bianca

the first few nights were normal. nothing out of the ordinary. the lantern was always exactly how you had left it on the nightstand.

but one particular night, you were having trouble sleeping. stress seeped into your bones from the rumors people had begun whispering regarding your shop, coming up with theories about how you’re in on all of this and intentionally selling haunted or cursed items to others.

you cracked an eye open, trying to read the clock at your bedside.

instead of seeing your clock, you are met with the sight of a tall man standing in your bedroom.

the lantern was nowhere to be seen, and as much as you wanted to doubt those customers, you realized their words might’ve held a grain of truth to them.

the man seems to sense your shock and slight fear, turning his head to look at your tense figure.

he was handsome. that was undeniable. his hair was long and silky with a color that reminded you of the blue flame in the lantern. his eyes were a deep gold, lacking pupils. his facial features were elegant, the type you’d expect from an aristocrat. he was dressed in dark attire that only made his features stand out more in your eyes.

“are you alright? you seem to be… quite startled by my appearance. apologies, it was never my intention to alarm you.” a small smile appears on his lips, but he is polite enough to take a few steps back to keep a comfortable distance between the two of you.

“you… so the rumors were true. turns out the lantern I’ve been trying to sell can actually transform into a man..” your voice was barely above a whisper, too distracted by his beauty and sudden appearance to speak at a more audible volume.

“haha, is that so? rumors? how intriguing that i am the subject of such idle talk.” your words earn a small chuckle from him, a sound that calms you for some reason you can’t explain.

“mm. i suppose there is no need for me to say anything else about the matter. you have the confirmation standing right in front of you, no?” his gaze flicks back down to you, and you felt a bit embarrassed being seen in your pajamas and messy hair. “i bear no ill intent.” he reassures, an attempt to further soothe your concerns.

“how about this? if it’s of any consolation to you, ill indulge you with any question you may have regarding me.”

(he also dims his flame at night when you’re sleeping, in case the brightness disturbs ur sleep)