The Light in My Darkness ||Ominis Gaunt X OC||

Chapter 13 |SLIGHTLY NSFW|

Mostly fluff, some light spice near the end

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Charlotte walked beside Ominis, her basket filled with fresh flowers, pastries, and a new journal for her thoughts. The market's lively sounds faded as they wandered deeper into the winding streets. Though unsure of their path, she felt a thrill in the unfamiliarity, the sense of adventure making her smile.

When they turned a corner, the street narrowed into a cobblestone path lined with wildflowers, vibrant poppies and bluebells that brushed against her skirts as the pair ventured deeper. Sunlight filtered softly through tall hedges, and the distant hum of the village became a gentle whisper. Charlotte's breath caught when the path opened into a hidden garden, its beauty unexpected and enchanting.

A canopy of tangled vines draped overhead, their green tendrils woven with delicate blooms. The air felt cooler here, filled with the scent of roses and jasmine, and the faint sound trickle of water from a mossy fountain. She paused, glancing at Ominis, who had stilled beside her. His head tilted as he breathed in, his fingers tracing the textured handle of his cane, as if grounding himself to the new sensations and smells around him

With a gentle touch, she guided his hand to her arm, signaling that she would guide him. His fingers tightened in response, a silent confirmation of trust. Together, they moved over the uneven stones until they reached the heart of the garden. Sunlight peeked through the vines, casting warm, dappled patterns that danced over his face.

She raised his hand to an ivy-covered wall, tracing his fingers over the leaves and rough stone beneath. His touch was tentative at first, then more assured as he explored the textures, the cool, smooth surface of the leaves and knotted vines. She watched his expression soften, his lips curving into a gentle smile as he became familiar with the textures.

When he turned toward her, his eyes held a question. She pressed his palm against her heart, feeling its steady rhythm before spelling out "Beautiful" in his other hand.

He let out a quiet breath, and she could feel the warmth of his smile, even if he couldn't see the wonder in her eyes. As they stood in the garden's quiet embrace, Charlotte felt a sense of peace settle over her. For the first time in a long while, she felt free. Free from the weight of expectations, from the constraints of silence, and, most importantly, free to enjoy this moment with him.

She reached up, her fingers brushing against the short hair at the nape of his neck, and leaned in, her lips hovering just below his. His hand moved to her waist, tentative and warm, pulling her closer. She felt the warmth of his breath, and when their lips finally met, it was tender, unhurried, like the blooming flowers that surrounded them, taking their time to open.

As they parted, she rested her forehead against his, the fragrance of roses and earth grounded her in the magic of the hidden space.

She took in more of the garden, among the wildflowers, Charlotte spotted lacewing flies and honey bees floating around from bloom to bloom. There were a few dormant flutterby bushes and wild knotgrass.

Towards the center, an old wooden table sat near the fountain, its surface weathered but welcoming. She let go of Ominis' hand and traced the table's texture, feeling the grooves and age in the wood. It felt like the perfect spot for an impromptu picnic, a sanctuary they had stumbled upon by chance.

Charlotte set her basket down and hurried back to Ominis, guiding him to the bench. She spelled out "Perfect" in his hand before unpacking their treats.

He smiled, helping her arrange the spread. She watched as his fingers moved over the freshly baked bread, his charm slicing it with practiced ease before passing her a piece. Their fingers brushed briefly, and a thrill warmed her as she brought the bread to her lips. It was soft and warm, it's comforting flavor mingling with the breeze that carried the garden's scent. The tang of the soft crumb gentle on their tongues as it mixed with the creamy brie they purchased earlier.