My Sunflower(Elio Story)

💛🌻Chapter 15: The Blossoming of Us💛🌻

**Trigger Warning ⚠️**: This chapter includes themes of physical abuse, emotional trauma, and distressing imagery. Reader discretion is advised.

I awoke to the stifling darkness of the basement, my breath shallow as the muzzle pressed painfully against my face. The chains clinked softly with every shiver, their cold metal biting into my wrists. My back throbbed from yesterday's punishment, a dull, persistent ache.

Footsteps echoed from the stairs above, deliberate and heavy. The basement door creaked open, and I squinted against the dim light filtering down.

"Get up, you're going to school," my father's voice cut through the silence, sharp and commanding.

I struggled to rise, each movement dragging the chains across the rough wall. His presence loomed over me, his hands deftly unlocking the chains and yanking off the muzzle with a practiced harshness. The chill of the air against my exposed skin felt like relief and agony combined.

"Now, get out of my sight," he barked. I nodded, wincing as I limped up the stairs. The hot water of the shower scalded my raw skin, each droplet amplifying the sting. I braced myself against the tile, letting the steam envelop me.

After the shower, I dressed in a black hoodie and sweatpants. The fabric clung uncomfortably to my tender skin. I slipped on my black sneakers, grabbed my backpack, and headed out the door.

At Uncle John's Restaurant, I grabbed a breakfast muffin, nibbling on it as I walked towards school. The familiar sights of the school greeted me, and I made my way to my locker.

My gaze drifted to Luna's locker. She appeared in a blue sunflower print swing dress and yellow flats, her white hair cascading past her shoulders. My heart pounded as her mother's warning echoed in my mind, but I brushed it aside. I couldn't stay away from her, not now, not ever.

I approached her locker, leaning against it casually. "Hi, My Moonflower."

Her eyes softened with concern. "Elio, are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine," I said, forcing a tired smile. "Just tired."

Her gaze remained doubtful, but she pulled me into a hug. "I'm here for you, My Sunflower," she murmured into my chest.

I held her tightly, drawing strength from her warmth. She released me and took my hand. "Walk me to English?"

I nodded, guiding her through the crowded halls until we reached her classroom. After our goodbyes, I wandered to my art class.

Lunchtime found me at our usual table in the cafeteria. Luna joined me, and we fell into easy conversation, laughter bubbling between us as we ate. Her presence was a balm to my soul.

After school, I sought solitude in my sketchbook, perched in a tree at our favorite park. The page before me depicted Luna and me in a garden, surrounded by sunflowers and moonflowers. I traced the vibrant colors, the scene reflecting a moment of peace.

A sudden rustle interrupted my reverie. I lost my balance and tumbled from the tree, landing in Luna's arms. I looked up at her, a mix of surprise and relief in my eyes. "Umm, my Moonflower, you can let go of me now."

"Yeah, I definitely do that," Luna said, her cheeks flushed as she gently set me down.

Her nervous fidgeting caught my attention. "Actually, umm, I want to talk to you about that?" she began, her gaze fixed on the ground as she bit her lip.

I couldn't resist a teasing smile. "About me falling from a tree?"

She shot me a serious look. "Really?"

I raised my hands in surrender. "Okay, okay. I'm kidding."

Her fingers twisted nervously as she spoke. "Anyway, I've been thinking about us. I know you see me as just your Moonflower and best friend, but-"

The words burst out in a rush. "-I HAVE FEELINGS FOR YOU." Her heart raced, visible in her flushed cheeks and rapid breathing.

I took a deep breath. "Luna, I've loved you since I was 13. Even when I was distant, you never gave up on me."

Her eyes widened. "You love me? I'm sorry, My Sunflower. I only liked you a lot, but I want to try to be more than friends. Will you be my boyfriend?"

I spun her into a hug, a grin spreading across my face. "Yes, I'll be your boyfriend, My Moonflower."

Kiss Luna felt like kissing a moonflower. It was ethereal and soothing, like the soft glow of moonlight on a tranquil night. Her lips were cool and velvety, reminiscent of delicate petals of a moonflower.

The kiss carried a subtle fragrance, mysterious and enchanting, leaving behind a sense of peacefulness and wonder, much like the serene beauty of a moonlit garden in full bloom.

I pulled away, I whispered, "And My Moonflower, I'll wait patiently for you to say you love me too."

She smiled, her lips brushing mine once more, a promise in every touch.