Daylight: Azriel x OC

Chapter 3: Sweet Creature

Ambrose

The week trudged on as if it would never end. Her job, which normally kept her busy beyond belief, was not enough to occupy her wandering mind. The mating bond had snapped into place for her upon their first kiss. Since then, she felt his absence greatly. She had barely been able to focus on preparing the children of the Day Court for a long summer break.

While preparing the summer curriculum so that students did not fall behind over the vacation, she was hit with a dizzying thought. Should she accept the bond, and she was pretty sure she would, what would become of their individual lives? They were both high-ranking members of their respective courts. How would they even begin to combine their lives?

With those thoughts swirling around her mind, she prepared herself for their date that evening. She wanted to treat her mate to the best the Day Court had to offer, so she had chosen a candlelit meal in one of the most esteemed libraries in the territory. She was certain that he would appreciate the intimate and luxurious setting, and was anxiously awaiting his reaction to the location.

At precisely the agreed-upon time, there was a firm knock on her front door. She gave herself one more glance in the mirror before swinging open the door. The sight of him took her breath away. He was stunning in a pair of black pants and a white button-down shirt. His top two buttons were open, revealing the beginnings of a swirling tattoo on his chest.

He had tattoos? The thought made her heart skip and frolic in her chest. She was itching to see more of his body.

She seemed to have the same effect on him - he looked breathless as he took in her outfit. She had chosen a dark blue tea-length sundress. It was fitted at the top and flowed at her hips, enhancing her hourglass figure. She had picked the color to match the stones he always wore on his wrists. Shades of blue had colored her dreams and thoughts, leaving her aching for his presence.

"It is lovely to see you again." He breathed once he had gathered his thoughts.

"I could say the same for you, Az. Are you ready to see one of my favorite spots in the Day Court?" She said, offering him her hand.

"Lead the way, Rose." He placed his scarred hand in hers and she threw them into darkness.

The library was open and bright, adorned with white walls and golden accents. The ceilings were high, the walls lined with bookshelves spanning stories above them. The bookshelves gave way to a round greenhouse. There were plants hanging in the windows that lined the ceiling. Pathways wound around the area, giving them a breathtaking walk to their final destination.

She lead him around the fragrant pathways until they reached a small table that was set for two. He seemed in awe of the open yet intimate space, his eyes darting around as if taking in every detail.

When they sat down at the table, she snapped her fingers and their dinner appeared. The meal was simple, yet elegant. She was thankful for the expert chefs that had prepared the meal in advance. They dined on a steak filet, roasted tomatoes, and a side of mashed potatoes. The setting sun shone through the many windows, giving everything a golden glow.

She was grateful to be alone in such a beautiful space with him. The warmth of the sunset enhanced his handsome features. She loved watching his expressions while they discussed how their weeks went. She had never felt this before - usually spending time with people drained her. She spent countless nights out counting down until she could excuse herself under the guise of caring for her dog. Seeing Azriel only drove her to spend more time with him. When they parted, she found herself longing for the warmth of his embrace.

After a decadent dessert of almond petit fours, she felt their date coming to a natural stopping point. Desperate to keep the night going, she found herself blurting out, "Would you like to meet my dog?"