The forbidden love

Morning

Chapter Eight

The sun shone through the windows of her room, directly on her face. Valerie turned to the other side, reluctant to wake up. She managed to sit up in bed, her night having been just okay. Standing up, she felt the coolness of the tiled floor, a stark contrast to the warmth of her home. She walked to the bathroom, appreciating its modern design with a glass wall separating the toilet from the shower area. After taking care of her morning routine, she slipped into a light blue dress that flowed down to her ankles, letting her long hair cascade over her shoulders. A faint knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.

"Your attention is needed downstairs," said a woman when Valerie opened the door. She nodded, slipped on a pair of slippers, and headed downstairs.

In the living room, Valerie found Azar's wife seated on the couch, looking at her expectantly.

"Good morning, ma'am," Valerie greeted with a small bow.

"Morning, dear. How was your first night here?" Azar's wife asked.

Valerie nodded, unsure of how much to reveal. "It was fine, thank you."

"You didn't come down for dinner last night. I hope nothing was wrong?" she continued, her tone gentle but curious.

"Nothing happened. I was just tired and fell asleep early," Valerie explained.

Azar's wife nodded in understanding. "The first thing I need you to do is go upstairs to the room on the right. That’s my son's room. Wake him up and tend to his needs. He needs to come down for breakfast."

Valerie nodded again and made her way upstairs. She approached the room indicated and knocked softly.

"Who is it?" came a voice from inside.

"Valerie. Your mother asked me to wake you and assist you," she replied.

Before she could finish, the door opened, revealing a tall figure. He was fully dressed, though his white shirt was unbuttoned at the top, revealing a hint of his muscular chest. His hair was disheveled and slightly damp, and his sharp features and green eyes made him strikingly handsome.

"What is it?" he asked, his voice neutral.

"Your mother asked me to render you some assistance," Valerie repeated.

He turned and walked back to a chair which had a desk where a large mirror was placed, a book in his hand. Valerie followed him, shutting the door behind her.

"Make my hair," he said simply, his eyes not leaving the book.

Valerie hesitated for a moment. She hadn’t styled anyone’s hair before, except her little brother’s. How hard could it be? She picked up a brush and began combing through his soft, silky hair. After parting it into two equal sections, she slicked back one half and combed the other side neatly. His hair now looked neat and shiny.

"I'm done," she announced.

Dante glanced at the mirror, his expression remaining neutral. Valerie recognized him as the man she had saved in the woods, though it seemed he didn’t remember her. She took a moment to look around his room, noting its sparse decor and was also very big. At least he had a balcony.

Together, Dante and Valerie walked out of the room and headed downstairs to the dining room, where Azar, his wife, and Lyria were already seated. Dante took a seat beside his mother.

"Good morning," he greeted simply.

"Good morning," the others replied in unison.

Valerie murmured a soft "Good morning" and was directed to sit beside Lyria, opposite Dante. The dining table was long, with several empty chairs still available. Soon, a maid brought out their food, laying out a variety of dishes. Some were familiar to Valerie, while others were strange.

Everyone picked up their utensils and began eating, except Valerie. She placed her hands together and said a silent prayer before starting her meal. Lyria watched her curiously.

"What were you doing?" Lyria asked.

"I made a silent prayer. It's a fay thing," Valerie explained, taking a bite of her food. The flavors were exquisite, and she savored every bite.

They ate in silence for a while until Azar's wife spoke up, breaking the quiet.

"Wait, I'm so sorry I didn’t ask for your name. What’s your name?"

"Valerie Blackwood," she replied with a smile.

"Valerie, this is Dante and Lyria. Feel free around us; this is your second home," Azar's wife said kindly.

Valerie was surprised by her warmth. She had expected the family to be aloof or even hostile, but Azar's wife was genuinely kind. Valerie returned her smile, feeling a bit more at ease.

Breakfast continued quietly, the sound of cutlery clinking against plates filling the room. Valerie enjoyed the meal, appreciating the variety of flavors and textures.

After breakfast, Azar's wife suggested they all take a walk in the garden. Valerie agreed, grateful for the chance to stretch her legs and explore the surroundings. The garden was lush and well-maintained, with flowers of every color and tall trees providing shade. Valerie took a deep breath, letting the fresh air fill her lungs. It was peaceful here, and for the first time in a while, she felt a sense of belonging.

As they walked, Azar’s wife pointed out different plants and flowers, sharing tidbits of information about each one. Valerie listened intently, enjoying the simple pleasure of learning something new. Lyria walked beside her, occasionally glancing her way. Walking round the garden made her feel at home.

They reached a small gazebo at the far end of the garden, and Azar's wife suggested they sit for a while. They settled on the benches, the dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves above.

"How are you finding your stay so far?" Azar's wife asked, her voice gentle.

"It’s been good, thank you. Everyone has been very kind," Valerie replied, feeling a warmth spread through her chest.

"We’re glad to have you here, Valerie. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask," Azar's wife said with a reassuring smile.

Valerie nodded, feeling a growing sense of connection with the family. Despite the differences between fays and vampires, she realized there was much they could learn from each other. Perhaps, in this unlikely place, she would find the answers she sought and the strength to face the challenges ahead.

The rest of the morning passed in pleasant conversation and leisurely walks through the garden. By the time they returned to the house, Valerie felt a renewed sense of purpose. She didn’t know what the future held, but she was ready to face it with courage and hope.