t say such unpleasant things.”

The housekeeper’s voice can be heard from a distance, speaking to the person by the door. Y/N heard a familiar voice respond so she walked towards them right away. “I do appreciate your hospitality, but it’s alright, I do not have to come in. I am only here to pick up Miss Morzse.” Caleb’s voice echoed through the front hall.

When Y/N arrived, her breathing almost stopped upon laying her eyes on the breathtaking man by the door, politely standing and bowing a little to one of their helpers. He isn’t looking too formal at the moment, he is wearing a faded green plaid shirt over a tucked beige shirt in his brown pants. It is also the first time she has seen his body outside a coat, seeing a belt in her perspective. Oh how perfect can this man be?

For a split second, she forgot about that one year of loneliness, getting warped in right away with the sight she’s seen.

And then their eyes met, both feeling a sudden electric shock down their spine. The eye contact they shared felt like a spark only youngsters at that moment can comprehend. It looks like they are a pair of young couples, going on a date for the first time traditionally. Well, it also is their first time going outside without her initiation so it makes complete sense.

Y/N smiled, nodding her head a little, and Caleb did the same. “Hello, colonel.” Y/N said when she walked towards him, thanking the helper on the side. Mrs. Morzse stood in the distance, watching her daughter with a hint of smile on her lips. Just like she and her husband, they started in something like this.

Caleb paid his respect to her parents before looking at her, “Shall we?” And she was led into a carriage, with him not saying anything. When they’re already seated and moving, she had her hands on her purse on the top of her lap, looking anywhere but the man in front of her.

He on the other side just sat confidently, both eyes on her awkward figure. “How have you been?” He spoke, shocking her a little. She then hummed in question, asking him to clarify that question. “The previous year, how have you been? Achievements? Goals? New directions?”

Oh, that made her wonder now about whatever is in that military camp that made him have a little care for her little things. “Not much, just the usual. Hospital, arts, and life events like birthday parties.” She responded so casually, not trying to actually diss him with sarcasm about him, missing two of her birthdays.

“Oh? Is that all?” He responded, as if he’s doubting her. She nodded with a hum in response, immediately making something shift in his eyes. “I see, it seems like you missed something… I think I heard the business of Sylvestre Dieu has made a partnership with you and your little artistic constitution…?”

What? How is he updated with her life, and she didn’t even know where he was. “Ah, yes. He sponsored two of my exhibits, and I featured his newly released perfume boutique.” She explained with an intention to deliver such big news. “I also thought it’s a bright idea for us to work together. The hospital managed by my parents also partnered with his parents in charities, it’s like our families are meant to work with one another.”

He hummed in response. “With a family like yours, you still need partnerships with another?” He said, and she can’t comprehend whether it is a compliment or not. “Or maybe it really is their intention to write your fate, hence you’re now naturally bonded with your future husband.”

Ah, the idea of marriage.

She knows she’d marry someone else next year, not Caleb, and she’s already accepted that so she did not feel any sting from that statement of his. Maybe she’d really end up marrying Sylvestre Dieu, and she doesn’t even have any say about it. She definitely would, since he’s the best option for her arranged marriage. Her family is also in fond of that man, so it is no surprise that he’d be the best option.

“News by news, you are with red roses in nice places, smile on your faces while you stand next to one another. Everything’s just so perfect, a ring is just the only one missing.” He said. She looked away, not knowing what to say, and Caleb did not like the fact that she did not defend herself this time unlike before. She used to defend her love for him, but now it seems like she’s just— claiming to be something like just what he said. “Ah, you're still on with that made up arranged marriage of yours, aren’t you?”

She immediately gave him a stern look. “Listen, Colonel, if you’re just going to insult me, my affections for you, and my marriage traditions in this carriage, then let me make this clear for you; I am no longer burning anything for you.” She said and paused, making the colonel raise an eyebrow. “I only have one year left before that arranged marriage and I don’t even know what’s going to be my path. So whether I win your heart or not, that’s already up to fate. If it humors you so much, then I’d put an end to it.”

His eyebrows raised upon hearing her statement, his lips slightly parted due to shock. Just who is this woman in front of him, and why are his usual antics not working? He did not talk for a few seconds before humming with a nod. “Ah, at last.” He said, looking out the window upon crossing his arms. “Your head functioned so well.”

She did not respond, and it’s unusual. She just sat there with her hands on her lap while looking outside the window. It’s too unusual for him to experience such a difference, she would usually try to raise up her defenses to assure him but no.

But none of them would speak about it. But one of them was confused about it.

They then arrived at the said place after an hour of silence in the carriage, a restaurant from outside of town, a place she’s never been to. “Ever been here?” He asked and she shook her head no. “Wonderful.” He smiled and placed her hand around his arm politely to guide her while walking towards the door, being greeted by the person in front… whose eyes widened upon seeing them together.

“I– Uhh… Good evening, Sr. Sontero and Miss Morzse–” Her voice stuttered upon speaking, immediately sighing after. “My apologies, it’s just that— I hope you get it.”

“A year without news concerning our names?” Caleb asked and the lady nodded. Well, their names really are relevant to that extent, even outside their town. How can you live a private life when you are literally the colonel, and the known artist from a noble family? Caleb then looked at Y/N’s anxious face with a smile. “Well then, we do hope to be seated with our respectful reservations.”

“C-Certainly, sir!”

The entrance of theirs led them into an ambiance of luxury, who knew that Caleb is this grand? Well… being a colonel is one way to wealth so of course, he can be grand. He’s a gentleman as ever, letting her take her seat before he does, letting the wine’s scent linger as the waiter pours them each glass. “Is this non-alcoholic?” He asked the waiter who then nodded in response. “Thank you.”

“Aren’t you going to ask for an alcoholic one?”

He took a sip, “Shouldn’t I be responsible during a date?”

She raised an eyebrow, “Date? You must be out of your mind to say that in front of me–” In a split second, a bouquet of pink peonies and tulips was handed to her by a waitress. Her eyes widened. “Peonies and tulips?!” She asked in disbelief, knowing that most men only give roses. She held it so dearly, looking at them with the deepest thought ever— “Have you been on dates?!”

Caleb’s smile dropped as he placed his wine glass down, “No. Why would you ask that?”

“Then how would you know what to give to a woman?”

“I just know what to give you.” And as expected, that stunned her. How can this man be so good when it comes to catching her artist little heart through words? And so she just sat there, holding the bouquet of flowers as she stared at him in shock. In just less than ten seconds, it felt like the whole entire year of burden had left her shoulders, and all the anger left her chest. It’s like she’s washed out right away due to shock.

A waiter then arrived to take their orders, and she just took whatever Caleb’s having before she spoke again. “With all due respect… what is this dinner all about?” She asked, “A dinner, a bouquet of flowers, gentle words— You wouldn’t do all this if it was years ago.”

He paused, eyes looking at her with confusion. “Aren’t we supposed to continue our conversation from last week?” He asked, and she suddenly got hit by the realization. “I suggest we’re merely… just catching up.”

But still, that doesn’t change a thing with my question. He still wouldn’t take her out in public like this if it was back then.

“Oh.” She said, placing the bouquet of flowers down on the table before sitting properly. “So, where were we?” She paused to think, “Ah, about you being nowhere to be found. You attended no weddings last year as well, and I know it because… I went to all of them. Even at your friend Mathilda’s wedding, you did not show up.”

He hummed, nodding a little. “Morzse,” He spoke in a low tone, close to whispering as he lean on the table lightly. “Where do you think I was?”

“The military camps like everyone said, and you said last time.”

He looked at her straight in the eye, hesitant but it’s there. “I did not stay in the camp all the time, colonels aren’t required to be that way.” He said, making Y/N’s brows knot in confusion. “I wasn’t always there, I was—”

“Where?”

“Everywhere.” He whispered, head tilting a little. That made Y/N sigh a little, closing her eyes in disbelief. Is he being serious right now? How can he joke around? “This is confidential but I choose to trust you. I’ve been jumping from one country to ours, monitoring things relating to my workfield. I just recently found out about a financial misalignment regarding another, and it is causing political disagreements. As a frontliner, I do keep our country’s premises safe. Being the colonel means I am politically involved, I handle thousands of men.”

“You’re saying… there could potentially be a war?” Y/N asked and he nodded. “Are you serious?”

“I am. But I doubt it, unless I start it. After all, I am the colonel.” He joked, making her roll her eyes. “So, that is the shortest summary I can give… I’d like to apologize for leaving you unannounced for a year, I hope you understand.” He said, and that made her confused immediately. But before she could ask, he spoke once again. “Learned it the difficult way that it’s the way for you to give up on me, huh. Might as well try another round trip for years.”

Her face then changed into a shocked one. “W-What?!” She asked in disbelief. “And a year did not change your attitude, you’re still— whatever that is. You’re still mocking me. Besides, why are you even apologizing?”

He chuckled and so she did, before he looked away. And then there’s silence as if they did not just share a laugh over something stupid.

Her eyes then landed on him once again, analyzing his appearance like she didn’t just spend the whole carriage ride doing so. He’s still the same, of course, it’s only been a year. The only difference she noticed is the fact that he’s wearing something new now. “I noticed that no woman’s been chasing you this week.” She commented out of nowhere, earning a smirk from him as a response. “Why is that?”

“They’ve all gotten married, the women who used to. There’s still new ones, but we both know you’re aware of who I am.” He responded. “But the rest before, they’ve all gotten married… well, all of them except you.”

She paused, before looking away, not sure if she’d be offended or whatever. “I-In a year, I’d be.” She responded in a low tone, nervous but still stood by her stance. “U-Unless I die or something.”

He sighed and shook his head. “Ah, your arranged marriage.”

Y/N immediately knotted her eyebrows, annoyed. “On a serious note, why do you not take that so seriously? I am not lying to you.”

“Because noble ladies get arranged marriages at the age of eighteen, clearly you’re older than that.” He explained, and well, he isn’t completely wrong. She’s supposed to be married when she was eighteen but her parents had a deal with her.

“I wasn’t the type of woman to have affections for someone, I think my parents overlooked that. I think they only gave me a chance to develop something on my own.” Y/N said, “If someone’s to ask me who’s my first love, I’d respond with your name… and I met you when I was eighteen. Pretty late for first love, isn’t it?”

He did not respond, he just looked at her.

“I was always told first loves aren’t meant to be the last, unless I’m lucky.” She chuckled. “They said it’s meant to break innocent hearts, to deliver lessons for the right one, to introduce us in this field of human nature… but it’s different in my case. I was not young when I had it. So I’m sorry,” She apologized, immediately confusing the colonel. “I’m sorry if I was like that to you in the previous years, as it is foreign to me.”

He looked at her face, trying to analyze beyond her flawless appearance but found none. “You experienced it the way it should be, genuine and pure.” He said, looking away. “You shouldn’t apologize for being in love.” He said in a low tone.

“What?”

“Ah, wonderful timing.” Said he. Luckily, he was saved by the waiter serving their food. Y/N then just eyed him as she picked up her utensils, something really is up with the colonel and she just can’t seem to put the pieces together.

However, she wouldn’t let such a hot seat slide off his back. She isn’t the same as back then. “How would you know the way it should be? Have you ever been in love?” She inserted a confident question, enough to make the man feel the awkwardness.

However, he didn’t look like it. He just smirked, “Once.”

Of course, I am literally speaking to an old man. She thought. What a stupid question, Y/N. Of course he had his first, he is literally in mid 20s. “Once?”

“Need I have to repeat myself?” He asked and she immediately rolled her eyes.

Y/N took a bite of her meal, speaking in a low tone. “Your attitude explains why you’re unmarried at twenty-five.” She said, with an intention to insult him.

“And you?” He asked, “Your lack of awareness. Your potential lover could be around but you keep on sticking with someone who clearly isn’t for you.”

Wow, that stung her a bit, she’s going to admit that. “Wow, then thanks for asking me out.”

“I didn’t.”

Y/N angrily looked at the bouquet of flowers before looking back at him. He really is still the same man, confusing. He is very conservative yet he’s always keeping her hanging. “I am marrying Sylvestre Dieu in a year, so you better make it last. You can no longer take a married woman out, you know?”

He made a rather— offended look, before looking away. He then took a bite off his plate, “I am not interested in anyone, let alone a married woman.”

Y/N sighs, thinking about how unbelievable it is to have a proper conversation with this man. “You’re no different to a priest in love.” She said, earning a look from the man. “Choosing to be married to his passion and love for his field, in religious terms— but a colonel? You are not bound not to be married, but you choose to be.”

“Guess you could say that.” He said.

Their silly little date really just went with a conversation and food, the only untypical part was the bouquet of flowers and his little assurance with a hint of compensation for his year of absence. She sat in front of her dressing table, the bouquet on top of it as she brushed her hair, she didn't know what to feel about what just happened that evening.

But for some reason, she was slightly introduced to the world of a soldier’s wife— apart from her husband for who knows how long, unsure of his being, and just— that. She doesn’t know if it’s like that, but she felt lonely despite having no connection at all. She sighed after placing her hairbrush down, walking towards her massive bed, pulling its curtains down to her slumber.

She doesn’t know whether she’d still pursue that man or whatever. Unlike before, she doesn’t feel the need to, nor can she find the motivation to. She still loves him, of course, but at what cost? It feels like she can see through the blindness she used to have before.

He is confusing, she doesn’t know whether this man wants to be close to her or not. In fact, that isn’t even a problem, it’s just that she is no longer getting caught up by his emotional antics, or subtle manipulation of her feelings for him. It’s as if he doesn’t want her, but if she becomes distant, he doesn’t want her to stop either.

Or was it all just in her mind? After all, he’s been avoiding and rejecting her even from the start.

Yeah, indeed. Maybe it’s all just delusions.

Maybe he really isn’t going to be hers in this lifetime.

“Y/N Dieu, huh?” She thought, thinking about the marriage she’d have in a year. Surely that name would be hers by then, nothing else. It’s not like Caleb would go after her. Maybe in another lifetime, in the age of floating cars and flying humans, she’d be able to be in the wind with him. But in this lifetime? She’d choose not to ride his horse anymore. “Maybe in another lifetime.”

Y/N and Caleb in an image together?

Maybe, just maybe.

Y/N received another wedding invitation one morning, and it is no surprise since there are tons of women her age, or even younger, getting married. And who wouldn’t invite the town’s sweetheart Y/N Morzse? Every lady wants to have her on their special day.

And it shouldn’t be surprising, but the letter came from— “Celene?!” She gasped in shock, standing up in an instant. She rubbed her eyes and read the invitation once again… it really is from Celene, Celene Sontero, Caleb’s older sister who hated the idea of marriage. A little note behind the invitation is another invitation for a coffee meeting with her.

Well, that's huge news for her morning.

She continues to work at the hospital for her mentorship with Dr. Zayne like usual, the only difference is that she is no longer staying until evening because the only reason why she does that— is young Victor. Hence, she comes home every three in the afternoon. Dieu sometimes comes around to walk her home just to have some chats with her, whenever he’s free. Although sometimes, he intentionally skips his errands just to be with her during lunch.

For some reason, there’s still no romantic vision around him that Y/N can see. They’re still friends, and he respects that. He’s such a man of morals that even everyone gets nervous that she has him around all the time.

She can’t help that a known man is in love with her. And what’s even more than that is the fact that he is one of her potential marriage candidates next year. Ah, so much progress with their friendship, and so much changes in her life in just a year.

One of those changes concerns the colonel. She also noticed that the colonel has been around a lot since he arrived, not to patrol, but casually just— she can’t explain, but it’s as if he’s too casual around the places. It’s as if she doesn’t even have to look for him because he’s just everywhere. However, he’s still in a soldier’s uniform so she doesn’t know whether he’s patrolling or not at all.

But would you even see this soldier in a uniform doing all the casual things he didn't do before? One time, Y/N was in a boutique shop and what a huge coincidence it was to have him check some suits inside. Well, that is no surprise because he is a formal man so she let that slide.

Another is when she was visiting a theater with her younger brother, she saw him there as well. One time, he was having a coffee at the cafe where she’s at, reading a newspaper while he sat at the corner alone. Of course, there are numerous women approaching him but everyone knows how that man deals with admirers.

Y/N’s going to admit, she didn’t like that at all. Indeed, she has stopped chasing after the man and she just left the decision to fate but still, that doesn’t change the fact that she doesn’t like sharing this man with someone else. Luckily, he is the type not to entertain.

And of course, their eyes met so many times as well. However, neither of them initiated a conversation, which also shocked the colonel. He wonders, is she mad at him because he left for a year? Or she just practically gave up on him? Little does he know, she’s no longer expecting something for real.

It was a warm afternoon when she left the hospital after bidding her goodbyes to Dr. Zayne, she rubbed the side of her arms before walking. She was about to take her usual walks but then a person approached her, a small bouquet of roses being handed to her. “Good afternoon, my lady.” A greeting was delivered to her right ear.

“Oh–! Good afternoon, Dieu.” She says, accepting the flowers from the smiling man. Looking at the flowers, her smile slightly faded, remembering that one pink bouquet she had dried in her room. For some reason, Dieu never asked her about her favourite things, including the flowers. Don’t get it all wrong, Y/N appreciates all the things he gives her. Although she wonders, how can the colonel win over some stack of efforts by just handing her that bouquet? In fact, he didn’t even hand it at all.

She sighs, that man can really do nothing and still get the trophy for her.

“How have you been? Did you have a good shift in the hospital? Any plans afterwards?" He asked as they walked through the cobblestoned pathway, tons of wooden-wheeled carriages rolling behind them.

“Hospitals…” She paused, thinking about young Victor before speaking again. “It’s still the same; very homely but soul-sucking, but I had a nice shift today.” She smiled, “As per my plans afterwards, I am planning to visit the cafe to meet Celene. She has arranged an afternoon coffee meeting with me.”

“Oh, I see.” He said respectfully. “What about tomorrow afternoon, are you free?”

Y/N paused to think. “I think I am. Why is it?”

“I’d like to ask you out for something.” He said with a flattering tone.

“Oh, where are you taking me?”

“You’ll see.” He sent her to the cafe where she’d meet Celene and bid her goodbyes. “I’ll pick you up by four thirty at your house.”

Y/N smiled, “Alright.” Before heading inside to look for the specific woman. Goodness gracious, she is hoping not to have sudden schedules tomorrow or else, she’d terribly make that man sad.

Her eyes then landed on the taller woman, sitting at one of the fancy chairs, taking a sip from her coffee. She walked towards her, giving her a clearer sight of the ring on her finger. She held her hand and said, “So it’s true, you really are about to be married.” She said, making the woman jump a little on her seat.

“Christ, Y/N! At least a warning would be genuine.” Celene said angrily, snatching her hand away from Y/N’s grasp. “You’re starting to have the nerve I can’t stand.”

“From whom did I even learn that aside from you?” She responded, sitting down in front of her. Clearly, their relationship really shows the dynamic of siblings. Looking at the table, she noticed that there are different kinds of desserts, and a specific type of coffee dedicated to her.

“That coffee’s for you, and feel free to dig in. Worry not, I’ve not poisoned any of those.” She said, taking more sips of her own coffee.

“Why, thank you for clarifying that. I would’ve assumed otherwise.” Y/N held the cup near her face, inhaling the aroma that wakes her up every morning. Taking a sip, she spoke, “So, when did this entire thing happen? You did not tell me anything about it last month. Clearly a month is too fast for marriage.”

Celene snorted. “Ah, and your three years are too slow then?” She responded, visibly roasting the young lady in front of her. “Well, you see Morzse, I am not that bad of a thirty year old. Somebody liked me and the rest is history.” Celene said with her usual tone.

“Wow, you’d really skip the fact that you fell in love with him. You really hate the idea of marriage that much, huh?” Y/N teased, earning a heavy sigh from Celene. “I understand, miss ma’am.”

“Oh I’d sew your lips shut if I could. At least the man I want wants to marry me, little one. How are you doing?” Celene said and Y/N made a sour face. “However, if you’re wondering, his name is Alexandre Fleurs. I met him at one of the trials, he is quite an amazing speaker, good looking, extremely intelligent, and that— I hope you use this as an inspiration to find someone better than Caleb.”

Y/N rolled her eyes. “Haven’t you spoken to your brother? I already told him that I am no longer after him and I mean that. You should stop with this nonsense right away.”

“How would I speak to that man if I haven’t even seen him for more than a year?”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“Oh come on, Y/N. Who are you kidding? He’s…” She paused before giving Y/N a stern look. “Hold on a minute now, you young lady.” She said and pointed at her, “Don’t tell me you’ve seen him around, let alone spoken to him.”

Y/N sighed and shook her head in annoyance. “You’re telling me he hasn’t spoken to you or anyone in your household?”

Celene released a heavy sigh before crossing her arms. “What did I even expect from that man?” She said, “When did you see him?”

“About weeks ago, we had dinner together. Aside from that, I always see him everywhere. I think he started patrolling again.” Y/N said and Celene dropped her jaw. “What?”

“You’re the only person he has spoken to aside from his co-workers and some locals, then?” She asked in disappointment, “And you’re telling me you are not after him anymore? Oh shove off, Morzse. You two have something at this point. You’re like a soldier’s wife— or maybe you two are already married without us knowing?”

Y/N chuckled right away. “I would’ve thrown the grandest wedding of all if I'd managed to win that much in life. I am the kind of person to brag if it’s about my love for that man. And oh, he gave me a bouquet of flowers that evening, tulips and peonies in pink.” She smirked, making his older sister gasp.

“You are kidding. Tulips and peonies in pink? That man doesn’t know anything about flowers, let alone what to give you!” Celene said, and Y/N proudly smirked at her. “You two really have something, and I am betting on my husband-to-be.”

“I am not kidding about anything, but I think it’s just a reconciliation gift, you know? The bouquet. Your brother isn’t that romantic.” She said proudly. But to think of it, she felt a hint of change in his words that evening, something that made her feel something but she can’t quite explain. She sighed, “But of course we aren’t a thing, Celene. I am closer to getting married to Dieu than to actually making progress with your brother.”

“He only showed up to you, Morzse. He doesn’t do that to anyone else, even to his family. If you two aren’t a thing, I think it is coming closer.” Celene said, “Are you sure about it, my younger brother? Or do you think Dieu still has a chance?”

“Don’t you go around asking silly questions, Celene. That is up to fate to decide for me. I am no longer after your brother, but I do admit that I still fancy him. After that distance of a year, I finally had some self-respect.” Y/N said, playing with her coffee using a teaspoon gently. “But if you ask me on a deeper level, I really don’t think me and Caleb would end up together.”

“Because…?”

She paused, "Because I think you’re right at some point.” She spoke, “I don’t see him as a lover material, let alone a husband. I don’t want a man who can’t pursue me, a man who can’t do something for me. I mean— I’ve always said that I am the one pursuing him but to think of it, I want to be pursued too. Wooing someone is to win their heart, but he has given me so many signals that I will never win his. It feels like I am only reading the same novel again and again, and not comprehending things.”

For the first time, Celene cannot think of any way to flip the humour over Y/N’s head by beating her up through her words. There’s no part of her statement that tickled Celene’s bank of insults somehow, so she just stared at her with a shocked face. “Wow, you do sound like an entirely different person. I am verily scared right now. You? Giving up on Caleb? That’s like the most impossible thing I’ve ever heard.”

“But it is true, Celene. Your brother can’t be mine.” Y/N said and sighed, looking at her coffee once again. “By the way, how’d you know this is the coffee I want?”

Celene paused for a second before speaking. "Caleb told me.”

“What do you mean? I’ve never shared a table with him, nor any conversation that leads to such an entrance to my thoughts and preferences.” She said and Celene shrugged. “Besides, you haven’t spoken to him for so long, how would you even know that?”

“He told me that two years ago, of course.” Celene said, shocking Y/N on the spot. “I told you, you two have something. Can you quit manipulating me into thinking that you two aren’t a thing?”

“I really am not trying to hide anything, Celene. Your brother is crazy.”

“Well maybe I have more than a psychotic younger brother. Best just hope he doesn’t turn into a damned up politician who would risk bombing places just because he felt the need to.” Celene said, making Y/N crumple her nose in discomfort. “Well, he is already a part of politics, let’s just hope he doesn’t turn damned up. I am not kidding, that man is sick in the head.”

Y/N sighed before taking a sip of her coffee. “He once mentioned that he can start a war, guess you aren’t kidding when you said your brother doesn’t hesitate when it comes to bullets and blood.”

“Some things you hate, by the way.”

Y/N went nearer, leaning on the table and whispered. “Remember when you told me he has killed someone before? Is it really true? Can those beautiful hands really end someone’s life?”

“Do you think I am lying? And what do you mean by beautiful hands? His hands look ugly and–”

“But who?” Y/N asked another question. “Who did he kill? Why did he kill them?”

“Many to state. Like I said before, he is a soldier, of course he had killed someone.” Celene responded with an annoyed tone.

“But you said he also killed someone outside his profession–”

“He killed our father’s murderers, the same year as the year you met him.” Celene said and gasped. Y/N then sat back down, staring at nowhere as she processed the thought. “Ah-I… I am not meant to tell anyone about our father’s death.” She said before looking away awkwardly.

She suddenly remembered about that one thing Mathilda told her before, that he is different before— he lost his father. Now that she’s given a little idea of what happened, she is eager to dig deeper. But instead of pushing the idea that she hates violence, she asked, “Your father was… murdered? I thought he died of sickness?”

Celene angrily sighed. “Do you really believe those newspapers? Because if you do, I am sure none of those news about you and Dieu are credible.” She said, “I… we shouldn’t speak about this. I don’t think I can speak about this, Morzse. I’m sorry.”

The previous colonel was murdered? But because of what? Now that she’s thinking of it, Caleb once told her that there could be a war because of something he did not elaborate that much. Could that be the reason? If so, Caleb would be in so much trouble. His life could be in danger.

“So, uhh…” Celene spoke, “Since you mentioned that you’ve already met Caleb, I would like to ask for a favour.” She took an envelope from her purse and handed it to Y/N. “I would hardly assume he’d appear at my event, he can’t even face us. This is another invitation from me for my wedding. I would like you to deliver it to him the next time you see him, if that would be alright for you.”

Y/N politely accepted. “Ah, no worries. If you need me to convince him as well, I might be good at that one too.”

“You can’t even convince him into a marriage, Morzse.” Alas, Celene has returned from the fog of weight from their conversation earlier. She is back with her usual words, making Y/N frown with a loud sigh. “But if you could convince him, then it’s a win-win situation for the both of us.”

“What do you mean by that?”

Celene just shrugged.

“You’re going on a date today with Dieu? I’m not gonna lie, that shocked me to my core.” Dr. Zayne said when Y/N was preparing to leave the next day.

“What do you mean? We’ve gone outside so many times already. And you shouldn’t call it a date, I’ve told Dieu before that we’re only going out as friends, unless we are married.”

“Well, you sure are marrying that man really soon.” Dr. Zayne said and Y/N just rolled her eyes with a smirk.

“It’s all up to the colonel, really, Dr. Zayne.” Y/N responded with a hint of joke in her tone by calling him so formally. “Either way, I still have a year so I don’t think I should worry about it that much just yet.”

Zayne shrugged and turned his back on her. “I think you should worry about it.”

Y/N just chuckled while rolling her eyes. “Whatever you say, doctor. I’ll take my leave now.” She said before leaving his office. Zayne then sighed when she left, thinking about whatever’s going on in her mind. He is still monitoring her well-being, and he is glad that she’s been showing all positive signs lately.

Ah, Y/N Morzse. Is this man, Sylvestre Dieu, treating you well enough? He wonders.

Only she can answer that.

But if you are going to look at how she acts on the way home, she looks oddly excited for the day. It’s as if she really is looking forward to their day together. Speaking of odd, she hasn’t seen the colonel since yesterday. It seems like he isn’t patrolling around today, or maybe they just did not cross paths. Either way, she isn’t looking for him anyways.

Well, maybe she is. She is just looking for him because Celene asked for her favour. However, suddenly, the man just stopped appearing. How confusing are events even? What even are the odds of that happening?

“Huh, no colonel for twenty-four hours isn’t normal.” She whispered underneath her breath as she looked around. She isn’t exaggerating at all, because she used to see that man all the time ever since their dinner together. It was just so sudden that he disappeared. “Maybe it’s just the changes in his shift.”

Anyways, she has returned to her path of going home, mind is completely clear about everything but the certain event that could happen later. She wonders, where would Dieu take her this time?

Well, it seems like that question is difficult to answer when a heavier body bumped onto her so strongly when she turned to walk by the small alley. The man is so strong that they both fell on the cobblestoned ground, making her groan in pain. “Ow!” She reacted, seeing herself laying on the ground the moment she opened her eyes.

However, she did not only see herself, she also saw— “Get up, Morzse. Now!” Caleb whispered loud enough, holding her arm up and dragging her with him. “Run faster!”

“Wha—! What is happening?! Where are you taking me?!” She asked in pure panic but she went along anyway. In a split second, he placed his one arm around her waist and then used his other one to climb up the walls of the nearby houses. “Ah!” She screamed when she saw the distance between her and the ground growing. “What on earth are you doing?!”

This is insane, the colonel just bumped into her so strong that she must’ve fractured a bone upon that impact itself— and now she’s being taken vertically out of nowhere. She can’t seem to comprehend what’s happening.

They then reached the roof of a high tower, but he did not let go. He just sat there, holding her still while looking out for something that’s probably chasing him. “Colonel, what is happening—“

“Shh.” He said, placing a hand on her mouth whilst having all of his limbs around her… almost.

It felt so close like the embrace they shared from that one Christmas before they left, immediately making her chest sink. Why is she thinking of that instead of the fact that— she just got taken by this man so easily physically?! And the fact that he can do that shows how capable he is. She should be scared but no, she felt… warmth. How embarrassing of her.

She just sighed and closed her eyes in disappointment. Of course, she still has that soft spot for him, but she is aware that this isn’t okay. She immediately removed his hand and glared at him, “What is this all about? I have places to be. You’re telling me right now or else—“

“Colonel!” Some voices of the soldiers called from below. “Colonel, come on! Stop hiding!”

He is hiding from… his soldiers? “Huh? Why are you hiding from your soldiers?” He did not respond, he just stayed put, watching them leave one by one. Once the soldiers left, he immediately moved away from her. Good thing he placed at least ten inches of distance between them after that physically shocking incident, Y/N wouldn’t let that slide.

He sighed in relief. “Ah, at last, they’ve left me alone.” He said.

She then dusted her uniform clean before sitting properly. “So, care to explain what this is all about?”

He then looked at her direction, finally acknowledging her voice. “Ah, my apologies for getting you caught up in this little workfield matters of mine. I did not intend to, really.”

Y/N glared at him. “Colonel, I do not think taking me along is entirely necessary. You could’ve just ran away without me, and left me going with my day.”

“Ha, let you go on with your day? I don’t think so.” He said with a rather annoying tone. For some reason, he looked away with his pause. “They could’ve seen you there and ask you if you spotted me. I do not trust you would cover for me.”

“Of course I wouldn’t. If I saw your people chasing after you, I would tell them where you went.”

“See? That’s why I dragged you along.” He said with an unsure tone.

Y/N released a loud sigh. “Are you even thinking? You are a political figure and your men are looking for you, of course I’d tell you where you are! It could’ve been something relevant.” The soldier did not respond, he just sat there next to her, staring at their town from the tower’s height. She then rolled her eyes before leaning a little over the roof, checking the distance. “Well, whatever the reason was, I do not mind, it is out of my business. Now would you please assist me off? Like I said, I have places to be.”

“Such as?”

She immediately gave him a look. “Is it necessary to tell?” She asked with a tone but he did not answer. She, of course, ran out of patience. She sighed heavily before jumping off, holding onto the roof before an attempt to swing.

“What are you doing?!” Caleb asked in panic, leaning by the edge of the roof to hold her wrist. “You could die in this behaviour of yours, Morzse.”

Y/N looked up at him with a smug face, “Easy on your bullet, colonel. There’s a balcony down here, which you could’ve chosen as your place to hide.” She pulled her wrist off his hold and jumped through the balcony. Caleb then followed after. “But I understand, your panic must’ve risen when you were being chased. But why the tower of all places?”

He paused for a moment, “Because I always visit this place, the balcony and the stairs specifically.” Y/N made a confused face. “You cannot blame me, the wind is strong up here. I can see the whole town by just standing here, whoever owns this place probably formed thousands of thoughts.”

“You’re entering this private property at times? That's news for a colonel.”

“Aren’t we doing that just now?” He asked and leaned on the railings, “Besides, it isn’t trespassing, I do not even enter the doors.” He was then interrupted by the sound of a swinging door. In shock, he reacted right away since it was the first time the door had opened right when he was there. Fortunately, he had a sigh of relief, mixed with shock when he turned around. Y/N, walking straight inside like she owns the place. “What are you doing, Morzse? Entering a private property whilst having the colonel around, I can arrest you right now.”

Y/N smiled at him before sitting down at the desk, picking up some things to look at. “Ah, would I also be qualified to press charges? I’d say the colonel has taken me into this place.” Caleb made a face on that. “Come in, come in! You must’ve been curious about this place for quite a while now.”

He hesitated, “I am not.” But he still followed right in, closing the door behind him and immediately muzzling the sound of strong wind outside. He then noticed that the lights were open. “There is electricity in here? How did you even open this place?”

“Simple, I have a key because this place is mine.” Caleb’s stomach sunk after hearing that sentence.

What. Does. She. Mean. By. That.

He just straight up mentioned how he frequently visits this place and now, she’s telling him that. “Ha, impressive lock-picking then. Never knew even the noble ones would have such kleptomania in them.”

Y/N just leaned with a comfortable position, making herself feel at home. “Then look around, you might find something you’d want to keep. I promise I wouldn’t mind.” She placed a foot on the table while her arms rested behind her head. “Maybe you’d love to have something of mine, you know? I’d let you keep it, you have my word.”

The colonel gave her a stern look. “You think I’d want something that’s yours? Why would I even want your bright diamond-coated objects?”

“No.” She said and sat straight again. “But everything I own is sentimental, so all of them are valuable deep inside.”

“And?” He asked sarcastically, making Y/N roll her eyes.

“Never mind, forget my offer.” She said and stood up. “Almost forgot that you are not that kind of person.”

“I just don’t want something associated with you.” He responded, making Y/N roll her eyes again. “Now we must leave before the owner comes, this might be perceived as a non-informed inspection. We do not want to have that.”

Y/N just walked towards the paintings on the side, grabbing one of them and then presenting it to him. “Alas, my smallest painting. This is my childhood dog Bowie. I made this painting about three years before I met you, honoring my dog’s long life.” She said and showed the name and signature behind the canvas.

Bowie, by Y/N Morzse

She then returned it and then grabbed another one. “This one is made to honour the blood donors from my first two years in nursing school, we received about two hundred bags in a day at one time and we were able to do transfusion. This is one of the paintings I had in my exhibit last year.”

She then placed it down before walking towards the huge shelf on the side. “This one is my collection of mugs, some of them are handcrafted by me. I just started doing clay a year ago so it’s not quite perfect yet.” She then opened the shelf and grabbed one. “This one here is my personal favourite, a teacup painted by me and my brother Salvatore.” She placed it back and walked towards many other things to show him.

Caleb’s eyebrows knotted a little before leaning on the table, crossing his arms to watch her show her things one by one. “So you’re really proving that this place is yours?”

“I am. Interesting, isn’t it?” She asked, earning a confusing little hum from the man.

“I am just… curious.” He said, “You have a huge manor at home, what’s the need for a tower in the middle of the town?”

Y/N grabbed one of the books from a shelf before speaking, “Because I am not the only artist of our bloodline.” She said and opened a specific page, “My grandmother owned this tower when she was my age. She had so many artistic hobbies and she used this place as her escape.” She showed a picture, a very beautiful woman in an old photograph.

“She looks just like you…” Caleb commented.

“Indeed! And do you know what’s even interesting?” She said and unfolded another page, “She married the colonel before your father.”

Caleb was stunned for a second upon hearing that, so he cleared his throat to ease the situation. “So, what you’re trying to say is…?”

“We’re so similar that I might also marry the colonel?” She joked, making the man sigh. “I am only making laughter, of course. Maybe we get married, maybe we don’t. Who knows?” She then turned around to return the book to the shelf. But when she turned to look at the colonel again, she noticed that his entire figure shows… something. “Are you alright?”

“I am, why do you ask?” He responded right away, so she shook her head with a smile.

Suddenly, she remembered about Celene. “Oh, by the way.” She said before walking towards her messenger bag by the table just next to him. She took the envelope from inside and handed it to him. “An invitation.”

Caleb with a confused face looked at her. “An invitation? Your date of birth isn’t coming just yet, what is this for?” But he accepted it anyway, opening it right after. For a moment, he took his time to read it. It took him not less than ten seconds to have a facial expression. “Ah… Celene’s marriage.”

Y/N showed a confused face. “You… You’re not surprised?” She said and leaned on the table as well next to him. For a longer time, he just stared at the paper in his hands, as if it made him think of something. “You haven’t spoken to your family for so long.” She said, “Why?”

Of course, he took his time to respond. He shook his head before folding the invitation again, placing it in his pocket. “It is a personal matter, you need not to know.”

“I believe I do need to know. After all, you decided to speak to me over your family and friends. Why is that?” Y/N asked, trying to interrogate him. However, he still did not respond. “Me and Celene met at the cafe yesterday, we talked about things including that. I am surprised you haven’t spoken to your family.”

“Like I said, it is a personal matter, I only approached you because I happened to pay your family respects and condolences–”

“Your sister mentioned your father’s death, same as Mathilda a year ago.” Y/N pushed, trying to get the information out of him. “I was told that only you can tell me the entire story.”

“And what is your benefit from this story of mine?”

“Your benefit first and foremost is finally having someone to talk to. People around you told the exact same story— Caleb has changed ever since— Mine on the other side…” She paused, “I cannot think of any possible benefit of mine. Not that I care, I just want you to know that you are not required to contain everything inside.”

“You don’t know me, Morzse. I need not any help.”

“It’s Y/N.” She corrected him. “And you’re right, I don’t know you. I know nothing about you despite knowing you for three years at most, but does that matter?” She tried making a way through her words, “I don’t need to know you in order for me to know that you are alone, that you need something, that you are needing someone.”

“I don’t need you.”

That response did sting deep inside, she’s got to admit. This man never failed to choose the sharpest words to use against her, really. But she can’t blame him. He doesn’t want to talk about it but she insisted— for a reason. It takes millions of words, thousands of experiences, and hundreds of core memories to be able to read someone this easily.

Because what do you mean Y/N saw him as someone suffering with something inside? That isn’t how everyone views him.

Everyone sees him as… a problem. Or if not, someone they can’t stand. Strict, selfish— a man who cannot show up for you.

“Alright.” She said as her response, “But if you ever do, I will always be there.” He did not respond, he just stared at nowhere whilst being in the same position. She then just sighed and grabbed her bag. “So, if we aren’t talking further, I am taking it as another continuation for some other day. I will take my leave now. You can just pull the door in lock later if you are to leave–”

“M-My family doesn’t want me as the colonel—!” He spoke, suddenly accidentally interrupting her. “I am certain you’ve heard that three years ago, from Connor. You know, at the… uhh, alley back then, where you found out my name.”

Why is he speaking out of nowhere, after telling her that he doesn’t need her? That he isn’t interested in talking about his personal matters.

“They don’t want you as the colonel?”

“They don’t. Because my father was murdered due to political concerns. The newspaper lied. They don’t want me to end up like him.” He looked away, “They’ve always disagreed with his potential, passion, and integrity to serve the military. Hence, my parents divorced just when I was at a young age, and I lived with my father. There are times that I visit them too, but not literally.”

It is obvious that his parents are divorced from the very start; his siblings aren’t that much close to him, his mother doesn’t seem to mind him, and he only started living with them the same year she met him. He is wealthy himself, so why live with them? He can just buy himself his own house to call his home.

“Mathilda once told me you were different before your father’s death, Celene on the other hand said you’ve always been that way… that made me curious somehow.” Y/N said, “Celene said… you—” She paused, “You killed people, your father’s murderers.”

“I believe people should be held accountable for what they did, no amount of imprisonment or monetary penalty would bring him back. So… if you hate violence, I want to say that I have no regrets. My hands were coated in blood even through hell one day, I have no regrets.” He responded right away, clutching the gun by his side. “My father is an honest man, a man who chooses to serve. If I were to view it, I am a hundred thousand times more likely to be…” He paused, “Like how people said it.”

“Heard the new colonel is a hundred times stricter than his father.” “Oh the new colonel has no emotions, do you think he empathizes with his people?” “I think the new colonel would kill if he wanted to.” “Ah, the second colonel Sontero, huh? He sounds like he would start a war if he felt like it.” “That colonel is scary, frightening.”

“Scary?”

He hummed. “As a political figure, that means I am to be criticized, the words of people speak for democracy and I signed up for that.” He said, “If it means blood to blood, then they are right.”

Y/N looked away, thinking. To be fair, she was also afraid of this man as her first impression. The only thing that made him less frightening probably was her extraordinary feelings for him, so she never really saw him as that kind of person… whether he killed someone or not. Either way, he did it for justice, but what kind of political matter ended up killing his father whilst being in his position?

“My mother thought I’d end up in the same case; buried deep with lies, but with no one to kill those offenders like I did. But why would I listen to the woman who never believed in anyone?” He chuckled a little, “I do love my mother, but it’s… difficult sometimes, only if you witnessed it growing up. Mind you what, I did not even live with her before. My father was the only person who showed me decency in my family. Not my siblings, not my mother, only he. And when he passed, it felt like I had lost a home.”

Y/N still did not respond. She just stood there, listening to his words, letting him speak his heart out.

“Ah, pardon me, I do not like being vulnerable.” He said, getting his body weight off the table. “Forget I said anything, I do not–”

And then he was interrupted,

By an embrace that someone else initiated aside from him, after all the years.

Y/N held him tight, sending him into a spiral of shock due to the sudden embrace. Suddenly, he just felt himself returning the embrace. “I’m sorry you have to go through those, Caleb, I really am.” Y/N spoke in a calm, comforting voice. “I cannot put myself into your shoes because only you would know how heavy the weight is, so I am grateful. I am grateful that you shared the weight with me.”

Caleb did not say anything in return, he just— stayed there, with her in between his arms.

And that conversation of theirs lasted for so long, making them talk about many things deep into each other’s souls. Some stories made them laugh, some stories made them feel heavy, just stories that touch their souls on many different levels.

It felt like a dream, something Y/N never thought about happening ever. It looks like she just ended up befriending the man she thought she cannot even speak to.

Like what do you mean this man used to ignore her questions and greetings three years ago, and now he is in her private little tower, speaking about his life like he trusted her his entire life? That is such a twist in her story.

And for some reason, it felt like their souls just met midway whilst getting deeper into conversation.

“Why were you hiding from your men earlier, by the way?” She asked, standing next to him at the balcony.

“It isn’t work related, if I am going to be honest. They’re just asking for a drinking session by the tavern, which I repeatedly declined.” His response made Y/N cringe.

“You? You declined a drinking session? I don’t think you would.”

“Oh I would, if I don’t like the people I’d drink with.” He said, making Y/N roll her eyes. “Last time I had a drink with them, they just had me assisting them back to the military camp. Those men can hold a gun despite being drunk, but not their consciousness. I do keep my consciousness despite being drunk, by the way.”

“Oh, like that makes it sound better to my ears.”

Their conversation went longer for hours, hours to the point that she even forgot something.

“You said it felt like you lost your home when your father passed.” She spoke and he hummed in response. “Just so you know, this tower is sacred to my grandmother. Hence, I am planning to bring only the special people here. What I’m saying is… you are the first and only person to be here, in the home of my soul, aside from me and my grandmother.”

Caleb looked her in the eye, hinting… joy? She just smiled when she felt the energy.

She then grabbed something from her bag, handing it to him. A key to the tower. “Since I am thinking we are… friends now, I would like to give you an access here in my little hobby tower. Consider it your home as well, visit this place whenever you feel the need for happiness, whenever you want to think, and whenever you just want to be you.”

And she was sent home by Caleb that evening, bowing to her by the front door. “My apologies again from dragging you along with me, I hope you had a wonderful afternoon with me.”

Y/N smiled and nodded, “I did, thank you. I hope you also did.”

Caleb, who seemed to be looking for something around her place, smiled in return. “I did.”

“Thank you for your service then, colonel.”

He smiled and nodded, “At your service.”

Just when Y/N was about to open the huge front doors, her mother did with a worried face. “My darling, Y/N! Where have you been?” She worriedly asked, approaching her daughter and placing her hands on her arms gently. “Sylvestre Dieu has been waiting for you for hours in the living room, he ought to pick you up in the afternoon!” She worriedly sighed, “My, my, you know how important the Dieu are, Y/N.”

Y/N then showed a shocked face, “I— mother, I forgot, pardon me! Is Dieu still inside? I will speak to him instead, worry not.”

“Good evening, Mrs. Morzse.” Caleb bowed to her mother, taking his hat off. Suddenly, Y/N felt her chest getting heavy upon realizing the mistake she subconsciously made. She just ditched her suitor to be with another man accidentally, or… someone’s intentionally.

“Colonel! It is nice to see you, good evening to you too.” Mrs. Morzse said in shock upon seeing the young man, “But why… Why are you with my daughter?”

“Mother, it is alright. I would speak to Dieu myself–”

“I am with your daughter the entire afternoon, ma’am. Pardon me for unintentionally making your daughter miss an important matter… I assume?” He said with a rather… unpleasant tone.

Mrs. Morzse approached him slowly, “That did not answer my question, respectfully, colonel.” She said in a low, calm tone, “Why are you with my daughter? You made it clear that you aren’t intending to woo her, so I would like to know, respectfully.”

“Mother, do not intimidate the colonel.”

Just when Caleb was about to answer, another person appeared from inside. “Y/N, is that you, my lady?” Dieu’s voice asked, approaching her with a calm demeanor. “Thank heavens you are alright. Where have you been?”

Slowly, he noticed the existence of that man nearby, who slightly smiled at him with a pair of rather intimidating eyes. He didn’t speak first, because why would he? He is literally the colonel. He would only speak first if it’s someone he would utterly show respect for.

“Colonel.” Dieu said with a nod, but the colonel did not respond, making him feel awkward.

“Dieu, I really am sorry. I did not intend to forget about tonight.” Y/N apologized. “I was with the colonel, we passed by after a long time and eventually took the opportunity to catch up. I got caught up.”

Dieu just smiled and chuckled a little, that made Y/N’s mother nervous deep to her core. “Y/N, my lady, you do not have to apologize for an event I set up myself. Being with me isn’t your responsibility, what’s good is you are alright.”

“But I said yes for tonight, so that is my responsibility.”

“My lady, with all of me, please do not apologize.” Dieu repeated, assuring her.

“I really am sorry, Dieu. My daughter did not mean to miss an appointment with you.” Mrs. Morzse apologized.

“Oh, madame, you too. Please, there is no need to apologize. Me and my lady, Y/N, are great friends so it is not a big deal.” He then looked at Y/N once again. “Have you had dinner, my lady?”

That question caught someone’s attention.

“Oh, I haven’t.” She responded, making Dieu’s smile fade.

He then looked away, “Ah, I thought better.” He said, “Thought if you are taking a lady out, you are to take care of her.” He sarcastically said, shocking the two women but the colonel.

Of course, that’s an insult towards him, and he knows that too well.

“And if you were to look after a lady, you wouldn’t let her walk home. Alas, someone else would.” Caleb responded, making everyone’s eyes wide in shock.

“Colonel!” Mrs. Morzse said, almost whispering.

That made Dieu angry, he is not gonna lie. But the thing is… indeed, that is his mistake. Fortunately, he is a man of class, he wouldn’t get out of his composure.

Dieu knows that Y/N is in love with this man… or at least 2-3 years ago? He’s not so sure, he hasn’t heard her speak about him ever since he left, and she never spoke about him at all whenever they are together.

But he knows that it is unrequited, so why is this man acting up in front of him? In front of Mrs. Morzse? In front of Y/N? In front of everyone? Unless there is something he is not aware of.

Everyone knows him as the man who doesn’t want his reputation to be painted the way it is, the man who’s secretive about his things, the man who takes care of his image and privacy— why would he let her name be written next to his? He never wanted that.

“Something you only did because someone else started doing it.” Dieu responded, and the colonel smirked, looking down at him. Dieu’s going to admit, the colonel’s quite intimidating. He is taller, he looks like he could carry tons of weight in a pinch, and who knows what’s inside that insane mind of his?

“Oh I’ve done that even before you came into the image. Guess you should’ve been faster.” Caleb responded, obviously turning the conversation into an argument already.

“I was in France.”

“And whose problem is that?” Caleb responded with a provoking tone, enough to make a normal person crash out in anger. However, Dieu seemed to be calm as ever.

“Do you have a problem with me, colonel?” Dieu asked in a low tone.

“Do you?” Caleb asked in return.

Dieu just closed his eyes and calmly sighed before turning to look at the Morzses. “Madame, I will be heading home now.” He said and bowed to Y/N’s mother. He then looked at Y/N with a smile. “Let’s see each other next time, my lady. Please take care.”

He then turned around and walked past the colonel without saying anything to him, and went on a carriage to go home.

Well, that argument made everything awkward. “Well… that wasn’t pleasant, colonel.” Mrs. Morzse told him, “The Dieu family is important to us, speaking to their son like that is inappropriate. He is a noble man, he is respected.”

“Respectfully, Mrs. Morzse. Whether he is a noble or not, he is in my land.” Caleb responded and Y/N gasped a little. “If I don’t like the way he speaks to me, then I don’t.”

“Cale— Colonel.” Y/N called before looking at her mother. “Mother, may I please have a moment with him?”

Mrs. Morzse gave her daughter a look. “We will speak after.” He then looked at the colonel next, who took off his hat to bow on her. “Colonel.”

“Mrs. Morzse.”

With that, Mrs. Morzse headed back inside, leaving the two of them alone. “Why would you speak to Dieu like that?” Y/N spoke right away.

“Did he not show his competence first?” He responded.

“You sounded like you were on for an argument, I don’t understand. You shouldn’t argue with people like him. Like my mother said, he is important.” Y/N added, “And even though he isn’t, I didn’t like your tone as well.”

“Are you going to make an excuse for his, then?”

“What?” Y/N asked in disbelief.

Caleb paused, “He was clearly trying to insult me.” He said in his usual stern voice. “He is important to you, not to me.”

Y/N took a long pause before exhaling. “I’m sorry, Caleb, really. It is my fault why you got caught in such.” Yeah, it is your fault, really. “I don’t understand what that argument is all about, but I…” She sighed, “I’m sorry.”

Caleb stared at her, not breaking eye contact for a long time before speaking. “You need not to apologize, I was the one who took you.”

“But it was me who forgot about my matters.”

“Whether you have matters or not, I have no right to take you anywhere with me. So,” He bowed a little, his hat on his chest. “Forgive me, both for my mistake and how I dealt with it.”

Y/N immediately bowed in return, “I’m sorry, please do not apologize as well.”

After that, they just stood in front of each other, not knowing what to say. The colonel however is giving her a stern look, enough to make her feel intimidated for no reason at all. She knows that this man’s natural features are intended to make anyone feel that way, why isn’t she used to it still?

“So,” She spoke, clearing her throat. “I will be heading inside now, need I speak to my mother. I had fun today. Please take care on your way home, or to the military camp.”

Caleb hummed and nodded, looking at her for about two seconds before turning his back. Y/N watched his retreating figure, pausing before walking inside. She sighed heavily, closing the door behind her before walking towards her mother who’s taking tea by the fireplace.

“Mother,” She spoke, earning a look from her mother.

“Take a seat, my dear. I have something to speak with you about, with all honesty, I do hope.” She calmly said, making her daughter sit down. Y/N is a little nervous, thinking her mother must be angry towards her due to the incident. Mrs. Morzse leaned a little from her seat, chin almost on her chest but eyes are still stuck on her daughter to give her an intimidating yet curious eyes. “The colonel,” She said, “Are you two betrothed?"

Y/N jumped a little with that straightforwardness of her mother. “W-What? No, we’re not. Why would you assume such a thing?” She reacted. “That is impossible, not now nor ever.”

Her mother gave her a confused look, “Because I see it, I see the way he looked at you, his approach towards the situation— the colonel was known for being distant towards romance but why when it comes to you, he is being troubled?”

“What? No, he isn’t. That’s absurd.” Y/N said in disbelief. Celene also talked about that yesterday, and now her mother. Is there something she isn’t seeing? “Maybe what you’re sensing is friendship, that we’ve finally bonded. I’ve noticed that we’ve reconciled and he somehow— became different, more approachable if I must say, yet still difficult to read.”

Her mother shook her head, placing the teacup down. “Y/N, darling, you need not to hide anything. If you are being pressured into marrying Dieu whilst having a lover, we can end the arrangement. You need not to force yourself into such, you need not to hide your relationship.”

“Mother I—“ She paused, thinking about the connection they have with their family. Can she lie her way out? Is this the opportunity? If so, she must think fast, think about how to make this lie work for a long period of time. Suddenly, she thought about the outcome of this if it didn’t work on the colonel’s side.

If she would tell her mother that they have something and it was addressed to him, he would most definitely deny that. And if that happened after the engagement was called off, that would be a huge damage to their family’s reputation. One, for disrespecting the Dieu family by showing deceivement. Second, by showing that their eldest daughter is a terrible liar who involves other people.

She sighed heavily, indecisive. She fiddled with her fingers before parting her lips, “T-The colonel–” She paused, still thinking of what she would say. “The colonel is not in love with me. If he ever is, then I would love to call off the engagement right away.”

Mrs. Morzse’s eyebrows raised, “Are you being decent to me?”

Y/N nodded fast with a gentle hum. “But,” She paused, wanting to add more. “If that would ever change within a year, would I still be able to call off the engagement?”

Her mother nodded with a reassuring hum. “Of course, isn’t that what we talked about?” She responded. “I do appreciate your honesty, dear. I really do. I do hope that nothing within this is pressuring you at any sort.”

Y/N smiled with a nod. “Of course, mother.”

The colonel on the other side sat inside the tavern, a huge glass filled with the strongest aroma of alcohol, covering almost half of the alcoholic atmosphere. He slouched on his chair, his soldiers around the table talking to one another. His face is with an unexplainable expression, but it looked as if he is drowning from something.

“So, colonel, you had a great time with lady Morzse.” One of them spoke, making him dart his eyes towards them. “What happened?”

Others added, “Yeah, tell us! Are you two going out now?”

He took a sip from his glass and placed it down again. Suddenly, the afternoon flashed into his mind and all he saw was— genuineness. Was that there from the very beginning? Was she like that even before? They spoke for hours that he almost forgot the fact that he shouldn’t bother. But it bothers him, was her presence that warm already before?

“Whatever happened stays between the two of us.” He said, keeping everything to himself. Clearly, he is the type of man to keep his personal matters private— but who would’ve thought that she’d be inside those personal matters? Even he did not expect that.

His soldiers immediately frowned, “No fun.” They commented. “But you know, I heard she is to be betrothed to one of the nobles, Sylvestre Dieu next year. I don’t see the good idea with sticking around her.”

“Is that even real?” One of them asked,

“It’s not confirmed, they’ve never released any official statement aside from the two of them, telling their peers. Eventually, everyone sees it that way.” Another soldier responded.

“But to think of it, their families have been charity and business partners for so many years so it’s believable.”

“And they’re always together in the news.”

“Well, I heard they’re good friends.”

“Of course, you have to get to know your future partner as well, you know?”

Caleb just sat there, staring at nowhere with a blank face as he listened to his soldiers talk about the woman he just spent time with earlier in the afternoon. For some reason, he is also torn whether to believe that thing or not, that she is to be arranged in a marriage.

“But what if she’s just being forced? What if she doesn’t like the man?”

“What do you mean by that? Dieu is a perfect man! She wouldn’t stick with that man if he isn’t an ideal husband.” Caleb heard one of them respond, immediately making his facial expression shift into something that shows annoyance.

That man? An ideal husband? Hell to his life.

He can list thousands of reasons why she shouldn’t marry that man. He’s always known that he has quite an attitude, something he expected from a noble man who only wanted silver and gold on his plate. He never liked the idea of that person, in any aspect.

“No, but what if that is the case? What if she has to lie her way out of the arrangement?” The other soldier defended. “What if she needed an escape? What if she needed to pretend that she has a lover?”

That caught Caleb’s attention but he showed no interest. However, he can’t help but remember what she told him years ago.

“If I turn twenty-two and I was sent into an arranged marriage, may I ask you for a favour?” She asked, catching his attention off guard. “Favour?” She nodded with a smile. “Barge into my house and tell my parents that we’re lovers.” He made a face upon hearing that. “In that case, they would cancel the wedding and it’ll buy me some time to process everything, or maybe find myself falling for someone again. Or maybe I’d get more time to win over your heart again haha!”

And for some reason, he felt sick to his stomach, thinking about what he said in response.

“You think I’d let my image be painted as your lover?” He said, immediately making her roll her eyes. “I wouldn’t, maybe ask someone else.”

What if she really needed help? What if she really doesn’t want to be married to that man and she’s asking for his help? What if she’s just going after him because she’d feel safe? What if she asked for his help because she feels safe with him? Ah, he sounded so stern and— stupid. Very selfish of him to speak to her that way.

But to be fair, that is a very… normal thing to say to a strange woman he doesn’t even have any relationship with— at least in his nature. But now that he thought of it these days, it felt as if he acted so… incorrectly. What do you mean he said that to a very welcoming, gentle, and genuine woman?

“What about you, colonel?” The soldiers called him out.

“What about me?”

“If Lady Morzse is to ask you to pretend to be her lover to save her from her marriage, would you do it?” They asked, immediately earning sounds from the others. They all know that the lady had years of sweet side towards him, of course his answer would be very important for them to hear.

“But the case is difficult, if they found out that she’s lying, you’d be in massive trouble.”

“Indeed, we are nothing against a noble man like Sylvestre Dieu.”

“Tch.” Caleb reacted, shaking his head. “Me? Nothing against that man? In which angle did you put your perspective into?” He said with his usual tone, “That man is nothing against me. If we’re talking about money, I’d take Lady Morzse into the most prestigious life more than he could.”

That earned whistles and howling from the soldiers, making him smirk in satisfaction. “Ah, I almost forgot that you are also wealthy, even wealthier than Sylvestre Dieu. But why waste your life with the dedication of being a colonel?”

Caleb then finished his drink before standing up, “If you view money that way, then maybe that’s the reason why you think Sylvestre Dieu is something.” He grabbed his cap and started walking. “I’ll be off.”

That left the soldiers into a rather… unsettling silence. “Do you think he has a problem with Sylvestre Dieu? I never thought he’d have a strange reaction towards a name.” One of them asked them and they shrugged.

“Do you think perhaps it has something to do with Lady Morzse? You know, she probably spoke about it earlier.”

“Well, if that’s the case, then I would like to spend the rest of my life wondering why.”

Days went by so fast that Celene’s wedding arrived. Y/N has made it clear to her that she wasn’t sure whether she was able to convince Caleb or not to come, because even though she was able to make him talk his heart out, he didn’t show any interest towards reconnecting with his family.

“Ah, you’re here! Thought you’d ditch me last minute.” Celene called out to her when she saw her by the entrance of the bridesmaid’s quarters. She then held her hand and faced the other bridesmaids, “Everyone, Lady Morzse!” She announced, earning the eyes and cheers of the women.

“Ah! I would die to wear such a luxurious— glamorous gown!” One of them said, caressing her corset.

“And your hair is as soft as it looks!”

“I can’t believe your brother wouldn’t reciprocate Lady Morzse’s feelings, Celene.” One of the women said, immediately choking her a little.

“What?” Y/N whispered to Celene, who gave her an awkward face before rolling her eyes.

“What? Come on now, you act like everyone doesn’t know about your infatuation with my brother.” Celene defended and took her away from the women. “Now, now, let’s have a talk.” They sat by one of the sofas inside. “So, have you seen Caleb? Before you entered?” She asked in a low and soft tone, odd from Celene.

Y/N sadly shook her head with a sigh, “Would you like me to visit the camp? There’s still an hour left and he might make it.”

Celene just shook her head and exhaled heavily. “No, it is not necessary but I do appreciate your thoughtfulness.” She said and looked away. “I did not expect anything from him anyways, that’s how he is.” Celene said in a low tone, hinting sadness. “Who am I to have hope despite knowing the obvious?”

Y/N doesn’t know what to say, she doesn’t know how to comfort a family-related matter for some reason. She’s afraid that she might say something that could invalidate her feelings, or to make Celene feel bad. “I’m sorry, Celene, I really am.” She spoke, caressing her shoulder.

“Did you know the reason why I made you ask him?” Celene asked with a smirk,

“What is it?”

“I made him your escort for today.” Celene said, referring to the wedding tradition of theirs, that a maiden gets to be paired to a man for the entire event.

“What?! Then that made him not want to come more!” Y/N said and that made Celene laugh, “No, really. He wouldn’t be convinced with such, you played it wrong.”

For an intelligent woman, Celene is wrong. Why would she think that he’d be convinced to come to her wedding if it’s because of Y/N?

Celene tapped her shoulders loud as she laughed hysterically, “Likewise, I had hope.” She said before calming down. “For some reason, I had a massive hope he’s had something with you. Hence, seeing you hand the invitation yourself would cause an interaction, making him rethink. Like I said, it would’ve been a win-win situation for us.”

Y/N just displayed a rather… annoyed face. “I think you should’ve rethought all of those.”

Celene paused for a moment. “I am sorry, Y/N.” She almost whispered. “I didn’t mean to make you spend the event all by yourself.”

Y/N smiled, “It wasn’t your intention at all.”

And the remaining hour passed with everyone being present but the youngest brother of hers, everyone’s all seated so formally inside the cathedral, all wearing fancy clothes as expected from their family. The orchestra from the ceiling makes the music as they await for the bride’s entrance.

When the bridesmaids finished walking, they found themselves sitting in pairs. However, she has no one, not that she minds but it’s kind of saddening how she has no one to speak to nearby but an empty seat next to her. Y/N sat there by the end of the seat, all by herself near the red carpet where Celene would walk. For some reason, she feels even more nervous as if she is the one to walk to the aisle.

Ah, the adrenaline of being a bride, something she yearns for but also afraid of. In less than a year, she’d be in the same situation, something she’s already expected but she’s still very nervous about it. She’s still not over the stage of acceptance, she still can’t picture herself in that life. The same music would play on that day, she’d wear a grand wedding gown, and she’d walk down the aisle with people’s eyes on her.

Thinking of that made her chest feel heavier, she shouldn’t be thinking that way during Celene’s wedding. She should enjoy her moment, feel the warmth of the very eventful day.

Like how every wedding goes, the vows came, the tears of joy, and the rings. How can such a thing be so special to her? How can such a thing be so sacred?

She can’t help but fidget her gloved thumbs, subconsciously showing anxiety. She tried her best, really, but what can she do if there’s really nothing left to do but… be that way?

Suddenly, a hand held her fidgeting pair, holding it tightly. She slightly jumped in shock, making her turn towards the person right away. Her eyes widened, “Cale– Colonel!”

Caleb who’s all dressed for the event looked at her with a pair of knotted eyebrows. “Shh!” He shushed her, making her close her lips right away. However, he still did not take his grip away, he just stayed that way which somehow calmed her feelings. “Respect for the ceremony, would you have some?”

Ah, this is the hand she’s been asking for marriage for years, the hand she wanted to hold one day while stating her vows, the hand of the man whom she wanted to put a ring on, the only hand she would allow to feel the warmth of her skin.

Such a sweet momentarily thing, but it was immediately ruined by the thought that he wouldn’t do this years ago. That this isn’t him at all. However, aren’t they like… more than acquaintances last time?

“You… you just arrived? Where have you been? The ceremony started about an hour ago. The wedding’s going to end soon.”

The colonel gave her an odd look once again, still holding her hands with one hand. “What are you talking about? I’ve been here all this time. Are you well?” He said with a rather sarcastic tone and looked back at his sister. “Get out of your mind whenever you’re at a function that doesn’t require your sight beyond the present time, Morzse. You’ll have your own marriage one day, you need not to overthink that..”

Her eyes widened— how did he know what she’s thinking about?! That is just very strange.

She rolled her eyes, “I am not even thinking about that, why would you think that I am thinking about that?” She defended, “And yes, I’ll have my own marriage one day, you need not to remind me of that.”

Caleb then gained himself a smirk on his face, remembering the comment his soldiers delivered that night at the tavern.

“But what if she’s just being forced? What if she doesn’t like the man?”

“Ah, a rather disappointed tone for a very happy event, why so? You’re having troubles with your only potential husband?” He asked, obviously trying to pull something inside her head. “Seems like the idea of weddings are… affecting you negatively, what a shame. Poor groom to be.”

Y/N rolled her eyes, of course she knows that he’s just being a pain on her back again. Despite having that heartfelt talk last time, he’s still the same exact personality she met years ago.

“You do not need to be ashamed to admit such a thing. I don’t blame you, worry not.” He added, “He is a pain in the a-”

“Dieu is an extremely amazing man, thank you very much. You need not say more than that.” She defended and sat properly, immediately making the smug on his face drop. “I actually think I am really going to marry him. I mean, why wouldn’t I? He is the best man out there. If I were you, I’d be damned up nervous that some other man is trying to take my seat, you know? Catch up, someone’s getting ahead of you.”

Ah, as if her reverse conversation would do something about that man’s feelings about her. But at least it’s the confidence that brought her there, right?

Caleb just gave an annoyed face before letting go of her hands, sitting properly as well. “Why thanks for reminding me, I wouldn’t want to be the type to touch someone else’s woman.”

Of course, that backfired on her. She just furrowed her eyebrows and angrily looked at nowhere. Quietly, she spoke underneath her breath, “I am your woman.”

“What did you say?” Caleb asked, but she sighed heavily, showing her frustration.

“I didn’t say anything, colonel.”

And they did not speak to one another until the very end of the ceremony, she doesn’t understand why. Maybe he was annoyed by how she spoke back to him? Or maybe he just really respected that distance she tried to imply? Who knows? Either way, she’s verily disappointed that she said such a thing, now they have nothing to talk about and he doesn’t even want to face her way.

However, they are paired for the entire day as per Celene’s advice, that means they’d spend the rest of the event together. However once again, it seems like the other party isn’t cooperating at all.

Y/N is walking through the crowd of dancing people inside the ballroom, looking for the specific man she’s tasked to have the traditional dance with. However, it seems like he is nowhere in sight.

“Ugh, where could that man go?” She breathed angrily, pushing past people gently.

Indeed, despite being one of the famous names, she’d still spend the function all by herself if she knew no one. All ladies her age are betrothed, whilst the other ladies are with their pairs of the day. If it isn’t with people around her age, who? Important people that are twice her age who would always question her about her marriage plans? Ah, she isn’t interested in that of course.

Suddenly, the scrunch of her nose went even deeper when an idea popped in her head. “That alcoholic man.” She mumbled before heading towards the drinks. Of course he’d be there, how did she not think of that? That man literally can’t spend a day without alcohol.

And just like she expected, she saw the man standing with other soldiers, a glass of alcohol in his hand as he talked to them. She immediately approached them, earning suspicious looks from the other men. “Lunch box lady is coming your way, colonel.” One of the soldiers whispered, making Caleb turn to look at her, his smile disappearing.

He immediately crossed his arms, facing her. “Yes?” He said, with a tone intended to claw out the rage inside her. The other soldiers then noticed the visible emotions on her face, making them distance themselves immediately.

“Let’s go.” One whispered to another.

“I think the colonel is doomed.” Another said.

Y/N stopped in front of the said man, looking up. “The traditional dance will be presented in five minutes, what are you doing out here drinking at noon?”

Of course, he did not forget about that. “Dance? I told Celene that we aren’t dancing and she said yes. I wouldn’t want to have a public appearance as such.”

“What? But she told me otherwise.” She responded, and Caleb just faced away to take a sip from his glass. Y/N, annoyed, reached for his glass and placed it on the nearby table. “Caleb, the sun is clearly up for a lot of drinks.”

“A lot? You only caught me with one glass, and it’s barely even full.” He defended, “And why does it matter to you?”

“Because we’re paired for the day, goodness!” She whisper-shouted. “You have a lady to be with.”

Caleb just sighed. “We are not arguing right now, Morzse. Everyone here in the event knows you so speak with others around for a while, I’d look for you later.” He then grabbed his glass and walked towards his soldiers once again.

Ugh! What a terribly annoying man! She just angrily looked at him for a while before walking away. He’s right, everyone knows her here yet no one’s free enough to have even the smallest talk.

Instead of looking for someone to talk to, she just decided to head out to spend the remaining minutes for fresh air. Celene is indeed very considerate to set them up together however, it seems like the other party is too stubborn. She can’t blame him, despite already becoming friends or so she thought, he still wouldn’t spend a very fancy event with a woman.

She exhaled loudly, rubbing her arms.

“What are you doing out here?” A familiar voice spoke next to her, making her jump a little. “Oh, I’m sorry for unintentionally surprising you, my lady.”

“Dieu? You’re also invited by Celene?”

“No, she invited my parents but they decided to tag me along.” He said, taking a sip from his wine.

“Why did you not approach me?” She asked, but then she realized, “Oh, are you also paired with someone?”

He shook his head, “No, I wasn’t invited as one of the bachelors. Like I stated, I came here with my parents. I did not approach you because my parents said you are here with the colonel, and I respect that.” He explained. “So, if I may ask again, what are you doing out here by yourself? Where’s the colonel?”

She paused for a moment, “He’s occupied, but I do not blame him. He went to his sister’s wedding to socialize, not to be stuck with his pair. Everyone should be like that.” She said, “However, I do admit I feel a little down. He said he wouldn’t dance with me, but then he said he’d look for me later, so I guess— whatever. It’s fine, you shouldn’t hear an immature rant from a lady. I’m sorry, Dieu.”

“Then I will dance with you.” He said, “I am not paired with anyone and I know we’d do well with the dance, we already danced together before.”

Y/N’s eyes went wide. “Is that even allowed? I mean, I am paired with someone else. Wouldn’t that be taboo?”

“Not if your pair isn’t interested.” He said, “So, if it’s fine with you, I would like to ask for your hand, to dance with me.”

She paused for a while. Surely, that’s fine, isn’t it? It’s just a dance where unmarried people are paired, people really never mind about that. Aside from that, they’re known to have their families as close friends, and no one knows she’s paired to the colonel.

Of course that’s fine, it’s not like it matters. “Of course. Thank you for saving me on that, Dieu.” She responded, earning an assuring nod from him. “Also, I’d like to apologize from last time again. I promise, I really did not intend to miss our appointment.”

Dieu smiled, “It’s alright, like I said.”

“It’s not only about missing the appointment, but also about the colonel. I did not intend any of you to have such an argument, and I think it is partially my fault why it happened.”

“Whether you’re with the colonel or not is not an issue. You are in control of your time, and that is alright. Besides, I think the colonel and I really do have a strange unknown bad blood going on. I think that man loathes me.” Dieu said, explaining his side. “That wasn’t the only time I felt that, he always had that look whenever he saw me.”

“He’s like that naturally, looking like he loathes people.”

“Not at all, my lady. I know I am not insane, that man hates me to the core and that night was just one of the lucky evenings where he could express himself.”

Now that she thinks of it, they had a conversation earlier and somehow, she reminded herself about how Caleb’s interest about Dieu rose up. Indeed, that man hates Dieu for some reason. But why?

“Never even spoken to him before, I think he’s insane.” Dieu added.

Just when she was about to respond, she heard another voice from a distance. “So you’re out here, I’ve been looking for you.” Caleb, with that look in his eyes as described by Dieu.

Dieu then sighed in annoyance, “Pray he’d not say a thing to me, my lady.” He said, “But I doubt he won’t.”

Caleb then walked towards them, eyes on the lady in fancy dress. “The dance is starting momentarily, we must head in.”

“What do you mean? I thought you wouldn’t want to dance with me?” Y/N asked,

“Do I look like I have a choice?”

“Yes…?” Y/N said in a curious tone. “I’ve already decided to have a dance with Dieu.”

Caleb scoffed right away. “Oh?” He said, eyes darting towards the said man. “Did you ask me first before deciding to dance with this man?”

“You can speak to me directly, colonel.” Dieu spoke, immediately initiating a very familiar sense of argument. “I asked the lady, respectfully, as I saw her spending the time with herself alone. Who leaves a woman by herself anyways?”

“You speak like you know how to be a man of events.”

Dieu smirked, “Of course I do, because I know. Besides, me and my lady have been paired in one before, surely it’ll save your image from… being seen with someone. You know, you do care about your privacy so being with a woman in public is a very sensitive thing for you.”

Ah, Caleb knew it right away. This man is trying to provoke him into something and he knows how to respond to that.

“Is that so? I guess you’re being mindful now that your wife-to-be is being seen with someone with… higher image.” Caleb said with an intention to hurt his ego down. “With someone everyone knows as the man she’s been pining with for years. Wouldn’t that hurt as much as I thought? Your wife-to-be, with a man she loves?”

“Colonel!” Y/N said, trying to wind down the tension between the two of them.

Dieu smirked and shook his head. “Not at all. I feel bad for you, actually. You’re only known as a story that never started, and rumours already have me as her husband.” He responded, immediately making Caleb’s smile fall down. “And the man she loves? I never heard her say your name. So, which one of us really is the one worthy of pity, huh?”

Caleb looked at him dead in the eye before grabbing Y/N’s hand gently, walking back inside right away, leaving the man behind. “Colonel! What are you doing?”

Obviously, he lost the argument and he is looking for his way out. “Call me colonel one more time, I’d slit that man’s throat in front of you.”

“What?!” Y/N’s eyes widened, not sure about what she just heard. Did she interpret that correctly? That the colonel is showing frustration out of… jealousy? Or maybe it’s just inside her head.

Dieu stood there, watching the two of them walk away from him, his face mixed with satisfaction and… annoyance. That colonel really is getting on his nerves, he doesn’t know what his problem is. “Monsieur Dieu.” A man then approached Dieu, bowing a little but he did not greet in return. The man then looked at where he’s looking— the colonel with the woman he’s known to marry. “Isn’t that lady Morzse? What is he doing with the colonel? I thought she’s betrothed to you?”

It is Hugo, Dieu’s butler, respectfully standing next to him. Dieu then shook his head, “She is not betrothed to me, Hugo. At least not yet, and I do respect her decisions. She can be with anyone she wants, and that is alright.” Dieu respectfully responded. “What pours fuel to the flame inside me is that specific man, the colonel. I think that man loathes me.”

Hugo scrunched his nose as a reaction to that statement. “Well maybe there’s a flaming animosity. Perhaps, he as well is infatuated with lady Morzse?”

That response led Dieu into a short pause. “You’re right— you could be correct, Hugo. But why isn’t he doing anything about it? He can easily take my lady Morzse anytime but he isn’t doing a thing.”

“I think it’s because of what I heard, about the colonel keeping up a reputation of having the most protected personal life.” Hugo responded and Dieu scoffed.

“If being with a woman he loves isn’t worth his reputation, then he is ridiculous. He is stupid.” Dieu said and headed inside with Hugo. “I’d let him be with lady Morzse if he isn’t that way.”

Y/N and Caleb then positioned themselves on the dance floor, his eyes glaring straight on her wide ones without saying anything. She can’t read it, or maybe she’s just in a state of shock.

And then the music began, their bodies began moving along the rhythm as everyone’s eyes were on them. Physically, she can feel his strong presence, she can feel that he is in control of their movements, that he is the one leading everything and she’s just there, staring wide-eyed at his glaring pair.

His eyes didn’t leave hers, it was visible from the crowd, their tension. However, no one said a thing, not even a whisper. It’s as if everyone understands what’s going on. “Caleb, are you alright?” Y/N gathered up all her courage to speak, breaking the awkward silence filled with stares.

“What do you think?” He responded, spinning her around.

“Are you angry? At Dieu?” She asked another question making him scoff.

“That’s what you think?” He responded with a sarcastic tone and Y/N hummed. That made his eyes leave their staring contest, looking around the place to find that certain man who made his blood boil. However, he couldn't find him so he looked at her eyes again. “You must talk your husband to be into minding his words, Morzse.”

Y/N’s eyebrows raised in confusion, “I don’t understand, why are you so raged? You and Dieu had an argument over nothing.”

“Nothing? That man is trying to provoke me.” Caleb angrily responded.

“Into what?”

“Into blowing his brain out with every bullet I have.” He said, “That man’s been getting on my nerves. He doesn’t know the things I can do–”

“Violence, Caleb, I do not like that. Stop speaking like you are going to harm someone in front of me.” She tried to wind down the anger that’s building inside him. “I don’t care about what you can do, or what you want to do. I don’t want to hear it.”

He scoffed, “Fine, I’d shoot him when you’re not looking.”

“That’s not what I meant!” She angrily responded, “I don’t understand why you’re so mad, you usually know how to talk back.”

Suddenly, his eyes met with the pair of that man, Dieu along with his fancy people around him, watching them dance specifically. Without thinking, Caleb placed his right hand behind her head and pulled in— his lips meeting hers with his eyes closed.

Everyone saw that, everyone’s in a state of shock. Some eyes are wide, some of the jaws are dropped on the ground, some are too stunned to speak to the person next to them. Even the other dancers almost tripped upon seeing that.

“Is this real, what I’m seeing?”

“Goodness, something’s finally happening with the colonel!”

“This is huge news!”

Dieu’s eyebrows angrily knotted themselves— how could he do that in front of everyone just to provoke him? Just to mock him? How can he kiss a woman without even a hint of intimacy? How could he do that to lady Morzse?

Celene and her husband stood up from their seats in shock when they saw that, “I knew it… I knew it!” Celene exclaimed and looked at her husband with the widest grin. “There’ll be another wedding held soon, I am sure!”

“The colonel! The colonel kissed lady Morzse!”

“So it’s true then, they’re lovers all along!”

“I knew it!”

Y/N’s eyes are wide, but then he pulled away before staring at her eyes. “W-What are you doing?! Why did you do that?!” Y/N whispered but the colonel just smiled a little. “This’ll create huge news! People would talk about us!”

“Isn’t that how it should be?”

This is a fanfiction based on Love and Deepspace’s Caleb, all made with my imagination. Please do not copy, translate, or repost to another platform without my permission!! —⋆｡°✩ Thank you so much!!

Taglist: @maliciousdreamlair @seraphineash @kyo-sstuff @mooniemochii @lannadray @yreslivs

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