King Lucian

~Cassandra~

The Next Morning

I awoke with an exuberant smile spreading across my face. Throughout the night, my dreams were filled with visions of Lucian, my soulmate. The memory of our initial meeting replayed in my mind, each detail etched vividly.

He embodied everything I had ever longed for. Bursting with elation, I clutched my bedspread, pulling it over my head while kicking the air in excitement.

As the night unfolded, we engaged in endless conversation, cherishing each other's presence. When Zoe and Frank mysteriously vanished, he gallantly offered to escort me home. The connection we shared was unmistakable, and I believed that he reciprocated the same intense emotions I held for him.

‘I wish I had kissed him.’ I thought, running my fingers through my lips and giving my lower lips a slight bit.

I rose from my bed and made my way to the window, pulling up the curtain to signal that I was already awake in case Zoe arrived and tried to wake me from outside.

Upon reaching the kitchen, I poured myself another glass of water and took a sip. While drinking, I heard a knock on the door, accompanied by Zoe's voice.

"Hey there, early bird! You're up so soon, it's incredible," Zoe exclaimed.

I chuckled with excitement and rushed to the door to greet her, eager to share my experience.

"Well, get ready for a story that will astonish you," I replied as I opened the door.

"Really? Is it about last night?" she asked eagerly, entering the living room.

"Yes!" I replied, joining her on the couch where she had settled.

"Wow, you seem really excited. Tell me everything!" she exclaimed.

"So... at the party, after you encouraged me to mingle, I gave it a try but wasn't successful. So, I ended up isolating myself and observing everyone from a distance. While I was watching, a remarkably attractive man approached me! Oh God... he's so handsome, Zoe," I narrated.

Zoe's eyes widened with excitement as she listened attentively, nodding in encouragement for me to continue. “Tell me more! How tall is he? His voice, does he have a baritone voice? Does he have facial hair just like Frank?!” Her voice showed more excitement than mine.

“It was dark, remember? But his voice… Oh God! So soothing! He was so sweet!”

"He asked why I was alone, and I explained my situation. He sat beside me, held my hand, and kept me company throughout the entire night! I felt an intense connection between us, Zoe. You were right all along! I've found my mate."

"Oh my... I'm thrilled for you, Cassie!!!" she screamed in excitement, embracing me tightly. I hugged her back, and together we laughed.

"I'm so sorry for leaving you alone. Frank and I were supposed to accompany you back home, but we got caught up in the festivities," she apologized sincerely, and I shook my head.

"No need to apologize, Zoe. Instead, I should thank you for convincing me to go to this party with you. Our walk back home was the loveliest of all. He spoke softly and was so mild with me. I never knew this is how it feels to be in love! To have a mate! I’m so excited, Zoe!" I exclaimed, hopping off the couch and standing in front of her, which made her burst into laughter.

"You describe him like he’s a god! I can’t wait to meet him! Tell me... what's his name?" she eagerly inquired.

"His name is..." I began to say, but our conversation was interrupted by another knock on the door. Zoe and I exchanged puzzled glances, wondering who it could be.

"Could it be Frank?" I questioned, and she shook her head in disagreement, equally perplexed.

A sudden smile illuminated my face as I realized it might be Lucian, my mate. "It must be him, Zoe! Besides you and Frank, he's the only one who knows where I live," I whispered in excitement, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation.

"Really? Go answer the door," Zoe responded with enthusiasm, reaching out to fix my hair with her fingers, wanting me to look presentable.

"Do I need to change?" I asked nervously, starting to fidget.

"No, Cassie. You look great as you are. Don't keep him waiting at the door," she reassured me.

I nodded and hurriedly made my way to the door, wiping my hands anxiously on the fabric of my pajama pants.

Taking a deep breath, I opened the door to see Lucian, dressed in a sharp black suit, standing on the other side. His vibrant hazel eyes sparkled as he greeted me with a warm smile.

In his hand, he held a bouquet of exquisite roses. "Good morning, Cassandra. I hope I haven't disturbed your sleep," he greeted, prompting a smile and a shake of my head in response.

"I was already awake," I replied, feeling my face flush in his presence.

"I got this for you," he said, extending the bouquet towards me, his contented grin evident. "Really? Thank you so much, Lucian. Please come in," I expressed with genuine appreciation, accepting the bouquet with gratitude.

As Lucian entered, I couldn't help but observe his confident demeanor. He emitted an aura of mystery and elegance that captivated and intrigued me. His well-fitted suit accentuated his tall, slender figure, and his hair was impeccably styled.

His facial hair was well-groomed and neatly trimmed, adding a touch of sophistication to his appearance. It consisted of a well-defined beard that followed the natural lines of his jaw, complemented by a mustache that was equally well-maintained. The facial hair enhanced his features and gave him a distinguished and mature look.

"Thank you for inviting me in," Lucian expressed sincerely, his voice filled with appreciation. "I've been looking forward to spending more time with you since last night."

A wave of butterflies fluttered in my stomach as I led Lucian into the living room. Grinning widely behind him, I eagerly anticipated Zoe's reaction upon seeing him.

Unexpectedly, Zoe hastily stood up, a shocked and serious expression on her face as she bowed before him. "King Lucian," she uttered.

“King?” I muttered in confusion, staring at both of them in bewilderment.

"King Lucian," Zoe repeated, her voice filled with reverence and awe. "I am honored to be in your presence."

‘What is she saying?’ I pondered, waiting for an explanation from either of them.