#britkee

Walking through the sturdy door of the clinic, I shook out my umbrella and shook out my hair of loose water droplets. My red curls became more unmanageable from the humidity as they hung loose around my face. I quickly made my way towards one of the stations to set my scarf still cradling the bat down on so I could hang up my coat. Pulling my hair back roughly into a ponytail, I stalked back towards the small mammal to assess the damage.

“Oh, you poor thing,” I clicked my tongue, seeing how malnourished it was along with an injury to one of its wings. Taking extra care not to do further harm, I put on a smile and got straight to work. “Don’t you worry. I’ll take good care of you.”

I proceeded with the usual initial tests until I heard the door chime open. I looked up from the task at hand to see a familiar mop of coral hair and bright blue eyes pop around the corner.

“Good morning, Yona!” he greeted me as he hung his wet coat. “Early as ever, I see. I’d swear you lived here had I not seen you leave yesterday after your shift. Whatcha got there?”

“Good morning, Yoon!” I returned his greeting as he walked towards me to inspect my station. His eyes widened at the sight of the tiny creature swaddled in warm cloths as I got him to nibble on a few pieces of dried fruit.

“Yona! Where did you find a bat?!”

I couldn’t help but giggle at his shocked expression. “I found him in a puddle on my way here. I was just as surprised to see him as you are now, but I couldn’t leave him out there.”

My finger gently stroked the side of his furry face as Yoon took a closer look at it’s injured wing. It was probably my mind playing tricks on me- or maybe just me being hopeful- but I could’ve sworn I saw the bat close his eyes and lean into my touch. Although, the thought was quickly disrupted as Yoon got into his “mothering” mode.

“Well, we will take good care of him and he will be out of here, flying again in no time! Won’t you little guy?”

I nodded to my coworker with a smile as he scooped up the bundle and took the bat to the back. Yoon always had a special healing touch when it came to the animals. I had no doubt that little guy was in good hands and would be fixed up comfortably soon enough. That was until a few minutes later I heard Yoon yelling from the back.

I hurried towards the muffled shouts and opened the door to the lab to see Yoon tending to a few bleeding scratches and bites along his hands.

“Yoon! What happened?!” I asked as I rushed to his side to aid him, worried about the sudden wounds on his hands.

Pulling out the antibiotics and swiping the bandages from his hands, Yoon glowered towards the bat.

“That little monster started attacking me after I set him down! I tried feeding him a bit more of that dried fruit and he bit me! So, I didn’t force it on him but the wound started bleeding. I go to cleanse the area so it wouldn’t get infected, thankfully I’ve kept my shots updated but I’ll still get some tests taken just in case he’s carrying anything, but I come back to take a look at his wing and he starts biting and scratching at me! Little cretin hung on tight and I thought I was gonna lose a finger to him!” he explained.

I looked over to the swaddle to see the fuzzy creature nestled in as if it was sleeping then continued to wrap up the task at hand- pun intended.

“There. Finished,” I told him then started packing away the first aid kit. “Keep an eye on those but definitely run some tests to be safe.”

“Thanks, Yona.”

I offered a warm smile and turned towards our little friend. “Now, what are we going to do with you? You were doing so well earlier…”

I approached him cautiously and found his dark, beady eyes blink back at me seemingly innocently. He didn’t appear to be aggressive or hostile, but Yoon’s hands backed his story.

“Please, be careful, Yona.” Yoon warned as I held out the dropped piece of fruit on the table.

“Come on, you need to eat and we need to take care of that wing of yours,” I cooed. 

The bat started nibbling on the fruit piece and grabbed it gently with his tiny hand on his uninjured wing. While he ate, I got a closer look at the injured wing.

“Okay, Yoon. Tell me what I need to do.”

Time passed by as I followed Yoon’s specific instructions to treat the poor bat’s wing, and to both of our surprise without any fight from the tiny creature. Once we reached the end, I sighed in content at a job well done and packed the supplies away.

“I can’t believe he didn’t try to bite you or anything. I couldn’t even get near him after bringing him in here, yet he let you handle him without a problem.” 

I just smiled at the cute fuzzball and gave him a tiny scratch below his chin just as I had done earlier.

“Well, I did save him after all.” I giggled.

Yoon shook his head. “Well, he’s going to need some monitoring and it seems like you’re the only one he will allow near him, but you won’t always be here, you know.”

“Hmm,” I pondered, thinking for a solution. “Well, if there isn’t anything else to be done here, I can always take him home with me.”

And that’s exactly what I did. At the end of my shift, I gathered my things then went to pick up my little friend to take him home with me.

“Ready to go, little guy?” I smiled at him through the carrier. “Don’t worry, I’ll take good care of you!”

With bat in tow and a skip in my step, I hurried home to keep our exposure to the outdoor chill to a minimum. Now more than ever, I was glad to live so close to the recovery center. I wasted no time unlocking the door and rushing inside to be greeted by a rush of warm air fighting off the cold bite on my face and hands. Setting the carrier down, I shrugged off my coat and slipped off my shoes by the door, then picked it back up to head towards the kitchen.

“How about I make us both a little snack? Something to help warm us up.” I mused, talking to the bat.

I placed the carrier on the counter top and opened the little caged door to bring out the swaddled bundle. There was just something about this bat that every time I looked at him, I couldn’t help but smile.

“It’ll be nice to have a little bit of company around here,” I told him.

I pulled out some leftover dinner from the night before out of the fridge and popped it into the microwave, turned on the kettle, and grabbed an apple to slice up. Taking a slice for myself, I continued to cut the apple into smaller pieces to feed the bat, until the knife nicked the tip of my finger. A cry of surprise escaped my lips as a couple blood droplets fell onto the counter and too close to the bat for my liking. I cradled my hand and reached for some paper towels to wrap up my finger to keep from dripping blood everywhere until I can get the first aid kit. Before I could step away from the kitchen, I suddenly felt a heavy weight pressed against me and darkness obscured my vision.

The cut wasn’t that bad, was it? I never felt dizzy...did I really just pass out?

It made no sense to me because it was then I felt myself falling backwards. A squeak passed through my lips at the sensation but a hand cradled the back of my head, halting my fall. My vision returned to me as my mind finally caught up to what I saw.

A tall, intimidating, and attractive man with his body pressed flush against me stared down at me with eyes darker than the night with messy hair to match and blood smeared across pale lips. A quirked grin played on those lips, baring sharp prominent fangs. An audible gasp that I barely registered came from me as my breath was stolen away by the man before me. My heart beating rapidly and my blood pounding in my ears before I saw the exposed wounds on his arm heal in seconds. But nothing could compare to the silky voice that forced me out of my thoughts.

“Thank you, my Dear.”

Hak’s POV

The words slipped from my lips as I stared down at the petite woman in my arms. Curly red hair that framed her delicate features and bright violet eyes stared back in wonder and shock. Her blood called out to me the moment it hit the countertop and I couldn’t help myself, but it was all worth it. The sweet nectar glided across my tongue and I immediately felt invigorated. My strength returned to me and my blood pumped harder through my veins as if given another chance at life. I couldn’t remember the last time I had a taste of blood, but it had been far too long, weakening me to such a state that I relied heavily on this small human to nurture me back. It was simply the stroke of luck that she would cut herself before me. Carefully, I lifted her back up to her feet but her eyes never left mine. I could feel the darkness slipping away, the bloodlust retreating, the more our gazes remained on each other.

I moved back half a step but my hand cradling her head remained on her, sliding down to the back of her arm while her other hand stayed warm between fingers. The blood at her fingertips I had licked away clean, healing the wound completely. My gaze traveled to her lips which formed a soft “o” shape and barely moved as if at a loss for words or maybe unsure of where to start.

Cute.

“Bat got your tongue, Dear?” I chuckled.

Some small sound came from her in response. Maybe she was finally finding her voice again.

“H-How… W-Where….umm..” she cleared her throat but her eyes remained locked onto me. “Who are you?”

A grin stretched my lips further as I lifted her hand with a slight bow at my waist.

“Son Hak, at your service. And I am well pleased to say so.”

I lifted my head to meet her gaze again causing her free hand to cover her mouth in hopes to have muffled the soft gasp I undoubtedly heard. I knew then that the black of my eyes from the bloodlust was completely gone, replaced by a stunning pair of bright blue that always had quite the effect on both women and men alike.

Her eyes seemed to glaze over as if fighting with herself within her own mind. It was as if I could read each and every thought.

How did he get here? Obviously the bat. But that doesn’t make sense! What is he? Don’t be an idiot! You saw his fangs!

She obviously had a brilliant mind but human logic always wanted to fight with the unknown, the supernatural, the mysteries in this world even when shown plainly and delivered on a silver platter. It didn’t match up to their “science”.

I placed a gentle kiss to her hand still in mine, watching her cheeks flush her fair skin. “Does a name come with the one who saved me?” I inquired, raising a brow curiously.

She slowly withdrew her hand from mine before finally finding her voice.

“Yona,” she whispered before clearing her throat. “My-my name is Yona.”

“Yona…” 

Her name’s like honey on my lips, a breath of fresh air, a pleasant buzz through my veins. I ran my tongue over my fangs, the lingering taste of her blood sent another jolt through my body as a sigh breathed heavenly past my lips. 

“A beautiful name for someone just as stunning.”

Her blush turned a deeper red and a hand reached up to a lock of hair to mindlessly fidget with, keeping her eyes averted from meeting mine. I leaned in forward, closing the distance between us, my face merely inches away from hers. Surely, she couldn’t keep her gaze away now.

Her violet eyes hesitantly met mine, realizing the close proximity and squeaked in surprise before shuffling backwards until stopped by the counter behind her. I couldn’t help but chuckle, then stood back up straight.

My eyes wandered on her small frame taking in the subtle curves she tried to hide with the loose clothes practically draped over her body as if threatening to swallow her whole until my gaze fell on a subtle mark peeking from her collar and slightly hidden by her hair. No one would typically notice such a small mark, barely visible to a mere human if they were not looking for it, but I could see it clearly.

I took a step forward, my hand reaching out towards her. I barely registered her body growing stiff and the nervous gulp as she watched me with a hint of fear and uncertainty. My fingers brushed her hair over her shoulder and lightly touched the off colored mark, barely tugging at the collar of her blouse.

“Hey!” she shrieked and scrambled away from me. “What do you think you’re doing?!”

I stared after her, dazed and- for the first time in a long time- at a loss for words. It couldn’t be the same, could it? Maybe my eyes were just playing tricks on me. It’s been centuries, so there’s no way now we’d be reunited after all this time. Her skin was smooth beneath my fingers, not raised like a scar as I would’ve imagined had it been truly the same mark. What are the chances that this woman who managed to save my starved and broken self has merely a birthmark resembling the wound that took my true love from me all those hundreds of years ago? Surely much higher than I imagine, but I still can’t help but wonder.

With a gentle smile, hoping I wouldn’t frighten her further, I brought my hand back to my chest and bowed my head.

“Forgive me. This old mind of mine seems to be playing tricks on me.”

I looked up at her through my disheveled bangs and I could see some of the tension was beginning to leave her body. Her eyes searched mine for any deceit or further foul play, but she would find none.

With a soft clear of her throat and her eyes breaking her gaze with mine, she nervously fidgeted with that same lock of hair again and slowly made her way around the counter.

“I suppose it is getting late. Let me get some bedding for you. I’ll show you where you can stay just for tonight.”

My eyebrows raised in surprise, but I still followed her. 

She would have a complete stranger stay with her? I couldn’t help but wonder, not that I would even be sleeping. But, that’s not something I had planned on telling her; she’s witnessed enough for one night.

For living by herself, she had an impressively sized home. It wasn’t grand by any means, but one would assume she would’ve had a roommate. Did she feel lonely within such a large space by herself? Or did she prefer having the extra room that didn’t seem to have ever been used?

I had found myself wondering more and more about this tiny woman who carried herself with an air of ease and confident independence, even if she was easily flustered.

“Well, here you go! I have some extra blankets set out in case you need them.” she informed me. “The bathroom is just down the hall and my room is just past that in case you need anything.”

As she turned to bid me good night, my eyes found themselves trapped by her violet gaze once more. A gentle flame that casted warmth to all who were graced by its tenderness, yet remained strong and steady in its fiery stature. Such strength and grace emanating from this tiny package that I was captivated and wanted to find out more about her. 

If my skin could warm, I imagined I’d find myself blushing after breaking whatever trance I kept falling into by her. 

“I’m sure I’ll be just fine. Thank you,” I said with a smile. 

She nodded with a small smile of her own but kept her eyes averted from my own as if reflecting my own concerns to avoid an unbreakable gaze. As she passed by me, heading out the door, a wave of easiness and security washed over me with the soft scent of blossoms and honey. My eyes widened at the familiar smell but by the time I turned around, the door clicked shut behind her. 

“Stop it you old fool,” I scolded myself with a sigh then turned back towards the bed she had put together for me. 

I still couldn’t decide if she was too kind or too foolish. 

Yona’s POV

I woke with a start, my heart hammering hard against my chest as if trying to escape.

What was that strange dream?

I tried to recall the details but there was only one face I could remember seeing clearly. Hak. I shook my head and rubbed my hands against my face. Surely, I couldn’t be dreaming about a man I just met?! A complete stranger, no less! That’s ridiculous. I didn’t care how drop-dead gorgeous he was! 

Those stunning sapphire eyes shimmering with elegance and mischief paired with his deep voice would swoon any woman, but the smirk that danced across what looked to be smooth, soft lips told mysteries were hidden behind every gaze. However, it was the after chill I felt from where his touch had lingered as if my skin had been licked by ice after a hot summer’s day. The chill traveled through the rest of my body, leaving me breathless.

My body froze after those lingering thoughts, recalling the previous night’s events.

What is he?? Is he even human? And I let him stay the night?!

I threw the covers off my body and wrapped a robe around me before quietly making my way down the hallway. I came to the spare bedroom and placed my hand gently on the door to open just a crack. Peering inside, no one was there, so I opened the door the rest of the way. The bed had not been disturbed as if no one had slept in it. Surely, I hadn’t imagined all of last night as well? However, the stack of blankets I had set out assured me that none of it had been a dream.

A fresh aroma wafted past me followed by small sounds coming from the kitchen, so I headed in that direction to see none other than the man I not only unexpectedly met last night and allowed to stay in my house with me, but also apparently had dreamt about. I couldn’t help but gawk at him moving effortlessly about my kitchen as he cooked: an egg omelet with bacon, cheese, and other fixings he managed to find in the drawers of my fridge. 

“Good morning, my Dear,” he greeted without turning to face me.

Did he hear me come in?

“G-Good morning,” I managed to say past the accumulated saliva from the delicious smells coming off the pan in his hands. “Have you been up long?”

I found myself taking a seat at the bar, watching over the countertop as Hak plated the food before turning to me with a smile.

“I don’t sleep much and I didn’t want to disturb you.” he said simply, but his smile seemed to hide more than what was vocalized. “Besides, it seemed you weren’t sleeping so soundly last night and figured a good breakfast would be a better start to your morning.”

I nearly gaped at him, but luckily my brain wasn’t short-circuiting like it was last night that I kept my composure.

Was it because I was dreaming? Gods, I hope I wasn’t that loud! Oh my- what kind of sounds was I making?!

I could feel the heat of embarrassment had made its way onto my cheeks, no doubt coloring my whole face a similar shade that matched my hair. However, he only chuckled as if he could read every worry I thought of.

“Don’t worry, my Dear. I’m sure it was only just a dream, nothing that should concern you now that you’re awake, right?”

His eyes held a hint of mischief as he winked at me, setting the plate of food in front of me, and suddenly I felt a rush of deja vu. Did something like this happen in my dream? Or maybe I was just missing the comfort of familiar company, but why would I feel so at ease with someone I just met, no less previously being a bat?!

I merely hummed a response with a nod of thanks before digging into the food. If the smell alone was anything to go off of how delicious I had expected it to be, it paled in comparison to the explosion of flavors covering my palette. How could a simple omelet taste this good?!

“Oh my god…” I moaned around the bite I continued savoring. “This is incredible.”

Hak flashed a brilliant grin at my praise as he watched me savor each bite I took. “I’m glad you approve.”

The way he leaned against the counter and his arms crossed in front of his chest as he watched with a hungry gaze, I could’ve sworn I had seen something similar before. The background seemed to blur and transform into a new setting I didn’t recognize, but instead of the bright overhanging lights I was used to, candles were the main source of light surrounding us. Everything around him seemed darker by the low light and antiquated as if from another time period. I don’t know how long I had been staring, but his voice brought me back into focus as he called my name and everything snapped back to normal.

“Yona, are you alright? Is there something wrong with your food?” His eyebrows were knitted with deep concern. No longer was he leaning back against the far counter, but now was leaning forward close to me, as if searching to see what was wrong.

“I’m fine!” I stammered, blinking furiously while I tried to figure out what the hell just happened. “Sorry, I think random pieces of my dream just keep coming back and it throws me off.”

I shook my head with a chuckle and finished the rest of my plate. Hak made a grab to take my plate, but I snatched it out of his reach.

“The food was delicious, but since you did the cooking, I’ll clean up. It’s the least I can do to say thank you.”

His deep chuckle resonated deep into my veins, a pleasurable warmth I hadn’t felt in years when I was with someone.

“Yona, you offered me a place to stay after treating my wounds. Cooking you a little bit of breakfast was the least I could do to show my gratitude to your hospitality.”

The way he said my name raised the tiny hairs on the back of my neck and sent chills down my spine, but the gentle smile he gave me simply melted my heart. How could I rebuttal that? My hesitation apparently was enough for him to take the plate from my hands then continued on to cleaning up the kitchen.

“You could always keep me company as I clean. Why don’t you tell me about that dream of yours that’s been troubling you, hm?”

I sighed before hopping back into my seat and once again watched him work while I tried to piece together what I could remember about the strange dream.

“Oddly enough, you were part of my dream.” I started without even thinking, which I regretted.

“Oh?” His voice sounded hopeful, yet teasing, and I felt my cheeks redden again. 

If only I could get my body under control! What’s wrong with me?!

I cleared my throat and reiterated my meaning. “I only meant you were there, not that we- you know… did anything. Anyways! …”

I proceeded to tell him the random pieces I could remember. At times, it was just simple interactions between the two of us like we were doing now, but somewhere else. I’d explain as best as I could the details of what I could remember of each scene’s setting because some of them were beautiful gardens that made me long to visit, while others dark and terrifying that resembled much like a battlefield you would see in movies with blood and dead bodies strewn about. I would shudder recollecting those images, but felt a sense of peace as I retold the dream as if lifting a heavy weight from my heart. 

I couldn’t remember the last time I really had such vivid dreams or even had told someone the strange dreams I would have the previous night. But with Hak, it was comforting. When his body faced me as he cleaned, I could see some surprised reactions, some even more distraught, and if possible, paling his complexion further.

“I’m sorry,” I chuckled nervously. “If this is too much, I can stop. It’s just the more I talk about it, the more I start to remember all the way towards the end which is what woke me up.”

I shook my head remembering the sharp pain and gasp of air, jolting me awake.

The tension I hadn’t noticed he was holding in his shoulders drops as he finished cleaning and turned all his attention on me.

“What happened?” he asked softly.

The gentleness of his voice ached my heart that I almost didn’t want to tell him. I mustered up a small smile in hopes to ease his worry.

“I was stabbed.” I told him as my hand moved toward my collar as if I could still feel it’s mark.

His eyes followed my hands, then widened before turning away and taking a deep breath.

“Hak? Are you okay? It was just a dream, everything’s fine!”

Hak remained with his back to me. Concerned, I hopped out of my chair and walked around towards him to gently lay my hand on his arm. “Hak?” I prompted softly.

After a few quiet minutes, he finally looked at me. Shock and horror painted his face, but in the next instant they were gone as if they were never there.

“My, what a terrible nightmare! To witness your own death would be dreadful.” His voice had changed to a false astonishment. “Luckily, it was just a dream. Like you said, everything’s fine now.”

Hak smiled at me, but it wasn’t the same as before. There wasn’t any genuinity in this smile. No, it was like he was trying to convince himself more than me that everything was alright. But I couldn’t understand what would have him so worked up over a silly dream of mine. The sight of blood clearly had no effect on him, but maybe it was the thought of something more gruesome?

I offered him a smile. “Right. Just a dream.”

Hak’s POV

No, it couldn’t be right. She can’t be. But her dream- no, her nightmare...my nightmare. How could she know of those details if they’re not in fact memories? Impossible. I saw her die right before me. The image still haunted me of her blood running down my arms as I held her until her last breath. The dark pool of blood surrounding us, her life force completely drained from her small body. They couldn’t be the same person… could they?

Yona assured me that I could stay in her home while she was away for work, promising she wouldn’t be gone long and that I should make myself at home, more comfortable, as long as I didn’t rifle through her personal things. However, I could not stay. Not after reliving those terrible memories she knew to be but a simple dream. I would not put her life in danger… not again.

I kept walking, past the trees and unruly brush as vines scraped and caught onto my clothing as I passed through. It was time I had returned home. It was foolish of me to think I was ready to leave. Apparently a few centuries was still too soon. 

A sigh escaped my lips as I pushed open the heavy door of my old home- still dark, empty, and lonesome just as I left it- and headed back to my chamber. Maybe if I slept for a few more centuries, or maybe a millennia, I would stand a better chance at reinserting myself into the world once more. My thoughts continued their linear thinking as I opened my casket and walked in. Once I found myself comfortable, the lid sealed itself shut, encasing me in darkness once more and stilling those miserable thoughts.

Slumber took hold of me and I welcomed it. The darkness had become my solace, my peace, a place where I could forget the past. However, this time I was not as lucky.

Scenes played before me like a dream, something I had not been graced with for many years. It took me by surprise at first, but then I began to recall the events played before me as if I had been thrown back in time, to my own past.

I snapped my eyes open, putting a stop to those flashes of memories I thought I had kept locked away as darkness greeted my vision once more. My breathing had labored and I couldn’t help but wonder why now would my unconscious choose to start dreaming again. Was it because of her? Purple eyes and red curls invaded my mind as I wondered, remembering her pale, soft skin warm against mine along with her retelling nightmare, my nightmare that I had lived with so long ago and continued plaguing the deepest recesses of my memories. Could she have triggered this sudden occurrence?

I sighed and willed myself back to sleep, hoping for peace this time, to sleep another century or two- however long it took to forget this occurrence. Unfortunately, my wish was not granted. Memory after memory replayed before me, drawing me further in, deeper into my unconscious being and unable to force myself awake again. Trapped, I was trapped in my own mind by some unnatural force.

It was not to say each memory was terrible to relive, but it added pain to my heart each time the memory would come to an end, only to remind me that it was indeed just a flashback and something I could never regain.

“Hak? Hak! Hak, wake up!”

What was this? My memory recalled the current flashback as easy as if it had happened mere hours ago yet those words were quite misplaced...

The scene of my beloved peering into my eyes faded before me, replaced by a blinding light and a faint silhouette. Was I waking up? Who could possibly be in my home?

My eyes fully opened and focused on the being before me. Familiar curls and bright eyes looked back at me with a gentle smile once she realized I was coming to.

“Yona?” I couldn’t believe my eyes yet here she was.

“I remember,” she breathed. Her sweet, melodic voice coaxing me further to the land of the living. Her warm hand extended to cup my face. Such small hands… “I remember everything, my love.”

My eyes widened as I jerked forward causing her to take a step back, allowing me out.

“What? But… but how?”

Her gaze softened, a familiar look I hadn’t seen in centuries, as she led me towards the pair of chairs set by the covered and dusty window. Sitting me down, she sat across from me but her hand never left the comfort of mine.

“I’m not sure how,” she began explaining, “but after that first dream, I couldn’t stop thinking about you. Once I returned home and found you gone, I tried to forget about you, but more dreams like the first kept happening every time I fell asleep. However, they were much sweeter and pleasant than the first one, and every one of them felt just as real. I couldn’t keep you out of my mind and I just felt like I had to find you. I didn’t know how, or where even to start, but something inside me just knew I had to find you. It was like my heart was calling out for you. As each day passed, it hurt more and more the longer I failed in finding you.”

She stopped and took a deep breath with her eyes closed tightly as if she could feel the pain all over again. I squeezed her delicate hand in mine, wanting to hear more and how she was able to find me. Her eyes flicked back open as she gazed back at me with such love that I swore my heart tripled its pace for the first time in a very long while.

“But then I had a dream of our last home, here,” she said with such reverence, looking around the room. It seemed as if she could remember every memory of us now the longer she scanned the room before turning her attention back to me. “That’s how I knew where to find you, and I’m so glad I did.”

Tears filled her eyes and I couldn’t resist reaching out to cup her face in my hands. I held her gently, searching her eyes, and I knew… I knew my beloved had finally returned to me after all these years.

“Is it really you?” I whispered, I couldn’t hide the emotion threatening to crack my voice.

Her cheerful giggle brought a small smile to my face as she nodded in my hands.

“Yes. It’s really me, Hak.”

I pressed my lips against hers hard, feeling the tears fall down her cheeks and tasting them between kisses. I kissed her, afraid that if I stopped then I would lose her again forever, that this all was just a dream, a figment of my imagination.

Her small hands pushed against my chest, begging for a moment’s breath. My blood pumped hard through my veins, a pleasant buzz rushed to my head, and all I could think of was this beautiful woman before me… and the fear of losing her again.

She could see something changed in my eyes that moment as her face fell.

“Hak? Why did you leave? Did you already know…?”

I shook my head with a sigh as I laid back against the chair. “No, not at first. I had wondered and teased the thought, but it wasn’t until that first dream- memory- that I figured it had to be so.”

I stayed quiet after that, but she wasn’t having it.

“Then why did you leave? Without saying anything?” Her voice was stronger, more demanding. That same fire I knew her to have even back then, that strong will of hers that drew me to her.

I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. “I couldn’t risk putting your life in danger… not again…” I said quietly.

I never looked up, I remained in my spot, but I could hear her shuffling before me until I felt her sitting on my lap, wrapping her arms around my neck. I opened my eyes to her smiling face, a softened look in her eyes.

“Times have changed, my love. Things can be different this time around.” she said so assuredly.

“You don’t know that! I can’t… I can’t bear the pain to lose you again.”

Her palms squished my cheeks as she turned my face to stare back at the fire dancing in her eyes. “I won’t let you leave me. We have a second chance, Hak, and I’m willing to take the chance to spend another lifetime together.” She never wavered, but it was what she said next that I couldn’t refute. “Are you saying you’re not willing to do the same all because of fear of the past?”

Her eyebrow cocked at me, mocking me. I couldn’t help a chuckle. She got me there.

“Of course I’m willing,” I sighed, grabbing her wrists and kissing at her pulse points. “What wouldn’t I do for you, my queen?”

That brilliant smile of hers returned along with a more sultry look as she wiggled in my lap, satisfied with my answer.

“That’s more like it.” Her fingers thread through my hair and I could feel myself immediately relaxing into her touch. 

Oh, how I’ve longed for her touch… Maybe she was right. The little bit of the world I managed to see had no resemblance to the dark times we once lived in. Maybe it’s not so bad out there.

She sees him walk in with his usual buddy at his side. His dark, shaggy hair that nearly covers his bright, blue eyes she could easily pick out from a crowd. The serious look on his face that could freeze anyone in place, but not usually in the way he would hope. Today, he wears a blue V-neck shirt fitted around his long,muscular torso, the color complemented his eyes, and black jeans that were loose around his legs but snug around his hips. Yona couldn’t help but stare as he walks in, nearly forgetting the current latte she was supposed to be making as the pair get in line. 

Jae-Ha was standing next to her, watching as she ogled at mister tall, dark, and handsome. A devious smile stretches his lips as he leaned over her shoulder. “Yona…” he kept his voice low but light in a sing-song voice to get her attention. “You’ll catch flies with your mouth open like that. Besides, I don’t think you can froth that much more, darling.” Yona gasped and turned it off, removing the cup before the contents spilled out to move onto the steaming wand. She could still feel him standing over her shoulder with that smug grin on his face, just waiting to tease her about it, but remained silent as she finished the order. The shorter the line gets and the closer the two men get to ordering, Yona can feel tiny pinpricks covering her body and her stomach tighten in knots. It was finally their turn and Yona greeted them with her usual smile.

“Welcome back! What can I get for you two today?” Yona asked cheerfully despite feeling like her body was shaking like a maraca. 

“Yona! Don’t you look radiant today! Don’t you think, Hak?” His friend beamed while the dark-haired man tried to not look annoyed.

“Do you have to do this every time? Sorry, Yona, I know how busy you are. I couldn’t believe the line had already reached the door by the time we got here,” Hak said, offering an apologetic smile to her. The softness in his eyes made her feel as if she could melt into a puddle before them.

“Oh no, don’t worry about that. And thank you, Soo-won, you’re too kind as always. So, what shall it be? Trying something new again, today?” She asked looking between the two.

“Just a black coffee for me today, Yona. Make it the strongest you have,” Hak answered.

“And I would love a chai latte if you don’t mind, gorgeous.” Soo-won smiled. 

Yona typed in their order trying to keep her eyes trained on the screen in front of her and print the tickets for both drinks. Soo-won was a lot like Jae-ha she had come to realize. Always a flirt. Although, Soo-won seemed more reserved for the ladies and wasn’t as straight forward or as boisterous as Jae-ha’s flair tended to have. The sentiment was sweet but it paled in the way Hak saying her name filled her stomach with butterflies. It was thick and smooth as honey with his tenor voice. Soo-won paid for them both since Hak paid the time before, the two always switching off on who covered their drinks instead of creating separate orders to save on time. Handing him their receipt, she hurried to the coffee bar to get started on their drinks while they walked over to the side to wait. With more coffee brewing and seamlessly moving around her other coworkers, she grabbed two cups and labeled them accordingly. Hak’s wouldn’t take nearly as long to prepare so she sets his next to the coffee pot with a coffee sleeve slid around it and went to work on Soo-won’s. While she prepared the latte, Jae-ha peeked at the order on the other cup and smirked. He pulled a marker from his apron pocket and quickly scribbled a little note, ‘Tall, dark, and strong just like you.’ He set the cup back down and continued on his way for the new orders coming in. Time to get the ball rolling, Yona-dear. 

Finally finished with the chai latte, Yona made a small note on the cup. ‘Thanks a latte!’ Since Soo-won paid this time around, it was his turn to get the note on his cup. She liked to make sure they both got one each time they came in so would take turns writing a note between them just as they took turns paying for their order. “Order up for Soo-won!” Yona called. She turned to grab the second drink behind her and held them both out as he met her at the pick-up counter. Soo-won grabbed the drinks from her hands and turned his around to see what note she had for him today.

“Why, thank you a latte as usual,” Soo-won smiled brightly with a wink and a light chuckle. Yona chuckled back and waved him off as he turned to give Hak his drink. “And one large black coffee to match your black soul.”

Hak rolled his eyes and took the drink, grateful to finally have the needed caffeine after a long shift and ignoring the urge to retort. “Let’s just hope this is strong enough to get me through the rest of the day.” He took a sip and sighed. “Perfect.”

Soo-won seemed distracted by something, staring at Hak as if there was something on his face. “What? Something wrong with your chai?”

Soo-won smirked then reached out towards Hak’s drink. He tried pulling it away from the man’s reach but Soo-won just rolled his eyes and tried turning it around in his hand. “Looks like someone gets an extra message now.” Hak stared at the words written on his cup. He never would’ve thought to look had Soo-won not shown him.

“She writes everyone a note.” Hak said plainly not wanting to think about the potential message behind the words. “She probably had a little more time to write one for both of us since we had a simpler order this time.”

Soo-won was unconvinced but decided to sip at his own drink instead of say otherwise. Hak tried to not think about it but his mind kept circling back to it. He’d be lying to himself if he said he hadn’t found the barista attractive. Her short and wavy, red hair framing a cute round face. Not to mention how short and tiny she is was a whole other level of cute. But, it was her smile and the way she went the extra mile to make other people smile that he noticed most and drew him towards her. He turned around just before they left the little cafe to see her taking the next order, her smile shining brighter than anyone else’s. See you tomorrow. He thought with a smile then turned back to follow Soo-won.

---

“Whew! What a day.” Yona wiped her brow with the back of her hand after finishing sweeping. The day had finally reached its end and the little cafe was now empty and quiet. It was strange to not see the normal hustle and bustle that filled the place but the workers took a little bit of peace from it nonetheless.

“Another grand day, you might say?” Jae-ha teased, leaning against the counter he had finished cleaning. 

“I think it’s sweet that Yona takes the time to put some thought into her messages for the customers!” Kija countered coming to Yona’s defense.

“It’s alright, Kija. Jae-ha is just teasing,” she smiled at him. Always the sensitive one. Kija never cared for Jae-ha’s flirtatious games or how he enjoyed teasing Yona any chance he got. 

“So, what are you going to write on lover boy’s cup tomorrow?” Jae-ha asked, ignoring Kija.

Yona looked over at Jae-ha confused. “Lover boy?” She inquired, trying to think who he could be talking about.

Innocent, sweet child… Jae-ha sighed. “You know, Mr. Tall, Dark and Handsome.” A smirk creeped on his face as her face turned bright red.

“Jae-ha!”

The man just shrugged. “What? Anyone with eyes can see just how gorgeous that man is. And someone has an adorable crush on him.” He waggled his eyebrows at her. Anxiety started twisting her stomach into knots the more flustered she felt. Her body could be set on fire and she probably wouldn’t know the difference with how hot she felt.

“I-I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she turned away in hopes he would drop the subject but she should’ve known better.

“Mhmm… so what was he wearing today?”

Yona looked up as if recalling but a soft smile returned to her face as she could see him as clear as day in her mind’s eye. “He was a bit more casual today than usual, don’t you think? But that blue shirt really brought out his eyes. Made them seem brighter even though he looked more tired today. Sounded like he had just got off from a long shift.” She could feel her face heating up again just thinking about the man but then her body turned stiff. Shoot! How did he- She turned around, her eyes wide as she faced Jae-ha again but his relaxed posture had not changed. It was then Shin-ah emerged from the back with a towel and his apron slung over his shoulder.

“The kitchen is clean,” he informed them before taking in the quiet scene. Yona glaring at Jae-ha who seemed much too relaxed while Kija kept his arms crossed looking a bit disgruntled. He imagined that was also Jae-ha’s doing so he turned his eyes towards the green-haired man.

“See you tomorrow, princess,” Jae-ha winked, pushing himself off the counter as turned to leave while the others finished closing up and ignoring their stares. Yona stood there gaping at him in disbelief that she had fallen into his trap. Tomorrow...she knew there would certainly be more in store for her then...and she wasn’t sure she was quite ready for it.

--

The next day came and they fell back into their normal routine. Occasionally, Yona would glance towards the door to see if a certain someone had arrived yet. The conversation with Jae-ha the day before plagued her mind.

So what if I like him? It’s like he said, anyone can see how handsome Hak is. It’s just a natural attraction… Yona tried convincing herself, but the knots and butterflies in her stomach told a different story. Then just as the lunch rush was coming in, he finally arrived. Yona felt her heart skip a beat as he walked in with Soo-won and a few of his work buddies, all still in their uniforms for the Kouka Fire Department. It wasn’t often she got to see him in his uniform- the button-down shirt neatly tucked into his pants and well-fitted to his muscular frame- hearing how much he hated the formal look it gives. However, she couldn’t help but love this look on him, too.

“Do I need to call them over here to put out a fire?” Jae-ha whispered in her ear, jolting her out of her trance.

“Jae-ha!” She hissed trying to not spill the drink in her hand as she put a lid on it and called out the name of the order. The girl grabbed the drink with a quick thanks then hurried out as Yona wheeled on her coworker. Her cheeks puffed out ready to give him a piece of her mind but he was already back at the register hitting on the next customer. She groaned inwardly and shook her head. With a deep breath to calm back down, she resolved herself and got back to work. 

The line steadily moved as orders were taken. Hak and his crew creeped closer to the register to order, and Yona could feel a bead of sweat began to perspire on the back of her neck. Great! Now Jae-ha has me even more flustered! Ugh, just calm down! She tried telling herself, finishing an order of cold brews for a small group of students that came to study. Then, as usual, Jae-ha made sure the rotation of who was taking orders would make sure Yona was next to take Hak’s order.

“Good afternoon! What can I get for you today? I see you have the whole crew with you this time,” Yona smiled as she stood at the register, watching the tall, dark-haired man.

Hak sighed and ran a hand down his face. “Unfortunately… but pay them no mind, they just wanted to tag along. I doubt if they even actually order. Blame Soo-won, he’s kind of a pushover when it comes to letting people stick around to talk.” He gave her one of his rare smiles not knowing the effect it had on her.

Yona swallowed past the lump about to form in her throat and gave a light chuckle. “Oh, don’t worry about it! So, what shall it be today?”

He rattled off his and Soo-won’s order since the blond was too busy in deep conversation with one of the lady firefighters, insisting that she get a drink from here as well. Yona handed Hak his receipt after finishing the order with a sweet smile and couldn’t help but notice the way his fingers for a split second had brushed over hers when grabbing the receipt from her hand. The warmth sent tiny sparks through her fingers and made its way down her arm. With a small blush she kept hidden behind the wall of coffee blenders, makers, and other machines, she focused on the order at hand. She took Hak’s cup, wrote ‘Have a brew-tiful day!’ on the side, set it down, and turned to work on Soo-won’s. Jae-ha passed behind her to start on a mocha latte and glanced at the note she chose for Hak. Quickly, he made a couple of marks near the bottom of the cup and then continued with his task. Yona came back, finished both drinks then went to the pick up counter.

“Order up for Hak!” Even saying his name stirred the butterflies. He walked up to the counter and reached for both cups.

“Thanks, Yona,” he said with a smile. “Have a good one.”

Yona returned the smile with a nod. “You too, Hak. See you next time!”

Hak felt his heart skip a beat as she smiled up at him. It was the same thing every day, yet… would it continue to stay that way? Before he made a bumbling fool of himself, he turned away to take Soo-won his drink. “Here.” He said holding the cup out to the blond.

“Oh, why thank you,” Soo-won grabbed the drink and took a sip, while eyeing his friend. “So… what message did you get today?” He smirked from behind his cup but his eyes hid nothing.

Hak rolled his eyes and lifted the cup to read the message. “‘Have a brew-tiful day,’ there you happy?” But his eyes noticed something more. Just below the message, a pen had marked through parts of the warning label on the cup. Careful, the beverage you’re about to enjoy is extremely hot. His face warmed up and his hand immediately covered the message back up as he took a drink. He tried to play it off like nothing out of the norm had happened, not wanting to give Soo-won the satisfaction.

Soo-won was no fool. He knew Hak better than anyone, probably even better than the man knew himself. Despite being a normally quiet guy, he was acting a bit different and a little too quiet after he read the message on the cup. “Anything else?” Soo-won couldn’t help but ask. “Nothing to follow up from yesterday’s note, perhaps?” 

Now, the rest of their group had their attention drawn to their conversation. Hak glanced at each one of them then rested back on Soo-won’s smug grin. That look was enough to help Hak compose himself. He straightened his shoulders and relaxed as he took another sip. “Nope. Looks like you were wrong, as much as you hate to hear it.” He said casually then proceeded to walk past him letting the rest follow behind. Despite his words being said to Soo-won, he couldn’t ignore the fact he was eating his own words. Don’t I want to be wrong, though?

Yona watched them as Hak leads the small crowd out the cafe doors while Jae-ha huffed behind her. She turned around seeing a rather agitated and perplexed look on his face. “Everything alright?” She asked the man.

He rubbed his chin, still looking at the front entrance while mumbling under his breath. “There’s no way he didn’t see it, so why didn’t he… Hmm…”

Yona couldn’t seem to get a proper response out of him and wasn’t sure what he was even mumbling about. She looked back at the door wondering what had Jae-ha so fixated, but it wasn’t long until her mind wandered back to a familiar face. If only things were different… maybe I’d have the courage to tell you how I really feel.

The next few days mirrored the same. Busy days at the Dragon Cafe, Yona taking Hak and Soo-won’s orders while Jae-ha continued with his plans to help unite the pining couple. His attempts seemed futile as neither said anything more to the other, namely Hak since Yona had been kept in the dark all this time. However, that all changed one day when Zeno’s shift changed with Kija’s. Zeno came in as cheery as ever tying the apron around his waist. 

“Another brew-tiful day, yeah?!” He grinned with a chuckle. Walking past Yona and Jae-ha to man the drive-through window, he saw the next order sitting near the pick up counter. Reading the label, he noticed the note Jae-ha had already written. His eyes widened as he jumped up and bounced over to Yona. “The little miss finally did it?! You finally confessed?”

Yona freezed in her path and turned towards the small blond. “W-What? What are you talking about?!” She panicked and quickly moved over to him to see what she may have accidentally written. It’s supposed to be Soo-won’s turn, did I somehow write on Hak’s instead? But wait, why would Zeno think- Her eyes grew twice their size and looked around to see Jae-ha trying to act a little too casual. “Jae-ha…” she hissed trying to keep the blush from darkening her cheeks.

The culprit in question sighed and pushed his long green bangs out of his face before walking over to her. “Look, I just wanted to try to help. I thought he would’ve at least said something to you by now and make the next move but-”

“Jae-ha…” the color drained from her face, “what do you mean by that? Why would he…” The wheels in her head turned and she clutches her chest. “You mean this isn’t the first time?! How long have you been doing this?” Panic was setting in. Her breathing shallowed into quick short bursts. Jae-ha put his hands on her shoulders, forcing her to look at him.

“Yona.” His voice was direct but gentle as his eyes stared into hers. “It’s going to be okay. Look, if he didn’t feel the same way about you then he wouldn’t be in here every day like clockwork. And I see the way he looks at you. It’s the same way you look at him.” He paused to give her a small smile. “I just want you to be happy, dear.”

Shin-ah came out from the kitchen to refill the pastry case only to see Yona in a panic with Jae-ha trying to comfort her. He set down the tray of baked goods and walked over to make sure everything was alright. Yona watched as Shin-ah approached with his quiet demeanor and then looked at Zeno who still smiled warmly. Then she looked back into Jae-ha’s eyes. The calm confidence they held mixed with his calm voice and seeing her friends to surround her in support helped ease Yona and brought her breathing to be more leveled again. She gulped a big breath of air and released it slowly, nodding to Jae-ha and the others she was alright now.

“We all want the little miss to be happy.” Zeno chirped in with a bright smile before setting the headset on his head and turning away from the pair. Shin-ah nodded in agreement and gave her one of his rare smiles then also retreated back to his duties, leaving her in Jae-ha’s capable hands. However, that didn’t last long either.

“Is everything alright?” A voice sounded from behind her. If she didn’t already know that voice so well, the look on Jae-ha’s face certainly gave it away. His smile turning slightly smug then gave her a wink before turning her around to face the source of the voice. Yona swallowed dryly but managed to give him a smile.

“Sorry, yes everything is fine. Um, oh! Here’s yours and Soo-won’s order.” She tried covering up the awkward situation by handing him the two to-go cups. Her eyes caught the message on Hak’s drink and felt her face warm up again. Hak reached for the cups but his eyes stayed trained on her, his expression concerned.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” He asked setting the cups down. “You don’t seem like you feel well.”

His concern for her warmed her heart and tightened the knots already formed in her stomach. She pressed her lips together, taking a deep breath through her nose as she looked up at him. Just do it. You can do it! Jae-ha’s right...right? No, forget about that. Focus!

“I like you a latte!” She blurted out to him then realized she just said the message Jae-ha had written on Hak’s cup rather than try to explain the current situation to the man before her. Her face turned two shades brighter red than her own hair as fear and embarrassment reflected through her eyes at him. His cheeks turned a bit red and she worried that she had just embarrassed him, too but then he covers his mouth with his hand. He mumbled something she couldn’t quite make out then he removed his hand revealing a sly grin she had yet to see on his face before. Liquid fire burned through her stomach and now she questioned herself if she really even had seen a blush on his face or not mere seconds ago.

“Are you always so articulate? I didn’t realize puns were more than just part of the job,” he teased her leaning against the counter between them. Her jaw dropped. She didn’t expect this kind of response and she didn’t know how to reply back. What was she doing again? Her thoughts short circuited as she stood there gaping at him. His hand reached out and a single finger tucked under her chin lifting her jaw up to close. The simple touch brought fire to the rest of her face. Maybe he needs to put out a fire after all, her mind couldn’t help but wander back to Jae-ha’s comment a few days ago. “Don’t tell me you’re a loss for words now. And here I thought we were finally making progress.” Hak winked at her, withdrawing his hand.

Yona felt as if her entire body turned into a blazing inferno. Her thoughts have turned to ash and her throat dried up, unable to do anything but silently scream on the inside.

“Why is this line so backed up?!” A voice rang out and the sound of a large door shutting close. “Yona!”

The woman squeaked and turned around to see Yun, their manager, standing at the end of the coffee bar on the other side of Jae-ha. “Sorry!” she apologized then quickly turned back to Hak handing the drinks back to him he had set down. With a smile and finally out of her daze, she found the lost words she needed. “I get off at 5.” 

Hak grabbed the drinks from her once again but leans in close, dropping his voice. “I’ll be here,” he straightened back up and just before turning away, he added, “I hope you like ramen!”

Yona watched as he walked away and handed Soo-won his drink, the butterflies stirring crazy in her stomach. I...have a date!

“Yona!’ Yun called out to her again as Jae-ha tried to keep from laughing.

“Incredible!” she breathes, scanning the horizon. “So much has changed and there are so many people!”

Lucy spins around, the white silken drapes of her dress billowing out around her like an angelic deity as she faces the two men with shimmering, amber eyes. 

“What’s the time here?”

Natsu and Gray look at each other with baffled expressions until Gray peers down at his watch.

“Just after 3...why?” he asks.

She giggles, holding her hands in front of her mouth to muffle the melodious sound.

“No, silly. I want to know how long it’s been since I was last here!” Lucy turns back around with a soft sigh. “Time sure has changed, nothing is as it once was.”

The men walk up to either side of her to see her soft, pink lips quirked into a small smile.

“I never expected it to be this beautiful when I woke up, though.” Her eyes smile before her lips stretch further, blinding them with a dazzling smile. “And I have you two to thank for that!”

“Wait… you mean to say you’ve been sleeping for over 2,000 years?!” Natsu exclaims, his jaw dropping.

The maiden just shrugs nonchalantly. “It’s a bit more complicated than that, but I guess essentially...yes.”

Gray rests his back against the stone railing and faces her. “So, what happened, then?”

Her smile softens as she turns to face him, her eyes losing a bit of their shine. “Let me tell you a story.”

Long ago, there was a country ruled by two kings who happened to be the best of friends. One bore a daughter and the other a son. There had been hope that the two would grow close in their younger years and blossom into a fruitful relationship which would change their government as they knew it, but for the better. However, that was not to be the case. 

The prince had no care for the young, whiny princess just as she didn’t care much for the haughty toddler. So, their parents never pressured the two and carried on in their own districts.

As time went on, the princess became one of ethereal beauty and grace. Everyone who crossed her path fell captivated by her. Her beauty encapsulated her entire being, inside and out. She excelled in all her studies, ruled with love and kindness to her people, and had the strength to never falter. Even the prince could not dispute or escape the princess’s influence. He watched from afar and soon made it his personal goal to obtain her.

However, the princess fell into a deep love with one of her warriors. What had started out as flirtatious glances across the courtyards and training fields turned into longing, passionate passes, unable to separate. It was then they realized they were destined to be together, that fate had tied their souls together.

The king and queen were overjoyed at their daughter’s announcement of finding her true love, her soul mate, but there was one who did not look as kindly on the pair. Someone who had wished the king to forbid the relationship and favor one that paired his daughter with someone else of royal blood, a prince.

He made pleas and logical arguments to their highnesses but they could not be swayed. They looked on at the prince with pity and wished him well to rule justly alongside their daughter and her chosen king-to-be just as they had done so for many years with his parents.

Enraged, the prince stormed out, cursing under his breath and determined to get exactly what he wants or be sure no one would leave happy. He would make them all suffer if they chose to not oblige him. So, he made a deal with a witch.

One evening, the princess and her warrior laid bare together in her chambers under the brilliance of the moonlight. Light and happiness filled their hearts with love shining in their eyes. Surely, nothing could be better than this moment, but they both knew a future together would hold more precious moments than they could ever imagine. A future they didn’t know would be taken from them.

The skies turned red as if the world was bleeding as the princess held her lover. Stabbed through the chest from behind, staining the front of her the same dark red as the sky. She sobbed into the night, promising to see him in the afterlife, but the prince would make sure that would never happen. If he couldn’t have her, then no one would. A curse was placed on the lovers, the warrior’s soul split in two and the princess turned to stone to watch over her precious land. She was commemorated and remembered forever, frozen in time unless reunited with her true love. But what were the chances the two pieces of one soul could find her at the exact same time?

Natsu’s eyes widen in amazement at the story. Her telling enchanted him as if the scenes were playing before him like a movie. Nearly speechless, he leans back and looks towards the bright blue sky above them.

“Wow…” is all he could manage, but Gray is more skeptical.

“Hold on. Are you trying to say that you’re that princess and that your past lover’s soul was split in two and now inside us?” Gray asks incredulously with a raised eyebrow.

Lucy gives him a soft smile, but it doesn’t quite reach her eyes. Remembering the day she lost him still feels fresh as if it happened mere minutes ago and not thousands of years.

“You know, I didn’t believe in the mystical or supernatural either until that day. And all I’ve told you is my story. If you two are the ones who broke the curse and revived me from stone, then I can’t help but believe you’re him.”

Her voice nearly breaks as tears fill her eyes, but her smile never wavers.

Natsu elbows Gray hard in the side and glares at him. “You didn’t have to make her cry!” he hisses.

Lucy chuckles, the sound ringing like soft bells to their ears. She wipes at her eyes before the tears could fall. “No, he didn’t make me cry,” she sniffles, looking up at them with shimmering cocoa eyes. “I can’t tell you just how happy I am.”

 The two men smile at her and extend their hands towards her.

“Come on, let’s get you something to eat, and maybe some better clothes to change into,” Gray offers.

“Yeah, you must be hungry after being a statue for over a thousand years!” Natsu beams at her.

Lucy feels the tears well up in her eyes again and nods as her smile grows. “I would love that.”

Taking their hands, she walks between the pair as small electric currents travel up her arms from their connection. Never did she think she would be reunited with her warrior once again, and now she is.

“But it’s so cold outside,” he protested, “wouldn’t you rather stay like this by the fire?” He snuggled closer into her, keeping his hold around her firm. His warmth seeped into her skin. It was so relaxing, and it had been quite a perfect evening. Laying against him with his arms wrapped so snuggly around her was like a spell she couldn’t break. He knew just how easy it was to make her so comfortable that she wouldn’t want to leave, and he took full advantage of it now. “You know how much you hate the cold. Just stay here with me, Luce,” his voice low and his warm breath warm on her neck sending small chills down her spine.

“You’re doing this on purpose,” she huffed and pouted which didn’t last long as she leans more into him. “You know there will be talk at the guild if I stay. Why don’t you just take me home to keep me warm on the way?”

Natsu chuckled low. Aside from the rumble and shake of his chest, he didn’t move. He was resolute in trying to get her to stay. “So, what? Everyone knows we’re dating now. We really couldn’t keep that a secret for very long.” “Umm, excuse you. I was doing just fine. It was you and your big mouth that blabbed and told everyone!”

He just shrugged and nuzzled closer. His chin rested on her shoulder as he looked up at her soft brown eyes. A small glow from the flicker of the flames dancing in her eyes. Moments like this were one of his favorites, too. Just holding her, being close to her, and still teasing her all the while. Going on missions and new adventures were always fun but even in the quiet moments, he could find a peace he never dreamed of ever having. He smiled up at her.

“How about this. One more drink. And if you still want to leave once you’re done and brave the cold all by yourself, then I won’t stop you. Deal?”

Lucy’s taken aback by the offer. It was almost too sensible for him. What could he possibly be planning? She couldn’t help but wonder. With a brow raised at her smiling boyfriend, she gave in. “Fine. Deal.” He smirked, pleased with her agreeable answer. Planting a kiss on her cheek, he grabbed the empty mug from her hand to get her a refill. She watched him with a slightly wary eye until he disappears into the kitchen. With a sigh, she gazed back towards the fire and subconsciously rubbed at her arms. A slight chill began to settle in with his absence. Minutes ticked by and she began to wonder what was taking him so long. 

All he had to do was refill the mug. Even if it did need to be reheated, it shouldn’t be taking him this long.. She began to ponder. If it weren’t for the fire keeping her warm, she would’ve gone looking for him. A few more chilly minutes ticked by and a familiar warmth appeared behind her. Slowly, it washed over her, warming her once again before he even touched her skin. His cheek brushed against hers as his arms slowly wrapped around her waist from behind.

“Getting cold?” his voice soft, low as he asked brushing his lips against her ear. She hummed pleasantly, leaning back into his warm body. Natsu sat down behind her and pulled her onto his lap. Her legs draped to one side and her arms circling his neck. His lips found her jaw just below her ear, softly planting kisses. One after another, slow and feathery to the touch. His hands settled on her hips making, thumbs pressed gently making concentric circles massaging the area. His lips reached hers and she’s kissing him back. Their lips moved seamlessly against each other. His tongue brushing against her lower lip before he’s delving inside to taste her. Finding her own wet muscle, he coaxed it towards him giving a light suck to its tip drawing out a delicious moan from her. His hands moved up from her waist, fingers brushing against the underside of her breasts as her arms around his neck tighten. She deepened the kiss, nipping at his lip. A low growl rumbled through his chest as her hands move over to feel the rapid beating of his heart. For just a moment, he’s pulling back. His vision hazy as he’s looking at her flushed face. A devious smirk plastered on his face. “Seems like you’re all warmed up, again. Still want that last drink?” He asked pulling one of his arms back and holding up the refilled mug he left sitting behind him.

Tohru smiles and hums a soft carol as she falls back into rhythm next to him. Working side by side on the same project, especially cooking, is one of her favorite things ro do with Kyo. She didn’t want to tell him, though- afraid he might take it wrong and throw a fit about it. She couldn’t risk it, so instead she continues humming one of her favorite tunes.

Kyo can’t help but watch her. Listening to her hum as she works with that smile of hers, he realizes just how much has changed since she’s become a regular part of their lives now. He never cared for the holidays. Always preferred to spend them alone, training. But now… looking at her, he could feel all of that has changed now. The swelling in his heart as he thinks about her, makes the world around them seem to fade away. He didn’t know when the changes really started, but he knows deep down that spending time with her on the holidays is all he wants to do. It didn’t matter who came to visit. His attention couldn’t be taken away from her, especially this year.

---

Dinner was noisy and crowded much to Kyo’s disliking. Once everyone was seemingly finished, he decides to start taking the dishes to the kitchen, surprising the rest of the family.

“My, my, has our little Tohru made a proper man out of our Kyo?” Shigure couldn’t help but tease.

“Can it, stupid dog!” Kyo yells, trying to restrain the urge to just throw the plate back at the man.

“Kyo, I don’t mind helping,” Tohru tells him as she begins to stand and collect her own dishes.

“Just relax a bit, will ya? It won’t kill you to just take it easy.” He tells her, not realizing how his tone softened a bit when speaking to her. Taking the dishes from her hands, he makes her sit back down. 

“Yeah, Tohru! Kyo can handle it!” Momiji agrees excitably. “So, let’s go play outside and make snow angels!”

Tohru giggles and smiles, his cheerful persona infectious. He pulls her along and she willingly goes, excited to play in the white fluff. Kyo overhears them about to step outside to play and grumbles to himself about it before leaning into the room.

“Don’t let her forget to wear her coat! Make sure she bundles up. Don’t need her getting sick during the holidays.” Kyo yells at them. He watches them go off outside, Tohru tightly bundled in her coat and stocking cap. Before he turns back into the kitchen, he notices a mistletoe hanging above one of the doorways. Gripping the dish towel in his hand, he steels himself from blowing up at someone, demanding to know who put that up there. It was probably that damn dog… the pervert… The thought alone made his blood boil but then he heard Tohru laughing. Her sweet, joyful laughter that sounded like the soft bells of wind chimes. It was soothing to him and brought a smile to his face. He throws the towel to the side and stands in the doorway, just beneath the mistletoe as he watches her. His eyes trained on her smiling face, partially wanting to join her. But, he continues to wait for her where he stands. This was all he could have hoped for. The gifts, the big gatherings, the festivals, none of it appealed to him. Seeing her smile, though. Being close to her. And maybe… just maybe…

“Kyo! Come join us!” Tohru calls out, waving him over. A small blush dusts his face, afraid he was caught staring at her. He shifts his stance and looks away giving her a shrug. But that wasn’t enough for her. “Kyo. You should have fun, too.” She says pulling at his arm. Her big brown eyes looking up at him hopefully.

“Oooooh! Look who’s under the mistletoe!” Momiji sings from behind her. Tohru turns around to look at the small boy to see him pointing just above her and Kyo’s head. Her face turns bright red and quickly let’s go of Kyo.

“I-I’m sorry, I didn’t notice that there. We-we don’t have to if you don’t want to…” Tohru says nervously, trying to avoid his gaze. If she would only look up, she would see a blush matching her own. He couldn’t lie to himself that he hadn’t been thinking about it, otherwise he wouldn’t be standing here waiting for her. 

“I thought you liked following traditions? Is this not one?” He asks her softly. She looks up at him in surprise, expecting him to yell about how stupid it was.

“Oh, it is! I think it’s a very cute tradition!”

“Or maybe…” he pauses, not sure if he wants the answer. She looks at him curiously, waiting for him to finish. “Is it because it’s me?” Her hands cover her mouth in shock then wave frantically at him.

“Oh, no! There’s nothing wrong with it being you. I would kiss you, really! Ahh- I mean, there’s nothing wrong with kissing you. I’m sure you’re a really good kisser. But I wouldn’t really know because I’ve never kissed anyone before. I mean I guess I’ve kissed family, but I don’t think that really counts-”

His lips smash against hers to stop her rambling. A small squeak comes from her at the feel of his warm lips suddenly on hers. He kissed me! Kyo is kissing me! Her brain barely had time to register it before he was already pulling away. This time she didn’t miss the blush spreading across his face as he looks away.

“There. No need to make a big deal about it.” He says. What did I just do? I can’t believe I just kissed her like that! You just stole her first kiss, you idiot! 

“Kyo?” Her voice was soft, almost timid. He glances over at her and raises one of his brows. She smiles and fidgets with her hands. “Thank you.” His heart hammers in his chest and lava flows through his veins warming his entire body. What was it about this girl that made him feel so… alive?

“Awww, Kyo, no fair! You took our little Tohru’s first kiss! And here I thought a proper gentleman would give her the honors. I had a whole plan made up and everything when I put that up,” Shigure whines, incurring Kyo’s boiling wrath.