The waters of Mirathrend’s Mirror darkened as Eric Landin pulled into the driveway of the O’Cean estate. The touching scenes from Eric, Adeline, and Kaylynn’s graduation day lingered in the minds of the surrounding deities, filling them with emotion. Although the pond had returned to its serene state, the celestials remained motionless, deep in thought. A gentle breeze rustled through the gathering, stirring the hair of the gods and goddesses, yet they stood or sat as if frozen in time.
Maris was the first to stir from her contemplative silence. She gracefully leapt from her perch on a branch, landing almost silently on the lush green grass and gestured for Eloquen to follow. With a silent nod, Eloquen slipped away alongside her, unnoticed by all but Straton.
Positioned discreetly across the pond, Straton tried to follow them but found his path blocked by the still-contemplating deities. Caelistra, nearby, rose to make room for him. Her ethereal voice pierced the stillness. “That was so touching,” she said, drawing the attention of the others. “It’s rare to witness such heartfelt interactions and speeches from young mortals. This generation seems particularly wise beyond their years; I eagerly anticipate the paths they will choose.”
Heads nodded in agreement around her, and the immortals, stirred by Caelistra’s words, began to rise and share their thoughts on the day’s events. Grateful for the space, Straton moved forward but stopped short when he realized Maris and Eloquen had vanished from view. He could guess their destination but chose not to pursue further. Instead, his focus shifted to deciphering the implications of the Mirror’s latest vision in hopes of uncovering clues as to why Feronia had been so elusive.
Under the cloak of twilight, Maris and Eloquen tread softly through the forest that magically bridged the realms of gods and mortals. Their figures melded into the shadows, moving with a silence that mirrored their surroundings. The trees rustled softly, carrying echoes of the pond’s revelations.
“Adeline is set on her path,” Maris whispered, careful to avoid curious ears. “It’s unknown what challenges she and Eric will face, and I grow weary with Feronia’s absence. Everything seems too smooth. We don’t know what will happen next.”
Eloquen nodded, his eyes reflecting the faint glow of the stars. As they reached Maris’s secluded abode, perched on the edge of their realm with the endless ocean crashing against its cliffs, Eloquen paused. “They carry a great burden,” he remarked softly.
Inside, Maris led Eloquen to her balcony and waved her hand, summoning a vast mirror that looked into Adeline’s room. Her charge was fast asleep, unaware of the watchful eyes guarding her. Settling into her coral throne, Maris maintained her vigil.
Eloquen sat beside her, his gaze fixed on the mirror. “She is resilient. With your guardianship, she’ll be fine,” he assured Maris confidently.
“Yes, it is my duty as her silent guardian to lighten her burdens as much as I can from afar,” Maris responded, her gaze never wavering from Adeline. “I must ensure her journey leads to enlightenment, not despair.”
As they discussed potential strategies to best assist their charges without disturbing the balance between their realms, dawn began to break over Adeline’s world. The scene in the mystical mirror shifted to Adeline preparing for her last day at school – a day of celebration, appreciation, and farewells. Today, the graduates would meet only to say their final goodbyes to their teachers and friends before summer vacation began. Adeline had plans to meet with Eric and Kaylynn later to finalize their vacation plans with other friends, including Lance Oberst.
Golden Rivers High School buzzed with vibrant energy as graduates filled the hallways for one last day. Amid the clamor, a teacher’s voice rang out, “Keep it down, there are still classes going on!” Nostalgia hung heavy in the air, mixed with the promise of future adventures. Adeline O’Cean moved through the crowded corridors with a serene grace, her yearbook clutched tightly under her arm as she made her way from classroom to classroom.
Kaylynn, spotting her best friend, rushed over and looped her arm through Adeline’s. “My hands are starting to cramp from all the messages I’ve been writing,” she complained with a laugh. They were soon stopped by classmates eager to exchange yearbooks.
“Well, you should keep your messages short if you want to keep this up,” Adeline teased, signing her name and email address with a short sentence in another yearbook.
“I can’t help it, I have so much I want to say,” Kaylynn replied, carefully crafting her message. Around them, more graduates gathered to share heartfelt notes and goodbyes.
As lunchtime approached and younger students spilled out of their classrooms, the graduates found themselves the center of attention. Adeline, voted “Campus Belle” and “Best Smile,” drew a crowd of admirers that separated her from Kaylynn in the cafeteria, eager for pictures and autographs. Eric, voted “Most Athletic,” “Most likely to succeed,” and “Most Intellectual,” joined her, accompanied by his own group of fans.
The cafeteria buzzed with well-wishes, laughter, and the shuffling of pages as yearbooks exchanged hands. Someone scribbled in a yearbook, “Don’t forget to visit us when you’re famous!” Nearby, a girl confessed her feelings in Eric’s yearbook, while several boys slipped their email addresses into Adeline’s.
In the classrooms, teachers were enveloped in hugs and heartfelt thanks. Adeline paused at the doorway of her favorite teacher’s classroom, Ms. Watanabe, her math teacher. “Adeline, make sure you come back and tell me about all your adventures,” she said with a mixture of pride and sadness. Adeline promised, overwhelmed by emotions and gratitude.
Rejoined by Eric and Kaylynn, they continued their farewell tour. Kaylynn paused in the art room where the teacher who supervised the floral club had left her a touching note. Reading it, a tear welled up in Kaylynn’s eye. "Watching you bloom in the floral club has been a highlight of my time here," the note read. "I’m incredibly proud of you." Overwhelmed, Kaylynn hugged her teacher, and Eric and Adeline stepped back to give her a moment.
Outside, the trio made their way to the bustling courtyard. Laughter rang out louder here, the air tinged with elation and melancholy. Countless graduates were gathered with phones floating above the crowd, snapping photos, exchanging contact information, and making promises to keep in touch.
As the bell rang one final time, signaling the end of the briefly extended lunch hour, Adeline linked arms with Eric and Kaylynn, stepping out into the sunlight that bathed the school’s front steps. They paused, looking back at the building that had shaped them. The trio was joined by Lance, who arrived with trained stealth, lifting Kaylynn into the air. Her laughter echoed through the air, drawing smiles from the surrounding graduates. The four friends made their way to the benches outside the school’s main entrance, where their other friends were already gathered. Their conversation quickly turned to the much-anticipated summer trip to the UK and surrounding areas.
“Perfect, we’re all here,” Eric said, looking around at his friends gathered on the benches. “Let’s finalize our plans for the trip. It’s just a few days away, and we still haven’t sorted out all the details. Although my family can pull some strings, we can’t make last-minute reservations during peak tourist season!”
As they discussed destinations and activities, Adeline helped prioritize the group's list, ensuring that each friend's interests were considered. The planning was in full swing, with Eric jotting down notes on his phone when Adeline’s own device began to vibrate insistently.
She excused herself and answered, her face draining of color as she listened to her father’s shaky voice. "Your mother… she fainted," he said urgently. "We're at the hospital now but heading home now. Can you come?"
"Yes, of course," Adeline replied, her voice steady despite her rising panic. She turned back to her friends, her eyes filled with worry. Without needing to explain further, Eric nodded, understanding immediately. "Let’s get you home," he said softly.
Together, they hurried to his SUV. As they drove, Adeline clutched her phone, her mind racing with concern for her mother. Eric reached over to squeeze her hand, offering silent support as they navigated the uncertain road ahead.
The drive to the O’Cean estate felt impossibly long for Adeline. Her heart raced, and her palms were sweaty with anxiety. As Eric pulled into the driveway, Adeline noticed her father’s car alongside Garrett’s truck, intensifying her urgency. She barely waited for Eric to stop the SUV before she flung open the door and dashed through the doors into the grand foyer, her reflection in the ornate mirror mirroring the fear etched across her face.
Before she could call out, Garrett appeared in the hallway, his expression somber. “Your mom is in the great room,” he started, but Adeline was already speeding past him, with Eric close behind.
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
They entered the great room to find Aria, Adeline’s mother, lying pale but alert on a couch beneath the stern gaze of ancestral portraits. As she saw her daughter, she attempted to sit up, smiling weakly. “Addy, my sweet child, don’t look so worried,” she murmured.
“What happened?” Adeline rushed to her mother’s side, her voice thick with concern.
Mr. O’Cean, who had been supporting his wife, noticed Eric and Garrett still hovering near the entrance and gestured for them to join. “Anemia,” he explained, his voice steady as he looked between his wife and daughter. “It’s complicating her health, especially at her age with this pregnancy.”
“Jo,” Aria interjected, shaking her head slightly. “I’m not giving up my boys.”
“I’m not asking you to,” Mr. O’Cean responded, his gaze gentle yet resolute. “But you need rest. Work is too stressful. It was a good thing Garrett happened to be visiting you when you fainted like that. Who knows what could have happened if you were all alone and no one was there for you…” The concern in his voice was filled with regrets.
“Mom, what can I do?” Adeline asked, clutching her mother’s hand.
Aria patted her daughter’s hand, smiling faintly. “I’ll be fine, darling. Your father just worries too much. I’m not that fragile.”
Mr. O’Cean turned to his daughter, his eyes imploring her to understand. “We have an appointment with a nutritionist to help plan her meals, ensuring she gets all the necessary vitamins, minerals and nutrients during her pregnancy,” he explained. “It’ll be quite busy, and I’m hoping you could fill in for our absence for the next few days while I accompany your mother to these appointments.”
“Of course,” Adeline replied immediately. Eric, who had taken a seat next to her, chimed in, “I’ll be happy to help out as well.”
Garrett, standing a bit apart, added, “I can lend a hand too. My experience at the grocery store and your business might come in handy here.”
Adeline’s eyes were glassy as she sat next to her mother, squeezing her hand. She watched every subtle change in her mother’s expression, the worry etching deeper with each slight wince or tired sigh from Aria. “Mom, are you sure there’s nothing more we can do? Maybe should stay home with you?”
Aria smiled, her gaze softening. “Darling, your concern warms my heart, but you need to focus on your own life now. Don’t you have your trip coming up? I’ll be in good hands with your father and grandfather here to help.” Her voice, though weak, carried the resolve of a mother intent on shielding her child from undue burden.
Eric, who had been quietly observing, moved closer, his presence a solid reassurance. “Addy, I’m here for whatever you or your parents need. Day or night, you can count on me.” His voice was low and earnest, his hand finding Adeline’s other hand and giving it a reassuring squeeze.
Mr. O’Cean, witnessing this exchange, felt a surge of gratitude and respect towards Eric. “Thank you, Eric. It’s comforting to know Adeline has you,” he said. He then turned to Garrett, who had been listening intently, a frown of concern marking his features. “Garrett, your support and offer mean a great deal to us. I cannot express how relieved I am that you happened to be there for Aria when she fainted. However, as the Deverell heir, you have your own responsibilities. Our families share a long history of friendship, and I trust you understand that we need to address this matter internally without involving other founding family heirs.”
Garrett nodded, his expression a mix of surprise, disappointment, and understanding. “Of course, Mr. O’Cean. My offer still stands. Adeline has always been like family to me. If there’s anything my family can do, don’t hesitate to ask.”
Mr. O’Cean thanked Garrett again, signaling it was time for him to depart. “Thank you, Garrett. You should return to your family farm now; I apologize for taking up so much of your time.”
Taking the hint, Garrett nodded at Aria before making his way out. “I’ll show myself out,” he muttered, glancing at Adeline who was avoiding his gaze.
Aria instead raised her head to meet Garrett’s eyes. “Thank you, Garrett. We’re lucky to have you in our lives.”
Once Garrett had left, Mr. O’Cean turned back to his family, his expression grave. “I know this is a lot for all of us. We’ll finalize the details when Londyn returns from her last day of school,” he nodded at Eric. “Together, we’ll ensure Aria gets through this pregnancy with all the support she needs. Adeline, while I would like to keep you here, it’s important for you to continue with your vacation plans – we don’t want you to put your life on hold.”
Adeline nodded slowly, the weight of her parents’ love and Eric’s protection filling her with both comfort and a sense of responsibility. She leaned into Eric, who wrapped an arm around her shoulders, silently vowing to be her steadfast support.
As the clock struck two and the afternoon light filled the room, Mr. O’Cean rose and offered to take Aria upstairs to rest. Despite her slight protests, Aria relented and allowed her husband to support her to their bedroom. With a faint smile and a gaze filled with determination, she thanked Eric for his dedication to both their family and Adeline. Eric noticed the spark in Aria’s eyes, a resolve to fight through her health challenges with grace.
Left alone under the ancestral portraits, Adeline and Eric faced each other in contemplation. Turning to Eric, Adeline voiced her concerns. “Eric, I don’t know if I can leave my mom like this,” she revealed, her voice tinged with doubt. “I know she wants me to live my life, and Dad even told me not to hold back, but…” Her voice trailed off as her eyes lingered on her great-grandfather’s portrait.
Eric clasped her hands, his own emotions swirling as he grappled with the desire to comfort her and his anticipation of their planned trip. He knew the time away was supposed to be a relief for them both, especially for Adeline, who had been so burdened by the evolving dynamics in her family. Yet how could he express this without seeming selfish? “Adeline, I understand your worry, but maybe a little distance will help you recharge. We can always come back if needed,” he offered gently, hoping to balance his support with his longing for their journey together.
Mr. O’Cean returned to the room just as Eric finished speaking, his footsteps echoing softly in the quiet space. He paused at the entrance, having overheard Eric’s thoughtful suggestion. “Eric’s right, Adeline,” he said, his voice firm yet gentle, drawing their attention. “Three weeks is a brief time. It might offer you a new perspective, and remember, we’re just a phone call away. I’ll keep you informed, don’t worry.”
Adeline looked up, her eyes searching her father’s for reassurance. Mr. O’Cean offered a comforting smile, one that seemed to have returned since his recent enlightenment. “I trust you both immensely,” he continued, nodding appreciatively at Eric. “I have a favor to ask. Could you both go to the mall today and speak with our management team? Inform them that Aria and I won’t be in the office for the next few days due to her health.”
He turned to Adeline, his expression serious yet filled with love. “Make sure they understand that Aria won’t return to the office until after her pregnancy. For now, I’ll be working from home between her appointments. Let them know that if anything urgent comes up, they should call me directly on my cell. Only in emergencies, though. I’m trying to minimize stress for your mother, and managing office calls at home might be too disruptive.”
Adeline agreed, feeling a mixture of responsibility and relief. The task was familiar, yet it emphasized the level of trust her father placed in her and Eric, reinforcing her role not just as his heir but as a capable young adult. “We’ll handle it, Father. Just focus on Mom.”
Eric stood, his posture resolute. “We’ll take care of everything. You have nothing to worry about,” he assured Mr. O’Cean, sealing his promise with a firm handshake. Eric’s commitment was clear; he was supporting not just his girlfriend but her entire family during this critical period.
Mr. O’Cean’s eyes lingered on the couple for a moment, filled with gratitude and parental concern. “Thank you, both of you. It means a great deal to me, more than I can express,” he said, his voice laden with emotion, revealing the burden he felt as a husband and father striving to protect his family’s well-being. “We’ll reconvene tonight after Aria has rested and Londyn is home to discuss long-term plans.”
As Mr. O’Cean left to rejoin his wife, Adeline and Eric gathered their things and returned to Eric’s SUV. In the quiet of the vehicle, Adeline rested her head against Eric’s shoulder. “Thank you for being here,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “For everything.”
Eric wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. “Always. We’re in this together, no matter what,” he reassured her, his words comforting. As they pulled away from Adeline’s house, they faced the road ahead, strengthened by the deep trust and unity within their families.
On her way, Adeline texted Londyn and Kaylynn to update them on the situation. Knowing Londyn was still in class, she didn’t expect an immediate reply, but Kaylynn, ever supportive like her brother, offered to assist in any way she could. Grateful, Adeline responded that they had everything under control for now, but she’d be busy until their trip but they’ll catch up later.
The drive to the mall was quiet, each lost in their thoughts. The familiarity of the route did little to ease the heaviness that lingered in the air. As they arrived, the bustling atmosphere of the shopping center offered a stark contrast to the seriousness of their departure from the O’Cean estate.
Navigating through the back halls of the mall and seeking out the manager amongst the crowds, Eric and Adeline managed to inform the managers of the temporary change in the office dynamics. With each conversation and well wishes from the managers, Adeline’s confidence grew, her voice steady and her resolve clear. Eric stood by her side, offering silent support, his presence a pillar of strength preventing her from collapsing.
As evening approached, Adeline and Eric handled the office emails and tasks before ending their job at the grocery store. As they entered the back loading bay, a familiar figure appeared amongst the crowd of chatting managers – Garrett Deverell.
Surprised yet again by his presence, Adeline felt a mix of emotions. Garrett’s determination to stay involved with her family despite her father’s polite refusal confused her. He approached with a tentative smile, his gaze fixed on Adeline’s hand grasping Eric’s. “I thought I might find you here,” he said, his voice calm. “I just wanted to help double-check everything here and bring you these,” he turned and reached for a large case of fruits and vegetables. “Ma asked me to bring these to you; they are supposed to benefit pregnant women.”
The encounter wasn’t what Adeline had expected for their evening, but it was a reminder of the interconnectedness of their lives and the unexpected ways their paths could cross. With a polite nod, she accepted his concern while Eric took the case from Garrett. “Thank you, Garrett. We’re managing. Please thank your mother for us.”
As they left the mall after chatting with the grocery store managers, Adeline looked back to see Garrett still standing on the loading bay, watching them leave. This brief encounter, though unexpected, emphasized the upcoming challenges and the delicate balance she needed to maintain with friends and family.
Eric loaded the case into his trunk, turning to help Adeline into the passenger seat. Offering her a gentle kiss on her hand, he murmured. “Tomorrow is another day. No matter what happens, we’ll face it together.”