Chapter 192:
Love in the Air
Selene was feeling the joys of life for the first time since she met Jace. Ever since that fateful encounter, her life has taken a drastically different turn than she ever thought it would. Her happiness every time she saw him was a reminder of how he had changed her life. There was nothing in this world she wouldn't do for him. He was everything, and now...there was another.
She smiled as she held her belly, looking down at it in joy. She still had her doubts about being a good parent, but when she had decided with Liana and Kiera that it was time, there was something that flipped inside of her. Something that told her everything would be okay.
Her excitement and joy overshadowed whatever fears she had. She knew that he'd be there for her. Jace wouldn't just abandon her or their child. Well...children. Selene chuckled to herself while thinking about how full their house will be in the future.
"It's exciting, isn't it?" Olivia, her mother asked softly, "I know I don't have much right when saying this, but...it was the same for me when I found out I was pregnant with you."
"Heh, no, you have every right to say it," Selene replied as she looked over at them with a gentle smile, "I've forgiven you. So, please. Forgive yourself. Father was a bastard."
"Yeah, he was," her mother nodded with a light laugh, "I just hate that I took so long to do anything. All that time wasted."
Selene understood her feelings. She didn't get to raise the little girl she gave birth to. She wasn't allowed. So, she lost herself as a way to protect herself from the pain. Still, her mother's eyes were looking brighter. Much more clear than they had been.
"Not to interrupt this touching moment, but..." Kiera spoke up shyly, "Should I really be here? This seems like it should be your time together. As Mother and Daughter."
Selene and Olivia glanced over at Kiera, who had joined them for this outing. They were all walking through one of the malls in New Eden. Kiera was wearing a lovely dark purple summer dress, her hair done up with similarly colored ribbons. She looked nervous. Anxious.
"Of course, it is," Olivia spoke up first, "Selene may be my blood, but you're also my daughter. Lilah think's so too. Same with Nadie. So, it's only appropriate for you to be here."
Selene's mother huffed, crossing her arms defiantly. Selene found her reaction quite adorable. It was also touching that her mother had grown close to Jace and Liana's mother's respectively. She marveled at Olivia in amusement.
Her mother's hair was done up in a nice updo, strands of silver framing her face. You'd never know that she could make such a face as she did in that moment. It was almost childish.
This was in contrast to her attire, which spoke of high class casual. Black slacks that hugged her hips and shoes with heels that gave her even more height. A loose sleeved beige blouse with a tie front at the top. She looked like she could attend a business meeting at any moment.
Selene wore something similar, though with instead of a blouse, she had on a normal white shirt with a beige cardigan over it. Sleeves rolled up. Her pants were also a little bit looser around the waist. She smiled over at Kiera in agreement with her mother.
"She's right, Kiera," Selene stated gently, "You're part of our family. I was the one to invite you anyways, since Liana is doing this with Delilah. As both lovers and future wives of Jace, you're my sister. It's only right we do this together."
Kiera blushed lightly, seemingly appreciative of her words. The three of them were out shopping right now. While it would still be a few month's away, they wanted get clothing for their soon to be born children. There was another, equally as important, reason for them coming out today.
Wedding Dresses.
It had been a while since they had gotten engaged, and with their children on the way, they wanted to marry before then. Selene had asked her mother to help them with this task. Her heart had felt soothed when she saw her mother's eyes light up in wonder from being asked.
They had all agreed to go to the mall, but split up to cover more ground. They would eventually meet back up to look at dresses together and to have lunch. This was a girls day out, with Jace being back at home.
Briana and Rachel were taking care of him, or was it more right to say that he was taking care of them? Selene mused this thought in her head, knowing he'd have his hands full, but also knowing that he was in good hands as well. They were having an anime marathon, which she thought was absolutely adorable. Thinking of them curled up watching shows.
A part of her was a little envious, but they also needed their time with him. He was only one person, after all. One they all loved with everything they had.
"Let's go this way," Selene motioned, putting the thoughts from her head.
The three of them made their way further into the mall at Selene's behest. She was, for the first time, able to enjoy a day out with her mother. There were moments where Selene felt like a child again. It was in these moments that Selene realized that her inner child also had to be healed, and Jace had helped to urge her towards it.
He had been protective of her against her mother, but also supported her in mending things. When he saw how hard her mother was trying, it was him who had continually encouraged her. She was able to smile brightly with her mother that day.
Everyone could tell there was a change and basked in the radiance that was created from it. As they met back up with Delilah and Liana, there was a knowing look on their faces. Selene was surrounded by lovely and wonderful people, including her mother.
The others watched as she embraced her mother's arm. Hugging it to herself and dragging her around with gleaming eyes. Her inner child was smiling.
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Their dresses were picked out, matching in styles with a little bit of personal flair. All of them were A-line in style with a Queen Anne neckline. The purest of white fabric was used to make them.
Kiera's held a bit more flair to hers, with a lot more lace than Selene or Liana in leave patterns along the dress. Her sleeves were see-through and slightly loose. Liana's held less lace on the dress itself, though her sleeves were made of see-through lace that hugged her arms in a delicate pattern.
Selene's dress was a little bit simpler. There wasn't much lace, besides around her shoulders and neckline. Her sleeves weren't see-through like the others, preferring a simpler solid sleeve. All of them looked positively stunning in them with each one of them imagining Jace's reaction when he saw them on their wedding day.
Today had a been a day of bonding for them all. Though they had grown closer due to their mutual love of Jace, this had practically cemented and further strengthened it. Learning about each other and seeing these sides of them was what brought them to love each other as well.
The reality of them getting married hit them in an emotional state. Delilah and Olivia watched them with understanding and love. Their hearts were soothed seeing their daughter's happy. Part of them almost feeling sorry for Jace, but he was the reason they were like this. So, in their opinion, he reaped what he sowed.
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Jace sneezed, covering his mouth as best he could before looking with wide, worried eyes at the two sleeping girls next to him. He was concerned he had woken them with that loud sneeze, but thankfully both Briana and Rachel were sound asleep. Curled up on either side of him, they had fallen asleep a while ago during the marathon they held in one of the rooms of the penthouse.
Snuggled up next to him under the blankets, laying on the pulled-out couch as they were, Jace couldn't help but find them adorable. These two women were definitely a handful. With Briana's energy levels being matched by Rachel, he had almost been outmatched. Thankfully, he had learned a thing or two and was able to get the upper hand.
Both of them were clingy, neither wanting to be away from him. This worked out well, as it was a way to leverage them to settled down. Threatening to leave if they didn't relax. They pouted, but listened, which was adorable in its own way.
Once they were settled down, they watched many shows together. They nerded out to their favorite characters. Arguing over differences of opinion, but not in an angry way. More of a playful, friendly way. He was glad to see them getting along as they did.
This just went to remind him of the life he had before him. There was just one thing missing, but with his Angel's help, he would fill in that missing peace. He just need time and for Liana to gather the proper ingredients.
Jace settled back into the couch, wrapping an arm around each of them. Sensing his embrace, they nestled closer to him with a smile on their faces. "My little flowers..." Jace chuckled to himself. He'd have to make sure to nurture them so they could fully blossom.
Rachel had begun to bloom after their time together while Briana was still blooming. He wondered if she was okay with how things were progressing, but as he saw her somehow hold onto Sharkie and him at the same time, he figured she was at least satisfied. All he ever wanted was to make them happy, for they had made him happy.
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Briana smelled the flowers in the bushes, kneeling down as she took in the scenery. She was currently in the flower garden of the second floor to the penthouse. It was a bit secluded from the rest of the house, being hidden behind a flowered path on it's own section of the tower.
Quaint, red brick walls surrounded the area with vines that grew along its surface. There was a cute sitting area with a bench that looked out over the city. This entire area held a sort of fairytale-esque vibe. It was one of Briana's favorite places to relax.
It was also the place that Jace had invited her for a picnic. Its green, pristine grassy lawn was perfect. Protected from wind by the walls, and with a nice view of New Eden, Briana couldn't help but find it romantic.
She wore a plain, slightly frilly dark pink dress. She thought it looked cute when she saw it, and Jace had immediately got it for her. No questions asked. So, she thought it appropriate to wear it to their date. She even did her hair up in slight curls.
"Hey, there's my Princess," Jace called to her fondly.
"Come on..." Briana blushed with a shy smile.
"What?" He inquired with a laugh, "You do look like one. I hope this place is alright. I know it's not like...at an actual park, but-"
"Nuhuh," Briana shook her head with a bright smile, "This is perfect!"
She bounced up and practically skipped over to him. He held in his hand a picnic basket and a folded blanket. Taking the blanket from him, he went to protest but as she pouted, he relented and allowed her to help. She was happy to spend time like this with him.
She truly did feel like a princess with how he treated her. With so many who loved him, he still made her feel special. Their time was precious together, and today felt even more so. "Am I...really going to do it?" Briana wondered, feeling her entire body grow warm.
Briana's heart softened as she watched him set everything up after she laid down the blanket. He smiled up at her, causing her heart to grow weak. He had personally made all the food they ate. While it wasn't on Liana's level, it was still good.
He had made sandwiches and dessert, of which was strawberry shortcake. There was various kinds of juice and tea so she wasn't restricted in her choice. She giggled, happy that he was so considerate. There was even some salads along with a fruit, cheese, and meat platter.
"It's not the best, but..." Jace shrugged sheepishly, "I tried. The dessert I did get a little help from Liana, but...overall, I made it myself."
"It's delicious," Briana smiled lovingly, savoring every bite.
Somehow, the fact that he made everything made it taste even better. He fed her fruit and they watched the city. In each other's embrace, she felt safe. Her head against his chest, she could hear his heart beat. Feel his warmth.
"Hey...Jace?" Briana inquired softly.
"Yeah, Bri?" He responded gently, looking down at her.
It was at this moment she took her chance. The second he looked down, she kissed him. Her heart beating wildly. The wind blew gently across the area, bringing with it the scent of flowers and a serenity that washed over her.
His eyes widened in surprise, but slowly relaxed as he embraced her. Returning her kiss affectionately and with vigor. She shivered slightly under his touch on her side. Pressing against him, she pushed him down on to the blanket.
Reluctantly pulling away, her face felt like it would burn up. She could hardly keep eye contact with him. He simply looked at her with clear, kind eyes. His hands on her hips felt right.
"Bri..." Jace called her name fondly, "You're quite bold today."
He was teasing her, but she didn't mind. She knew she had joined later than the other's, but she was tired of falling behind. She loved Jace. She was tired of hiding these feelings.
She had always been seen as some pure, innocent girl. Maybe they were right, and she was like that, but...she still wanted to feel good. To become one with him like everyone else.
"Yeah..." She answered coyly, "Well, maybe I need to be? Jace....I love you. You make me feel like I've never felt. Yet, I can't help but feel like I'm falling behind, and I-"
"Nonsense," he shushed her warmly, "You're behind no one."
"I'd like to think that," she responded with a smile, though it held some sadness, "Which is why..."
She finally locked eyes with him. She felt the desire build up in her. This love of hers was driving her insane. It really felt like a fairytale to have found someone like Jace. To have been accepted into his life.
"Please, make me yours," Briana whispered.
Jace's expression softened. Reaching a hand up to her face, he caressed her lightly. She shivered under his touch. With great care, he lifted her up and switched positions with her. He laid her upon the blanket, her back to the floor as he leaned over her.
She could feel her heart beating rapidly. As if it was trying to free itself from her chest. She held her hands together above her heart. She had resolved herself for this moment, staring with determination up into his loving eyes.
"Bri...you've always been mine," Jace told her, his hand cupping her face while his other moved down her hip to her thigh, causing her to let out a small surprised gasp, "I just didn't want to rush things with you. For some reason, I felt the need to take it slow, but...I didn't mean for you to feel neglected."
"It's okay..." she smiled nervously up at him, "You're very sweet. That's something I love about you. I don't feel neglected. In fact, you've made me feel really special. Which is why...please. I love you, Jace."
He smiled with a soft chuckle. Leaning in, she could feel his breath against her neck as he kissed her. She let out another gasp that mixed with a moan. His lips were gentle and soft.
They moved to nuzzle her ear. It tickled, causing her to giggle.
"I love you too, Bri," he whispered seductively.
Her heart immediately exploded in happiness from hearing those words. Her face a bright red as she stopped giggling from being suddenly so embarrassed. She felt his hands run along her thigh. His touch electrifying, despite him not using magic at all.
He pressed his body against her, which made her feel safe. His hands on her body seemed to envelop her completely. He was gentle, caring as he guided her through it. She could feel her arousal as he played with her. Biting her lip as his fingers worked their magic.
Briana's mind went blank as all she could think about was him. He took great care to make sure everything went at her pace. Waiting for her to nod before he pressed himself inside of her. She was aroused enough that it didn't hurt as bad as she thought it would.
Her moans filled his ears as she held onto him, her face buried into his neck. She took in his stormy scent. A soothing aroma that made her only more aroused. She lost herself in this sensation, feeling the waves of pleasure wash over her.
Warm tears rolled down her face as she realized how happy she was. Her breathing grew ragged as she felt something well up inside of her. It was like she was at the edge of a cliff and was about to fall when suddenly her body shook. Tensing up before trembling with ecstasy.
She felt something warm inside of her, feeling Jace's muscles tense and relax. He held her, cradling her in his arms. She felt safe and wanted more. Lost to the rapturous feeling of finally being one with him, they spent that afternoon indulging in her desires.
Briana succumbed to pleasure several times. Grateful for how much attention he gave to ensuring she was always safe. He wasn't rough with her unless she asked. Their bodies melding together, Briana finally felt like a part of her had been freed.
In this wondrous and euphoric event, an obsession was sparked. She became hopelessly in love. Smitten more than ever before. She clung to Jace, not ever wanting to let go.
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