248
Lucy
The world slowly swam into focus as I stirred, warmth enveloping me. I shifted slightly, my eyes blinking open, and found myself nestled against David. His eyes were closed still, fluttering with the remnants of a dream. He was breathing still.
Alive.
My heart fluttered with relief as I took in the sight of him. He was still surrounded by a faint, multicolored aura, but the difference from before was stark. He looked healthier and stronger as if life had surged back into him.
The fire that had been burning in his wound was still going, but it seemed to be floating into the air, too.
"David?" I whispered.
A faint smile played on his lips as he reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair away from my face. Slowly, he opened his eyes. They were like a captivating kaleidoscope of colors, and they held a spark of vitality and health.
"Hey," he murmured, his voice a little raspy but filled with warmth. "Miss me?"
"I didn't mean to wake you."
"You didn't," he rasped and drew closer.
I shifted even closer, wanting to be as near to him as possible. He felt warm against my skin, solid and real.
"You look better," I remarked, letting my fingers trace his cheek. "How do you feel?"
"Better." He hummed. "Much better. You? Still jittery?"
I shook my head. "I'm okay."
Mostly. I would feel better when all the darkness in his skin was completely gone. He leaned in to press a gentle kiss to my lips. I melted, savoring the connection between us. It was as though the world had shifted back into alignment, feeling him so close, warm, and alive.
The dream had been great, but this was totally different.
"I thought I had lost you," I admitted softly, my eyes filling with emotion.
David's hand cupped my cheek, his thumb stroking my skin.
"Not so easily," he said, his gaze unwavering. "I promise, Lucy. I'm here."
I cuddled closer to him. As we lay wrapped in each other's arms, basking in the shared moment of renewed hope and connection, a soft knock on the door broke the tranquil stillness.
"David, Lucy, it's time for breakfast," came the gentle voice of Blue.
We exchanged a glance, and David gave a reluctant nod.
"You should get going," he said, a hint of regret in his voice.
Reluctantly, I disentangled myself from his embrace and reached for his hand. He shook his head.
"Not quite," he said, gritting his teeth and sitting up.
"I'm here to help," Blue said gently, wheeling in a wheelchair. I chuckled as he scowled at the chair before sliding into it.
David's wound still flickered with its ever-changing colors. It was a sight that both fascinated and reassured me. The black had shrunk even more in the night.
Amos was waiting just outside the door, and his eyes sparkled with relief as he saw David upright. "I'm so glad you're awake," he said with a warm smile. "I was not ready to wage war with Trent..."
"Don't leave me out of the fun," he said. "Thank you for your help. Let's eat."
He inclined her head and gestured toward the hallway.
"Breakfast is ready, and there's someone here to check on your wounds."
David cast a quick glance in my direction before giving Blue a nod. "Lead the way."
We made our way down the familiar hallways of the Blood Moon Estate, the scent of a hearty breakfast wafting through the air. The mansion was a bustling hub of activity, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging and safety here.
Duke was there, leaning into his food, looking like he needed more sleep. Hunter looked just as tired, laying beside Duke's plate.
"Thank you," David said, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Duke's eyes widened as he looked at David. "Sure thing."
We ate in a nice quiet, but it was clear that everyone but me needed more rest. Duke shuffled off, carrying Hunter, and David was practically asleep in his wheelchair.
After breakfast, it was time for me to head out for my dress-fitting appointment with Stacy. Blue hadn't rescheduled since I would have to be out of the room so David could get checked over.
I was excited to see the dress, but I wasn't ready to leave David just yet. As I prepared to leave, I couldn't help but go check back on David. He was being helped back into bed as the healer started to open her bag.
"I'll be back soon," I told him, my gaze filled with affection and concern.
David gave me a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about me. Go and enjoy your fitting."
His eyes flashed, turning more red than any other color.
"I can't wait to see you in it."
With a last lingering look, I made my way out of the room, determined to embrace the preparations for the festival, even as I prayed that the shadows of everything that had happened would stay at bay.
I stood outside the magnificent Blood Moon Estate, my heart pounding with anticipation. The day was bright and crisp. I felt a little out of sorts, knowing everything that had happened.
Moments later, the distinct hum of a car engine reached my ears, and I turned to see a sleek vehicle approaching. Stacy had arrived. There was a different driver behind the wheel, but the Escort vehicles followed and set me at ease. The car pulled up in front of the estate, and the window rolled down to reveal Stacy's smiling face.
"Lucy, darling, hop in!" she exclaimed with enthusiasm.
I returned her smile and quickly climbed into the car. As the door closed behind me, I couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of excitement. It was a welcome break from everything that was going on.
"Thank you for doing this, Stacy," I said as the car began to move.
Stacy waved a dismissive hand. "Nonsense, Lucy. It's my pleasure. You're going to look absolutely stunning, and I can't wait to show you what Gabriel's been up to since your fitting!"
"You've seen it?"
She grinned. "Being the best friend gives me perks."
As we drove away from the Blood Moon Estate, I couldn't help but appreciate her even more. Her attitude was exactly what I needed to get my mind off of everything.
The drive was quicker than I thought it would be. I wasn't sure if that was because we used portals or not, but it didn't matter.
Gabriel's boutique was as charming as ever and empty, too. I wondered if he'd cleared the schedule this morning for it. As Stacy and I stepped inside, a small bell above the door tinkled melodically, announcing our arrival. The walls were adorned with elegant fabrics and racks of exquisite dresses. Most of them were tagged as sold, so I guessed he had more business than I thought.
"Lucy, my dear, you're right on time," Gabriel said, welcoming us with open arms. His energy was infectious, and he practically radiated creativity. "Welcome back."
"Thank you," I said.
"Ready for the magic?" Gabriel beamed.
I nodded, caught up in how excited he seemed.
With that, I was gently ushered toward a cozy changing room filled with soft lights and a full-length mirror. I caught a glimpse of my reflection and couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement, wondering how close it came out to the sketches he showed me.
"No peeking!" Stacy cried as she covered the mirror with a length of cloth. She helped me into the gown and zipped me up. Gabriel came in and did some adjusting, pinning things in place and taking notes before turning me around.
"Ready?"
I nodded.
Stacy pulled the fabric off the mirror, and I gasped, seeing myself in the mirror. The white of the gown sparkled like starlight beneath the trailing blood-red roses and vibrant green vines that seemed to move every time I did. The crest had been moved from the bodice to the skirt of the gown, but it was so lovely.
I turned, admiring the way it shimmered. I looked so elegant. I felt beautiful.
Their faces lit up with delight.
"Lucy, you look like you know you're absolutely stunning," Stacy exclaimed."Oh, he's going to be falling all over himself!"
Gabriel nodded. "A few adjustments, and it'll be perfect. I'm so glad David isn't here to spoil the surprise."
I couldn't help but smile. "Me too."
"Now for the final touches."
I frowned, not sure what that meant, but as he came out with a large box, I felt myself anticipating what was in the box.
"This came by way of Blue from the Blood Moon armory."
He opened it to reveal a white bodice inlaid with carved roses attached to a shoulder guard. There was the White Moon Pack's crest engraved in the shoulder guard.
"What is it?"
"This bit of armor was first worn by David's mother," Gabriel said and smiled. "He sent it over for you. Would you like to try it on?"
My eyes burned, and I nodded.
"Very much."
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