𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐂𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐀 𝐂𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐓 (ANGEL)
Older. Scary. Silent.
Damon Lars was always lurking in the shadows, a sinister presence that scared me. It would be oblivious for me not to notice him even in the darkest areas. He was there. Maybe invisible to ot...
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JAXON CRIST
I sank onto the bed beside Liliana, resting my head on her shoulder. She jolted up slightly, startled, and her book tumbled onto my pillow. She opened her arms, pulling me into her warmth without hesitation.
"I have a surprise for you, Dollface," I murmured, brushing a strand of her hair back.
Liliana narrowed her eyes playfully. "Jaxon, no. That's enough. You're turning into your dad—every second, a new gift. I can't even fit them into my room anymore," she sighed, though a small smile tugged at her lips.
I grinned, taking her words as the highest compliment. Being like my dad wasn't an insult. Men should spoil their women. When you're lucky enough to have someone like Liliana, it's not just a privilege—it's a duty. If a man can't praise or take care of his woman, is he even a man?
"This gift is different," I said, pulling back just enough to meet her gaze. "And, while we're on the topic, why don't you just move in with me? Your parents don't mind. We've been dating for a while now, and we're heading to France with Stella and Grayson for university anyway. We'll be living together in the same dorms, so why not start now?"
Liliana's brows furrowed, a mix of hesitation and amusement. "Don't remind me that we're leaving Marcella and Avery here. And no, Jaxon. I already come over too much. Living here? Your dad literally put in soundproof walls—I'm still embarrassed about that." She pouted, her fingers weaving into my hair. "I love you, you know that?" she added softly, her eyes tender. "But you're insane."
I chuckled, leaning into her touch. "I love you too, Dollface. And yeah, I'm crazy. But you love that about me." I straightened up, my grin widening. "Now, about our surprise. You and me... one month in Italy for the rest of the summer."
Her eyes widened in shock, her jaw dropping. "Jaxon, no! Take your mom or your sister. I can't just go to Italy tonight! I haven't even packed!"
I smirked, knowing I had her cornered. "I already packed for you. Just the essentials—panties, a bra, and one outfit. The rest? We'll shop for it."
She smacked my shoulder, her cheeks flushing. "Jaxon, you're impossible!" She shook her head, though her lips twitched with a reluctant smile. "How am I supposed to tell the group I'm ditching them for our last summer together to run off with my crazy boyfriend? I can't leave without at least one of them coming along."
I groaned but leaned back, pretending to consider it. "Stella won't want to go—she's too busy 'studying' with Grayson, though, honestly, have you seen the way they look at each other? And Avery? No chance. She and Alessio are holed up in that cabin, playing out their romance novel fantasies."
Liliana tilted her head, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "What about Marcella and Damon? It could be a double date. A little getaway for all of us. Plus, it's a chance for you and Damon to patch things up. You guys were like brothers once, Jaxon. You could be again."
