Christmas eve
POV Ominis
In the weeks that followed, more conflicts were rising between muggle-borns and pure bloods. Many muggle-borns turned in their wands in order to be safe. Valerian refused to give in to fear and give up her magic, it was appart of her despite what my father could say in the newspaper. And I encouraged her in her decision.
Many establishments refused to serve muggle-borns now, and posters were begining to be seen on many places with a warning that they would deny entry to any muggle-borns. Sebastian described it as scandalous. And he was right. I was enraged by people’s extreme reactions. The other day, a merchand down the village refused to serve Valerian as they knew she was not a pure blood. I was fuming. I neary gave him a piece of my mind. But that wouldn’t to any good.
My father took advantage once again of the situation to declare that citizens should be able to distinguish more easily muggle-borns from pure bloods and suggested the idea of a visible mark that would be a way to tell them appart. He was trying to shame them. My father expressed his concerns about pure bloods who would undergo the faceless monster’s rath if they tried to help a mudblood. And because he was now called the savior of divine blood, people listened to his nonsence.
That thought just made me sick. If they knew what he was truly like, no one would believe a word he said.
The worst part is that the minsitry approved his idea and now muggle-borns that had not renounced their magic would have only a few days left to be imprited with the very visible mark on their cheek so it would be esily seen by all, and a spell was placed on it so they couldn’t conceal it. And for those who would defy this new decrete, well they would find themselves in Azkaban.
It broke my heart to ask Miss Parkes give Valerian the mark. I refused to shame her by taking her to the minsitry, queuing up with others like her, treated like dirt by pure bloods. Miss Parkes felt also very sorrowful giving it to her, but knew it would be better this way, to spare her the humiliation.
So my future wife was now walking around with the deathly hallow’s mark. But very few knew what this symbole really meant. And I guess my father was the one that chose it. It was a circle in a triangle cut in half by a line which represented the elder wand, the invisible cloak and the resuretion stone.
Everytime I looked at her, I could feel my anger grow. And I swore to myself I would make them pay for it.
It was now the Christmas holiday. The Matthews had accepted our invtations surprisingly. I wasn’t sure they would come. But I was convinced Mrs Matthews helped a lot in the matter. I left in my letter a cue so M.Matthews would prepare himself for my special request during his stay.
We had to take care of the sleeping arrangements. I knew M.Matthews wouldn’t let me sleep in the same room with Valerian. And there were only two rooms in the house. And Valerian’s parents didn’t know the danger their daughter was actually facing. Valerian explicitly demanded we kept the situation in the wizard world a secret.
So after a long debate, we thought it would be best for the three of us to sleep elsewhere. We thought about staying down at the pub in the village, but the bloody owner refused to take Valerian in because she had the mark. How disgraceful. I was so enraged I could have punched him. Fortunately, I came to my senses before it came to that. I realised how my fustration was growing and how easily it was to lose control. And I understood Sebastian better after these events.
We didn’t want to go back and spend any nights at school as it had already been attacked once.
The wisest thing to do was sleep in a place that my family wouldn’t expect. Public places were out of the question now. So was school. So I thought about Hogwarts, but for now, it was too dangerous as we knew Headmaster black could have us killed if he ever saw us as he is part of the order. I even thought of my old home, the Gaunt manor. They would never think to look there. But it was too much of a risk. What if someone saw us there ?
Then I thought of sleeping at the Matthews’s house in the muggle-world while they were there, but I’m pretty sure Marvolo had it under surveillance.
So what was left ?
One of the sanctuaries ? I didn’t think it wise as my family would find out we’d been there. We would actually be puting everyone else in danger.The safest place was here, in our home. But I refused to let Valerian sleep alone in one of the rooms. But how would I explain that to her father ?
Valerian didn’t want them to know about the faceless monster as they would worry about her. I understood her motives. But it didn’t help finding a solution to the problem.
Fortunately Sebastian came up with an idea.
We would pretend to sleep at school Sebastian and I, while in fact we would just disappear and apparate in Sebastian’s bedroom where Valerian would be staying. We agreed to soundproof the room. Me and Valerian would sleep in the bed and Sebastian would summon a matress and sleep on the floor. It wasn’t ideal, but it was for Valerian’s safety.
We had hidden all magical objects and locked them up in the cuboards, and disenchanted typical objects like the broom, or the kitchen ustencils.
We had added a few Christmas decorations to the place and placed a Chrismas tree by the back door entrance and not far from the fireplace.
We went all out this year to impress the Matthews and give me a head start.
Valerian was about to leave to get her parents and transport them back here using magic.
I grabbed her arm and pulled her against me as I pressed my lips on hers, sharing a deep kiss before she left.
I knew this was the last kiss I was going to get today as M.Matthews wouldn’t let me touch his daughter.
« You two are going to have to behave ! But how will you manage that ? » teased Sebastian.
He was refering to our past few weeks’ eargerness for one and other.
Valerian and I had spent a lot of intimate time together lately. Now that we had discovered the thrilling experience of it, we couldn’t stop. I was quite amazed how my manhood could be stimulated so many times a day. But that’s the kind of effect my fiancé had on me.
« Don’t you dare have sex while I’m sleeping on the floor ! » he joked.
« I can’t make any promisses » I teased back.
Valerian and I laughed as we heard Sebastian sigh in shock.
She then disappeared as we waited in the living room for them to arrive.
« Are you feeling nervous ? » asked Sebastian.
« I’ve met them before. And they know what my intensions are. I’m just hoping her father will accept. I don’t want Valerian to have to abandon her family for me » I explained heavy-hearted.
« They’d be mad not to accept. And I’ll plead your case if I have to » declared Sebastian.
Not sure how that would help, but it was nice of him to say.
The next thing I heard was Valerian’s voice.
« We’re here ! » she said to warn me.
I could see M.Matthews’ shadow putting down their luggage on the floor.
« Welcome » I said trying to sound chill.
« Aah, M.Gaunt. Thank you for having us » said Mrs Matthews.
She seemed overjoyed to be there.
As usual M.Matthews kept to himslef.
« Good day » he just said.
« Ma, Da, this is Sebastian Sallow, Ominis’ best friend » she introduced.
I saw them shake hands.
« Lovely to meet you » said Sebastian kindly.
« Likewise. So, Ominis told us you were like a brother to him ? » demanded Valerian’s mother.
« That’s right. This is also Ominis’ house in case you didn’t know » he clarified.
« Oh, no we didn’t. So, do you two live together here then ? » asked Mrs. Matthews.
« We do, yes » I said leaving the part where Valerian moved in with us.
« How unusual ... and charming » she said trying to cover up her first thought.
« So did you buy this house together ? » questioned M.Matthews.
What he truly wanted to know is if Valerian would one day live there if he were to accept my proposal, or know more about my financial status to make sure I could provide for her.
« No. My sister … died not so long ago. And she left her share to Ominis » explained Sebastian.
« Oh, we’re very sorry to hear that » said Mrs.Matthews compassionately.
« How interesting. Is there a reason she left her share to you ? » interrogated M.Matthews.
I felt like I was at the tribunal in a trial for theft, because I guess that’s how he saw me, as the one who would steal his daughter away from him.
« Because she was a kind and generous person. She was like a sister to me. We had been friends, the three of us for a long time » I justified.
« You did mention before you found a family in your best friend. She seemed like a very thoughtful person » said Valerian’s mother kindly.
« She was wonderful » added Valerian fondly.
« Did you meet her ? » asked her mother.
« I did. Before she …past away » she replied regretful.
« Why ? » demanded her father.
« Because she wanted to meet the person that had shifted my world for the best before she passed away » I stated lovingly with a big smile looking in Valerian’s direction.
I could imagin M.Matthews not to pleased my my choice of words, but I had to prepare him for my demand.
I could hear Mrs.Matthews in awe.
« Why don’t we sit ? I will prepare the tea » suggested Sebastian.
« Do you need any help ? » teased Valerian.
« No, I’ll be fine. Thank you » replied Sebastian playfuly just like a brother and sister would.
He then left for the kitchen while M. and Mrs Matthews sat on the sofa, him pulling his daughter by the arm so she would sit by his side while I sat on one or the armchairs.
And here came the akward silence.
« So, Valerian, how are your studies coming along ? » asked M.Matthews.
« I’m doing well Da. So is Ominis. Did you know the headmistress praised his talents recently ? » she said trying to sell me off.
« How extraordinary. Good on you » encouraged Mrs.Matthews generously.
She knew my family wouldn’t be the one praising me.
I could imagin her father rolling his eyes.
« You said you inherited this house thanks to your friend’s sister. But where are his parents ? » asked M.Matthews.
I paused for a moment.
« They passed away years ago » I replied sounding downhearted.
« How tragic ! It sounds like you both had a hard life » resumed Mrs.Matthews.
I chose not to answer. There was nothing to be added after all.
Sebastian came back carrying the tray.
He served the tea then sat down with his own cup.
Now that I thought of it, I was surprised Valerian’s parents hadn’t asked her about the mark on her cheek. Maybe they did when she was at her parent’s house and found a good excuse.
« What a lovely house this is » said Mrs.Matthews benevolently.
« Yes. I’m surprised. It looks so, normal » stated M.Matthews.
It didn’t look normal to us.
« Like I promised, you stay will be magicproof » I reminded gently.
« This is very generous of you, to make that effort. It musn’t be easy » told Mrs.Matthews.
« We want you to feel comfortable around us » specified Sebastian.
« Thank you » said Mrs.Matthews grateful.
We chatted about our lives at school, shared good memories with the Matthews about my past with the Sallows.
Then we moved to the kitchen as it was time for lunch. Of course, Valerian and I cooked it. Well she mostly did I only helped here and there.
« Who cooked us this delicious meal ? It smells delightful » told Mrs Matthews.
« Not me. I can’t cook unfortunately » said Sebastian frankly.
« Ominis and I both did Ma » replied Valerian proudly.
« Ah, so you’ve become quite the chef » joked Mrs.Matthews.
« Not quite. But Valerian’s been teaching me » I confessed.
« Does that mean you share meals on regular basis ? » demanded her father bluntly.
« Da ! » exclaimed Valerian.
« We do share meals at school yes, and sometimes here » I said confidenly.
I was amazed that I hadn’t started a panic attack yet. But I didn’t feel nervous. I was determined to make Valerian my wife. She had already accepted me has her future husband and that helped immensly.
Valerian and I had prepared a duck breast with roast potatoes and a few vegetables. Well she did mostly everything but I peeled the potatoes and cooked them. That’s a start !
When we had finished lunch, an owl came into the house with a letter and landed on the table. Valerian’s parents didn’t sound surprised. I knew Valerian sent them letters on regular basis so they should be accustomed to it. Sebastian grabbed the letter, but remained silent.
« Anything interesting ? » I asked.
« Nope, just the usual boring stuff » he declared.
That meant the letter was important, but it would have to wait. Now was not the time to read it aloud. I hoped it would be a letter from Malfoy giving me a date.
Then Mrs.Matthews suggested Sebastian, M.Matthews and I had a drink together as she and Valerian would go for a walk.
I wasn’t keen on letting Valerian out of my sight.
« I’ll be fine. After all, it’s a beautiful day and the sun is out. It’d be a shame to miss it » she implied suggesting nightfall was not upon us yet.
« Ok. But please come back before dawn » I urged.
« We will » she said seductively.
Merlin I wish I could just steal her away and make love to her all afternoon in our bedroom. Unfortunately, her father would kill me if he knew what kind of activities we had been up to lately.
I helped the ladies put their coats on like a good gentleman and they were off. I couldn’t even kiss my fiancé goodbye. How fustrating.
Sebastian took out the strong stuff, I had bought a bottle of good whisky as I knew M.Matthews enjoyed it.
He sounded delighted.
He poured the drinks as we raised our glasses.
« So, M.gaunt, I know you had ulterior motives for inviting us here » he announced clearly.
Oh dear. I thought he would wait until later to talk to me privately. But I guess it was happening now. I reminded myself to stay calm.
« I genuinely wanted Valerian to celebrate Christmas with her family. And as I want to be part of your family Sir, I thought we could celebrate it all together and show you that despite our different backgrounds, we can share moments like this. But you’re right. I did have other motives. » I narrated trying to win him over.
Sebastian must have felt akward. He had to remain silent and watch.
« I know how … keen you are on my daughter. But that’s not enough, surely you can understand » he observed.
« I do. So please, say what you have to say. You know how I value honnesty » I reminded.
« Yes, I believe you do. So tell me, why would I accept your proposal ? » demanded M.Matthews.
I had to think fast.
« I know you would have rather she married a muggle. But I have exposed my opinion on this subject before. Firstly, no one could love her more than I would. Her hapiness and well-being are what matter most to me. I know how uneasy you are with magic, but it’s part of her life whether you approve or not. And I can only imagin how fustrating it is for you, because you’re her father, her mentor, and you love her. You know you can’t protect her from dangers you don’t understand. That’s what frightens you. But I can. Weather you like it or not, she is going to lead a magical life as it is her wish. I will protect her from all dangers, magical or not. I’d rather die than see any harm come to her. I like to think of us working toghether, for her safety. You can handle the muggle side, I get to handle the magical side » I narrated.
He sighed heavily.
« Interesting. But do you have the means to support her ? » he asked frankly.
« You are asking this because I inherited a share of a house ? You should know I plan on buying a house for us when the time’s right » I cassured.
I heard Sebastian make a surprised noise. Surely he didn’t think we would live together forever.
« So you have the finacial ressources ? » he demanded.
Sebastian chuckled.
« I don’t think you realise that Ominis has more than enough to provide for her and for any future desendants » stated Sebastian.
I smiled. Sebastian was trying to be helpful.
« Like Sebastian said, I do. She will have everything she desires » I made clear.
I had ticked the emotional box and the finacial box off his list.
What was next ?
« Do you wish to start a family ? » he demanded.
« I do. But only when Valerian will feel ready for it. Don’t expect it to be just yet. She is a strong woman and wants the chance to prove her skills on her workfield first » I warned.
He nodded in agreement.
« And you’re ok with that ? » he questioned.
« I want whatever she wants » I made clear.
« What about your children, will they be … like my daughter ? » He demanded.
« You mean part magical part muggle ? Yes » I confirmed.
It felt strange and uncomfortable speaking about this. We weren’t even married yet. But he was right, it was necessary. He needed to know more about what kind of future I would offer his daughter.
« And will they be … blind like you both ? » he asked genuinely.
« That I couldn’t tell you. It’s hard to say because Valerian was cursed » I explained.
« I see » replied M.Matthews.
« May I speak thuthfuly on my best friend’s behalf ? » asked Sebastian out of the blue.
« Please do, though I know it will be in his favor » replied M.Gaunt.
« You’re right. It’s in his favour. You know how Ominis’ family is despecable. They abuse their youngest child without remorse. But despite what they have put him through, he turned out to be a descent, honnest man with a good heart. I met him when I was 10. And it was friendship at first sight, or maybe friendship at first hearing for Ominis ... there was no question about it. When I had discovered what his family was like, I invited him to spend Christmas with mine instead, knowing his own never celebrated Christmas or his birthdays in his life. And I remember my parents loved him immediately, and later concidered him as their third child. My sister loved him too and he took care of her while she was ill when I … couldn’t. He looked after her all these years just because he’s an amazing person and was always available for her, no matter what crisis he had going on because that’s the kind of person he is. Loyal, faithful, generous and always puts his loved ones needs before his own. And he had bared a heavy burden of his parents hatred from the moment he was born. So he never knew what love really was until he met your daughter. She brought so much tenderness in his life. And so did he. I never believed two people coud love eachother so much you know. I know Valerian well enough to tell you she is so happy, so fulliled when she is with him. And Ominis is devoted to her. They were meant for eachother. So please, consider wisely your options. Because you shall never find a better son-in-law, that much I can promise you » narrated Sebastian genuinely.
His words almost made me cry. He was the eloquant one for once.
« Well, that’s quite the testimonial » he admited.
And so it was. He really outdid himself this time.
I smiled to thank him.
« So, what are you asking for exactly ? » he said playfully.
He enjoyed torturing me. He wanted me to say the words out loud.
« I’m asking for your daughter’s hand in mariage officially this time. And I hope you’ll accept me, for all that I am : a blind person that suffers from anxiety, a person left with invisible scars for life and carries a famous but difficult name, a person that is madly in love with your daughter and would do anything for her, a person that wishes to belong with a family, your family » I confessed.
He remained quiet.
« You said your family disaproved of this mariage proposal. And you needed more time to part ways with them. Should I be concerned ? Will Valerian be safe ? » he demanded legitimately.
I looked at his shadow. I won’t lie to him.
« They will try and stop us if they found out. But they won’t because I won’t allow it and I’m very close to have the means to finally part ways with them for good. I will never let them approach her. EVER. » I said determined.
« Would you do whatever it takes to stop your own family in order to protect her ? » he demanded more seriously.
« I’m not a bad person. I take pride in being different from my family who don’t hesitate to torture people, or use them, or blackmail them. I am not them. I have my own ways to fight back. I’m smarter and hold great knowledge. That is what makes me stronger. And muscles don’t define a person’s strength. Besides Valerian can fight her own battles, but she knows she can always count on me to help her, or to get things done » I explained.
« So if someone say touched her in an improper manner, you wouldn’t react ? You wouldn’t defend my daughter’s honnour ? » he asked aghast.
« Sir, her honnour couldn’t be compromised by a person that stupid. And she would give him the hell of a time for it. She wouldn’t let you or me intervene because she is the only one that gets to decide how to defend her honnour and clearly doesn’t need our help in achieving that. You have raised her well enough to fight her own battles. But if she asked me to fight for her, I wouldn’t hesistate » I detailed.
« What about you M.Sallow, do you agree with this ? » he demanded.
« I .. do actually. Ominis is the kind of guy that thinks before he acts which makes him the cleverest person I know. I’m the kind of guy that hits first, then asks questions later. I’m very impulsive. And that brought me nothing but pain and misery » stated Sebastian defending me.
I was surprised to hear Sebastian acknowledge his own weakness. Did he really believe that or was he saying this to make me look good ?
« I must admit you know her pretty well. You’re right. My daughter is strong-minded and won’t let anyone boss her around » he said proudly.
I smiled to his words.
« I understand why you are concerned though. It’s because of what happened to Valerian years ago. You want to make sure she will be safe. But the kind of safety she is looking for isn’t in strength, it’s in an emotional way. She needs to feel she can be herself, that she is loved for everything that she is and represents. And she found it in me. Because she chose me when she could have had anyone. And I will cherish her love always » I said affectionately.
« You’re not making it easy for me to find ways to say no » said M.Matthews.
« You’re right, I won’t make it easy. In fact I will make it impossible for you to deny me. Because Valerian and I are meant to be » I said bluntly.
« Well, you’ve given me a lot to think about » he professed.
I felt unsatisfied and couldn’t shake off this feeling, like there was more to be said. And I knew why I felt that way. I needed to confess, to be honnest with him or I would feel I lived in a lie, and there was something in particular I needed to tell him.
« Sir, if I may, there is something I’d like to share with you, as I wish to always be honnest with you » I started now feeling nervous.
« Go on » he replied.
« I know who is the person responsible for Valerian’s blindness » I avowed.
« What ? How ? Who is it ?! » he said angrily.
« Well, that’s the part you won’t like. I want you to know that I ‘m currently making sure he’ll end up in Azkaban for what he’s done ! » I said fiercely clentching my fists.
« Azkaban ? What is this ? » he asked.
« The great prison for wizards » retold Sebastian.
« … so, who was it ? » he asked again.
« It was … my brother » I confessed painfully.
He couldn’t hear anything from him, but I’m sure he felt enraged.
« Your family is responsible for my daughter’s misery ? Do you know how much she has suffered ? How much we all suffered ? What she had to go through ? And did you take part in this despecable … » he couldn’t even finish his sentence he was so livid.
« No ! I would never inflict pain to another person. I am NOT my family. This happened years ago. I was just a teenage boy ! I was at Hogwarts ! » I said wanting him to desperatly believe me.
Sebastian rose up and stood by my side.
« Ominis would never do such a thing, and deep down, you know it Sir. He was born in this rachid family, but chose to be different, to be a good person » insisted Sebastian almost shouting.
« Maybe not, but how do you expect me to trust you now with my daughter’s life when I know you’re brother is the one that tortured my darling daughter ! » he exclaimed wrathfully.
I would feel tears welling up my eyes.
I knew I would do anything to keep her safe. He just didn’t know me well enough to realise that yet and didn’t know the whole story.
« I understand. But I am not my brother. And I WILL make sure he gets what he deserves, and that is life emprisonement for what he’s done. There are just so many deeds piling up we plan to use against him. I just need a bit more time. This is all I ask. We are so close ! And you should know I am not working alone, I am working with what you call the … police, but in our world to make sure it will happen.. You have my word that you and Valerian shall have justice. And when we’ll find the proof we need, they will no longer be able to harm us » I expressed genuinely.
His father listened, but I could hear him breathe heavily. I don’t know if I just helped my case by admitting the truth. But I had to tell him. I couldn’t start our relationship based on a lie, well at least not a lie that big.
« Does my daughter know ? » he said irritated.
And then I heard her beautiful angelic voice.
« I do » said Valerian sounding so confident.
We all looked at her stunned to see her back already.
I stood up still in a daze as she rushed by my side placing her hands around my waist.
I pulled her closer to me resting my right hand on her back.
« Valerian, you knew ? Why didn’t you tell us ? » he exclaimed astonished.
« Because I knew how you would react. And I knew you would try to blame Ominis when he wasn’t even there when it happened and therefore is innocent » she said firmly.
« I… I don’t blame him. But his family ! His own family hurt you. And what provents them from harming you again ? » he said sincerely.
« Noting. Just like I can’t promise tomorow I won’t die any other way. Ominis is dealing with his family, we all are, together. And I do not seek justice Da. I just want them cease hurting the man I love. Ominis has suffered immensly because of them. This isn’t about me. It’s about us. We’ll do what is necessary to put them behind bars, where they belong. But that won’t stop me from living my life to the fullest in the mean time. And I want Ominis to be my husband because I love him, and I feel safe with him. I feel like I can be myself around him and I have finally found someone that knows what it’s like to be blind. And I know this isn’t what you imagined for me Da. But this is what I want. I want HIM. I know what his family is capabe of, I know we’ll have to remain discrete for now until we deal with them. But I’m not afraid. I couldn’t care less about all these details so long as I am with him, that’s all that matters to me. And life has challened our love many times over already. I know I’m ready for this. I just need your approval Da, please. Your blessing would mean so much to me, to us, because I love you » she narrated beautifly.
Her warmth made me love her even more. I didn’t know it was possible to love a person more than I already did.
« Dear, I know this is a big decision, but our daughter always knew what she wanted in life, and she always was a fighter. Now, she is fighting for what she believes in, for what she loves, and that’s M.Gaunt » added her mother helpfully.
« You’re not shaken by all these revelations ? » he said to his wife in disbelief.
« No, I’m not. I think that despite the situation, M.Gaunt is a good and honnest person. He could have beholded the truth from you. But he chose to be sincere instead knowing you might change your mind about him, and taking the risk you would deny his hapiness. I think that’s very admirable. Valerian follows her soul because it knows the way to be happy. And M.Gaunt is the one who makes her thrive and blossom. Will you really put an end to that ? » she portrayed.
« Well ... » he said hesitantly.
« It’s not that simple. I must think about her hapiness, but also her safety » he argued.
« He has the means, the resources, the will, the love. What else could you ask for ? No man will ever be good enough for her from your point of view anyway. But you’ll have to let her go eventually. I know how hard this is. But she isn’t that same little girl that was once helpless. She is a strong woman now. It’s time to let go dear » said her mother compassionately caressing her husband’s arm gently.
Her mother was as remarkable as Valerian, kind and compassionate. Her choice of words were impeccable.
I would be honnoured to be part of her family.
My heart was acking for m.Matthews though. This wans’t easy, letting go of his fears for his daughter’s sake and hapiness.
I would have wept in this place, but I guess it wasn’t an acceptable behaviour in his eyes.
I heard him sigh harshly. He was out-numbered.
I tightened my grip around Valerian in torment. Was he going to accept ? Or would he deny me ? My heart was pounding so loudly.
« I … need more time to concider all the facts. But I promisse you’ll have my answer by the end of our stay » he asmonished.
« I understand » I confided.
I genuinely accepted his answer. I would rather he thought clearly about it and not be rushed ino any decision he might regret.
« Wait, why did you come back so soon from your stroll ? » demanded Sebastian.
«I … didn’t really feel like walking » she said hesitantly.
I knew she was beholding the truth. I had noticed that since she got the mark, she barely left the house. I couldn’t even remember the last time she went out.
That thought broke my heart. She felt she would be humiliated if people saw the mark on her face. I clentched my fists in pure rage. I felt like a bomb and anything could set me off lately. My family was so infuriating, pure bloods had gone mad, the way muggle-borns were trated was dispecable. All that rage that was piling up in me was making me even more enraged.
I pulled her closer as she looked at me. I approached my face to hers, like I had no control over my movements, almost liek a reflex. I wanted to kiss her to soothe her.
His father cleared his throat as a signal to get my hands off his daughter.
I chuckled and let go of her, so did she.
Having to keep away from her didn’t ease my fustration.
I then helped her get her coat off as she stormed in earlier not even bothered by removing it. I then hang it by the door.
Valerian then suggested she got started on the diner as it would be quite grand. It was the night before Christmas after all. I offered my help, so did Mrs. Matthews. We left M.Matthews and Sebastian to their own device.
The diner took hours to prepare, but I was glad to spend some time with the ladies. We would laugh as we recalled my great peeling skills.
I relished that moment and hoped there would be more of these.
I was listening to the water boiling in the pot in which I had placed the potatoes. I was lost in my thought, recalling today’s events with M.Matthews feeling a bit downcast. Maybe I should have talked to Valerian first before revealing my brother was the one responsible for her current situation.
« Don’t worry, he’ll come around » said Mrs.Matthews kindly. My face must have betrayed me once again.
« I hope so » I just replied.
But I didn’t sound very hopeful. What were my chances now ? At least I had been honnest with him. Well as honnest as I was allowed to be.
Valerian came by my side and kissed me on the cheek.
I looked at her and smiled, she knew how to cheer me up.
« Don’t let your father see you Valerian » whispered her mother.
She just replied with an exasperated sigh.
« My mother’s right. He just needs time to realise what he already knows and won’t admit » she explained.
« And what is that ? » I demanded.
« That he likes you and wants you to be part of the family » she replied fondly.
She took my hand and stroke it discretely.
I squeezed her hand as I looked at her shadow feeling my heat beat for her.
« Valerian, I’m sorry I should have talked to you first, before telling your father about Marvolo » I confessed.
She stepped closer to me so our bodies would come in contact.
« I’s ok. I understand why you felt you had to. That’s what makes you so … you. And my father doesn’t realise it yet, but he will appreciate your honnesty » she affirmed.
« I had to tell him. I hope I haven’t screwed things up for us, I know how important it is for you to have your father’s blessing and approval » I attested.
« It is. But if he won’t, that won’t stop me from marrying you » she remarked determined.
I smiled to her words, Her devotion to me was admirable.
« Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that » I responded truthfully.
I lifted her hand and opened it as I drew a heart in the palm of her hand, like we once did when I was at the Matthews. I knew her mother was listening to us, so that was my way of telling her I loved her.
« Ma, could you ask Sebastian if he’s sorted tonight’s drinks ? » she asked finding an excuse so we could be alone.
She chuckled.
« You have one minute, no more » she replied. She was no fool and knew what our true intentions were. But it was kind of her to let us have our moment.
The second she stepped out of the kitchen Valerian and I threw our arms at eachother and kissed lustfully. We had been waiting all day for this. I was so eager for her touch I picked her up and placed her on the kitchen worktop, placing my hips between her legs.
« Valerian, how I wish I could make love to you right now » I murmured to her ear seductively as I ran my hands down her thighs.
She pulled me in for another kiss, one that was more forceful. She didn’t have to use words to let me know how much she hungered for me and it was exhilarating. She then slid her tongue inside my mouth moving it in circular patterns while our lips brushed against eachother moving up and down. I followed her pace in delectation. It only increased the intensity between us as I embraced her by her hips more tightly so I could feel her warm body close to mine.
How I wanted to just rip her clothes off and insert myself into her as she would feel my warm length penetrate her inch by inch, and I would start thrusting my hips into her as our bodies would tremble in elation. She would beg me to lunge myself in her more deeply and I would be unmerciful therefore crying my name as she would warn me of her climax approching, and her murmures would be enough to finish me, spurting every last drop inside of her as she would reach heaven in one last whail.
How this thought turned me on and I was now fully erected, ready for more.
That’s when we heard her mother’s voice.
« I’m back, so can you stop whatever you were doing please ? » she whispered through the gap of the door that was slightly opened.
I groaned in fustration. My afflicted buldge was now swollen and fully aroused and there was nothing Valerian could do to help me reach my release now.
Valerian got down and kissed me on the cheek before she let her mother back in.
My cheeks were on fire, my palms were sweaty as my body had been fueld now.
I tried to breathe in and out to let rid of the adrenaline in my system, but failed. Being so close to Valerian wasn’t helping. I could feel her presence, her sweet alluring ginger sent and it was driving me mad. I needed some air. So I rushed out the back door. I looked up and breathed in the fresh air and when I did I felt something cold yet soft on my face, then I felt it again. I think it was snowing.
I heard the door open and close again behind me. It was Valerian.
« Are you ok Ominis ? » she asked concerned.
I heard her sigh in surprise to the feeling of the snow.
« How could I be ok when one minute I can be so close to you, and the next keep my distance when you enliven me like that ? » I said as my mind was going wild.
She chuckled and wrapped her arms around my waist.
« I could say the same about you » she said with her desirable voice.
« But you’re so much better at hidding it. You’ll be the death of me Valerian, you know that ? » I joked.
She laughed.
« I guess we should go back inside before your mother or father notices we are not where we should be » I jested.
I felt her delicate lips pressing against my neck and immediately sighed in ecstacy.
« Or, we could stay outside a bit longer and make the most of it » she murmured alluringly as she repeated her actions.
« We shouldn’t … » I said fully aroused again only wanting the opposite.
« You’ll have to be quick » she said sensualy to my ear trying to convince me.
I placed my hands along her cheeks and placed my forehead on hers, breathing heavily trying so hard to resit her, but it was poinless. My urge for her just kept growing impatient. I knew I needed this. And my arousal made me lose all sense of morality as I plunged my lips onto hers kissing her sensualy, savouring them. We were both beathing loudly in anticipation.
She pulled me to the corner of the house as she unfastened my belt and unbuttoned my trousers rapidly setting my arduous member free while stepping back. When her back hit the wall, I lifted her skirt briskly as I was impatient and placed my manhood on her wet womanhood and penetrated her half way. She moaned in delight and placed her harms around my neck holding on to me as I lifted her up against the wall causing my throbbing charge to enter her as we fused perfectly and we both whipered in rapture.
As we had only little time, I pressed my self into her, burrying my pulsing member deep inside of her before coming almost all the way back out and slammed it back in as we both whailed in ardor.
« We need to … be more ... quiet » I said panting fervishly.
I was now prodding forcefully inside her, feeling her insides swallow me whole as I consumed her. I always fit in so perectly inside her and it made me jolt in exitement.
Her sweet ginger scent enraptured my body and compelled my mind everytime. My arousal was now severely inflammed, the need for our climax escalating. And I had very intention to ravish her before someone noticed we were gone. I was now brutally pushing into her as I devoured her neck. She gasped noisily unable to keep quiet and I felt a sense of erotic pride as I was the one responsible for her current state of mind and was the cause of her loud cries. Her moans were sumptuous. And I only wanted to make her scream louder for me.
« Pull your top down by your neck » I ordered attractively still plunging into her roughly.
« Ominis … no » she replied out of breath.
« You know you want me to. You’re craving for it. I’ll make sure to make it low enough » I murmured to her ear.
She groaned in desire and pulled her top to give me access to the bottom of her neck as I parted my lips and placed them on her flawless skin and sucked hard on this spot while poking into her.
She cried my name exquisitely to both gestures and that’s all I needed to hear to feel myself nearly reaching the end. I frantically probbed in and out as I clutched my fingers tightly on her thighs almost there as my muscles were stiffening.
« Valerian … I’m … almost ... » I guttered.
« Oh, Ominis ... yes » she cried.
Just then we heard the door open. My heart skipped a beat. I panicked but was feeling desperate. I was so close to my release and I needed this or else I would loose my mind before too long. There was no way I was letting go of her now. So I apparated both of us in my bedroom at school, slammed her against the wall allowing my erection to reach the edge of her insides violently as she tightened her arms and legs around me in lecherous delirium. I renewed the pace shoving my aching charge bestially in and out of her, pressing my body against hers as she dropped her head in the crook of my neck in anticipation of her climax, her body convulsing as she came at full volume now that she could. My carnal passion for her led me to lean my head back savagely as I erupted inside her filling her up. I felt my body shudder to the thrill of my ardent orgasm.
I then rested my forhead on her shoulder as we both cuddled biefly.
I knew we had to get back fast.
« I think … we were close to get … busted » I said catching my breath.
« I … thought I heard … something » she replied breathing loudly.
« We should … get back quickly then » she suggested wisely.
« That would be wise in deed. But first ... » I said before exiting her and landing a kiss on her lips.
She chuckled, then I let her down as she arranged her hair while I buttoned my trousers and fastened my belt quickly.
We then apparated back in different places of the house so her father wouldn’t find out what we were up to. I apparated outside while she apparated in the bathroom.
I could feel my cheeks were still hot, so could probably give me away. Fortunately, the snow was ticking to the ground, so I grabbed a handful of it and rubbed the snow against my cheeks to cool them down in anguish. Of couse it just melted to the contact of my cheeks, but it worked nonetheless because they were back to a normal temperature.
« Enjoying the snow are we ? » I heard behind me.
It was M.Matthews’ voice. My heart suddenly beat faster. I was sure no one had seen me apparate here.
Don’t panic. Keep it together, just look cool and relaxed.
« What brings you outside M.Matthews ? » I asked politely trying to sound chill.
« My daughter. You haven’t seen her, have you ? » he asked suspiciously.
« I believe she was still in the kitchen when I came out » I replied sounding calm but freaking out inside.
Please just go with it !
Then I heard the door open.
« There you are Ominis ! Don’t think you can get out of cutting the turkey » she said with a fake joyous voice.
« I was looking for you, you weren’t in the kitchen » stated her father.
« No. If you must know my every move I was in the bathroom » she replied sassy.
M.Matthews was about to say something but Valerian cut him of brilliantly.
« Is it snowing Da ? I can feel something cold fall on my face »
« … yes. It is » he replied simply.
« How lovely. Now it feels more like Christmas. If you’ll excuse us Da, we’ve got a diner to finish » she said while she marched to me, grabbed my hand and pulled me inside before he could add anything.
When we headed for the kitchen, we chuckled discretely and felt quite proud of ourselves for pulling it off. I slided my hand around her waist to her abdomen as I whispered to her ear.
« I love you maddly » I confessed.
She turned around to face me. My hand was now touching her back.
« So do I » she murmured affectionately.
When we entered the kitchen, her mother continued cooking as if we had never left. Though she knew we disappeared for a while. That’s when I realised M.Matthews had just entered. Probably keeping an eye on me. So that’s why she said nothing, to not raise suspicions. Valerian helped me by telling me what to do next. And her father stood there and just observed us for a while.
We enjoyed our diner in laughter as Sebastian recalled great memories of our childhood.
Then we all headed to bed. We said we would wash the dishes tomorrow with Sebastian as we were too tired. We all wished eachother a good night, then Sebastian and I dissapeared to pparate in his room quietly.
Fortunately, Sebastian also had a bathroom in his bedroom, so Valerian could get changed into her nightgown as we changed into the bedroom.
When she came out, she came by my side for a hug. I realised she wasn’t wearing her beauiful dressing gown and that left her shoulders exposed. I was a bit bothered by it because I wasn’t the only man in the room tonight, and Sebastian could see with his eyes. So I looked for it and placed it over her to cover up her alluring and perfect skin.
She smirked knowing perfectly why I had done that. She then kissed me gently.
« Don’t worry, I’m yours and yours only » she whispered to my ear.
I pulled her closer to me so her face would be inches away from mine as I stroke her cheek with my thumb appreciating her presence.
« I see you two have been naughty » joked Sebastain probably refering to the mark I left on Valerian’s lower neck.
We just both smiled.
« Did you close the door with a magical spell ? » I asked.
It was just in case Valerian’s father would try and enter the room.
« Yes, I have » he replied.
I settled into bed, Valerian followed my lead and came right into my arms, her head resting against my shoulder, her favourite spot to fall asleep. Nathara, who had to stay hidden in the room, poor her, was thrilled to see us, and came for her usual strokes as she settled on my chest next to Valerian. She took her mission to protect her very seriously.
I kissed her on her forehead and wished Sebastian good night as I struggled to fall asleep. Every night had become a souce of anxiety for me, worried about Valerian’s safety, asking myself if the faceless monster would come tonight. Having Nathara there did soothe me a little. I knew I could count on her to detect danger. Valerian was already fast asleep. I closed my eyes too, trying to get some rest before Christmas day.