Smiles and nods of satisfaction rippled through the celestial realm as Mirathrend’s Mirror captivated the deities. They watched Golden River High’s graduating class disembark from their overnight prom cruise, a scene filled with hope and anticipation for the future. Through the crystalline waters, they observed Adeline, Kaylynn, Eric, and Lance walking away, their silhouettes highlighted by the rising sun. The precarious situation of the fallen passenger was now a distant memory; their laughter echoed softly into the celestial realm.
The pond’s waters rippled, distorting the scene. As the four figures faded into a blur, the water calmed, returning to its crystal-clear state, signaling the end of the revelation. Gods and goddesses exchanged knowing glances before dispersing to resume their own pursuits and responsibilities.
Straton cast a final glance at the now-still waters before scanning the departing crowd. His thoughts lingered on Feronia’s unanswered questions and her sudden disappearance during the mirror’s climax. He pondered her motives, particularly her concern – or lack thereof - for Kaylynn Deverell compared to her concern for Kaylynn’s eldest brother, Garrett. He had expected Feronia to care for the entire Deverell lineage, just as he protected the Oberst family. Why had she slipped away when all eyes were focused on the mortals? Though it wasn’t Kaylynn who fell into the turbulent ocean, it was her date. Did Feronia trust Straton’s watchful gaze that much?
Seeing no reason to linger, Straton turned and began his search for Feronia. His steps were swift and determined as he navigated the crowd, strategizing his next encounter with the elusive goddess. In his focused stride, he accidentally bumped into Aeonara, who quickly backed away with a small apology. Straton nodded at her, barely noticing and continued toward Feronia’s garden abode.
Eloquen, watching from afar, felt an equal urge to depart. As he turned from the mystical pond, he ran into Maris, who was also dispersing discreetly. Surprised, Eloquen greeted her with a gentle smile. As other celestials drifted around them, he moved a protective arm to guide her toward a quieter area.
“Maris,” Eloquen began warmly, his tranquil voice calming and wise. “It seems our charges have grown quite close. Their plans seem intertwined.”
Maris nodded, her eyes reflecting a mixture of pride and concern. “Indeed, Eloquen. Adeline has shown remarkable resilience and growth. Your charge has been a reassuring presence for her. It’s heartening to witness the strength she draws from him.”
Eloquen’s smile deepened. “You’ve always had a keen eye for mortals, Maris. Your blessings have undoubtedly been invaluable to her,” he said, his voice veiling his curiosity about her recent inactivity.
Gratitude softened Maris’s gaze. “Thank you, Eloquen. Your wisdom has been equally vital for me and, I’m sure, for Eric,” she paused, then added softly, “Would you like to join me at my home to continue our watch together, away from prying eyes?”
Eloquen accepted her invitation by offering his arm. “An excellent suggestion. I believe our charges will be together for some time, and Eric has been progressing well with or without my constant vigil.” As Maris linked her arm with his, they proceeded to her abode.
The secluded path to Maris’s cliffside sanctuary was silent, mirroring the pair’s reflective thoughts. By the time they arrived, the crashing waves drowned out any conversation. Welcoming Eloquen inside, Maris led him to her grand balcony overlooking the endless celestial ocean. As they took their seats, Maris summoned her vast mirror with a flick of her wrist.
Settled beside Maris, Eloquen focused on her. “Eric and Adeline are about to embark on a new chapter together. The challenges ahead will be formidable, but together they will overcome them.”
Maris nodded, her gaze confident. “But they aren’t alone. With our guidance and blessings, they will only grow stronger. They will prevail,” she asserted with renewed determination.
Together, Eloquen and Maris resumed their watch, their bond as guardians of two of the five founding families reaffirmed. Eloquen’s gaze lingered on Maris, noting a change in her that mirrored her charge. He had feared that the pond’s omen would discourage Maris, but he was glad to see his concern was unwarranted. Turning his attention to Maris’s mystical mirror, they watched with unwavering focus, united in purpose and spirit as Adeline, Eric, Kaylynn, and Lance headed toward Eric’s home, their enthusiasm undiminished by their nearly sleepless night.
The scene shifted to Eric driving his SUV away from the Landin estate. Golden hues of the rising sun cast shadows across the road, underscoring the bittersweet dawn of their future after such a memorable night. Beside Eric, Adeline clasped his hand, resting against the passenger seat, her bag tucked between her legs.
In the backseat, Kaylynn and Lance filled the vehicle with laughter and light conversation. Lance joked about the evening’s unexpected adventures and his newfound popularity, while Kaylynn reminisced about the dance and playful competitions. Adeline, sitting quietly, savored the lingering emotions from the cruise. Despite their exhaustion, a palpable sense of closeness enveloped them, a bond forged through recent shared experiences.
Their first stop was the imposing Oberst fortress. “Here we are, Lance’s stronghold,” Eric quipped as he pulled up to the large, daunting gate guarded by two armed guards. Lance, with a final laugh and wave, stepped out, thanking Eric for the ride. “Hope to see you all soon,” he called out as he vanished behind the secured gates of his family home.
Next, they headed out of the city to the Deverell estate. With her date now gone, Kaylynn settled back, watching the landscape pass by while recounting her moments with Lance.
“Thanks for the lift, Eric,” Kaylynn said, her voice tinged with the reluctance and exhaustion of the long night. She turned to Adeline and squeezed her shoulders. “I’m off to sleep. Call you later?”
“Definitely,” Adeline replied, watching her friend disappear into the front door. She caught a glimpse of Garrett by the barn as Eric maneuvered off the Deverell’s gravel driveway.
Returning to the city, the SUV neared Adeline’s family home. The familiar sight of the grand gate, neatly trimmed hedges, and the long driveway marked the end of their prom night. Eric parked and helped Adeline out, effortlessly taking her overnight bag. As they approached the doorstep, Adeline’s mom, Aria, opened the door with a bright smile, surprising the young couple.
“Sweetheart, Eric, come in, come in,” she exclaimed, ushering them inside. “Tell me all about your prom and this luxury cruise.”
In the foyer, they were greeted by Mr. O’Cean, who held two cups of Rooibos tea. “Ah, you’re back,” he noted, leading them into the great room. Aria took a seat beside her husband on the loveseat, while Adeline and Eric settled together on the adjacent couch.
The room was filled with the usual scent of leather and cedar, now mixed with the subtle aroma of tea. “There must be quite the story to tell, considering how late you’ve returned,” Aria remarked with playful curiosity.
Exchanging a glance, Adeline and Eric took turns recounting the evening, carefully weaving their story, balancing truth with discretion. Under the watchful gaze of the O’Cean family heads’ portraits, Adeline’s parents listened intently, Aria living vicariously through their tale while Mr. O’Cean remained thoughtful, sipping his tea.
As they concluded, Adeline tried to silence her yawn, prompting her mother’s concern. “You must be exhausted, both of you,” she said, rising from her seat. “I shouldn’t keep you up any longer. Please go home and rest, Eric.”
Mr. O’Cean stood, offering his hand to Eric. “Thank you for bringing my daughter home safe and sound,” he said, gesturing towards the exit. “We look forward to dinner with your family in a couple of days. Please get some rest after the night you’ve had.”
After seeing Eric out, Mr. O’Cean turned to Adeline. “You look spent. Don’t worry about work today. Your mother and I will be working from home. Let’s talk tomorrow after you’ve recovered from your prom.”
With a grateful nod, Adeline kissed her parents on their cheeks and bounded up the stairs to her bedroom, eager for rest. As soon as her head hit the pillow, she drifted to sleep, her dreams filled with the joyful memories of her magical night with Eric and her friends.
When she awoke, it was evening, and the golden hues of the setting sun bathed her room in a warm glow. Stretching languidly, Adeline headed to her adjoining bathroom to freshen up. Feeling rejuvenated, she slipped into comfortable loungewear and made her way to the kitchen, driven by thirst and hunger. The house was quiet and serene. “Hello? Anyone home?” she called out. Her voice echoed through the halls, but there was no response.
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
After preparing a snack plate with vegetables, fresh fruit, and cheese, Adeline returned to her room to check her phone, which she had left charging on her bedside table. Picking up her phone, she noticed several missed messages and calls – most from Kaylynn. After reading the text from her mother that confirmed her family’s absence – her sister was out with friends, and her parents had gone out for dinner and a show with plans to return home late.
Settling at her desk with her water and snack, Adeline dialed her best friend first. Kaylynn answered with a cheerful, “Hey, you’re alive!”
Laughing, Adeline replied, “Barely! I slept the whole day away. What’s up?”
“Just checking in,” Kaylynn said. “We didn’t have much chance to talk, just us.”
Adeline nodded, munching on a carrot. They continued chatting about the various details of their prom, Kaylynn confirming her growing interest in Lance and determination to deepen their friendship into something more. Adeline listened as she ate, admiring her friend’s passion despite being delicately rejected by Lance the night before. They shared the rest of their plans for the weekend, promising to catch up at school on Monday before hanging up.
Feeling more invigorated from her conversation with her best friend, Adeline decided to call Eric next. He answered almost immediately, his voice a comforting presence. “Hey Addy. How are you feeling?” he asked.
“Much better after a full day of sleep. I woke up to a quiet house – my parents and Londyn are out, so I thought I’d catch up on my missed messages and calls,” she explained. “I’ll be having the conversation with my parents about the summer trip and my university plans tomorrow.”
“Are you lonely? Did you want me to come over?” Eric jested with a hint of seriousness. “Just say the word and I’ll be there. You’re never alone.”
Adeline laughed, shaking her head. “No, get some rest. Our families are having dinner together on Sunday. I’ll see you then,” she assured. “I just wanted to update you; I’ll probably go back to bed after taking some time to myself.”
“That sounds like a good plan,” Eric said supportively. “How do you feel about the upcoming conversation with your parents? Still nervous?”
“A bit,” she admitted. "It all feels like it’s happening so soon, and even though I’ve talked through the scenarios multiple times with you, Nathaniel, and my grandfather, I still don’t know if I’ll be ready for my father’s reaction.”
“I know what you mean,” Eric replied, his voice soft and empathetic. “But remember, you’re not alone. We’re here by you – not just in person, but in spirit – while you face these challenges. Whatever happens, we’ll be with you to tackle it together.”
A wave of relief washed over her. “Thanks, Eric. It means a lot to know I have all of you on my side. Especially you…” she whispered letting her voice trail off.
“Always,” Eric affirmed. “And hey, I’ll make sure I’m nearby tomorrow. If you need anything, just let me know. I’ll be there in a heartbeat!”
“I know,” Adeline smiled, her heart bursting with love at his words. “Thank you.”
“Anytime, Addy,” Eric said, his voice reassuring. They shifted their conversation to Kaylynn and Lance. After several minutes of chatting and assurances from Eric, Adeline ended the call feeling strengthened from their conversation about the future. She placed her phone back on the charger and returned her dirty dishes to the kitchen. Then, seeking solace and some escapism, Adeline settled into her favorite seat in the family library to lose herself in a fictional novel.
The house was quiet, but her thoughts buzzed with anticipation and support from her friends. As she delved deeper into the pages, the last light of day faded, enveloping her in her own fantasy world. Returning to her room later, Adeline slipped into her bed, content with the knowledge that her summer plans and upcoming conversations with her parents were taking shape, supported by those she trusted most. In the dark and quiet of the house, Adeline drifted back into her dreams with a peaceful smile.
The next morning, sunlight peeked from under her blinds, stirring her awake. Eager to start the day, Adeline sprang from bed and began her morning routine. As she stepped into the hall, the sweet and savory aromas of breakfast drew her toward the kitchen, where the sound of clinking cookware resonated.
Upon entering the kitchen, she found her father, Mr. O’Cean, scrambling to prepare breakfast. He looked up, slightly embarrassed by the chaos. “Ah, Addy, did you sleep well?”
“Yes, thank you,” she replied, offering her help. “Can I assist with anything?”
“Please,” he said, gesturing towards a bowl. “Could you help me with the French toast? I seem to be out of practice.”
Adeline chuckled, taking in the recipe written neatly by her mother. It felt normal, almost nostalgic, helping her father, who had momentarily shed his all-business demeanor to revisit the warmth of her childhood days.
“Your mother and Londyn are still asleep, but they should be up soon,” Mr. O’Cean mentioned as he finished the turkey sausages. “It’s been ages since I’ve made such a brunch feast. I don’t know how the Deverells manage this daily.”
“They do have help,” Adeline remarked, handing the soaked bread to her father to fry. “Did you and Mom enjoy your night out?”
“It’s been too long since we’ve had a date,” he admitted in a remorseful tone. “I’ve been neglecting the family, too caught up in what’s left of our legacy.”
He paused, his spatula hovering over the pan. “Last night, I realized something crucial. Your grandfather – your mother’s father – has been trying to reconnect and make amends. Seeing the joy he has brought to your mother made me see how my stubbornness and ineptitude have affected our family.”
Adeline absorbed his words, her heart hopeful as she prepared another slice of bread.
“I’ve been so focused on our legacy that I lost sight of what’s best for us right now,” he continued, meeting her eyes. “With your brothers on the way, I want to change that. I don’t want them – or you – to grow up in a home overshadowed by legacy rather than filled with love and support.”
Moved by his sincerity, Adeline felt a lump in her throat. “Hearing this from you means so much,” she managed, her voice soft. “Your dedication is clear, but sometimes it’s a bit overwhelming.”
Mr. O’Cean chuckled, a note of relief in his voice. “Overwhelming, huh? I can see that. I’m grateful for your patience, and with our growing family, I want to explore better ways forward.”
He plated the cooked French toast and then looked at Adeline with a hopeful smile. “I’ve been thinking a lot about our recent disagreements and what Londyn said a few months back about your dreams. Your happiness truly matters to me. Even though I haven’t shown it well, I hope we can resolve our differences and keep your happiness at the forefront.”
“I hope so too,” Adeline said, smiling as she placed another piece of bread in the pan. “It’s going to be wonderful for the twins to experience the kind of loving family I cherished in my childhood.”
Her father nodded, visibly moved. As they finished preparing breakfast, the aroma of French toast and turkey sausages filled the kitchen, drawing Londyn to join them. Soon after, their mother appeared, and the kitchen brimmed with laughter and the warmth of a family reconnecting through cherished memories and hopeful conversation.
As brunch concluded and Londyn began clearing the table, Adeline seized the opportunity to discuss her summer plans. She shared Kaylynn’s decision to move to the UK to study floriculture and their idea of spending a month traveling around Europe. Mr. O’Cean listened in thoughtful silence as Adeline outlined their plans. Aria, clapping her hands excitedly, encouraged them to seize this adventure as a memorable graduation experience and a fitting send-off for Kaylynn.
With her mother’s pregnancy in mind, Adeline took a deep breath before broaching her own future aspirations. “With the twins on the way, I’ve been thinking about our family legacy. Instead of attending university locally at Golden Rivers, I’m hoping to pursue my degree at Harvard, where their reputation will likely open doors for me,” she explained, noting that Eric had already purchased a home nearby.
She met her father’s gaze, which was serious and contemplative. Aria, sensing the tension, placed a supportive hand over her husband’s. Just then, Londyn returned to the table.
“This is quite a surprise, Adeline,” Mr. O’Cean said, his tone formal yet strained. “I had hoped you would stay close, especially as your mother enters her third trimester…” His voice trailed off, reflecting on Adeline’s plans.
“I’ll be here to help,” Londyn interjected, giving her sister a reassuring smile.
“Yes, but to study so far from home…” their father continued, his thoughts heavy. “I can support your summer travels, but the idea of you moving away for university concerns me. We need you here.”
Adeline absorbed his words, understanding the weight of his concern but also feeling a strong pull towards her own aspirations. The conversation paused, leaving space for reflection as each contemplated the balance between individual desires and collective needs.
Aria finally spoke up. “Darling,” she ventured softly. “I believe Adeline has sacrificed enough for the family. If she wants to venture away to explore her opportunities elsewhere, I believe, as her parents, we should support her.”
Recalling his earlier words with Adeline in the kitchen, Mr. O’Cean sighed, the lines of contemplation softening as he looked at his eldest daughter. He recognized the passion in her eyes – a mirror of his own youthful ambitions. “All right,” he finally said, his voice carrying a mix of reluctance and acceptance. “You’ve already accepted Harvard. I will agree to your studying elsewhere; however, I would like us to discuss your living arrangements upon your return from your vacation. It will give me time to explore other options. I don’t like the idea of you living with Eric.”
Adeline’s face lit up, a mixture of relief and gratitude as she left her seat to hug her father. “Thank you! Of course we can talk about everything in detail when I come back in August. I promise to return and assume my responsibilities in the family business after the vacation.”
Mr. O’Cean nodded, a slow smile spreading across his face as he realized the importance of supporting his children’s dreams, even if it meant adjusting his own expectations. “All right, we’ll table this discussion until August. And girls, I want you to know I’ll make a genuine effort to consider your opinions more in my future decisions.”
The tension in the room dissipated, replaced by a renewed sense of family unity. Aria clapped her hands together, eager to shift the day’s heavy atmosphere to one of activity and lightness. “Well then, it seems we have a lot of catching up to do! Time to return to the office. I’m sure we’re missed after our delayed return to the mall,” she announced cheerfully.
The family rose from the table, energized by their discussion and ready to resume their work together at the family business. As they gathered their belongings and prepared to leave the house, the air was filled with the comforting buzz of a family moving forward together, their steps in sync as they headed out to reclaim the time they had lost.