Heartstrings and Forever Bonds

Plan for trip

Nikolai's Perspective:

Tonight was truly wonderful with her. I kissed the woman who occupies my thoughts all day, the one I consider entirely mine. As I closed my eyes, attempting to drift into sleep, the specter of my past emerged.

"Papa, why do I always have to stay in Texas? Can't I be with Mom, you, and my sister, Stella?" I pleaded. "I feel so lonely here; I want to be with you guys." Dad reassured, "Yes, Nik, why not? But we'll wait until you're a bit older, then we can all be together." I gazed at the garden through the one-sided living room glass, able to see outside but shielded from prying eyes. At 10 years old, how much longer must I wait to live with my mom? When will I savor her home-cooked meals? Shouldn't children live with their parents? While my friends enjoy family life, I only have my father by my side. Does my mom even see me as her son?

"Okay, Nik, Dad has to leave now. Eat your meals and study well," he said. He kissed my forehead, and I snapped out of my reverie. Returning the kiss on his cheek, I watched him depart, tears welling in my eyes..."

I awoke, contemplating the loneliness I once endured. My dad stood by me then and continues to do so. Despite now living with both parents, I cherish my dad above all. I've had previous girlfriends, but none held a place in my heart as Natalia does. It's akin to the love I feel for my dad, if not surpassing it. I used to do anything for my dad, and now that extends to both of them. Their smiles are my solace when I'm sad; I truly love them both immensely.

Natalia's perspective:

Getting older isn't pleasant. There was a time I'd enjoy a latte and a donut after tuition; now, I'm buried in studies post-classes, unable to indulge in a sweet treat.

My mind drifted to last night's kiss, and I couldn't help but smile. Consy warned, "Natalia, it was nothing; don't overthink or expect the impossible."

As Natalia opened her eyes, Nikolai sat before her, his pale skin glowing as the sun caressed his face. His smile made everything brighter; his perfectly arranged hair and the joy in his blue eyes revealed his happiness. "Natalia!" snapped her out of her thoughts, and she stammered, "Y-Yes." Nikolai teased, "Where are you lost, babygirl?" She replied, "Nothing. When did you arrive?" He said, "Just a few minutes ago."she exclaimed, 'oh!'

After a few minutes of silence, Nikolai suggested, "Natalia, let's spend the weekend at my countryside mansion. Are you free?"She responded, "I am free. I've finished all my work and have no other commitments. But may I ask why you suddenly want to visit your mansion?"
He explained, "It's not sudden. I've had it in my mind for a long time but couldn't tell you."
Natalia questioned, "Alright! The weekend is in three days. How many days are we going to stay there?" He replied, "As long as you want to stay with me." Natalia's gaze locked onto Nikolai's eyes over her coffee. She then said, "Okay! We will decide later on."

After that, Nikolai dropped Natalia off at her residence, compelled to attend to some urgent matters before their upcoming trip together.