Maris, having witnessed Adeline’s unwavering dedication to her newfound journey, felt a growing certainty that Eric might be the key to her transformation. While Feronia tries to anchor Adeline to her past within Golden Rivers, Eloquen and Eric were paving the way for her to break free from the confines of her cocoon. Maris’s attention turned to the furrowed brow of her companion, troubled by Adeline’s eagerness for her rendezvous with Eric.

With a discreet gesture, Maris dissolved the vision, leaving Feronia gazing into the void over the expanse of the ocean from their high perch.

“What have you done?” Feronia’s voice rose in disbelief, her azure eyes sparking with anger and dismay.

“We’ve witnessed enough,” Maris declared, rising and signaling for Feronia to join her. “Adeline has chosen her path. It seems she’s intent on charting her own course, independent of Eloquen’s supposed influence. His magic doesn’t linger around her.”

“Yet it’s his mortal, Eric – he’s the impetus for her defiance, the one who’s nudged her off her predestined trail!” Feronia argued, her desperation evident as she sought to sway Maris’s perspective.

“Why this sudden obsession with my charge? We are meant to watch over them, not steer their fate,” Maris countered, wearied by the constant scrutiny over Adeline. “Let’s call it a day. I need rest.”

“I don’t mean to alter Adeline’s will, only to assist you in guiding her back to the path she’s meant to walk,” Feronia implored, standing and reaching for Maris’s hand. “Do you doubt my intentions?” she added, her eyes mirroring the hurt she felt.

Maris exhaled a heavy sigh, her heart conflicted. “I’m uncertain,” she admitted, withdrawing her hand. “We should reconvene after I’ve had some time to reflect.” Her gaze pleaded for understanding from her friend.

Feronia accepted with a nod, her voice softening. “Forgive me,” she offered, her departure swift. “I appreciate the glimpse into your mortal’s world. I’ll leave you to contemplate your next move.”

To Maris’s surprise, Feronia vanished without a backward glance. The day had been a whirlwind of visitors, each with their own designs for Adeline. Resolute, Maris was determined to allow Adeline the freedom to navigate her destiny, wary that excessive divine meddling might disrupt the luminous future Maris foresaw.

Alone at last, Maris retreated to the comfort of her balcony. It was time for her to resume her watchful oversight of Adeline and steel herself against the forthcoming barrage of counsel from her peers. With the wave of her wrist, she resumed her silent vigil. The earthly scene unfolded before her, showing Adeline seated alone on a bench near the greenhouse, bathed in the waning sunlight’s golden glow. Her attire, curated by Kaylynn, and her makeup, understated yet enhancing, suited her perfectly.

Adeline waited, Eric’s jacket neatly draped over her lap, her leather bag slung across her shoulder. She surveyed the park from her vantage point, noting Eric’s SUV in the nearby parking lot. Yet his absence puzzled her.

Eric had planned a surprise; he was already waiting in the parking lot when Adeline replied to his text messages. After informing him of their meeting spot, he had ensured she remained oblivious to his concealed presence. Patiently, he waited, then stealthily approached her from behind. As he got closer, he revealed a box of French macarons, placing it gently upon her lap.

“Good evening, Addy,” Eric’s whisper tickled her ear.

Adeline’s smile blossomed as she turned, her emerald eyes sparkling with delight at the sight of him. “Hi, Eric,” she greeted, her cheeks warming with a rosy blush from his proximity.

Eric’s smile mirrored hers, and he planted a gentle kiss atop her head before joining her on the bench. “Are you feeling tired? Would you like to rest here a bit before we head out?”

Adeline shook her head, her attention captured by the box resting atop Eric’s jacket on her lap. Lifting it with curiosity, she inquired, “What’s this?”

“Macarons, straight from France,” Eric revealed, encouraging her to unveil the intricately wrapped box. “My cousin returned from Paris today and shared some with me. I thought you’d enjoy an after-work treat.”

As she untied the ribbon and lifted the lid, rows of colorful, sweet-smelling macarons greeted her. “They look delicious,” Adeline remarked, taking a bite into one. “Yum. Thank you.”

Eric’s smile deepened with satisfaction. “I’m glad you liked them. Enjoy it.”

Setting aside the box of macarons in her hobo bag, Adeline handed back his jacket. “Thank you for lending this to me,” she said, the memory of their shared evening reflecting in her flushed cheeks. “Shall we head out?”

Gratefully accepting his jacket, Eric stood and extended his hand to her. As she accepted, he offered to shoulder her bag. “Could I carry this for you? It looks quite heavy.”

Adeline’s smile conveyed her appreciation for his chivalrous offer. “It’s manageable, but thank you,” she replied, allowing Eric to take the bag from her.

Arm in arm, they strolled casually toward the parking lot, Adeline’s spirits high and carefree. “I thought a seaside picnic for dinner might be nice. It’ll allow us some time to chat. Is that alright with you?” Eric proposed.

“That sounds wonderful!” Adeline’s enthusiasm was evident. Her relationship with Eric felt natural and effortless, transforming her perception of him from a friend to someone more intimate.

“Perfect,” Eric responded, holding the door open for her. After placing her bag in the backseat, he climbed into the driver’s seat and started the engine. “Tell me about your day.”

“It was quite pleasant,” Adeline began, her gaze drifting to the landscape whizzing by. “By the way, did you hear about the parents’ association planning a graduation celebration and fundraiser next month?"

“I believe my mother mentioned something along those lines,” Eric recalled. “What about it?”

“They’re planning to host it at the mall’s park,” Adeline elaborated. “I’ll be coordinating with our customer service manager to help them. I’ve been put in charge of meeting with the Deverells and student council.”

“That sounds like you’ll be pretty busy,” Eric observed as they approached the outskirts of the city, nearing his family’s estate. “Will this leave us any time together?” he asked, hope tinting his voice as he stole a glance her way.

“Absolutely,” Adeline assured him, her smile radiating confidence. “I’ve already spoken to my parents about cutting back my hours. It was my first step in reshaping my life,” she declared with pride.

“That’s quite a move,” Eric’s smile widened with intrigue. “How did they take it?”

“We agreed to discuss it over breakfast tomorrow,” she responded. “I’m hoping to scale back my work commitments to maybe one or two days a week, from twenty hours a week to about ten. Do you think that’s too ambitious?”

“Not at all. You need to express your wishes to your parents,” Eric encouraged. “They can’t read your mind after all.”

Adeline nodded thoughtfully. “My dad was surprised. He said this was the first time he’s heard me say such things, that he thought I was happy with the status quo.”

“And were you?” Eric probed, driving past the port towards a private road.

“I never questioned it,” Adeline confessed, her thoughts drifting back to her conversation with Kaylynn. “But I’ve come to realize that my life is too restricted. I often feel like I’m just the heiress to the O’Cean legacy, not my own person. When I try to see who I am beyond that, I draw a blank. Does that make any sense?”

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“It does. You’ve never had to define your own life – you just followed the path laid out for you: excel in school, uphold the family name, join the family business,” Eric said, his expression earnest and sympathetic. He understood the expectations placed on all the founding families’ children, by the family themselves or by society. “You’ve met every expectation, but that has left you with no room for self-discovery. You’ve never needed to think about your next steps; they were always set for you.” He paused, locking eyes with her briefly. “I understand why you hesitated with me initially. I wasn’t part of your plan. But now, I’m so happy that you’re trying to find space for me in your life. By the way, what have you told your parents about us?”

Adeline’s gaze fell slightly. “I mentioned we were getting together tonight for a project,” she admitted, feeling a twinge of guilt for the half-truth.

Eric’s expression flickered with disappointment but quickly recovered. “I hope we won’t be a secret for long.”

“Definitely not,” Adeline responded quickly, her defensive tone softening. “It all happened so fast at work. I’ll tell them everything at breakfast tomorrow.”

Eric reached out, his touch on her hand offering comfort. “I trust you,” he said simply.

They arrived at a private beach owned by Eric’s family. Adeline met his gaze as he pulled into the parking area. “There’s something I want to discuss,” she began, her voice tinged with uncertainty. “This is all quite new to me, and I would like to hear your perspective on how we should proceed. The school will inevitably talk about us, and I don’t want to lie about our relationship…” Her words hung in the air, awaiting Eric’s input.

Once parked, Eric quickly exited the SUV to help Adeline out. “Let’s settle in first, then we can talk,” he suggested, retrieving her bag along with a large beach blanket and an overstuffed picnic basket. “I’ve been meaning to share my post-graduation plans with you, now that you’re a significant part of my life,” he said with a wink, leading her down the wooden boardwalk to the shore. “The tide’s out; this is the perfect spot,” he assured her, laying everything out on the spacious blanket. “Please,” he invited, gesturing toward the blanket, “make yourself comfortable.”

Adeline slipped off her boots and placed them next to the blanket, her bag beside them. “This is my first time here; it’s stunning,” she marveled, taking in the endless view of the ocean and the rhythmic sound of the waves.

“I’ve never brought anyone here before,” Eric admitted as he carefully unpacked the basket. “It’s usually just the Landins who visit. We keep this beach private.”

Adeline’s smile widened in gratitude. “Thank you for bringing me here,” she said. “It’s so peaceful…” Her voice faded as she watched the sun dip towards the horizon. “This would be a great spot to see the sunset.”

“Absolutely,” Eric agreed, handing her a glass of sparkling juice. “It’s a sight to behold.”

Adeline murmured in agreement, sipping the juice. “I can’t wait.”

As Eric laid out the feast he had prepared – deviled eggs, skewered roasted vegetables, roast beef sandwiches, mini chicken pot pies, an assortment of cheeses, and fresh fruit – Adeline teased, “This is quite the spread; how hungry did you think I was?”

Eric gave a casual shrug. “Better too much than too little. Help yourself to whatever you like.”

“Thank you,” she said, her gratitude evident as she sampled the array of dishes. She hadn’t eaten since the Deverells’ breakfast, and looking at all the food, her appetite returned.

They ate in amiable silence, savoring the fading daylight. Once finished, Eric broached the subject on his mind. “Addy, I’m grateful you agreed to explore a new path with me,” he said, facing her. “I’m committed to moving forward together without any coercion. I want you to share your aspirations and dreams with me openly, and I’ll support you in any way I can. Do you understand?”

“I do,” Adeline responded, touched by his sincerity. “I’m still trying to figure things out, but I’ll keep you updated.”

“That’s all I ask,” Eric replied with a smile. “Once word gets out about us – and it will – there’s no hiding it from our families. I’d like to invite you to Sunday dinner to introduce you officially as my girlfriend. Would tomorrow be too soon for you?”

Adeline considered his proposal, the fruit in her mouth momentarily forgotten. “You’re right; we shouldn’t delay,” she mused, her thoughts racing with the details. “I’ll make it happen,” she declared resolutely.

“There’s no rush; let me know after your family breakfast,” Eric offered kindly.

Adeline playfully inquired, “Are you expecting trouble from my family?”

“No, but it’s important that our families hear about us directly from each of us. Honesty is the foundation of a good relationship and vital for this new chapter we’re starting,” Eric gently reminded her.

Adeline nodded, her voice steady. “I understand that.”

“As we open up to our families and friends about our relationship, we can begin to intertwine our lives together,” Eric said, his tone earnest. “I promise to be there for you whenever you need me – just reach out. With the basketball playoffs coming, my schedule will be tight, but maybe you could come to some practices or games? I want to make sure we still have time for each other; I wouldn’t want you to feel left out.”

Adeline shook her head, her hand resting reassuringly on his. “We’re both heading into a busy season with work for me, prom and graduation. I get it.”

“Regardless, I want you to know that I’m always here for you. I’ll just be a call or text away,” Eric said, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “After graduation, I’m planning a trip, possibly to Japan. But if you’re with me, we could choose any destination you like.”

“That sounds exciting. I’ve never left this country. Would it be just the two of us?” Adeline inquired, sensing the significance of such an adventure.

“No, I’ll be with friends, and you’re welcome to bring Kay or anyone else you’d like,” Eric clarified.

Adeline’s smile grew as she imagined the possibilities. “We should definitely discuss this more later.”

“Agreed,” Eric said, refilling her glass with juice. “I imagine you’re set to start at Golden Rivers University in the fall, but have you considered other schools?”

A blush crept over Adeline’s cheeks. “I’ve kept it quiet, but yes, I’ve applied to other universities and received acceptances from all. My parents assume I’m going to Golden Rivers U, but I haven’t made my decision yet.”

“You’ll need to decide soon,” Eric pointed out. “I’ve decided on MIT. Is there a chance you’ve been accepted to a school nearby?”

“I did apply to Harvard,” Adeline revealed, a hint of mystery in her tone. “But it felt so far from everything I know; I wasn’t sure about it. It wasn’t my first choice.”

“Now that you know where I’m going, would you think about going there?” Eric asked, hope lacing his words. “If I’m at MIT, then when you’re at Harvard, you won’t be alone. Otherwise, we’d be looking at a long-distance relationship.”

“I’ll talk to my parents about it,” Adeline promised, her eyes alight with the thought. “Attending school away from home is a big step, but the idea of starting fresh with you is appealing.”

Eric beamed at her words. “Let’s plan more later,” Eric suggested. “And your major – will you continue with business?”

“It seems to be a practical choice according to my parents,” Adeline replied. “But I don’t know what else I would study.”

“There’s still time to explore your options,” Eric reassured her. “And remember, you can always change or add to your education later. There’s no need to rush the decision.”

Adeline hummed in agreement, her gaze lingering on the sunset’s last light. As darkness fell, Eric lit candles and anchored them in the sand, their light casting a soft glow around them. “I know I’ve given you a lot to think about. Take all the time you need to process everything. We’ll talk it through step by step.”

“Thank you,” Adeline murmured, her smile warm in the creeping blackness as she nestled closer into Eric’s protective embrace.

Seated behind Adeline, Eric covered her body with his jacket, enveloping her in a cocoon of warmth. “I don’t want you to feel overwhelmed by all these plans. It’s important to me that you’re part of the conversation. We can take our time to discuss everything – nothing is set in stone.”

Adeline sighed contentedly, the comfort of his presence and familiar scent reassuring against the evening’s chill. They lingered in each other’s arms, the world around them fading to whispers until the dimming candles were eclipsed by the sudden glow of Adeline’s phone. It was Kaylynn, seeking a pre-work meeting. Adeline typed a quick promise to call her after breakfast with her family, her fingers dancing across the screen.

“We should head back,” Eric’s voice was a gentle nudge against the quiet. “You need rest, and tomorrow is a big day.”

Adeline, caught in the web of drowsiness and the comfort of Eric’s embrace, yawned softly. “But this is so perfect,” she protested faintly.

Eric’s lips brushed against her neck, a tender gesture that spoke volumes. “As much as I’d love to stay, I must respect your parents’ trust. We’ll have plenty of moments like this,” he assured her, his words light but his intent serious.

With a reluctant sigh, Adeline withdrew from his warmth, the night air a sharp contrast to his embrace. “Alright,” she conceded.

Eric assisted her with her boots, his movements tender and attentive. “Just wait here,” he instructed as he began to pack their belongings with efficient care.

Adeline watched, a silent observer, as Eric transformed the remnants of their evening into neat parcels of memory. Within moments, he was at her side again, guiding her to the SUV. The journey home was a blur, Eric’s hand a steady presence in hers, a silent vow of their connection as Adeline fought the pull of sleep.

By the time they arrived at the O’Cean residence, sleep had claimed Adeline. Eric’s gentle voice coaxed her back to wakefulness. “Addy, we’re here.”

Her eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze with a sleepy smile. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to doze off,” she apologized, her voice tinged with remnants of dreams.

“It’s been a long day,” Eric replied, his touch careful as he helped her from her seat. “Get some rest. We’ll talk after your breakfast.”

At her front door, their farewell was brief and sweet. “Goodnight, Addy. Sleep well,” Eric whispered, his kiss a soft promise on her lips. She leaned in, seeking more, but he gently held her at bay. “Next time,” he murmured, “when the world is fully awake with us.”

With a playful pout, Adeline accepted her bag and wrapped him in a grateful embrace. “Goodnight, Eric. Thank you for everything.”

He watched her disappear into her home, a shadow lurking behind a nearby window catching his eye. A silent hope flickered in his heart that the night’s revelations would not bring turmoil in the morning. Eric paused outside his SUV, looking up at the grand house for signs of Adeline, but alas, the house was quiet. Sighing blissfully, he entered the driver’s seat and drove slowly from the property.