A Eternal Love

chapter 17

It had been two days since Mia arrived at Kevan’s house, and those days had been nothing short of a whirlwind. She had never imagined that a few short days could be filled with so much laughter, excitement, and, paradoxically, moments of unease. Each morning began with the golden light of dawn spilling across the estate, warming the air and giving a soft glow to the dew-laden grass. For the first time in months, Mia felt almost… normal. Almost.

Their days were filled with activity. They went shopping in town, laughing as Mia tried on outfits she never thought she would dare wear. They ate at quaint cafes and restaurants, sampling dishes that made her taste buds dance. Ben, ever the energetic guide, introduced her to hidden corners of the town she had never known, secret paths along the river, small parks where children played, and quiet cafes tucked between stone buildings. Evenings were reserved for movies, with Rebecca insisting on classic comedies, while Mia tried to stifle laughter at the absurdity of some old films.

The mischief wasn’t limited to idle fun. One morning, they had pulled a prank on Kevan. Mia and Rebecca had plotted carefully, giggling as they prepared it. Kevan had refused to let Rebecca buy a particularly short dress, citing decency, and in retaliation, she had coated a muffin with shaving cream. When Kevan, distracted by a phone call, took a bite, he hadn’t realized that the “cream” was not edible frosting—it was the prank they had set in motion. He had grimaced, assuming the cream had spoiled, while Mia and Rebecca had doubled over in silent laughter behind his back. Moments like these reminded Mia that joy didn’t have to be complicated, and even amidst danger, small rebellions brought warmth.

Another revelation had come that day. The bracelet she had been wearing, the one with the delicate crystal she had received so recently, was not just rare—it was powerful. Even stranger, the crack that had appeared on it a few days prior had somehow healed itself. Mia traced the smooth surface with her fingers, curiosity and awe filling her as she contemplated the strange magic that seemed to follow her. It was both a comfort and a reminder: she was not like other people, and the dangers surrounding her were far from ordinary.

Today, however, was special. They were going trekking, visiting the outskirts of the town, where select individuals trained together. It was an exclusive gathering, and Mia had been allowed to join only thanks to Rebecca’s insistence. She had been here before, but each visit brought new faces, new energy, and a deepening understanding of the people who lived and worked in Kevan’s world.

Ben, ever practical, informed them that Kevan and the others had already arrived to oversee the arrangements, and they would join him later. Mia, however, was eager. She wanted to witness the beginning, her favorite part, even if it meant waking earlier than usual.

As they approached the training grounds, the crowd of participants had already begun to form. The air was filled with a mix of excitement, tension, and anticipation. Ben nudged her lightly. “Kevan’s already there. Don’t worry, you’ll see everything you want.”

The first session began, and Mia couldn’t help but smile despite herself. Rebecca leaned over and whispered, teasing, “Pervert.”

Mia laughed, shaking her head. “If I don’t enjoy it, I can close my eyes.”

Ben, ever the protective one, came up behind her and covered her eyes. “Stop ogling,” he said playfully.

Mia pushed his hand away, a teasing grin on her lips. “Let me see the art in front of me.”

Ben smirked. “Pervert.”

Mia rolled her eyes. “Call me what you want.”

Ben shook his head in mock frustration. “So that’s why you wake up so early in the morning.”