Snowbound Flames

Chapter 38: Valentine's Day (Special)

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a golden glow over Rimuru's bed. She stirred slightly, still curled up in her blankets, half-buried under the warmth. A scent—sweet yet rich—lingered in the air, coaxing her from sleep.

Her eyes fluttered open, and she blinked at the sight before her.

Guy Crimson, the ever-arrogant yet frustratingly attentive Demon Lord, stood beside her bed, holding a tray. Atop it sat a lavish breakfast spread—freshly baked croissants, fruit drizzled with honey, steaming tea, and a plate of delicately arranged chocolates.

And in his other hand, a bouquet of deep crimson roses.

Rimuru sat up sluggishly, rubbing her eyes. "...What's this?" she muttered, still groggy.

Guy smirked, setting the tray down on her lap. "Breakfast in bed. And chocolates. And flowers."

She blinked at the display. "Why?"

His smirk widened. "It's Valentine's Day."

Rimuru stared at him for a moment, then let out a small groan. "Ugh, right. I forgot I made that a thing."

Guy pulled a chair closer and propped his elbow on the bed. "Since I'm the most thoughtful person you know, I figured I'd bring you a proper start to the day."

She eyed the food, feeling an undeniable warmth in her chest despite her usual nonchalance. "Well... thanks, I guess."

She picked up one of the chocolates, giving it a hesitant bite. As the rich flavor melted on her tongue, she let out an involuntary hum of approval.

Guy watched her with a satisfied look. "Good, right?"

She rolled her eyes. "I'm not giving you the satisfaction of a full compliment."

He only chuckled, picking up a fork and stabbing a piece of fruit before holding it up to her mouth.

Rimuru gave him a deadpan stare. "I can feed myself."

Guy arched a brow. "I fed you last time, remember?"

"That was different. I was working."

"And now you're waking up. Open up."

She scowled but eventually gave in, biting down on the fruit. The smirk never left his face. "Good girl."

She almost choked.

                                         ***

After breakfast, Rimuru sat at her desk, ready to tackle her paperwork, but of course, fate—or rather, Guy—had other plans.

"Enough of that," he said, yanking the papers from her hands.

"Oi! I have work—"

He crossed his arms. "And you're going on a date."

Rimuru froze. "...Excuse me?"

"A date," Guy repeated, smirking. "With me."

Her mind short-circuited. "...I—what—why—?"

"It's Valentine's Day," he said as if it were obvious. "It's what people do."

Rimuru stared at him, trying to process the sheer audacity of this demon. "You—you're just deciding this for me?!"

"Yeah."

She gaped at him, mouth opening and closing. Then she sighed, pressing a hand to her forehead. "Fine. But only because I'd like to see the festival."

Guy grinned victoriously. "Knew you'd say yes."

The town of Tempest had transformed overnight.

Heart-shaped decorations lined the streets, vendors sold chocolates and sweets, and couples wandered about, enjoying the festive atmosphere.