From her secluded balcony, Maris gazed into the grand looking glass, peering into Adeline’s world. The journey back from Eloquen’s had left her contemplative, weighing the decision to intervene or to embrace the virtue of watchful guidance. She chose the latter, her gaze lingering on the protective aura she and Eloquen had woven around Eric and Adeline – a testament to their combined strength, visible only to divine eyes. This magical shield, glowing faintly, safeguarded their cherished mortals. As Adeline and Garrett exchanged brief words before his departure with Londyn to the Deverell home, Maris felt a sense of peace.
Her thoughts lingered on Feronia’s waning influence over Garrett, a subtle shift she hadn’t missed. Would their ethereal shield be enough to repel Feronia’s persistent will? The Landin family dinner had proceeded smoothly without Feronia’s interference, though shadows of mischief lurked around Eric’s brothers. Maris hoped Feronia’s tendrils would not reach the Landin household. Eric remained a beacon of consistency, offering Adeline subtle reassurances – a touch, a glance – lightening the weight of the evening. His unwavering support anchored Adeline, their growing connection a tender sight. To Maris, this bond transcended mere mortal affection, echoing a celestial harmony within her immortal spirit.
Beneath Maris’s watchful gaze, the drive to the Deverell estate was serene. She admired Eric’s respect for Adeline’s need for peace, his intuitive sense not to rush her words or decisions. Their shared exhaustion was palpable, yet Eric focused on ensuring Adeline got to her destination safely. The soft melodies from his SUV’s speakers soothed Adeline into a dreamlike state. Maris could see the care in Eric’s eyes, the deliberate gentleness of his actions, his jacket tenderly draped over her – all to preserve her tranquil resting position.
As they left the city’s glow for the open roads to the Deverell’s, Maris sensed his inner conflict. The weight of the dinner with his family pressed on Eric; he made a note to remember the name his brother had mentioned to Adeline. Eric’s mind raced as he pieced together his brother’s cryptic comments from dinner. Each mile they traveled brought him closer to the Deverell’s, but also closer to Garrett. As the city lights faded into the distance, he found himself wishing they could just keep driving, leaving all the threats and Garrett’s sudden attachment for Adeline far behind. He glanced at the peacefully sleeping Adeline and gripped the steering wheel tighter, determined to protect her at all costs.
As the SUV rolled to a stop at the end of the Deverell’s long, gravel driveway, Eric felt a pang of regret. He wished there was a way for the O’Cean sisters to say somewhere else, somewhere far away from Garrett’s looming presence. Though it would have been improper to invite them to his home, he hated leaving Adeline so close to Garrett. Once parked, Eric turned to wake Adeline, but he couldn’t bring himself to. The rise and fall of her breaths made him want to protect the peaceful comfort in which she slept. He reached over and carefully adjusted the jacket covering Adeline, his fingers brushing against her shoulder. The contact sent a shiver down his spine, his touch lingering just a moment longer than necessary. Her marveled at her serene expression, his heart swelling with a protective tenderness that he couldn’t describe. Sighing softly, Eric willed himself to exit the SUV and approach the Deverell entryway, his soft knock carrying reluctance, his gaze never leaving Adeline.
When the door finally swung open, Eric was relieved it was Kaylynn and not her brother, though his heart still twinged with regret. Kaylynn’s gaze quickly shifted beyond Eric, her expression puzzled. “Where’s A?”
“Asleep,” Eric whispered, gesturing towards the SUV. “I thought to carry her in myself. It’s been a long day, and waking her seems cruel.”
Kaylynn nodded in understanding. “Londyn filled me in,” she said softly. “I’ll show you to her room.”
Eric smiled gratefully, a warmth spreading across his face as he gently opened the passenger door. “Shhhh, you’re safe. I’m taking you to your room,” he whispered, his voice a soft lullaby that eased Adeline’s faint stirrings.
Kaylynn gathered Adeline’s clutch and heels, signaling Eric to follow. Adeline, in her slumber, nestled closer to the warmth of Eric’s embrace as he effortlessly carried her to her room. Kaylynn watched as Eric lay Adeline down on the bed. They heard her mumble a sleepy “Thanks, Eric” before turning away. Kaylynn saw that Eric wanted to stay, to watch over her as she slept, but he composed himself, tenderly brushing a lock of hair away and setting her hairclips beside her.
Surprised by his tenderness, Kaylynn watched with a soft smile as Eric placed a gentle kiss on Adeline’s cheek, whispered farewell, and stepped away.
“Can you take it from here?” Eric’s voice was barely audible.
“Leave it to me,” Kaylynn reassured him, moving to usher Eric out of the room.
“Thank you, Kay. I’ll return for you both tomorrow morning. Tell Addy…” Eric paused, his voice trailing as he took another glance at Adeline.
Kaylynn nodded silently, shooing him back to the threshold. “Thanks for taking care of her. See you tomorrow.” And with that, she closed the door, leaving Eric in the quiet of the night.
Kaylynn rushed back to Adeline’s side, her movements swift and gentle as she helped remove the jewelry and makeup from her friend’s slumbering form. Adeline’s features were soft with a tranquil smile as Kaylynn carefully settled her into bed. “Come on, A, time for pajamas,” Kaylynn jested silently as she struggled with the weight of Adeline’s inert body. “You’re like a ton of bricks!”
As if responding to her best friend’s complaint, Adeline stirred, her movements sluggish but deliberate. She shed her dress in a sleepy daze and slipped into an oversized shirt that doubled as her nightwear. Kaylynn’s lips curved into a relieved grin as she finished tucking Adeline in. With a final glance at her resting friend, Kaylynn tiptoed out, the soft click of the door marking the end of her watch.
The next morning, Adeline was gently stirred from her sleep by the rustic symphony of the Deverell farm. The rooster’s crow echoed through the quiet dawn, a natural alarm clock. As she stretched languidly, she felt the sun’s first rays warm her face, casting a golden glow through the curtains and painting her room in soft morning light. As the remnants of a forgotten dream lingered, a contented smile spread across her face. Embracing the peaceful start to her day, she rose from bed, feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world. Gathering her neatly arranged belongings from the night before and unpacking her day bag, she made her way to the adjoining Jack and Jill bathroom to start the new day.
Adeline pulled on her favourite faded blue jeans paired, the fabric soft and well-worn from countless outings, and paired them with a plaid baby blue and white ruched long-sleeve shirt, adding a touch of elegance to her casual look. She fastened her platinum gold earrings and matching necklace, the cool metal a comforting habit. A glance in the bathroom mirror confirmed her readiness; her hair pulled back into a neat ponytail, the ends playfully curled. She returned to her room to pack her backpack for school, making sure not to forget her work blouse. Checking her phone, she saw a message from Eric – his words reminded her of the day’s plans and the connection they shared. He told her he would arrive at eight to escort her and Kaylynn to school.
A thrill of excitement coursed through Adeline as she reread Eric’s message. His words, a simple promise of his arrival, seemed to carry a depth of intimacy that was both new and exhilarating. She tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear, her lips curling into an uncontrolled smile at the thought of seeing him. Her thoughts filled with the memories from the previous evening – the warmth of Eric’s jacket around her shoulders, the safety of his vehicle, the softness of his voice as he whispered reassurances. It was all so vivid, so comforting that his message seemed to convey this continued tenderness.
Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.
With a quickened pulse, Adeline typed back, “Looking forward to it,” and slipped her phone into her back pocket. She basked in the silent recognition of the bond that was slowly but surely weaving its way into her heart.
Stepping out of her room, Adeline was welcomed by the sweet and savory aroma of breakfast. Following her nose, she found her way to the bustling kitchen where Mrs. Deverell, Kaylynn, and the kitchen staff were in a flurry preparing the morning feast.
“Morning, sleepyhead,” Kaylynn called out with a playful smirk as she noticed Adeline hovering in the doorway. “Could you do me a favor and wake Londyn? Breakfast will be ready in twenty minutes. You know how she loves to sleep in.”
After a round of cheerful greetings, Adeline retreated to the hallway, her task reminding her of childhood sleepovers at the Deverell’s. She knocked lightly on Londyn’s door and entered. Londyn was sprawled across the bed, her covers in disarray – a testament to her usual sleep-related rhythmic movements. Even as a child, Londyn had always moved about in her sleep, sometimes ending up off the bed or upside-down.
“Time to wake up, Londyn,” Adeline coaxed, lifting the covers.
Londyn mumbled a plea for “Five more minutes…” before nearly swiping Adeline with an accidental swing. Accustomed to her sister’s morning antics, Adeline declared, “You’ll miss breakfast and have to walk to school,” in a tone that filled the room.
Londyn grumbled but sat up, her eyes fluttering open. “Morning, Addy,” she murmured, her voice rough from sleep.
Adeline’s smile was patient as she guided her sister out of bed and towards the bathroom. “Go shower. Breakfast is starting soon,” she instructed.
Londyn’s sleepy protests followed her as she vanished into the bathroom. Adeline straightened the bed before returning to the kitchen.
By breakfast in the Deverell dining hall, the room was filled with its usual crowd, laughing and chattering as Adeline seated herself between Kaylynn and Londyn. Alex, seated opposite, inquired about Eric’s jacket now absent from Adeline’s attire – a reminder of her promise to request a jacket from Eric for Alex’s birthday.
Garrett made his presence known, his intentions clear as he expressed his desire to drive all the girls to school. Yet Adeline was determined to maintain her distance, her stance clear that his role was to accompany only Londyn. Her eyes met his with silent firmness, a nonverbal reminder of the promise he had made to her – to support her as a friend in any way she needed. Garrett’s lips parted, words sitting on the edge of being uttered, but he held back, his discontent simmering in the tense atmosphere.
The tension shifted upon Eric’s timely entry at eight o’clock sharp, just as the breakfast bustle was winding down. His gaze fell first onto Garrett, who looked away, before finding Adeline’s. Her flying embrace into his welcoming arms dissolved any remnants of the standoff. Eric’s smile mirrored Adeline’s obvious joy in their reunion.
“Eric,” Mrs. Deverell called out, “would you care for some breakfast? I heard you’re taking the girls to school.”
“Thank you, ma’am,” Eric politely replied, holding Adeline’s hand. “I’ve already eaten, but we should leave soon to avoid being late.” He turned to Kaylynn, “Ready to go?”
“Just need to grab our bags,” Kaylynn responded, exiting the hall with Eric and Adeline. “Meet you at the SUV?”
“Perfect,” Eric agreed, following Adeline to collect her things.
In the hallway, they ran into Londyn, who darted from her room in a flurry. “I’ll see you at work after school,” she informed Adeline as she ran towards the foyer. “I’ve promised Dad I’d lend a hand.”
“Thanks, Londyn,” Adeline called back, her voice echoing after her sister. She picked up her backpack, which Eric graciously took from her, and they proceeded to the driveway. There, Adeline watched as Garrett drove off with Londyn.
Soon after, Kaylynn joined them, her backpack casually thrown over her shoulder, and together the trio set off for Golden Rivers High School. During their drive, the air was filled with anticipation of facing the school with Eric and Adeline’s new relationship. Eric remained composed, sharing his plans for basketball practice after school but reassured them he would be there to pick them up after Adeline’s shift at the mall. Kaylynn, who had her own plans to tend to her greenhouse during Adeline’s shift, nodded in agreement. The conversation remained light and positive, putting them all in a good mood as they pulled into the school parking lot, ready to face the curious stares of their peers.
Eric helped Adeline out of the SUV, her backpack in one hand and her hand in the other. As Kaylynn stepped out from the back seat, she could sense the many eyes that followed the new couple’s every move. Offering her support, she linked her arm with Adeline’s free one, and together, they made a confident march towards the main entrance. Adeline’s cheeks flushed with a blush as they crossed the parking lot to the site of Eric’s recent heartfelt confession. His grip on her hand tightened reassuringly as they passed through the school doors.
Inside, they were met with a chorus of greetings and congratulations, while Kaylynn excused herself to visit her locker. Adeline, who had vowed to face the school’s scrutiny with poise, found Eric’s steady presence calming to her nerves among the sea of inquisitive faces.
The first bell chimed, signaling the start of the first period, and students promptly dispersed from the hall to their respective classes. Eric promised Adeline that he would like to have lunch with her after escorting her to her first class. The day passed by – a flurry of questions from friends about Adeline’s relationship, a shared lunch with Eric and his teammates, and the usual afternoon classes. After the final bell, Eric popped by to remind them of his practice and their later rendezvous. Adeline gave Eric a shy but affectionate kiss on his cheek before sending him off to the gym.
The walk to Golden Rivers Mall, the O’Cean family business, was long enough for reflection. Kaylynn noted Adeline’s apparent happiness.
“I am,” confirmed Adeline with a smile. “Eric has been extremely supportive. I’m no longer afraid of doing something different with him by my side.”
Kaylynn nodded, her thoughts returning to Eric’s tenderness the night before. “Yes, he appears to be very good for you. I can tell how much you mean to him,” Kaylynn paused, glancing at her friend. “Have you decided what you want now?”
Adeline shook her head, a frown settling across her face. “I’m not exactly sure yet,” she admitted. “I’m still trying to figure out what I want to do. Eric has given me a lot to think about, but mom…” her voice trailed off as she recalled her mother’s breakdown and her father’s expectations.
Kaylynn offered a comforting hand, empathizing with the difficult decision Adeline faced. The path set by her father was not an easy one to deviate from, especially when Londyn had expressed her reluctance to take on the responsibility. Adeline’s uncertainty and the weight of the situation left Kaylynn speechless; her own carefree life was easy compared to the burdens Adeline bore.
Arriving at the mall, their earlier conversation cast a shadow over their parting. Kaylynn assured Adeline there was no rush to join her at the greenhouse, understanding the weight of the conversation they had just shared.
In the back office, Adeline slipped into her work blouse and secured her belongings in her locker just as Londyn arrived, ready to help. Adeline took on the role of a manager, assigning Londyn a locker and providing her with a uniform. As Londyn changed, Adeline attended to her emails, getting back into the rhythm of her workday.
Together, they toured the mall. Adeline introduced Londyn to each department and the various managers, her professionalism impressing her younger sister. They encountered Garrett at the back loading bay of their grocery store, and Adeline maintained a strictly business manner while discussing plans that would need the Deverell’s support for an upcoming event. Garrett proposed waiting to take them home, but Adeline refused his offer, insisting they had other plans. The tension between them didn’t escape Londyn’s notice, but she chose to remain quiet and watch it play out.
By the end of their shift, Adeline had firmly established her role as the go-to person in her parents’ absence, and Londyn was to train with Ms. Johnson in Customer Service starting tomorrow. Adeline’s mature approach kept Londyn from voicing any objections, grateful that her sister still carried the responsibility of maintaining the family legacy.
In the back office, the sisters changed out of their work uniforms, the hum of the air conditioning a constant background noise. They checked their phones and Adeline’s heart skipped a beat as she read Eric’s message: “Waiting with Kaylynn at the greenhouse. Can’t wait to see you.” She smiled, feeling a mix of anticipation and comfort.
As they were about to leave, Ms. Johnson entered the office to offer her support to Adeline, reassuring her that she understood the pressures she faced and promised to look after Londyn.
As they left the mall, Londyn questioned Adeline about how she managed all her responsibilities with such ease. “How do you do this? Are you even happy with this life?”
Adeline’s response was one of quiet commitment. “I don’t want to burden you. With Eric now by my side, I’m committed to finding my own way. Please give me some time to make changes,” she asked, her eyes filled with determination.
Londyn’s trust in her sister was clear as they approached the greenhouse together, where Eric and Kaylynn greeted them – a symbol of the support system surrounding Adeline.