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Ever stepped into her room, exhaustion clinging to her after a long day. She paused, eyes widening at the sight before her. Draped carefully across her bed was a breathtaking ruby red gown. Beside it, a pair of sleek black heels waited, along with a folded note.
Curiosity piqued, she picked up the note and read:
"Put this on, and be ready by 7 pm. Keith will come and get you. - Sylus"
Ever's brow furrowed in confusion. "What is this for?" she murmured to herself. Her first thought was that it might be for a mission, an unusual yet not entirely implausible cover. She slipped the note into her pocket and, out of habit, strapped a small gun to her leg.
She pulled out her phone and sent Sylus a quick text: "What's this all about?" Minutes ticked by with no response. Her curiosity deepened.
As seven neared she slipped into the dress, feeling the cool, luxurious fabric against her skin. The dress fit perfectly, accentuating her figure and making her feel both elegant and powerful. She styled her hair, letting it cascade in soft waves over her shoulders. As she applied her makeup, she chatted with Mephisto, who lounged nearby, occasionally offering his usual commentary.
“Squack.”
"Thanks," Ever replied, smiling at his reflection in the mirror. She took one last look at herself, feeling uncertainty. The dress was unlike anything she'd ever worn, and it made her feel special in a way she couldn't quite describe. The dress was a
A backless and off-the-shoulder, it flowed down to her ankles perfectly, with black lace trim elegantly tracing the hems. It fit her a bit too well. Snug but comfortable, showing off her spine and the curvature of her hips.
As the clock struck 7:00, a knock echoed through her door. Ever's heart quickened. She opened the door to find Keith standing there, also impeccably dressed, with his usual mask.
"Miss Ever, are you ready?" he asked.
"Oh, Hi Keith. I’m ready," she said, glancing back at her reflection one last time. The gown shimmered in the low light, making her feel like she had stepped out of a dream.
“Have you heard from Sylus?”
“I haven’t.” He says truthfully.
Keith offered his arm, and she took it, allowing him to lead her out. They walked through the corridors,
They reached the garage, where a sleek, black car waited. Keith opened the door for her, and she slipped inside, the leather seats cool against her skin. Keith closed the door and walked around to the driver’s seat. As he started the engine, Ever couldn’t help but wonder what operation Sylus had going.
<
After what felt like an eternity, the car turned onto a long, winding driveway. At the end of the drive stood a mansion, its architecture reminiscent of a castle, complete with towering spires and ivy-clad stone walls.
Keith brought the car to a gentle stop at the entrance. He stepped out and moved quickly to Ever’s side, opening the door and offering his hand to help her out. She took it, her heels clicking softly on the cobblestone as she stood. Mephisto, who had been unusually quiet, perched himself on her shoulder, his presence both reassuring and perplexing. He rarely accompanied her on missions. This was a mission…wasn’t it?
“Anyone going to fill me in? Where Sylus? Luke?”
Keith remained silent as he led her up the stone steps to the large double doors. As they reached the top, the heavy doors swung open, revealing a decorated foyer. Keith slipped inside first, giving her a reassuring nod.
From beyond the entrance, she heard the gentle strains of classical music, the notes of a harp with the melody of a violin. The sound was beautiful.
“What is going on?” Ever whispered, more to herself than to anyone else. Her heart pounded with a mix of curiosity and nerves.
As she stepped inside, her breath caught. The room she entered was nothing short of magnificent. It was a grand ballroom with cathedral-style arches, the high ceilings adorned with intricate designs and chandeliers that cast a soft, warm glow. The walls were lined with tall, stained-glass windows, their colors muted by the dim light. The room was filled with people, all dressed in elegant attire, engaged in quiet conversation. The atmosphere was one of refined sophistication, a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
As Ever made her entrance, the room gradually fell silent. Heads turned, and conversations ceased. She heard a few small gasps, followed by a ripple of quiet admiration. Then, unexpectedly, a gentle applause began, spreading throughout the ballroom. The attention made her blush, her first instinct being to step back and retreat. But Keith's quiet laugh beside her kept her grounded.
“Boss is waiting for you,” he said, his tone light but full of assurance.
Ever took a deep breath and moved forward, her eyes scanning the room until they found him. Sylus stood at the far end, his gaze locked onto her the moment she entered. He began walking towards her, each step measured and deliberate. He wore a deep red tuxedo that matched the hue of her gown perfectly, the fabric rich and luxurious. His hair was styled meticulously, held in place by product that added a touch of modern sophistication. Black jewelry dangled from his ears, catching the light and adding an edge to his otherwise classic appearance.
When Sylus reached her, he paused, taking a moment to simply look at her. His eyes were filled with admiration and something deeper, a warmth that made Ever’s heart flutter.
“You are even more stunning than I could have ever imagined,” he said softly, his voice filled with genuine awe.
Ever’s cheeks flushed a deeper red, her nerves calming under his gaze. She felt like she was in a dream, the surreal beauty of the moment enveloping her. Sylus extended his hand to her,
Ever took his hand, her fingers trembling slightly as they intertwined with his.
"What is all this?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Sylus's smile softened, his eyes radiating warmth. "It is your birthday, is it not?"
"My... my birthday..." she echoed, the realization dawning on her.
Sylus stepped closer, his expression tender. "Ever, sweetie. Are you disappointed? I can make everyone leave if you want."
"No, Sylus, no," she hurried to reassure him, shaking her head. "It's just... I thought this was a mission. I'm... I'm carrying weapons."
For a moment, Sylus stared at her blankly. Then, a laugh burst from him, rich and genuine, filling the grand room with its warmth. Ever couldn't help but smile in response, the sound of his laughter easing the last of her nerves.
He gently squeezed her hand. "Well, that just makes you even more incredible," he said, his eyes filled with amusement.
"Would you like to remove them?" he asked gently, nodding towards her concealed weapons.
She hesitated, glancing around the room. "Do you think there will be any wanderers?"
Sylus's expression grew serious, and he stepped closer, his voice low and earnest. "If anything happens, I will protect you with my life. You’re safe here, with me.”
His words sent a wave of warmth through her. She nodded, feeling a sense of relief and trust. "Okay."
“May I?” Sylus questioned.
“Go for it, I might fall over in these heels if I do it myself.”
Sylus carefully knelt down, his hands gentle as he slipped his hands between the slit in her dress to unstrap the pistol and blade from her thigh and opposite ankle. His touch was both reassuring and respectful, his focus entirely on her. Once the weapons were free, he stood and handed them to Keith, who accepted them with a nod.
“Keith, can you keep these safe for the evening?”
"Of course," Keith replied, giving Ever a reassuring smile before stepping away.
Sylus turned back to her, his smile returning. "Now, let’s enjoy the night. There’s food and wonderful people to talk to.”
He led her through the crowd, introducing her to various guests. They were warm and welcoming, clearly holding Sylus in high regard. The food was indeed an array of exquisite dishes laid out on the side tables. Sylus filled two glasses with wine, handing one to her.
“To your birthday,” he said, raising his glass.
“Sylus this is……incredible.” clinking her glass against his and taking a sip. The wine was rich and smooth, its warmth spreading through her.
“an attempt at an Incredible birthday for an incredible person.”
As the evening progressed, the music changed, slowing to a romantic, melodic waltz. Sylus set his glass down and turned to her, extending his hand.
“May I have this dance?” he asked, his voice soft and inviting.
Ever’s heart skipped a beat. She placed her hand in his, allowing him to lead her to the center of the floor. Her face flushed with wine, The crowd parted, making space for them as they began to dance. Sylus’s movements were graceful and confident, guiding her effortlessly across the floor. The music enveloped them, the world outside fading away.
“You’re an excellent dancer,” she murmured, looking up into his eyes. His ruby eyes stared back.
Sylus smiled, his gaze never leaving hers. “Only because I have the perfect partner.”
“Sylus.” She smiles, blushing hard. She couldn’t tell if it was Sylus’s words or the wine coursing through her veins.
She tried not to think about the feeling of his hands on her waist, the gentle pressure as he guided her through the dance. It made her feel things she wasn’t sure about. She wanted him to touch her more, to embrace him and feel his warmth and—
“Ever, what are you thinking?” Sylus’s voice broke through her thoughts.
“Ah! Sylus, it’s nothing,” she stammered, trying to compose herself.
His eyes twinkled with curiosity and amusement. “Really? Because it seemed like you were deep in thought.”
“I… I was just thinking how you knew my birthday,” she admitted. “But I realize it’s not hard for you to obtain information.”
Sylus laughed softly this time,his hand on her waist tightening slightly. “I have my ways,” he said, his tone teasing. “But tonight isn’t about my methods. It’s about celebrating you.”
As the dance continued, Sylus leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear. “Ever,” he murmured, his voice low and intimate
Before he could finish, the music began to fade, signaling the end of the dance. Sylus drew back slightly, still holding her close. “Would you like to step outside for some fresh air?” he asked, his eyes searching hers.
She nodded, grateful for the chance to catch her breath. “Yes, that would be nice.”
“Let’s go then.”
Sylus took her hand, and led her through the crowd. They stepped out onto a balcony, the low murmurs of the party fading into the background. It was just the two of them now.
The view from the balcony was breathtaking. Below was a lake, its surface reflecting the pale light of the full moon. Sylus leaned on the balcony railing, gazing out over the water.
“This is my favorite time of day,” he said softly. “The night is so calm, It’s when I can truly think.”
Ever joined him at the railing, her eyes taking in the stunning view. “I can see why,” she replied. “It’s beautiful.”
He turned to her. His expression is unreadable. He brushes her dangling hair out of her face. She looked ethereal in this light. her lips were blushed, and her eyes were like blue crystals.
“"Kitten, I have something for you." Sylus slipped his hand into his coat pocket and pulled out a long, thin, black box with a silver bow on it.
"For... me?" Ever asked, letting him place it into her hands.
"Who else would it be for, sweetie?" he joked playfully. "Open it."
Ever pulled on the delicate strand that held the box together. Inside, she found a silver necklace with a series of diamonds that dangled like raindrops at the center. The stones glistened in the moonlight,
Ever put her fingers to her lips in disbelief, her eyes wide. "Sylus, this is more than anyone has ever done for me. It's... it's... I barely have words. You shouldn't have gone through the trouble to do all of this party and get me this beautiful—"
Sylus interrupted her mid-sentence, tipping her chin up with his pointer finger. A small, gentle smile played on his lips. "Kitten," he whispered.
"Sorry... I'm a bit wobbly from the wine—and I'm rambling. I just want you to know how—"
Before she could finish, Sylus pulled her forward and enveloped her in a kiss. Ever froze for a moment, but then she melted into him, pressing into his chest with the necklace still in hand. His strong hand slipped to the back of her neck, holding her in place.
The kiss was tender. Ever's heart raced as she clung to him, the world around them disappearing entirely. When they finally pulled apart, their foreheads rested against each other, breaths mingling in the cool night air.
"Sylus," she breathed.
"Happy birthday, Kitten." he murmured, his eyes locked onto hers.
She smiled, tears of happiness glistening in her eyes. "Thank you, Sylus. For everything."