Marlos

Calentine

Calentine- A mix of both Valentine's day and Cotillion

Golden rays of sunlight peeked through the curtains, stirring Mal from her peaceful sleep. She stretched languidly, a small smile gracing her lips as she snuggled closer to the warmth beside her. Carlos was still fast asleep, holding her waist, his arm wrapped around her protectively, both of them tangled together in the bed. Mal's eyes fluttered open, and she gazed at Carlos's peaceful face, his features relaxed in sleep. She gently brushed a stray strand of hair from his forehead, careful not to wake him. Today was the Cotillion. The thought sent a shiver of excitement, mixed with a touch of nervous anticipation, through her. It was also Valentine's Day, a fact that had completely slipped her mind until she woke up this morning. She wondered if Carlos had remembered.

Carlos stirred in his sleep, his eyes fluttering open. He blinked a few times, adjusting to the morning light, and then his gaze landed on Mal. A soft smile spread across his face. "Morning," he mumbled, his voice still thick with sleep.

"Morning handsome," Mal replied, her voice filled with affection. She leaned in and kissed him softly. "Sleep well?"

Carlos grinned, pulling her closer. "The best," he said, nuzzling his face into her neck. "Especially with my girlfriend in my arms."

Mal laughed lightly before lying in his arms and smiling cutely at him. "I love you, you dork," she teased, but her tone was filled with love.

They lay there for a while, enjoying the quiet intimacy of the morning. The Cotillion and Valentine was today. The reality of the evening ahead settled between them, a mix of excitement and a touch of underlying tension. Mal's thoughts drifted back to Valentine's Day. She hadn't gotten Carlos anything yet, and she suddenly felt a pang of guilt. She hoped he hadn't planned anything too elaborate. She didn't want to disappoint him. She decided to play it cool and see if he mentioned anything. If not, she would have to come up with something quick. Maybe she could whip up some of her famous Isle treats. Carlos always loved those.

Just as she was thinking this, Carlos reached under his pillow and pulled out a small, intricately wrapped box. "Happy Valentine's Day," he said, a shy smile spreading across his face. "I know it's also Cotillion day, so I didn't want it to get lost in the shuffle."

Mal's eyes widened in surprise. "Carlos," she breathed, her heart fluttering. "You remembered!"

He chuckled. "Of course I remembered. I wouldn't forget Valentine's Day with you for anything."

Mal sat up, her excitement bubbling over. She took the gift from him, her fingers tracing the delicate ribbon. "This is so sweet of you," she said, her voice filled with warmth. "Thank you."

She carefully unwrapped the box, revealing a beautiful silver locket. Inside, nestled against a piece of velvet, was a tiny picture of them together, taken during their first date in Auradon.

"Oh, Carlos," Mal whispered, tears welling up in her eyes. "It's perfect."

He reached out and gently fastened the locket around her neck. "I also got you something else," he said, pulling out a small, velvet pouch. He opened it to reveal a pair of delicate silver earrings, shaped like tiny dragons.

"They're beautiful," Mal gasped, her eyes shining. "Thank you, Carlos. You're the best boyfriend a girl could ask for."

She leaned in and kissed him deeply, a silent expression of her love and gratitude. "I didn't get you anything," she confessed, a hint of guilt creeping into her voice.

Carlos smiled. "Your love is the only gift I need," he said softly. "I have more gifts for you, but," he added with a playful grin, "I wouldn't say no to some of those Isle treats you mentioned."