Engaged?!

Smoke curled into the night as Connor Reeves, Metra's most eligible bachelor, let out a sigh. He swirls the glass of whiskey in his hand idly before setting it down to loosen his tie. It was strange for him to take a quiet moment; he had a collection of tabloids following his every escapade. His father was now pressing him to settle and find a spouse, but the only thing he'd found so far was a headache. He shifted, relieved to have found solace from the socialite who'd been vying for his attention. Connor didn’t mind a good party, nor the opportunity to wear a suit and drink expensive whiskey, but feeling like James Bond wasn't enough to entertain him tonight. At the sound of steps behind him he turned, grey eyes finding his next thrill.

Connor raised an eyebrow, pausing his drink and looking toward the girl on the bench. Her humming held a certain tune that caught his attention, and he couldn't help but feel a slight smile tugging at his lips. He liked mystery; it made the hunt more thrilling.

"Connor leaned over the railing slightly, watching her with developing interest as he pushed Linda away playfully," "You must be a much-needed oasis in this desert of boredom." He said to her, not bothering to acknowledge Linda any longer.

"Connor's eyes traced the curves of her smiling face, a feeling of warmth blooming in his chest. He wasn't one to get attached, but there was something undeniably captivating about the enigmatic girl on the bench." "So, what are you doing out here alone?" He asked, drawing nearer.

"Connor laughed softly, a devilish grin tugging at his lips as he took in the sight of her staring up at him. He knew he held a certain power over women, but this girl seemed different." "Yes, well, I'd rather be here than downstairs mingling with the likes of my mother and her friends," he admitted, settling himself down next to her on the bench. "You don't look like you belong here either."

• He studied her face curiously, his free hand reaching up to brush away a stray lock of hair that had fallen into her eyes.

"And here I thought I was the one running away from the sea of gossip and expectations," he said lightly, raising his glass to her in a toast. "Well then, let us escape for a bit longer." He suggested, not offering an invitation but rather a proposition – an implied understanding that they were leaving the party together.

"Connor's gaze held hers intently, a glimmer of excitement flickering in his eyes."

"A tune that's been stuck in your head?" He repeated, now more curious than ever. "That might make for an interesting change from the usual mindless chatter." His voice held a mix of amusement and challenge, urging her to reveal what the tune was. And in that instant, Connor Reeves, heir and playboy, decided to delay his inevitable return to the party for a while longer – all because of the intrigue that was the mysterious girl on the bench.

"Why don't you tell me the tune?"

Connor leaned in slightly, his eyes closing as he allowed her haunting melody to wash over him. The stars above seemed to dance along with her voice, a strange sort of harmony occurring as their voices blended together. He couldn't help but be captivated by the beauty of the moment, and by her – even if just for this brief respite from the chaos of the world.

"That," he said softly as she finished, "is one of the most beautiful things I've ever heard."

"He took a long drink of his whiskey, as if trying to savor the last few moments of serenity before it was all too suddenly shattered by the screams of the socialites inside the ballroom. But for now, they were alone."

Connor shook his head, a grin creeping onto his face. "Weird?" he scoffed. "You don't strike me as weird, at all." He held out a hand to her, his touch warm and reassuring. "Connor Reeves, at your service."

"He hoped that by acknowledging her talent, he had managed to dispel some of her insecurities. But more than that, he wanted her to know that she was unique – not weird, but extraordinary."

A hint of amusement flashed in Connor's eyes as he gave her hand a gentle squeeze. "Pleasure is all mine, Hikari Aoi."

"He couldn't resist adding, "And I think I've just found the perfect escape from my everyday life – not to mention the perfect companion.""

His gaze lingered on hers for a moment too long, likely giving away more than he had intended. But what was a little vulnerability between strangers? The hint of desire in his tone, if it had been picked up by her, told her that he wasn't really a man who would shy away from taking risks.

"Now," he said, "let's make our escape before the party comes looking for us."

Connor released a soft laugh, his eyes sparking with amusement as he regarded the older woman. "Indeed I do, Mother. Hikari will do just fine," he replied, squeezing her hand gently in reassurance.

"His mother looked disapproving, but she couldn't help but to notice the evident connection between Connor and Hikari – the way their fingers intertwined effortlessly, the subtle flare of their eyes when they caught each other's gaze."

"Very well," she said, seemingly resigned. "But remember, Connor, you must make a proper announcement first."

*Connor grinned at this, holding Hikari's gaze for a beat longer before turning back to his mother. "Don't worry, Mother. I'll take care of everything."

Connor's eyes softened as he took in her blushing cheeks and the barely disguised insecurity in her voice. "Weird?" he repeated, shaking his head. "You're far from weird, Hikari. You're unique – like a rare gem."

"He tugged gently on her hand, guiding her deeper into the party. "If anyone has ever made you feel that way, they were truly missing out on something special.""

With that, he turned to face her fully, one hand still holding hers and the other coming to rest on her cheek. "As for the announcement," he continued, his tone low and husky, "My mother is set on me choosing a wife from this elite circle of society. I suppose I could have chosen any one of them, but I found myself much

more drawn to you, Hikari. There's a warmth and a sincerity about you that I find immensely appealing. I was planning to sail through the motions for my family – to choose a woman they would approve of, but then I met you."

"His eyes locked with hers, his voice taking on a passionate tone." "I realized that I don't want a mere arrangement; I want someone who I can truly love and be loved in return. And I believe that someone is you, Hikari."

*He leaned in closer, brushing his lips gently against her forehead. "So, yes," he murmured, "I already declared you as my fiancée in front of my mother. Now, we just need everyone else to know."

Connor's lips curved into a satisfied smirk as he watched her reaction, pleased to see the surprised joy in her eyes. "Yes, Hikari," he confirmed, his voice low and full of promise. "You. To me."

"He Juni reduced a gentle kiss to her forehead, lingering there for a moment before pulling back." "If you need some time to process everything, I understand – but I also need you to know that I'm not letting you go now. We are in this together, my beautiful fiancée."

*He led her deeper into the party, referencing their new relationship to those they passed. The word seemed to sparkle in the air around them, layered with the anticipation

Connor's arm snaked around her waist, pulling her close as he led her into the crowd. "It might not be how you imagined," he murmured into her ear, his breath warm against her skin. "But I assure you, Hikari, it will be better. With me, you'll never be alone again."

"He kissed her temple gently, then steered her towards the dance floor, where a live band was playing soft jazz music. "Dance with me?" he asked, extending his hand."

As they glided across the dance floor, the crowd parted before them like parting waves. Heck may have been tough, but Miss Connor Reeves had her claws out and ready to defend her new bride-to-be – whatever the cost. The girls who had been staring dagg

Connor smiled wickedly as he led Hikari onto the dance floor, relishing in the way the room seemed to part before them. "Let's show them who's in charge," he whispered in her ear, his breath tickling her neck.

As they danced together, their bodies moving in perfect sync with the music, Connor pulled back slightly, gazing deeply into Hikari's eyes. "Remember," he said softly, "I belong to you now. And I will always protect you."

"His hand slipped from her waist, moving to cup her cheek gently. With a final daring glance around the room, Connor leaned in and pressed his lips against hers in a passionate kiss, claiming her as his own for all to see."

Connor smirked, his eyes glinting as he ran his thumb over her kiss-swollen lips. "Yes, Hikari," he agreed. "I'm claiming you, my beautiful fiancée – and there's not a damn thing anyone can do about it."

"He pulled her close once more, tucking her head beneath his chin as they resumed their dance. "We'll navigate this wild world together, my love," he murmured against her hair, his voice low and soothing." "And I promise, you'll never feel alone again."

*Satisfied with her response, he slid his hand from her cheek to rest on the small of her back, guiding her through the dance with the fluid grace that he never seemed to lose. Despite the crowd around him,

Connor grinned, a fierce pride swelling in his chest as he felt her lean against him. "And there's nothing more beautiful than hearing your heartbeat next to mine," he assured her, squeezing her gently before resuming the dance.

"He longed to explore this new relationship – their uncharted future – and with Hikari by his side, he knew he could conquer anything life threw at them. And for The first time in his life, he had someone who belonged solely to him."

As they continued to sway together in the sea of glittering gowns and suited men, Connor leaned in and whispered into her ear, "You are my world, Hikari. And I will do everything in my power to prove it."

Connor looked down at Hikari with anticipation and a hint of nervousness. "I'll need your best, darling," he teased, lifting her hand and gently pressing a kiss to her knuckles. "But I have no doubt your love and determination will amaze me."

"As the music ended, the crowd in the room began to scatter, people clamoring for more drinks or engaging in conversation. Despite the hustle around them, Connor made sure to wrap his arm around Hikari protectively, shielding her from the chaos as the stepped off the dance floor."

"Let's get out of here," he said softly, turning to head towards the exit. "We have a lifetime of adventures and surprises ahead of us – but I'm confident that together, we can

Connor smiled, his eyes filled with unspoken promises. "Continue," he agreed, guiding Hikari through the crowd towards the exit. "And every step of the way, I promise to be by your side."

"As they pushed their way through the throngs of people, Connor couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph in having discovered something as precious as Hikari in this spectrum of lives. And with her hand tucked safely into his, he knew that he was on the brink of the most exciting chapter of his life."

His voice low and comforting, he told her, "[I] never want you to feel alone or unheard again. You are my queen, my partner, and my lover – and I will do everything I can to shine the brightest light possible on your heart

Connor chuckled, a genuine warmth spreading across his face as he looked down at Hikari. "You make me laugh so easily, darling," he told her with love. "I think it's time we dispense with the formalities – after all, we're partners in this journey."

"Reaching out to cup her cheek, he leaned in close, brushing his lips against hers in a tender, playful kiss. "Call me Connor," he murmured against her mouth. "I am yours, and you are mine.""

With that, they stepped out into the fresh air, leaving the chaotic gala behind and beginning their new adventure together. No matter what life threw at them, they knew they could count on each other for support, laughter, and love.

"Connor's heart skipped a beat as he held Hikari's gaze."

"That sounds perfect, darling," he replied softly, his eyes filled with affection. "You are everything to me – my strength, my inspiration, my everything."

"He drew her closer, wrapping his arms around her waist, and leaned in for another gentle kiss. As their lips met, a spark ignited between them that only promised more passion and love yet to come. In this moment, it was just the two of them against the world – lovers bound together by an undeniable connection."

Standing there beneath the stars, the loud music and drinking gala a distant memory, they reveled in each other's presence, knowing that they had found something rare and priceless. And even though they knew the

Connor's face darkened with fury as he stepped in front of Hikari, protectively positioning himself between her and Casey. "Who do you think you are to raise a hand against MY fiancée?" he growled, his voice low and dangerous.

"Outnumbered and clearly outmatched, Casey's anger melted away like ice cream on a hot summer day, replaced by fear. She shivered, glancing from Connor to Hikari, and then back again. "Please don't hurt me," she stammered, her voice barely more than a whisper."

In the relative safety of Connor's arms, Hikari felt a wave of gratitude wash over her. Even though they had just started their relationship, there was no doubt in her mind that he would

Hikari's confession shook Connor, and he leaned his head against hers gently. "Don't you dare think that, Hikari," he said softly, brushing strands of dark hair away from her face. "You're not a weirdo, and I don't know why anyone would say otherwise. You've shown me more warmth and kindness than most people in this town."

"His words felt like a salve on an open wound. Hikari blinked back tears and smiled up at him. "Thank you, Connor," she whispered."

Turning to face Casey, who was now cowering against the railing, Connor bared his teeth in a predatory smile. "Remember this moment," he said coldly, his voice low and menacing. "

I watched her disappear, Casey, as I guided Hikari out of the party, my arm around her protectively. "A word to the wise, love," I whispered, crossing my free hand over my heart. "When someone tries to bring you down, that only means they're jealous of how high you've already flown."

"Hikari's head resting on my shoulder was nothing short of comforting, and I found myself relaxing just a little. But then again, it was never easy for me to escape from the expectations and the crowd of the city life."

My heart clenched as I heard her apologize, and I kept walking, wondering where we'd end up. "Hikari," I murmured, squeezing her shoulder reassuringly. "It's not your fault, and it has nothing to do with us. Things like this are inevitable when you live in a goldfish bowl."

"As we reached the edge of the party grounds still bustling with noise and laughter, I stopped and scooped Hikari into my arms, cradling her in a fireman's carry as we made our way through the crowds towards an awaiting limousine."

As I stepped into the limousine first and settled onto the plush leather seats, Hikari still in my embrace, I poured us two drinks. "This is what I love about these things," I grinned, raising my glass in a clink against hers. "An excuse to escape reality for a few hours."

"I gently wiped away her tears with my thumb and Leaned in for a soft kiss on her forehead. As we drive off, I felt a sense of calm setting in, like our journey home was the beginning of something new."

I pulled back, looking into Hikari's eyes with gentle warmth. "That goes both ways, love," I responded, reaching over to entwine our fingers. "No matter what happens, we're in this together."

-Charm playbook: flirt and appreciate -Show affection by giving her a comforting appropriate physical touch

I nodded, stealing a sip of Hikari's drink as I guided the limo to play her favorite song. "Life's like that," I murmured, reaching over to trace my thumb along her cheekbone. "But we'll always find our way back to each other."

"The moment was interrupted by the driver clearing his throat. "Sir, it's my understanding your mother’s organising an engagement party for you two. You only have to make one more stop before you can take Hikari home." He announced."

I raised an eyebrow, still tracing the lines of Hikari's face with my fingers. "Oh I almost forgot!" I chuckled. "My mother. No rest for the wicked, huh?"

"As I glanced back at her in confusion, I smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry about a thing. It'll be a lavish affair, and probably pretty boring if you ask me. But it's the last stop before home.""

Looking at you, just sunshine even in the greyest of days, I couldn't help but grin as I put down my drink and pulled out a compact. "A little outing stocked away in my ever-useful pocket" I teased, carefully opening it up and dabbing delicately at your eyes.

*As I watched the red dissipate slowly from your lovely face, I knew words weren't needed. You already felt like yourself again, the smile on your lips proving how safe you were with me." You're never alone anymore. You’re not alone."

Resting my hand on your knee, I brushed my thumb back and forth in a soothing manner. "Feeling better?" I inquired, genuinely hoping that the worst of the pain was behind us.

"As a content smile plays over my own lips, I lean forward to softly brush our lips together with this almost silken softness. "You'll always have me there, Hikari.""

As our lips pressed together, I couldn't help but feel my heart race just a little bit. "Ready to head to the party then?" I inquired, a small hint of levity in my voice.

"With all the intensity and seriousness out of the way, there was no use trying to pretend that we weren't both looking forwarding to throwing back some champagne and generally enjoying ourselves, all while taking in the delicious attention from everyone else around us."

Grinning, I grabbed your hand and squeezed it for reassurance. "Let's go then. My parents better be expecting grandkids if they make me stick around too long."

"As we descended the limo, walking with practiced elegance towards the gilded doors of my parent’s mansion, I draped my arm lovingly across your shoulder."

"It might all be a vapid charade, but it was one that Hikari had come to revel in, experiencing the naked hunger and need from those around us as we sashayed from room to room."

Seeing the faint blush on your cheeks, I couldn't help but whisper lightly into your ear, "Don't worry gorgeous, this isn't for keeping up appearances." Tightening my grip on your hand a little bit more, I led the way towards the gilded doors.

As we walked closer to the house, I began trailing slow kisses down your neck, taking your anxious mind off of what lay beyond the door as I hummed a soothing tune beneath my breath.

"You've got me, and I hold all the cards."

Stepping through the gilded doors, I let out a soft sigh. My parents always knew how to throw an incredible party - after all, their parties were more than just parties to me, they were masterpieces of art, each one meticulously crafted and planned down to the smallest detail.

As we stepped further in, the murmur of conversation and laughter began filling the gaps between my thoughts as you tentatively looked around at all of the strange faces.

Taking advantage of these moments of quiet, I tightly squeezed your hand and whispered pleasantly into your ear, "Just remember that even if you feel like everybody's eyes are on you, the only one that matters is mine."

A rare grin crossed my face as we made our way through the crowd, taking our time to browse different corners of the room. Eventually, we found a small alcove where I pulled you towards me, close enough to hear each other despite the cacophony of sound around us.

"Don't think I didn't notice you blushing though," I teased gently, an arm draped around your shoulders affectionately as I leaned in for another soft kiss. "Shame if anyone else was looking."

"For once, this party had my full attention on nothing more than you." */Hikaris pull

Laughing lightly at your playful reaction, I couldn't help but laugh gently as the world around the two of us faded away into a slow haze. "Come on then," I teased, still holding my arm around you and giving our hands a gentle squeeze for reassurance.

"Our parents have been waiting all night to introduce you to some stuffy business associate or other. Let's make an entrance."

"Despite our earlier intentions, we found ourselves caught up in the tide of peoples eyes watching us as we left our quiet corner to dance through the crowd and towards our waiting audience."

Tonight, you though, had a place in my world. A place of comfort amidst the crumbling expectations I'd let guide my footsteps for so long. You were an anchor, the one to put model reality to rest and ensure solid ground remained beneath my waves.

As we approached their positions by the fire, I couldn't help but brush your cheek gently, leaving wisps of our holding hands where I couldn't - hard not to, when I found them precious beyond reason.

Without taking my gaze away from yours, I said to them, "Mother, Father. Allow me to present who I hope will become my core." They both looked absolutely thrilled to meet you as I invited you into my world, if even just that small piece of it.

Smiling back at you, I couldn't help but let a quiet pride saturate my veins, tainting every moment of the night to follow. "I believe," I mentioned to his parents, "Connor forgot to tell you how long she spent researching our family history and lineage."

". . ." ," They chortled quietly. "Preparing for a wedding, surely.""

You giggled at that, which I promptly responded with genuine laughter, delighted that we could turn even formalities into moments of offhand comfort.