The Light of My Hearts

Later that night...

Petal and Epi were twin fairies who had worked as part of the cleaning staff of the Birchwood Estate for centuries. Known to many at the Birchwood Estate as the Rose Twins, they were faithful and dutiful employees who had had both earned the status of Mrs. Birchwood’s personal attendants. They kept her room and personal study spotless, saw that all her schedule was set each day, helped her dress for parties, and were personal liaisons between her and the other staff should problems arise.

Petal was small, even by fairy standards. With light, fluffy pink hair, dark, rose-colored skin, large, dark doe eyes, and clear, flower petal-like wings, she glowed as brightly as a star. She was a timid, quiet sort and her movements were always fast and jerky like a hummingbird. But she served the lady of the Birchwood Estate without fail and was the more sensible of the twins.

Epi, Petal’s twin brother, was also pink of hair but it was sharp and flipped upward in the front. He was larger than his twin but had the same darker rose skin tone and wing design. He was always dressed sharply and served Mrs. Birchwood with an infinitely polite yet zealous fervor. Cleaning, running messages, directing the staff: whatever Lady Birchwood wanted of him he did immediately.

It could be said the Rose Twins heard and saw many secrets of the house.

When Twillow had arrived back at the estate, news of her carrying Life Water had spread like wildfire through the Birchwood staff. Nearly all were excited and overjoyed to learn the beloved Birchwood daughter would soon have a new baby blooming from the Tree of Eilithysis (a rare and special event).

That is, except for Mrs. Birchwood.

When Twillow told her of the pregnancy she was at first stunned and then elated, but when she realized the father was a giant from the Lower Realm (the one who had visited and created quite a stir in the streets of Marlayla), she was secretly outraged and beside herself.

The Rose Twins had seen her pacing the floor of her room, ranting to herself in hushed tones for a couple days now. Neither had had the privilege of seeing this giant in his true form, but they had glimpsed him at the last party the estate held to celebrate Twillow’s return. But the way Mrs. Birchwood talked, it sounded like Twillow had made a huge mistake and couldn’t see the folly of having a relationship with such a beast.

It was no secret that Mrs. Birchwood was protective of her only daughter and any man who dared think they were worthy to be with Twillow Birchwood would be inspected every way possible. No flaw should be found. And to their Lady, Twillow’s beau had many. He was a non-magic and a giant, he was from the Lower Realm, he had no sense of decorum, he looked like a barbarous villain, he had never made any formal proposal of their engagement and simply whisked her daughter away and now she was pregnant.

And that was the first half of the list.

Of course, she had aired her grievances to Mr. Birchwood. He listened like a dutiful, understanding husband, but saw nothing seriously wrong with the situation. Despite her emotional stance, Mrs. Birchwood could not convince her husband that this was a terrible turn of events for their daughter.

When Mr. Birchwood had to depart for a three-day inspection of several crystal mines, that left Mrs. Birchwood alone to stew in her worries and outrage. Petal and Epi both unexpectedly became a captive audience for the Birchwood matriarch each night before she went to bed.

Three days after Twillow arrived the house erupted with sounds of Mrs. Birchwood shouting and large objects crashing in the ballroom. Epi and Petal and taken a well-hidden position at the top of the banister stairs. Though they were faithful and loved their mistress, they knew all too well to stay out of her way when her temper flared. There was a heated discussion between her, Master Hugo, and a third deep, male voice. In minutes the argument ended with Mrs. Birchwood expelling a large, gray man right out the front door with her powers. They could only guess it was Twillow’s beau, the father of her child.

Normally, Mrs. Birchwood didn’t use her powers for violence, only daily mundane tasks, and healing. So many of the house staff in viewing range were stunned to see such drama.

But it wasn’t over. Not long thereafter, the whole house shook and several objects left their spots. The Rose Twins then witnessed the worst fight Mrs. Birchwood and Miss Twillow had ever had since their employment centuries ago. It was loud, it was unsettling, and after a fervent exchange of words Twillow stormed back to her room, leaving Mrs. Birchwood reeling and in tears.

Epi was the first to fly down to Mrs. Birchwood to try and offer solace. Fairies of his type could emit light and magical scents that could calm a person. He subtly fanned his wings near her to try and alleviate her strong emotions but Mrs. Birchwood snapped her own large wings wide and flew up in a flurry to her own room. She never liked to show her lady-like façade cracking under the pressure of normal emotions. The backwash of her powerful wings spun Epi away.

“Mrs. Birchwood!” he called after her, trying to follow.

But his sister flew in front of him, “Leave her be, brother.”

“But...she’s hurting.” Epi protested, the pair dodging and blocking one another’s flight in fast movements.

“And she needs to be alone for a few moments. She’ll call us when the time is right.” Petal assured him.

Though Epi didn’t like it he knew his twin was right. And shortly thereafter that familiar flicker of magic Mrs. Birchwood summoned them with appeared. Using the special tunnels in the walls that led to each room in the house, the fairy twins answered the call. Mrs. Birchwood was in her room, sitting listlessly in her favorite ornate chair. The last time she looked like this was when Twillow was banished.

“Yes, Mrs. Birchwood?” they both chimed in unison.

Her hand gestured subtly, “Come here, my Roses.”

Being called in such a desolate tone by their affectionate names, the fairies flew to their mistress and began fanning their calming magic over her. Her magenta eyes looked lost and reddened from crying. She didn’t speak for several minutes until her emotional turmoil could not be contained any longer.

“She hates me...” she choked.

Epi flew around to be in her view, “No, Mrs. Birchwood! No! Miss Twillow doesn’t hate you!”

The beautiful fae closed her eyes, shaking her head with venom filling her voice, “Why? WHY? WHY? WHY!? Why him?! There were so many suitors for her. Good, respectable matches!” she threw up her hands in dismay, “And she picks that brute! That uncouth barbarian!”

The little fairies continued their calming magic as they fluttered around her. It didn’t seem to settle her as she continued her tirade.

“She was only gone for a year! He must have some sort of hold over her...some plot to keep her loyal.”

“Forgive me, my Lady, but didn’t Miss Twillow say she loved him?” Petal mentioned cautiously.

Gelilah scoffed, “A year isn’t enough time to make such a claim! She and Valluen courted for nearly a century and they’ve known each other since childhood. Then suddenly she gets banished for year in the Lower Realm and she throws all that away for some giant?!” she put a hand to her head as if she had a headache, “I swear she’s doing this to spite me...like that vampire she dated.”

“He does look rather villainous.” Epi agreed.

She nodded and then she thought a moment.

“Epi, Petal, tomorrow I’m going out with Twillow into Marlayla. No doubt he’ll be loitering around the house while we’re gone. I want you both to keep an eye on him. Tell me what he does, where he goes, everything.” She commanded sternly.

“What are we looking for exactly, my Lady?” Petal asked.

“Anything that might convince Twillow that this relationship is a farce and make her come to her senses.” Gelilah stated.

Both fairies bowed with acknowledgement, “As you wish, my Lady.”

...

The next morning...

Twillow awoke feeling a strong muscular arm curled around her, holding her close. She smiled, gently stroking the hairs of the gray arm. No matter how many times Kendrick was cursed, it was an adjustment to see him at her size. Twillow had grown so used to Kendrick’s normal form, she almost felt like she was in bed with someone else entirely.

Her thin fingers lightly traced through the spaces between his tendons, then knuckles, and fingers. Such strong hands but so gentle. She loved that about him. Whenever they were together in his cursed state, he found the simplest actions so exhilarating. Most took for granted the simple physical contact two people could share, but not Kendrick. Holding hands, kissing, her sitting in his lap, hugging her with both arms, actually getting to use some of his strength without devastating consequences were just some of those little simplicities he mentioned (amid others).

Very carefully she rolled toward him, keeping her wings pressed tightly to her back. Twillow faced him to see his handsome, rugged face was relaxed, peaceful. A long strand of his black hair had fallen haphazardly across his brow and eye. She smiled and gently repositioned it back with the others. He didn’t stir.

“I love you, Kendrick.” She whispered as she placed a gentle kiss on his lips.

Her gray-skinned mate stirred, drawing in a breath and her scent before opening his eyes.

“Good morning, Sweethearts.” She whispered touching his broad chest.

“Mm..” he smiled as he stretched his arms back around her and pulled her to him. “That it is, my light.”

She smiled back, “Did you sleep well?”

“Hm. No. Not really. I kept having these dreams.” He stated in a serious voice.

Twillow’s eyes squinted with concern, “Dreams?”

“Yeah. You were looking for something and I was trying to help you find it...but we just couldn’t find it.” He explained.

“What were we looking for?” she asked curiously.

He thought a moment, “I can’t quite remember...”

Twillow squeaked when suddenly his hand grasped her bare butt cheek firmly beneath the covers.

“Ah, I remember now. We couldn’t find your undergarments.” He laughed roguishly, “Seems dreams do come true.”

Twillow blushed and began laughing as she playfully fought him off, “Kendrick! You didn’t dream that!”

He laughed deeply, pulling her closer, “No. But until we find them let’s make a few more of my dreams come true.”

They both laughed. Twillow giggled trying to get away but Kendrick wasn’t letting her. With a burst her wings erupted from beneath the sheets and buzzed as she wrestled on top of him. Wings up and flared she appeared three times bigger and so majestic. Kendrick smiled broadly, enjoying the view.

A knock at the door startled them both.

“Y-Yes?” Twillow called out, her wings tucking down.

“Breakfast.” Marci’s voice announced on the other side.

“Um...one moment please!”

Twillow fought to cover herself in the sheets. Kendrick sat up and leaned forward.

“Enter.” Twillow finally confirmed

In strode Marci with a breakfast tray, “Good morning. I’ve brought you breakfast.” she eyed the couple, noting Twillow was already blushing brightly, “I apologize for interrupting.” She gestured at Kendrick, ”Your breakfast there certainly looks better than this breakfast.”

Twillow covered her face in the sheets but the glow of her face wasn’t being hidden, “Marciii! STOOOP!”

The elven succubus giggled as she brought the tray over. Though she was the head chef and the Birchwoods had other help to do such jobs, Marci always liked to bring her friend her meals personally. Although, she’d be lying if she didn’t have a bit of ulterior motive this time. (a cheap peek at her handsome beau perhaps?)

“Hello, Kendrick. Always good to see you.”

“Hello, Marci.”

“Silky found you?” she inquired.

He gave a look of confusion, “You sent Silky to find me?”

The light purple-skinned chef nodded, “Ever since Mrs. Birchwood learned Twillow was pregnant she’s been storming around waiting to confront you. Thank goodness Hugo was here. My magic can’t compete with Mrs. Birchwood, especially when she’s on the rampage. When she threw you out, I knew Silky could help you get to Twillow so I asked her to help you out.”

“Smart dragon.” Kendrick commented. “Thank you for that.”

“That she is. Well, here’s your breakfast. I made you both something.”

She set the tray across Twillow’s lap and removed the covers, “A large serving of infused fruits topped with custard cream, a Phoenix egg omelette, and magic boosting elixir just for the new mommy.” She gestured to a plate with meat on it, “And for you, Kendrick I have some boar sausage, eggs, fresh berry bread with the custard cream, and some fresh squeezed pomegranate juice.”

“Thank you, Marci. And thank you for helping us.”

Marci nodded, “I hope you like it.” She raised a brow at Kendrick, “Tell me, Kendrick...do you have any brothers back in the Lower Realm?”

Twillow gave her a look that said “Really?”

However, Kendrick laughed lightly, “Afraid I’m an only child.”

“Poo.” Marci pouted. “Why are you so lucky, Twillow?”

The fae smiled and leaned into Kendrick, “It’s in the stars I guess.”

Kendrick kissed the top of her head.

Marci put a hand to her mouth, “Gods you two are too cute.” She made a squealing sound, “Ooo! Twillow! I still can’t believe you’re pregnant!” she leaned down into Twillow, begging, “Oh please can I be the godparent? Please?”

Twillow laughed at her friend’s earnest request. Ironically, they’d made promises when they were younger pertaining to such things.

The fae patted her arm, “Of course, you will be.”

Marci looked like she was debating between crying and squealing more. But instead, she nodded quickly, stood up, and regained her composure, “Well, you two enjoy your breakfast. And just a reminder Twillow, you have an appointment with your mother over at Lamose this afternoon.”

Twillow moved her head with recollection but sighed, “Thank you, Marci.”

Marci strutted out of the room, leaving the couple together again. Twillow’s glowing blush was starting to subside.

"Lamose?” Kendrick questioned.

“It’s a massage parlor and spa. Mother made us a series of regular appointments since she learned I was pregnant. You know, to make me relaxed...bonding time.” She explained, though she sounded a bit hesitant and annoyed about it.

Kendrick nodded with understanding, “Well...that’s important.”

Twillow’s wings shifted like dried leaves against her back, “I’m not sure I want to go now.”

Kendrick’s mouth moved slightly. Though he was obviously not on good terms with Twillow’s mother, he didn’t want that to seep into the mother and daughter’s relationship. He knew how meaningful and powerful the love of a parent was and believed it shouldn’t be jeopardized.

He sighed, “No... you should go. Might be a good time to talk.”

“But I don’t want to leave you here by yourself. You could come too.” She offered.

The former giant huffed a sarcastic laugh, “Probably too soon for that...”

Twillow’s delicate lips turned down, “I guess we can go another time just the two of us?”

“Never had a massage before.” Kendrick admitted “walking” his fingers playfully up her arm. “You’ve never given me a massage.”

A giggle tittered from the fae, “It would take me a week to give you a massage!”

His large hand cupped the back of her head and he kissed her lips, “I look forward to it.” He glanced down at the tray of breakfast, “Better eat before it gets cold.”

Twillow nodded then surveyed the offerings as she decided to start with the phoenix omelet which was very rich in magic imbuing properties.

Kendrick plucked up one of the sausages and bit into it with a pleasing snap, “Mm. That’s good...REALLY good. Kinda surprised she’d have any meat around since you and your family don’t eat it.”

“Well, we’re not the only ones in the house who get meals. She cooks for all the staff too. And...considering she knew you were coming I think she stocked up.” Twillow explained, daintily cutting a bite of her omelette.

Kendrick ate his breakfast steadily but kept a watchful eye on Twillow to make sure she ate it all.

“What kind of fruits are those?” he asked.

“They’re called mataika fruits or just infused fruits. They are grown specifically for magic users to eat to increase and feed their magic production. I have to eat a lot of them now that I’m imbuing my Life Water.”

Kendrick plucked up a piece of fruit and fed it to Twillow. She ate it from his fingers and before she’d even finished chewing, he leaned in and kissed her. Twillow giggled quietly. He placed a large, gentle hand across her belly and stroked it.

“Eat all of that fruit then. Make our baby strong.”

She smiled and continued to eat under her mate’s intent watch.

“What is a godparent exactly? I thought that was a fairy that granted wishes? Why was Marci wanting that?” Kendrick asked, after he had time to process the exchange between the two women moments before.

Twillow gave a soft laugh, “Not exactly. It’s mostly just a title of honor. But it’s also a promise for Marci that if something were to happen to us, she would care for our child.”

Kendrick frowned. Even imagining something happening to them where their child would become orphaned disturbed him.

“My father could do that.” He stated.

“Yes. Yes, he could. But he’s going to be the grandpa...which is an even more important role.”

Kendrick smiled gently, imagining his father taking on the role of a grandparent. Alec was a doting father to him so he would be even more devoted with their child. Probably spoil them rotten.

Once Twillow finished eating, Kendrick dutifully took the tray and set it on the nightstand beside them. He then leaned back over and nuzzled her neck, kissing her until he was putting his face against her breasts.

She squirmed with a chiding tone, “Kendrick! I need to get ready.”

“Mmm.” He almost whimpered when she got up to get dressed, “So much for my plan.”

“Your plan?” Twillow asked.

“Staying in bed with you all day.” He grinned.

She gave him a smile and began to get dressed, “Later.”

He pouted slightly but put on his clothes as well.

“I guess while I’m out with mother you can explore the house. One of the servants would probably give you a tour.” She mentioned.

She thought a moment, knowing Marci would jump on that chance and probably show him a tour of all the closets and bedrooms first. She hid a snicker inside her hands.

Kendrick shrugged, “I suppose. I’ll walk around anyway. You can give me the tour later.”

“Ok.” Soon they were both dressed and Twillow suddenly remembered, “Oh! And I talked with Hugo about making your curse last a bit longer. He said he’d look into it.”

Kendrick strode across the room, his boots thudding heavily.

He wrapped his arms around her and held her to his chest, “Not much of a curse if I enjoy it so much.”

She laughed gently, “I enjoy it too.”

They kissed again and Twillow pulled away toward the door, “Bye, Sweethearts. I’ll be back later.”

“Bye.” He replied as she left through the door and then closed it.

Though he knew deep down there was nothing to worry about he still did. He never thought he’d ever be able to miss anyone the moment they left but he was already wanting her to come back.

But now the big challenge was how was he going to be around for months and not cause any problems with Twillow’s mother? Granted it wouldn’t be as challenging at this size but his normal form wouldn’t be so easy to avoid.