"Fifi?" Rashon murmurs to himself, a mix of curiosity and urgency coursing through him as he spots Seraphina's familiar blonde hair visible through the window of a luxurious store. "Halt the carriage," he commands his coachman, his voice steady yet filled with anticipation.
As he steps down from the carriage, Rashon stands tall at six feet, his imposing figure capturing the attention of everyone around him. His striking golden-brown hair catches the sunlight, radiating warmth and enhancing his commanding presence. The depth of his golden almond eyes reflects a universe of emotions—joy, longing, and a hint of nostalgia—that compels those who meet his gaze to pause and ponder the stories behind them.
Rashon's warm, tanned skin is adorned with a full-body suit of tattoos, each one weaving narratives of his journey and heritage. These tattoos serve as testaments to battles fought and won, to love lost and found, hinting at the resilience and complexity of a life lived fully. As he walks through the bustling streets, throngs of passersby instinctively bow their heads in respect. The busy streets part before him, creating a clear path as he strides purposefully toward his destination.
Rasho hurriedly swung open the ornate door to Timeless Elegance. The moment he stepped inside, he was enveloped by Seraphina's distinctive scent—a captivating blend he had grown to love. It was reminiscent of gardenia flowers, emanating a sweet, fruity aroma infused with subtle hints of zest, floral notes, and a touch of light spice. It was as if the essence of summer had breathed life into the room. He was certain this fragrance belonged to her; she was, after all, his beloved Fifi.
"Fifi!" Rasho called out his voice bubbling with excitement. "You didn't tell me you were coming back to the pack today!" He stepped forward, wrapping her in a tight embrace.
"Coconut!" Seraphina replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief and joy as she returned his embrace, a melodious laugh escaping her lips. "I've been absolutely crazy busy! Do you even have time to stop and talk to me?" Her laughter rang like a sweet chime, filling the boutique and drawing the attention of nearby shoppers.
Rasho felt a warmth spread across his cheeks, a delightful blend of shyness and affection. Leaning closer, he whispered playfully in her ear, "I told you not to call me that; it's too embarrassing…" His chuckle, light and teasing, danced between them.
"Coconut?" she shot back with a playful grin, stepping back to meet his gaze, her whole face lighting up with warmth. "Don't you know they're hard on the outside and soft on the inside? That perfectly captures someone with a tough exterior and a kind heart, just like you!" Her laughter echoed through the boutique, a sound that made Rasho's heart flutter with happiness. With a broad grin spreading across his face, Rasho took her hand, his fingers intertwining with hers as he gently pulled her out of the shop. They stepped onto the cobblestone path that led to his elegant carriage, parked just a short distance away. As they strolled toward the carriage, Rasho felt a surge of joy and fulfillment; he silently hoped that this radiant moment would last forever.
"Lady Melissa, is there anything you would like?" Lily asked softly yet politely as she stood patiently behind the closed wooden door, waiting for a response.
Through the door, Melissa's voice came back with a touch of arrogance. "Rain is buying the dress. Get the designs I chose ready. Now." The command hung in the air, heavy and unquestionable. "Proceed with the designs I've selected and ensure they are made and delivered as quickly as possible," she instructed, her tone leaving no room for debate. "And get the bill. I'm leaving, so there's no need for you to wait."
After Lily hurried away to retrieve the bill, Zyrain, leaning casually against the wall, whispered to Melissa, "Round 2?" His eyes sparkled with mischief, hinting at a playful rendezvous. Melissa glanced at her reflection in a nearby mirror. The gown was marred by smudged makeup, and a sigh escaped her lips. "My face is a mess," she murmured, adjusting a stray strand of hair. "Let's wait until we get home." A mischievous glint returned to her eyes. "But that dessert place… we're going before it gets crowded, remember?"
He leaned in and gave her a quick kiss, then stepped out of the room first, ensuring the coast was clear so no one would see him slipping away from the private meeting with her.
As he stepped out of the changing room and onto the store floor, he glanced around, his heart pounding a rapid rhythm against his ribs. Seraphina wasn't there. He inhaled deeply, the faint, lingering scent of her. He'd been "busy" with Melissa, yes, but his mind hadn't been fully present. A calculation, a game, had been playing out in his head, and now the moment of truth arrived. He scanned the store, his eyes searching for Seraphina, imagining the hurt, the betrayal mirrored in her eyes. He wanted to see it. He *needed* to see it.
"Coconut, this is absolutely delicious," Seraphina exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight as she savored each bite of the rich cake. The sweet, tropical flavor danced on her palate, and she couldn't help but let out a small giggle.
Rashon watched her with tender admiration, his gaze fixed on her face as she reveled in the treat. He felt a warmth in his chest, cherishing this slice of happiness, fully aware that such moments were fleeting. "You should have some too," Seraphina urged with a playful smile, gently scooping a spoonful of cake and bringing it to his lips. He grimaced slightly at the thought of the sugary dessert—sweetness was not to his taste—but he swallowed it down, willing to endure it just to see her smile brightening even more. Delighted by his effort, Seraphina laughed and teased, "If you don't eat your cake, my tummy will just have to steal it!" Her laughter rang like music, and Rashon couldn't help but chuckle along, the sound filling the air with an infectious joy.
Seraphina spoke animatedly, her words flowing with enthusiasm, yet Rashon couldn't shake the feeling that beneath her cheerful exterior lay a deeper sadness. He noticed the subtle shifts in her demeanor—the slight tilt of her head when she was trying to convince herself of her own words, the way her voice would hitch ever so slightly higher when she veered away from the truth. Her fingers absentmindedly twirled the ends of her hair, a familiar tell that hinted at her discomfort. Though he could see the cracks in her facade, he chose to remain silent, respecting her need to mask her pain for the moment. Instead, he resolved to support her quietly, hoping that when she was ready, she would feel safe enough to share her hardships with him.
"I can't wait to go back home," Seraphina said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I mean, I do enjoy being here with this pack, but home.....home has a warmth and familiarity that just can't be matched." She glanced at Rashon with a smile, and he nodded thoughtfully, encouraging her to elaborate. "As I was saying, I can hardly believe there are only three more months until Rain and I celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary. It's such a big milestone! I've been working tirelessly to ensure everything is perfect, from selecting the venue to choosing decorations and even planning the menu," she continued, taking a moment to inhale deeply, gathering her thoughts. "If only Rain would just listen to me. I suggested we hold the anniversary ball at my pack, where I know everything would be just right. But no, he insists on having it here. It's funny how love can make you surrender your wishes," she chuckled lightly, shaking her head.
Rashon listened intently, feeling a mix of admiration and sorrow. "I can only spend the next three months with you before you return to your pack," he thought to himself, the weight of unspoken feelings heavy on his heart. "How I wish I could have found the courage to tell you how I truly feel." As Seraphina continued to share her plans and dreams for the anniversary ball, he hung on to her every word, cherishing these moments while they could still share them together.
"It's already so packed in here, brother!" Melissa exclaimed in her annoying, nasal, and high-pitched voice, her frustration evident. She shifted uncomfortably, trying to find a little space among the throng of people jostling for room. The air was heavy with the blend of chatter and laughter, but her irritation cut through it all. She wanted everyone nearby to hear her and to know that she was not pleased with the cramped conditions. Melissa glanced around, hoping someone might notice her discomfort and offer a little courtesy to ease the crowding. Then she spotted the next alpha heir sitting with Rina.