I define myself

Read on A03

Read it on A03

Walter Strickler's love, life, and future.

“You can sit on my lap if you'd like.” Viren said.

Sade hesitated, her hand gripped the fabric of her New Katolis designer dress, a gift from Viren and Lizza for her nineteenth birthday. It was the same shade of blue as the sky above them, a soft hue that perfectly matched her eyes.

She returned her gaze to Viren and noticed that he patted his lap, waiting for her to take a seat.

"Are you sure? I don't want to hurt your legs. I'm heavy."

Viren nodded reassuringly. "Nonsense," he said gently, "Have a seat, Darling."

Sade smiled at the endearment and cautiously perched herself on his lap, letting her legs dangle off the side. She felt the warmth of his body beneath hers and all her worries melted away.

She rested her head on his shoulder and felt his lips brush against her neck as he whispered in her ear, "That dress looks stunning on you."

"Thank you," Sade murmured, feeling herself blush, "It's my favorite color."

She felt her heart racing, her body wanting what it shouldn’t. She looked into his eyes, her thoughts a mess of “I should” and “I want”. She knew what would happen if she gave in to her desires; she’d lose her friendships, her family, and the respect of everyone she loved. But what if this was the only chance she had? What if this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? She stayed still, caught in the moment, knowing she had to make a decision that could change her life forever.

"What do you think of me? I'm not just some dumpy, prudish girl from the dessert?"

“Darling, I see you as a beautiful, intelligent, captivating young woman who will make a fantastic, caring and brave nurse someday.”

Sade opened her eyes to look at him with a loving and timid grin. His grace and charm were undeniable, and she felt like the luckiest woman alive.

“I am honored to give you such a personal birthday gift.”

The kiss happened so quickly, there was no time for her to question it. His lips met hers, and the wetness of it made her shiver. The strong smell of spices made her head reel and sent a wash of heat over her body. Sade felt like her entire body was covered in a warm blanket of fragrant earth and silk. She felt safe, she felt protected, she felt home.

That kiss was the first debt.

Sade stepped into the bathroom, her white robe barely brushing the sides of the door jam as she entered. Viren stared at her, his expression a mix of lust and confusion. He was wearing nothing but a small brown towel, hung low on his hips. Sade's eyes slanted down to his lower half, before snapping back up to his face. She let out a smirk before she stepped closer and placed her hands on his arm and chest, her nails digging into his skin slightly. Inside she was boiling with rage and disgust, but she knew she had to get on Viren's good side if she was going to complete her mission. She batted her lashes and imprisoned the hate deep inside her.