Isabelle's POV The gossip stopped, but Lucian was still being a pain in the you-know-what. He openly held my hand and kissed me even though I begged him not to—even though he knew I'd curse him out afterwards. He would suddenly pull me away from the groups or crowds & he'd rudely interrupt all of my conversations. One morning, (particularly on the first day of the second week of the month) Mother Nature stopped by for her usual visit, but it was heavier than normal. I think Lucian forgot to brainwash my parents because they suddenly asked why there was about sitting next to me in their kitchen. I had no idea how to explain it, but Lucian waved it off and I guessed he brainwashed them soon after. "What was that?" I asked."Nothing. All fixed, isn't it? Are you ready to go?""I haven't even taken a bite yet. Go away," I narrowed my eyes at him. Sometimes, I wished I could tell my parents these things I was going through, but I don't think the
IsabelleWhen I woke in the morning, a stupid laugh left my lips. I knew it was all a dream. There was no way something like that could've happened for real. I yawned and stretched.I jumped up out of bed and ran towards my bathroom. It's my bathroom, right? I shouldn't have to knock. But I totally should have.When the door opened, a tall, nude Lucian was standing in front of me. I thought I was still dreaming. I rubbed my eyes and he was still there sure enough. That's when it hit me."Oh my God, I'm not dreaming," I said. And then I tried to scream but nothing came out. I couldn't even move an inch of my body. My eyes wouldn't close and I was stuck looking star-struck at the bare King in front of me.He looked amused. Apparently, he didn't care that I could see everything of his. He teased, "Have you gotten your fill?"I took a deep breath and shut my eyes. "I didn't know you were here. I swear I'm going crazy."He chuckled and my knees almost gave out. "I need to use my bathroom
Isabelle The day passed by slowly, as if I was in a trance, cursed to feel unnerved for one day because of my hurtful words. Lucian wasn't here. I couldn't feel him. I couldn't smell him. I couldn't see him. He wasn't here. The hurt on his face played in my mind like a broken record. I felt a pang in my chest, for I knew why, but I didn't actually know why. I mean— it was true, wasn't it? Wasn't this just for show? Wasn't this all just for a dam deal? Just so he could win?That's right. I was being used. And I didn't want to be used. But what other choice did I have? My mom, my dad.. me. We wouldn't be able to survive if I didn't make a deal with Lucian. I looked to my left. Empty as I felt. My mind wandered to my dream, letting the words replay that were spoken from a twisted, angelic mouth. "I like you. Maybe a bit more than I care to admit. Even though I just admitted it."I smiled at the thought. I wis
Isabelle I thought we were done, but we were nowhere near it. Things were just getting started. But of course, I didn't know that and neither did he. "Just like that?" I was stunned as I realized what had just happened. Our deal! "My parents, Luce! What about my parents?""I don't care," he glared at me, "I never cared. You say you aren't weak, so prove it. Protect your family. Protect yourself. Don't look for me to save you because I won't be there. Pray about it.""I can't believe you," I was still. "I really hate you."I stormed off with my lunch. It had started to rain. "Just my luck," I said under my breath. I walked under the awning until I couldn't anymore. My favorite tree welcomed me without asking any questions. The rain turned into drizzle and I allowed myself to bask in its glory. Something about it just felt right. For some reason, the ground beneath the tree wasn't wet and so I sat down without a care in the world. I ate the rest of my lunch silently. I inhaled the f
IsabelleThe day whizzed by and I was left to think that the semester was suddenly coming to an end and it was approaching faster than I expected. Lucian and I made up and resigned our deal, but I only ever went to Hell to give blood. It was as if he was avoiding me whenever I was in town. Soon it was the middle of October. I hardly saw Lucian anymore, and when I did, we only ever gave each other a quick glance of scrutiny or disgust. Noelle and I had began to hang out more and we'd even have sleepovers. Colton and I became friends (or more?? I don't know) after his incident and Jen was back to being a busybody after she was permitted to be on the team again. It turns out that Tina was actually with Brad and after Brad broke Tina's heart, she finally let Jennifer rejoin the team. I completely skipped over a few things, didn't I? So, let's rewind. ~~~"I can't believe how you're moving on so quick, Bunny. I mean.. I just didn't think yo
IsabelleToday was very unusual. When I arrived home, my parents were seated on the sofa watching television. I had to do a doubletake."What are you two doing home?" I asked."Oh, you know. Just enjoying some time off. Your dad is always busy and today was both a day off for us. Do you want to sit with us?""Yeah, kiddo. Have a seat and catch up with us," Dad suggested. "No, thanks. I have something to do. Catch you later," I spun on my heel. Halfway up the stairs, my mom shouted, "No sex, Izzy!"What an embarrassment. I took a shower and shaved while I danced to the blasting music before running to my closet to find the perfect outfit. I know I shaved, but don't all girls when they're about to hang out with the boy they like? Yes, they do!Throwing every piece of clothing that I deemed ugly or unworthy to the floor, I finally decided upon a pair of light-blue ripped jeans. I matched it with a black scrunch top that had brown buttons going down the middle and a pair of bejeweled bl
LucianI was home attending to crucial matters. The Elders and the council were working my last fried nerve. The annual Fire Ball was coming up and I'd been away from the hell and horrors of the mortal realm of high school due to the preparations and all the duties that have come along recently. I rarely had the chance to see Bella anymore these days, but I was more than satisfied with seeing her smile and still enjoying her books underneath that depressing tree. Though, nowadays, she would be spending her time with the new boy on the block.But I didn't have the luxury to think about her or her worthless decisions right now.Recently, there has a been rise in riots in the northern part of the kingdom. I sent Megi and her troops to handle it, but they haven't returned yet. I sent Yuhan to the border of the East, Darchnia, to monitor the citizens. I really didn't need any distractions this time around the season. But, deep down inside, I knew everything would turn out okay because no m
Lucian's POVAnd there she stood, stunning in my favorite color as her skin gleamed with a nature that made me want to caress her forearms so lightly. I watched her intently as she took a look around at the crowd below her. Her voluminous, brown tresses bounced lightly against her shoulders as she rounded the stairs. Her breath hitched at the sight of the event and I watched as her chest heaved in & out. I felt a tingling sensation run throughout my body and in an instant, I knew she'd be the star of the night. I set my glass of champagne down on a tray as a prompt server passed by perfectly. I made my way to the base of the stairs with an outsretched hand for her to take and she took it gracefully and fell into my chest as she tripped over the last step."I shouldn't have come. This is so embarrassing," she whispered as she hid her face in my chest. The warmth of her round face against me sent a silent shiver through my spine and I shook it off quickly. "There's no need to shy. Sha
* The beautiful end of Lucian & Isabelle *The wall was decorated with plaques and awards, grand achievements that could only belong to the cursive name inked on the honors. "I'm so proud of you," her mom hugged her with a few streaming tears running down her face. "Where are my grand babies?""They aren't babies mom," Bella scolded."Says who? They're my babies," her mom stood her ground.Ares and Artemis had their separate portraits hanging above the mantle, next to the family portrait. Lucian added, "They are waiting for us. We're running late.""Where's dad?" Bella was growing with worry."I'm right here," her dad's voice came from behind us followed by his short footsteps."Then let's go," Lucian ushered them inside the car. The drive was quick and the hostess led them to their table.The table was full with family and friends; Jennifer, Tina, Noelle, Jason, Tyler, & Rick along with her many family members and her two children."Congratulations, Bella," Jennifer hugged her. "T
Lucian and his wife had just welcomed their beautiful son into the world. Exhausted and overwhelmed, Lucian knew he had to take advantage of this special moment. He looked into his wife's eyes and quietly said, "I figure now is a good time as any." She looked back at him confused, until he pulled out a small box and opened it, revealing a sparkling diamond ring. His wife was too exhausted to be surprised, but she happily accepted his proposal. "Yes, a thousand times over." Lucian gave her a sweet kiss. Ares was sound asleep; he had been fed and changed and was quietly occupying his crib. "How are we going to ..?" She began to voice her worries but Lucian hushed her. "You're too pretty to be worried, love. Rest," She succumbed in bliss as she drifted off to sleep, still wearing the bedazzling ring on her finger. Lucian watched in awe as they slept; the way their noses curled and how they looked so innocent, he could tell Ares was borne from her. He was so in love with their little
IsabelleI was still shocked. I was stuck, gawking at the black and white images unfolding in my lap. I was still replaying the technician confirming my doubt."Are you okay?" Lucian asked."I'm two months," I said in shock."Lucian you're not even human. How can you have kids?" "You're mine," Lucian said plainly."That doesn't .. huh." I gave up and slouched into the seat with a sigh."You're going to be okay." Lucian cooed."How am I going to be pregnant in my freshman year of college?" I was going crazy. "It's all just happening too fast.""Calm down. I'm going to be there. For your every need," Lucian caressed my thigh. "It doesn't matter what it is, I will make it happen.""What about class?""I'll come with you and we can sit in my barrier. That way you won't be cramped and you two will be comfortable.""What about after school?" I asked."You worry too much," he kissed my temple. "Just move in.""What?" "You heard me. Move in. We're basically husband and wife already," Lucian
It was the last day of summer and I was saying goodbye to my friends. I hugged them all goodbye and promised to keep in touch. As I drove away, I looked back at them all standing there and knew that I would never forget the summer fun we had. I was ready to start the next chapter of my life, but I would never forget the memories I had shared with my friends. We had spent the last several weeks together, enjoying our last days of freedom before college. We had gone to the beach, watched movies, taken long drives, went to parties, and even had sleepovers. And that wasn’t everything! We had done a million things. But now it was time for us to part ways and pursue our own paths.I was excited to start college but sad to be leaving my friends. I had grown so much closer Jennifer, Jason, and Noelle over the summer. We had shared so many memories together, and I hated that I had to leave them behind. As I began packing for college, I found myself pulling out the photos from our senior trip.
The party was over and I hugged just about everyone as they exited my home, thanking them for their support and their gifts and their time.“Honey, we’re going out tonight,” my mom and dad approached me, looking elegant and ethereal.“Wow,” I marveled at mom and dad. Mom wore a green dress that had an embroidered golden shoulder. Dad donned a black suit with a green tie to match; its diamond-shaped pattern fluctuated between green and golden yellow. “Y’all look good.”“Thanks honey. Number’s on the fridge if you need anything,” she gave me a quick peck to the cheek, careful not to ruin her makeup. They grabbed their keys and I watched their retreating figures step out of the door. All alone now. Oh well!I couldn't wait to get upstairs. I dashed to my room, hurriedly discarding my pants. I sighed as soon as they came off. "Nothing like freedom."I kicked the bathroom door in lightly with my foot, setting my bathroom abright when I hit the light switch. "First thing first," I blew a ki
I stood in line behind my classmates, watching and waiting as the line got shorter. The counselor called my name, "Isabelle Milani Smith." I proudly graced the stage with an unfading smile, ready to shake hands and pose with my diploma.The camera flashed and I walked back to my seat. It was just like we have practiced earlier this morning. I was glad everything went smooth. After a speech from Noelle and Mardrid, we were finally instructed to toss our caps into the air.***********"Honey, we're so proud of you," my mom planted many kisses to my cheek."Okay mom," I tried to get away. "You're embarrassing me.""I'm sorry," she sulked. "Do you like the party? I tried my best.""Yes, it's the best," I beamed. "I can't believe you surprised me." "Your dad will be here soon. He said he had something special for you," my mom shared."Is it a car?" I asked."No," she frowned, "but I'm sure you'll love it." My mom wandered off to the refreshment table, replacing food and refilling glasses
"Everyone say cheese," Mr. Spay clicked the camera, the flash capturing the smiles on our faces at the end of our senior trip. "I've had a wonderful year with this group. Throughout the fighting, teenage angst, hormonal decisions, and boy trouble, I still wouldn't change a thing. I know you all have a wonderful future ahead of you and I hope you enjoy life's journey there." We cheered for our principal as we boarded the bus with our baggage.I found the back of the bus, sliding next to Lucian. "Look," I took the photos of us out of my memory box and brought them up to the light. "Don't we look great together?" He smiled, giving me a simple yes. "Not big on words today," I teased. "I enjoyed the trip. It was over too quick." Lucian replied, "Time always flies when you're having fun," he gently caressed the love bite from the previous night on my thigh. I blushed in silence as he turned his head to the window to watch the scenery pass us by in a blink outside. "You know you haven't b
LucianThe council of angels convened to reprimand me for my past transgressions. I stood before them, impassive and unafraid, though I was slightly amused by their haughty expressions and sparkling wings. I could hear their naughty whispers, which seemed to be a combination of disapproval and bemusement. I was ready to accept whatever punishment they deemed fit. The triad of angels governed from behind the wooden podium bench in their assigned choirs, conversing and giving me the evil eye as I paid no attention to them, fancied by the stone golems they'd turned into guardians.The angels conferred amongst themselves for what seemed like an eternity before finally delivering their opening argument."You have been charged with many crimes, the major crime being that you defied God and led a war against him, endangering humans and breaking the heavenly rules. You are also charged with 100 counts of murder, 1 count of kidnapping, 20 counts of unsolicited visiting to the human world, & 5
I was lying in a hospital bed, my body feeling the numbness of the painkillers and the fatigue of the fight I had endured to get here. My head was throbbing in pain from the constant beeping of the machines surrounding me, I had lost count of the number of times it beeped, but it seemed to be a necessary part of my care. I felt a wave of emotions overcome me as my eyes tried to adjust to my surroundings. I could see my family and friends, all looking worried and scared, their faces a mixture of worry and hope. I wanted to tell them not to worry, that I was okay but my words were stuck in my throat, my voice suddenly feeling so far away. All I could do was lie still and try to relax, knowing that I was finally safe and that everything was going to be ok. I was hoping that one day soon I would finally be able to go home, dreaming that it would be over.My family cleared from my room momentarily as the doctors talked to them. A lone doctor entered, short and graceful in his stride, and p