Category : Stories

Sub Category : Romance

A large grin spreads across my eternally young, pale face, a face never changing as time goes on. Slowly, I open my hazel eyes that hold a ring of sapphire blue surrounding the pupils. I run my hands over the silky blue fabric covering my body and pink bed. Staring at the glow in the dark stars I have collected and placed all over the ceiling of my room, I sit up and fling my blanket off, hanging my legs over the side of the bed and placing my warm feet on the cool wooden floor. As I look around my room full of flowers, I can’t help but think of all the adventures I’ve had over the years, but try as I might I can’t think of any better days than my days spent on my homeland in Ireland.

I stand up and walk to the large mirror hanging on my wall, giggling I twirl around in my pink velvet nightgown. Examining my young face and my beautiful platinum colored hair I feel my bright smile slowly fall as my exquisite eyes find a flaw that wasn’t there before, a silver hair. “That’s impossible!” I said, panically grabbing the silver hair and examining it closer, my face growing even more pale as I confirm my worst nightmare, I’m aging. This cannot be! I stumble backwards, the back of my knees hitting the bed and causing my legs to buckle. I sit on my bed, my whole body going numb. After all my years of living, you’d think I’d be ready for this, ready for aging and the death that follows.

But, I’m not, I’m not ready to die by any means! I want to see more of the world. I want to experience new inventions and wars and everything life has to offer! Narrowing my eyes, I open the wide double doors and burst out of my room, heading to my large library of books I have collected over my years of existence. “If there’s an answer as to why I’m aging it has to be in one of these books!” 

“Good morning, ma’am.” One of my butler's comment while I walk, him following closely behind me. At first, I’m a little shocked to see him in a hoodie and sweatpants, but I remember it’s his day off. “Where are you going so early in the morning, and in your pajamas?”

“The library, and, Oscar, if you would, please bring my food there, it would be much appreciated, oh, and a fresh set of clothes while you’re at it.” I pull open the library doors as he complies with my request. Taking a deep breath, I can feel some of the weight, lifting off my shoulders. The smell of old parchment and new books combining together relieving some of my stress. I’m not sure why, but books have always done wonders to calm me. When I don’t have the expenses to travel I come in here and open one of my many books. A small smile grows on my face as I clasp my hands together.

“Alright, time to get to work.” Taking another deep breath I walk into the history section of my large arsenal, running my hands over the spines of the books, tilting my head so I can read the titles. Finding the book I need, I gently take it out of its place and walk to the window sill. Sitting down, I allow the morning rays to replace the light of the room and give me the ability to read. A few minutes of reading later, Oscar comes in with a plate of food and new clothes for me to change into. I take a bite off a piece of bacon as I turn the page, scanning the page for keywords like, aging, for example. An hour and three books later I stand up to stretch, my back popping as I do.

Heaving a heavy sigh, I change out of my nightgown and into a black crop top with shredded blue jeans. Grabbing my dirty plate, I walk out of the library and into the kitchen where Oscar and one of my maids are cleaning up. “Good morning, Ms. Wilde,” the maid says softly. She’s one of the new kids here so she has yet to gain the confidence to look me in the eye. 

“Good morning, Madeline,” I comment, setting my dish down and rolling my aching shoulders, rubbing my neck.

“Are you alright ma’am?” Oscar asks, furrowing his brow, watching me with worry etched on his round face.

“Yes, just a little stiff, I seem to have run into a little problem…” I lower my head and sigh heavily. “And I told you to call me Sally.”

“Sally, let me help you, it has to be exhausting pouring over all those dusty old books by yourself.” He walks over and places a gentle hand on my shoulder. “You can’t expect to do everything on your own.” I grace him with a gentle smile, one which he returns with his own.

“Thank you, Oscar, that will be much appreciated.” I smile and pull my hair into a tight ponytail with one of the three hair ties I always carry on my wrist. Straightening my back, I walk directly to the library with new found confidence. Oscar has always been kind like that, lending me his strength with every touch and inspiring word.

“What is it we're looking for?” He asks curiously while following me into the history section, his eyes scanning over the many books that have collected dust over the years.

“I’m aging, Oscar, we need to learn why and put a stop to it,” I glance back over my shoulder to look at him, watching as shock momentarily takes over his features. Quickly as it appeared, it’s wiped away.

“I’ll get right on it, Sally.” So, the two of us get to work, trying to figure out why I’m aging and looking for the cure. We go on reading for about an hour or so when Oscar calls me over, his blonde hair messy as if he’s been running his fingers through it. 

“Did you find something?” I ask, leaning over his shoulder to look at what he’s reading. 

“I think so,” he says, clearing his throat, “it’s a journal from one of your ancestors that lived during the witch trials.” He looks over at me, his face gaining a slight tinge of pink as he does before quickly looking away, locking his gaze on the book, and reading aloud. “As everyone knows, even immortals don’t live forever. There are many ways to kill us, cutting off our head or damaging our heart being the main two. But there’s also another way, newly discovered to us, soul mates. Recently, I have met a handsome man in the village, and soon after I discovered a single grey hair, no matter how many times I plucked it, the hair just grew back by morning. I was sent into a panic and it took me months to research, all the while I grew closer to the handsome man. Almost a year later, I discovered the cause, him. The handsome man was the cause. All immortals have a significant half, once we meet that half we gain a single grey strand of hair, but no more than that, it’s as if our body is attempting to warn us.” 

He stops reading and I can’t help but collapse at this new found information. “Sally!” Oscar drops the book and catches me in his arms before my knees touch the ground. “Everything’s going to be okay, there has to be a cure.”

“Did you not read Oscar?” I question, tears swelling up in my eyes. “What cure is there for love?” I wrinkle my nose in anger as he rubs my back, taking my harsh words with a grain of salt. I know I shouldn’t be so rude, but I just discovered that I’m becoming mortal and can die.

“Okay, then maybe love won’t be so bad, after all, love is the most powerful thing there is,” Oscar whispers, hoping to soothe me, I can’t help but scoff. What makes love so powerful? It’s just a chemical reaction in the brain, I’m sure. Taking a deep breath, I regain my composure and remove myself from Oscar's arms. Almost as soon as I do, there’s a knock on the library doors.

“We will continue this later. Enter,” I order, emotion drained from my voice. My eyes are as empty as the void as Madeline walks in, a tall male, whose skin has been kissed by the sun, following close behind her. My eyes roam over his finely dressed body. He’s wearing a blue suit and black tie, with matching pants and sleek black shoes. My eyes roam up to his perfectly chiseled jaw and round sapphire blue eyes with rings of hazel surrounding the pupils, his hair a short black that looks as if he didn’t bother taming it this morning, but it looks good on him and makes me want to run my fingers through it, or at least fix it.

“We have a guest ma’am,” Madeline starts but is quickly cut off by the handsome stranger who steps in front of my delicate and scared maid.

“My name is Crimson Yuo,” the man, Mr. Yuo, speaks, a strange formal accent laced in his voice. I would have admired his deep voice, not to mention his god like looks, more and how it perfectly matches his profile, that is, if he hadn’t so rudely disregarded my maid.

“Nice to meet you Mr. Yuo,” I narrow my gaze on him and fold my arms across my chest. “I am afraid I have to ask you to leave.” Mr. Yuo looks taken back, shock taking over his handsome features.

“I don’t understand, did I do something to offend you or are you always this cold-hearted?” Mr. Yuo asks, his face going back to his neutral expression, besides the lift of his brow in, what’s most likely, amusement.

“Yes, yes you did. You rudely interrupted my friend while she was talking.” I gesture to my maid and she quickly lowers her head, not used to the spotlight we’ve forced on her. Mr. Yuo looks over at Madeline as if noticing her for the first time. “I would very much appreciate it if you apologized to her.” He looks back towards me and flashes me the most mischievous smile I’ve ever seen.

“Of course,” he looks over to my maid and bows his head respectfully, something I didn’t expect people to do anymore. “My apologies, I didn't mean to offend you in any way.” I roll my eyes at his emotionless words that hold absolutely no real remorse in them. To my surprise, and great annoyance, he gently grabs her hand and kisses her knuckles causing a deep blush to spread across her face, turning her tan complexion an unflattering pink.

“It’s fine sir,” she lowers her head and races out of the room quickly as she had come. Mr. Yuo looks back at me with a sly, devilish smirk on his face.

“Better,” he asks, mimicking my position and folding his arms across his chest. I glance at Oscar whose mouth is hanging open in shock. He clears his throat and shrugs as if he wasn’t as shocked as a I had been just moments before. Bringing my gaze back to Mr. Yuo I plaster on one of my own fake smiles.

“Much better, thank you. Is there a reason you are here or are you just wasting my time?” I ask, keeping all emotions out of my voice and my eyes empty and cold, in case he tried to pry anything out of them. After all, eyes are the windows to the soul.

“Actually, I am here on official business.” His eyes dart over to Oscar and back to me. As realization hits me, I make an ‘O’ with my mouth.

“Oscar, can you leave us for a bit,” I look over at him, his face falling at my words. “I will scream bloody murder if I need you.” I quickly add, hoping to soothe any worries he might have. His smile quickly returns, lighting up his whole face. Turning away from me he walks out of the library, bumping shoulders with Mr. Yuo violently as he does. “Please, have a seat,” I gesture the room with a wide sweep of my hand then walk to my favorite windowsill, waiting for the attractive male to start talking.

“Thank you,” he says, pulling up a chair next to me, his eyes roaming over my body carefully. I quickly look away from him, a blush forming on my face at his attentive stare, and focus on my private piece of heaven on the other side of the window that I bought many decades ago when this town was first getting settled. This is a two story building, some might call it a mansion, overlooking a small waterfall that flows into a large crystal clear lagoon leading out to the open waters. I can’t stop the smile that grows across my face at the sight of the morning sun casting beautiful rays of light over the water. “You have a wonderful home, very beautiful,” he compliments, his deep voice forcing me out of my thoughts and to focus my eyes on him. “And an amazing view, I am surprised you can afford this, along with your own merry band of butlers and maids, seeing that, as far as anyone I have spoken to is concerned, you have no job.”

I sigh and give him a halfway decent reply, hoping to expel any further questions, I never have been one for small talk. “I have rented out rooms to people and those that work for me live here for free, as payment. Those who don’t work for me, pay for the basic necessities, electricity, water, groceries, and room fee, but at a cheaper cost than you would find anywhere else on this island. Residents pay me whenever they can once every month, rarely do I ever nag.” I narrow my gaze on him as he processes the information. “Mr. Yuo, I sincerely doubt you came all this way to talk about my income. I implore you, sir, get to the point, I am a very busy woman and I do not have all day.” 

Realization flashes across his face as he’s reminded why he’s here, “right, pardon me, curiosity kills the cat and all.” He dismisses his earlier curiosity with a wave of his hand. “I showed up today to personally deliver you an invitation to my home. You see, considering I just moved in, I figured I would throw a party to celebrate my arrival and get to know the people I’ll be living with better.” This captures my full attention, I never could resist a good party, after many years of living this had never changed. Judging by the smirk that sneaks its way across his face, my excitement shows. “And I have no experience with planning or throwing parties so I figured I would seek help from my neighbor, namely you.”

I nod my head, pondering his request for my help. I have to admit, the idea did rather intrigue me. I haven’t thrown a party in years and it would be so much fun seeing everyone laughing and enjoying the fruits of my hard work. The only problem is, I have something kinda big I have to attend to, I didn’t lie when I said I was a busy woman, I am kind of a celebrity on this island. “Think of it as a break from all the hard work you have been doing. Even a busy lady, such as yourself, needs some time for herself and to just relax.” I have to admit, it’s almost like he read my mind, I could use a distraction from the blight that was plagued upon me ever so suddenly.

“You are right Mr. Yuo,” a knowing look shines in his eyes as he nods in agreement with me. “It has been a while since I’ve been to a party and even a longer time since I have planned one.” Which is almost the truth, I went to a party last week during the visit to my home in Ireland, making sure it was up to quality. Wait, or had that been last month? One seems to lose track of time when they have an overabundance of it. I stand up, Mr. Yuo swiftly, and elegantly, standing up as well. I tilt my head back so I can meet his gaze, an excited smile growing on my face. Mr. Yuo is much taller than me, he must be six foot, at least. “I would be honored to help plan your party.”

Upon hearing my acceptance, a smile grows across his face too, lighting up his features, much like Oscar earlier. “Excellent, our meeting hours will be from five pm to nine pm. I expect you to come on time and completely prepared. If I do not come after you have knocked, feel free to let yourself inside, and call for me, I will be sure to come as soon as I hear.” I nod and turn away from him, picking up the journal Oscar left behind, then I, once again, make myself comfortable on the window sill. Reigning in on my emotions I gently open the fragile journal and search for the page Oscar read to me.

“If that is all you have to say I’m afraid I must get back to work, and I am sure you have your own affairs to attend to.” I peek up at him from behind my book, watching as nods his head.

“Of course, I will see you tonight, and please, call me Crimson.” Mr. Yuo keeps his head lowered in respect and turns on his heel. I go back to my reading, listening to his footsteps.

“Oh, and Mr. Yuo,” the footsteps stop, “please send in Oscar, the man from earlier, I would like to have a word with him.” After no response, I thought he wasn’t going to do what I asked. Before I could confront him he agrees to my request and exits the library, sending Oscar in after him. I inform Oscar of the plans to which he has a numerous of complaints about, none of which I took the liberty to listen to. Once he stopped jabbering, I also told him that, while I was away, he would continue my research and give me a report in the mornings. He begrudgingly agreed to my wishes and continued on with reading. Later that day I am back in my room, pulling my long hair into a messy bun on the top of my head.

“I still think this is a bad idea,” Oscar mumbles while leaning against the doorframe. I roll my eyes as I twirl, eyeing over my blue jeans and black tank top.

“I still think I don’t care about your opinion,” I flash him a playful smile at which he just shakes his head at with closed eyes. “Oscar, may I remind you that I am an immortal, nothing bad will happen.” Probably realizing there’s no point in arguing with me he just sighs. I walk over and pat his shoulder gently, “I will not be back till nine, at the earliest, so please don’t wait up for me.” He nods and walks me to the door, holding it open and closing it behind me as I make my exit. Taking a deep breath I lift my head up and close my eyes, allowing the sun’s rays to wash over me and heat me up.

With a large smile, I walk to Mr. Yuo’s. It wasn’t a long walk, maybe a mile or so, accompanied by the beautiful sight of vibrant greenery and a gentle summer breeze keeping me from being too hot. When I reach his house I can’t help but be impressed. It’s a white, two-story building with multiple thick pillar type beams, that seem to hold up the second story of the construction, neatly placed on the large porch. On that porch is a single bench swing, gently rocking with the breeze. “Wow,” I whisper breathily, walking up to the porch, brushing my fingertips against the first pillar as I approach the simple mahogany door that seems out of place with the buildings complex design. Remembering what I came here for I knock on the plain looking door, when I get no response I release a heavy sigh and let myself in, per his instructions. 

The inside is just as grand as the outside, if not more so. While the walls were sticking to the theme of white, on them supported many exotic paintings, on the floor a large Persian rug leading to a wide interwinding staircase with shiny wooden rails that no doubt goes to the upper level. “You made it,” said a voice from the top of the staircase. I instantly look upwards and smile at Mr. Yuo who is gracefully descending the stairs and walking over to greet me, bowing his head slightly when he reaches me. “Welcome to my home,” he suddenly trails off from what he was about to say, looking at me with utter shock. “I’m sorry,” he starts, shaking his head, “but I don’t believe I caught your name during our earlier encounter.”

This time it was my turn to looked shocked, when I realize he’s right I blush slightly, but quickly mask it. “Sally Wilde.”

He smiles and nods, “Mrs. Wilde.”

“Just Ms. Wilde, actually,” I correct him, flushing for the second time.

“Right,” he says with a nod, his polite smile turning into a pleased smirk. “Follow me please, Ms. Wilde.” He walks off with me following behind him, my eyes taking in everything as he gives me the tour. Afterwards, we sit in his office and we talk about ourselves, just getting to know each other. I feel that it’s useless, but he says if he’s going to work with me he wants to get to know me. So, I decided to play along with him, for the sake of the party, at least, that’s what I told myself, but secretly I enjoyed getting to know him. Now, I find myself walking through town with him, wearing a yellow sundress in the late afternoon, looking up at Crimson who’s wearing a plain white shirt and grey sweatpants. He looks down at me, his smile, that I’ve grown happy to see, stretching across his face. I smile back at him, forced to acknowledge how close we’ve grown in only a manner of days. 

It’s moments like these I don’t find myself so distressed with the lack of results with my little aging problem. “So, Sally, the party is tomorrow.” Crimson’s voice brings me out of my thoughts, the way he says my name causing my heart to flutter unnaturally. 

“It is,” I confirm, raising a brow, curious as to why he’s bringing it up.

“You have done an amazing job with everything. I could not have chosen anyone better to help me with it.” A large blush spreads across my face at his compliment, pride swelling up in my gut.

“Thank you, Crimson, you were not so bad yourself.” He smirks at my comment then suddenly stops, causing an old couple to run into us, we both apologize and laugh afterward. He suddenly grasps my hand in his, looking into my eyes with so much intensity, I know I must be blushing. 

“I want to take you somewhere.” Without waiting for a response his grip on my hand tightens and he leads me away from the town. My heart rate picks up as I remember, for the hundredth time, that I'm becoming mortal. He's taking me away from town, Great Gatsby, he's going to kill me! 

“Where are you taking me?” I question hastily, trying to keep the panic out of my voice. Crimson just flashes me a devious smile over his shoulder.

“Why?” He questions, a hint of mocking in his voice, “are you scared?” I wrinkle my nose up in disgust at his words. Of course, it's true, but he doesn't need to know that!

“No!” I reply, maybe a little too quickly. His smile grows impossibly wider and I flush with embarrassment. I haven't been scared of anybody or anything in, well, I've lost count of the years, but still! Why is it he brings out a flurry of emotions I haven't felt since grandmother told me I was an immortal! It's very frustrating and I want to do research, but Oscar insisted we can only handle one epidemic at a time. Much to my dismay, I agreed with him, only because he's carrying the brunt of the research on his own.

“It is alright to be scared,” he squeezes my have reassuringly, “to feel fear is to be human, right?” I roll my eyes at him. Yes, thanks for that much-needed reminder Crimson, you're a true friend.

“I am not going to kill you, I just need to tell you something. And, I feel, it would be best said over a very beautiful view, befitting of a queen such as yourself.” I blush at his words, biting my bottom lip, quickly looking down. When I look back up we are at his house, “get in my car.” I nod and get in the passenger side of his Challenger.

“Come on,” I persist with a pout when he gets in the car and turns the keys, the engine starting up with a loud purr. “You have to tell me.”

“No,” he comments matter of factly, “I do not.” He sneaks a glance at me with a smug look. I sit back in the seat with a huff, folding my arms across my chest. “But, I will tell you it is a long ride and worth every mile.” With me still pouting, he chuckles and turns on some music. Later, I find myself relaxing into the seat, the music he turned on being one of my favorite songs I've told him about, he must have bought the CD. That's extremely thoughtful and sweet, I smile briefly and close my eyes.

“Sally,” I groan softly at the voice, slowly opening my eyes. “We’re here,” I turn my head to Crimson and smile delicately. At some point of the ride, I must have dozed off. Looking out the window, I notice that it’s already dark and the stars are shining beautifully. Unbuckling, I slowly open the door, Crimson doing the same. Walking to the front of the car, I tilt my head in confusion when he hands me a flashlight. “We have to walk a little.”

I roll my eyes at him, a smile growing on my face. “Oh, the places you take me, Mr. Yuo.” He smirks and takes my hand, turning on the flashlight, I turn mine on as well and we walk through an invisible path through the thick foliage of trees and plants that only he can see. When we reach a certain point he makes me close my eyes and turn off my flashlight. “I am not sure about this,” I comment, hesitating as he takes my hand and guides me through.

“Come on, you have to trust me, you do trust me, right?” I wrinkle my nose in response.

“Of course I trust you, Crimson.” The reply was instant, which shocked the both of us, myself the most. Do I really trust him? We have grown amazingly close and I even feel comfortable falling asleep in his car. I also allowed him to take me to a strange place without duress, the evidence is incriminating. I trust Crimson Yuo.

“Good,” is all he says for a while besides the demands he makes to help me navigate. “Alright,” he finally states, stopping in his tracks. “Open your eyes.” When I do he's standing in front of me, blocking the view of whatever he wanted me to see, the pale glow of moonlight illuminating his face. Flashing a smile, he moves out of my way. My eyes widen at the sight as I step forward. Crimson led me to a large clearing that overlooks a beautiful lake whose waters reflects the glow of the crescent moon and the twinkling lights of stars off its beautiful blue surface. “Pride and Prejudice, this is amazing Crimson!” I turn to face him, a large smile on my face.

Crimson lifts a curious brow at me, an action he does whenever I do or say something to amuse him. “Did you just curse using a book title?” Blushing deeply, I nod as a response, he only shakes his head and chuckles. Standing in silence for a few moments he speaks once more. “May, I have this dance?” He asks, holding out his hand to me. I blink in shock, a pink hue tainting my cheeks.

“There is no music playing,” I remark as he takes my hand pulling me close to his chest and snaking an arm around my waist.

“We don't need music,” he whispers in my ear as we begin swaying to the imaginary beat in his head. Crimson slowly spins me around, my dress twirling as he does. “Have you ever noticed, when you're angry or frustrated you wrinkle your nose? And that when you're in deep thought or flustered, you chew on your bottom lip. Or that, when you smile, your eyes twinkle like a fairy. I want to be the reason why you smile and nobody else. I don’t want anyone else to touch you or hold you in their arms.” He grabs the strand of my silver hair and twirls it around his fingers as he talks, his voice gentle and soft. My heart pounds against my chest, hard and loud, his words turning my face a bright pink.

“Why are you telling me this?” I whisper, his gaze locking me in place, the mere intensity of it keeping me from looking away.

“Because I want you to be my date to the party. And try as I might, I can't stop myself from falling for you. I find you in my thoughts in the morning and while doing simple actions during the day, in fact, I can't read a book without thinking about you. And when I lay down to sleep, your beautiful face and the sound of your voice wishing me goodnight invades my mind.” I blush deeply and lick my bottom lips, not sure on how I should react or what I should say. To my immense frustration, I have no idea why my heart is fluttering and why I feel like a grenade of light has exploded inside of me, releasing a field of butterflies in my stomach.

“Crimson,” he quickly cuts me off before I can say anything else.

“You don't have to say anything about my affections for you, not yet anyway. But, I implore you, say yes to being my date at the dance and future outings later on. You can tell me how you feel afterwards.” I watch him, breathless as he stares down at me with intense longing and need. “Sally Wilde, I have one more question.” His voice is soft and delicate as he dips his head closer to mine. My eyes dart to his lips and back up to his beautiful eyes, a secret part of me I refuse to acknowledge already knowing what he’s going to ask. “May I kiss you?”

I can only nod in response, seemingly unable to find my voice and stutter out a proper sentence. Crimson softly kisses me, his pink lips moving in sync with mine. My eyes flutter close as I surrender control of the kiss to him. His hand, that was once twirling my single silver hair, trails down my arm and rests on my hip, just like his other one. I wrap my arms around his neck slowly, this kiss becoming more urgent and full of need. Crimsons grip on my waist tightens as he pulls me closer. When he pulls away, we’re softly panting and a prideful smirk crosses his face. He gently pecks my lips again before talking. “Consider that a little something to help you make your decision.”

Now back at home, on the day of the party, Madeline, who is now comfortable in my presence, is helping me braid my hair into a crown when Oscar barges in holding a dusty book. “It is rude to enter a ladies room without knocking first, Oscar. I thought for sure that you knew that.” I glance at his reflection in the mirror, he pauses for a moment before shaking his head.

“This is important,” Oscar says, further entering the room, leaving the door open behind him, much to my annoyance. “I found the cure.” My eyes widen, not needing to question what he means, and Madeline steps back, finished with my hair.

“Leave us” I whisper softly. She bows and quickly leaves, shutting the door behind her as she does. “Tell me,” I demand when the door clicks in place, “what did you find?”

“According to this text, you need to kill your soulmate.” I raise my brow at him, it seems easy enough, so why does he look so panicked? 

“There is something you are not telling me. What is it?” I narrow my gaze as he hesitates to tell me.

“I also know who your soulmate is,” my glare falls away and is replaced by a large smile. This time, my smile is not returned.

“That is excellent news, why are you so hesitant to tell me?” I turn away from him and look through my closet, trying to find the perfect dress to wear. “Go on, tell me who it is then.”

“Mr. Yuo,” I stop at the frail sounding way he says Crimsons name. I let my hand fall away from the fabrics.

“Pardon?” I ask, hoping against hope I heard it wrong and that it's some cruel joke that Oscar has uncharacteristically played on me.

“Crimson Yuo is the man you have to kill.” This time he speaks louder, I turn sharply on my heel and glare at him.

“Do you have any proof to support these outlandish accusations!” Oscar flinches away at my voice and nods. 

“The book says you can tell, by their eyes, they will be the exact opposite of yours.” I blink in confusion.

“How does this prove that he is my soulmate?” I tilt my head, anger being replaced by curiosity.

“Your eyes are hazel with rings of blue, his eyes are blue with rings of hazel. There is no mistaking it, Sally.” I stumble back, my entire world rocking. Oscar grabs my arm and gently guide's to me to the bed, sitting me down. I stare at the wall unblinking, memories of our time spent together flashing through my head, but the one memory that keeps repeating itself is our kiss.

“Oscar,” I whisper weakly, still not looking away from the wall. “What will happen if I didn't kill him?” For the first time since the news, I look at Oscar who holds no emotion in his harsh stare, his eyes seemingly empty. 

“You'll die,” Oscar says coldly, I nod, tears forming in my eyes at the thought. This situation, it's a lose-lose, if I kill him I live, but without him in my life. If I spare him, I'll die. I stare at the floor, clearly shaken.

“Is there not another way?” I ask hopefully, not wanting to believe it’s a him or me situation. 

“No,” he replies, a little too fast. “If you don't kill him not only will you die, but you'll also miss out on all the adventures and wonders this world has to offer. Do you want to know what you get when you die?” I shake my head violently and close my eyes when he starts talking I cover my ears, not wanting to hear any more. Roughly, he grabs my wrists and pulls them away from my ears, forcing me to listen. “When you die there is nothing but darkness!” 

I continue to shake my head, tears falling down my face. “There may not even be darkness actually! Because there’s nothing at all! You're rotting, lifeless, corpse will be buried in a wooden box under six feet of dirt decomposing! Everyone here will be jobless and homeless. All because of your selfish action to let that man live!” He let’s go of me with a shove and walks out of the room, slamming the door shut behind him. I fall off the bed and onto the floor, my arms wrapped around myself as I breathe heavily, my widen eyes full of unshed tears as I stare at the floor, my entire body shaking. Taking deep breaths, I close my eyes and calm myself down, he’s right. I can’t let that happen to me, let that happen to them. I will not die, I just, I wish there was another way this could be done.

Standing up, I call Madeline in and we fix my hair and makeup. She picked me out a sparkly red sleeveless v-neck dress that’s short in the front and long in the back. I grabbed out matching red high heel shoes. “There, you’re all set, I’ll go tell the chauffeur you’re ready.” I politely nod and she dashes out of the room running to go tell my chauffeur for the night, Bob, to warm up the car, I have never been one for driving. Walking away from the door, I stand in front of my dresser, on it is a little wooden box with the carvings of the phases of the moon on the front. Opening the box, I pull out a silver dagger that glistens when I hold it up to the light. 

I grab the sheath and wrap it around my thigh, making sure it’s covered by the dress, I put the silver dagger in its proper place. When I get to the car Oscar and Madeline, my two guests for the party, are already waiting for me. Madeline is wearing a long pure white dress with her hair in a bun and a look of pure excitement on her face. While Oscar is wearing a fancy tux, his eyes hold, not the pure look of excitement like his peer, but a hard, unforgiving look of murder that sends a cold chill down my spine. The car ride is awkwardly silent, Madeline fidgeting endlessly and Oscar staring out the window, his face emotionless, nothing like the Oscar I thought I knew. When we get to the house, I allow Madeline to enter first and scurry off, then I enter, when I do I can almost smile.

Watching everyone talk and chat with each other and enjoying the fruits of our labor is satisfying, not so much as reading a good book, but still satisfying. My eyes travel the room, only stopping when they fall on a handsome man wearing a dashing tux. When Crimsons eyes meet my own, the rest of the world seems to fade away leaving only us. He smiles and my heart skips a beat, the twinkle of approval in his eyes filling me with pride. I suddenly feel a hand on my lower back and a harsh voice whisper in my ear. “Focus,” being forced back to reality, I look up at Oscar who just shakes his head at my reaction. Crimson finally stops in front of us, narrowing a hateful glare at Oscar. 

“Oscar,” he starts, plastering on a fake smile, “what a pleasure to see you here. I hope you will enjoy the party.” As he talks, Crimson gently grabs my hand and pulls me closer to him, away from Oscar. Likewise, Oscar paints on his own equally empty smile, attempting to be polite.

“It’s a pleasure to be here, really. The decorations are amazing and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. I’m sure this will be a party to remember.” With that, Oscar leaves to do god knows what.

“I really don’t like that man,” Crimson admits. I turn around to face him, my head tilted up so I can look into his eyes. Those stupidly beautiful eyes, “Sally, what’s wrong?” He rests his strong firm hand on my shoulder and gives them a gentle squeeze. I only shake my head, hoping he'd take it as a sign that nothing is wrong, rather than a sign that everything is wrong and I'm not sure what to do. The music suddenly changes from something upbeat and wild to something slow and romantic. “Ms. Sally Wilde, would you do me the honors of giving me your first dance?”

I smile at him, memories of last night dancing across my mind. “Well,” I start, taking one of his hands in my own. “At least there's music this time.” Crimson laughs at my words and my heart flutters, butterflies dancing around in my stomach. His laugh seems to fill the room with merry feelings of joy and ecstasy, at least, that's what it does for me. Crimson tightens his grip on my hand and leads me to the dance floor, the lights have dimmed to a romantic glow and couples are making their own memories on the floor, lost in the own little world. Once we reach the floor, Crimson faces me and wraps both of his hands around my waist, pulling me close while I wrap my own around his neck. We both begin swaying, not to the beat of the music, but the same imaginary song that played in his head last night.

“You look beautiful,” he whispers, his eyes roaming over my face. “But I don't like the makeup.” I blush at his words and rest my cheek against his chest, listening to his heartbeat.

“I'll never wear it again,” I respond to him softly, fearing that if I talk too loudly, the moment would be over and I'll wake up in bed as if this was all a dream. Crimson leans down and gently kisses the top of my head. Slowly, I look up at him, our eyes locking together and, just like earlier, the rest of the world seems to fade away leaving only us. His fingers moving up to get tangled in my hair, he gently dips me for a few seconds then brings me back up for a soft delicate kiss, the kiss seemed to stretch on for eternity, yet it was still too soon when he pulled away. A smile stretches it's way over my face at the twinkle of satisfaction in his eyes. When the slow dance ends we leave the dance floor and start introducing him to people. After talking for so long, Crimson excused himself to get a drink for the two of us and told me to wait where I was. 

My eyes follow him as the sea of people devour him, leaving me standing alone. “What are you doing?” I jump and turn around quickly to face the voice that just seemed to appear out of nowhere. “What are you waiting for?” I place my heart over my pounding chest as I stare at Oscar.

“You scared me, Oscar!” I scold him but he just rolls his eyes at me, clearly impatient.

“Now is not the time for you to be scared. You have a job to do, or did you forget?” I bite my lip and look down, avoiding his gaze. I did, in fact, forget about the silver dagger strapped to my thigh and what it means. “Get it together and do what you came here for.”

“I came here as a date for Crimson.” I hiss in anger at him, narrowing my gaze in rage.

“Not anymore,” he replies bitterly. Looking over my shoulder he sighs and walks away from me, I turn around to see Crimson walking over with two drinks in his hands. Stopping in front of me, he hands me one of the drinks.

“I got you a water if that is alright. The only others drinks here are alcoholic.” I smile weakly, wishing he did get me a beer or something to help soothe my nerves.

“Thank you,” I reply weakly and take a sip, the cold liquid feeling surprisingly good as I drink. Taking another larger drink I release a heavy sigh. “Crimson, we need to talk, alone.” He raises his brow at my strange request and eyes me over worriedly. What would I give to know what was going through his head right now?

“Alright,” he looks around the room at the people going on with their night before tilting his head back and slamming down whatever was in his cup. “Follow me,” he says, grabbing my free hand and guiding us through the large swarm of people. Reaching the main entrance, Crimson takes me up the stairs, away from all the people and loud noise. We stop in front of a door and he turns the brass knob, walking into the room. I look around in confusion, not remembering this room from the tour. When he flips the switch to turn on the light I see bookshelves packed to the brink, some hang on walls, others are on the ground. Books even litter the bed that is only half made. 

Try as I might, my eyes won't leave the bed as realization washes over me. This is his room, he took me to his room. My first emotion, embarrassment, it's highly improper to bring me here, especially with a party going on downstairs. The second, complete and overwhelming dread. “What did you want to talk about?” Crimson asks, frantically picking up the books off his bed and throwing them onto the nightstand right next to it. Any other time, I would find his attempt to frantically clean up and make his room look presentable amusing, but right now I think it impossible for me to feel any kind of pleasant emotion. I walk over and set the drink on the nightstand, my shaky hand laying on the hilt of my silver dagger.

Faster than I ever moved before I take a step back, and fling it out, holding the blasted thing at arm's length. “I am so sorry,” I choke on a cry as I talk, tears threatening to spill out. “I don't want to do this.” I can't stop the tears while watching the emotions fly across his face, but the one that got me was the look of betrayal.

“Then don't do it, Sally, you don't have to do this.” He slowly holds out his hand to me while standing up off his bed.

“Yes, I do! You don't understand how can you possibly understand?!” My hand holding the dagger begins to shake so I grab it with my other hand.

“Yes I do, I understand perfectly. Sally,” he speaks gently and carefully, afraid of saying the wrong thing. “I know you're an immortal, it's okay, I'm one too.” I look up at him in shock, confusion racking my brain. “Becoming mortal isn't so bad.”

I shake my head in disbelief. “Wait, you knew? You knew this entire time and didn't say anything. You didn't tell me?” I question him holding the knife more firmly as he gets closer to me, he notices this and stops.

“I thought you already knew,” his hand drops to his side as he tries to look me in the eyes, I look to the ground, not letting him. “Look at me.” I shake my head violently at his request. “I know you're scared,” I watch his feet as he takes a step closer. “Everything is going to be okay, you don't have to do this. Think about what you're doing.”

“I don't have any other choice, Crimson,” I reply shakily, my voice so quiet I’d be surprised if he heard me.

“Yes you do,” I slowly look up at him, tears pouring down my face uncontrollably. “You can put the dagger down and we can both live, together, side by side.” Looking into his eyes, I seem to lose all my strength.

“I can't do this,” the dagger falls to the ground and I drop to my knees, unable to stand any longer. “I can't kill you,” Crimson reaches me quickly and kicks away the dagger. Crouching down he wraps me in his arms, rubbing my back as I cry into his shoulder. “I'm sorry,” I hiccup through the tears.

“It's okay, I'm okay,” he kisses the top of my head, which only makes me cry more. How can he forgive me so easily? I was going to kill him! “Fear makes people do stupid things. To tell you the truth, when I first got my own get strand of hair, I was going to kill you as well. After talking to the townspeople, they lead me straight to you. When our eyes met, I just knew I couldn't kill you. Just like you now.” I sniffle and look up at him, he smiles and wipes away my tears. “Your makeup is running.”

I chuckle and shake my head. “I knew it,” we both jump in shock at the sudden unwanted entrance of a voice, a voice achingly familiar to me. “You’re too weak to do it.” Crimson helps me stand up and we turn to face Oscar, who is holding a gun at his side. Crimson, places himself in front of Oscar and myself, causing my heart to flutter. This is so the wrong time for me to be moved, but it’s such a sweet action.

“That won’t be needed, Crimson.” I step to the side and take his hand in my own, he squeezes it instantly. “Oscar, what are you doing with that.” I raise a brow, hiding how shocked I am at how strong and steady my voice sounds, despite my endless crying from earlier.

“I brought it with me. When you didn’t come back downstairs I assume he might have killed you. But this is worse, whatever this man has done to you made weak. I intend to stop it,” He aims the gun and we both stiffen, this is the second time his life has been threatened today and it’s all my fault.

“Oscar, look, I’m fine, he didn’t do anything to me, just, put the gun down.” I slowly take a step forward and Oscar aims the gun at my head. Crimson moves to stop him, but I hold my hand out, not wanting Oscar to die.

“You’re wrong!” He shouts, growing more hysterical by the second. “Haven’t you noticed how much you’ve changed?!” With his free hand, Oscar pulls out a thin piece of paper ripped out from a book. “This paper says the only way to change that, is to kill him,” he points the gun at Crimson once more as he talks, focusing his gaze and attention back to him. I know I should be scared for Crimson or angry that Oscar threatened him, but I'm angry for a completely different reason.

“Did you, rip that page out of one of my books?” Crimson looks at me in confusion and Oscar looks at me in exasperation.

“Really?” Crimson asks, looking at me like I'm a complete stranger.

“What?”

“He has a gun pointed at my head, threatening to kill me, and you're worried about a page in a book?” 

“Hey!” Oscar shouts with a strident voice causing us both to look at him and remember the danger we're both in, mainly Crimson. “The point is, that I'm going to kill him, I am going to be your hero!” 

“Why are you doing this to us?” Crimson questions in anguish, clearly tired of his life being threatened, again.

“Why? Why you ask?” Oscar furrows his brow and waves the gun about. “Because I was the one who was always there for her, not you! I bought her presents and gave her advice! We were the ones who would stay up all night reading and making each other laugh! I was always there, me! Yet she picked you! How can she love you over me? I won’t let you take her from me!” Oscar shouts, laughing breathily at the end.

“Oscar, come on,” I start with a silvery voice, “I know you and you are not a murder.” I hold out my hand and walk closer to him, he aims the gun at me. Stopping in place, a sudden realization washes over me, this is what I looked like to Crimson. Just, more scared and less crazy, I hope. He sobers up and smirks at my words.

“How disappointing, you clearly don't know me as well as you thought you did,” my eyes widen as I realize what’s about to happen and before I can really process anything, I step in front of Crimson, a sharp stinging pain exploding in my stomach that makes me scream out as I hit the cold floor. My eyes focus on the boring grey ceiling as I struggle to breathe, tears trailing down my face, body dying slowly dying. I hear distant screaming but I pay no mind to it. The sounds are to muffled for me to make out even if I wanted to. My ceiling view is replaced by Crimson as he cradles me in his lap. “Crimson,” I whisper, studying his face like it’s the first time I’ve ever seen it.

“Shh,” Crimson caresses my cheek, drying my tears, his eyes shining in fear and desperation. “It’s okay, you are going to be okay.” Crimsons voice cracks as he pushes back loose strands of hair behind my ear. “You will be back to planning parties and making jokes in no time,” we both know that’s a lie.

“I’m scared,” I croak out, hating that I can feel myself losing my grip on reality. My words seem to set him over the edge as his body begins to tremble, tears running down his face, something that he never did.

“Come on, don't say that. Please, Sally, my Sally,” he begins to rock us back and forward. “You can’t die, you can’t leave me.” A few of his tears fall on to my face but he doesn’t notice. “I’m sorry, I’ll find a way to fix this, you will not die, I promise.” He pulls me impossibly closer and hunches forward crying into my neck. He leans back and pets my face desperately, his eyes scanning over me frantically as if he’s trying to remember every detail of my face.

“I just need you to smile for me. That’s it, just one last smile. Come on, you can do it, do it for me.” His clear desperate attempt to keep me alive is hopeless, we both know it. Even if I wanted to I can’t, I’m too far gone. “Please don’t do this to me,” Crimson pleads for the last time, resting his forehead against mine. “I love you.”