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Chapter 10 - Shadows in the Rain

The evening sun had dipped low, painting the sky in soft shades of orange and grey as Seraphina and Callista finished dressing in the suite.

Seraphina stood by the mirror, adjusting her new blouse—a soft, cream-colored fabric that hugged her curves just right—and slipping into the heels that Jax had brought.

They were strappy black ones, elegant and high, clicking softly on the floor as she tested them.

Her red hair was still a bit tousled from the morning, but she ran her fingers through it, letting the waves fall naturally.

The Gucci bag from the system market hung over her shoulder, its leather smooth and luxurious against her skin.

Callista was across the room, buttoned up a fresh shirt—crisp white, tucked into dark pants that accentuated her tall, confident frame.

She moved with purpose, her green eyes glancing over at Seraphina every few seconds, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"You look ready to conquer the world," she said, her voice warm and teasing, like she was sharing a secret.

Seraphina turned, her big blue eyes meeting Callista's. "With you around, I feel like I could."

She stepped closer, her heels making a rhythmic tap-tap on the carpet.

Their hands found each other naturally, fingers intertwining.

It was such a simple gesture, but it felt electric, a reminder of the night before.

Callista pulled her phone from her pocket, unlocking it with a thumb.

"Before we go... numbers?" She held it out, her expression adorable— a mix of shyness and boldness that made Seraphina's heart skip.

"Of course," Seraphina said, taking the phone and typing in her number.

She handed it back, then pulled out her own from the bag, passing it over. "Don't be a stranger."

Callista entered her details, her fingers quick and sure. "I won't. Promise."

She pocketed her phone and pulled Seraphina into a hug, her arms strong around her waist.

Seraphina breathed in her scent—clean, with a hint of cologne from the morning.

[This feels too good. But I have to go... family waits.]

They lingered like that for a moment, the room quiet except for their steady breaths.

Then Callista tilted Seraphina's chin up, leaning in for a kiss.

It was soft at first, lips brushing gently, but deepened quickly—tongues touching, a spark of the passion from last night reigniting.

Seraphina's hands slid up to Callista's neck, pulling her closer, their bodies pressing together.

When they broke apart, both were breathing a little heavier, smiles on their faces.

"Text me when you get home?" Callista asked, her voice low.

"Deal," Seraphina replied, her blue eyes sparkling.

They left the suite hand in hand, walking down the hallway to the elevator.

The ride down was silent but comfortable, their fingers still laced.

In the lobby, heads turned again—Seraphina's beauty, with her glowing skin from the potion and commanding aura, drew whispers.

But she ignored them, focused on Callista.

Outside, the evening had turned drizzly—a soft, misty rain that pattered gently on the pavement, making the air smell fresh and earthy.

The hotel's awning sheltered them for a moment, but as they stepped out, droplets caught in their hair.

Harlan waited with the black limousine, its sleek body gleaming under the streetlights, door open and ready.

Callista pulled Seraphina close one more time, under the partial cover of the awning.

"This was... unexpected. But amazing." Her green eyes searched Seraphina's face, sincere and a bit vulnerable.

Seraphina nodded, her heart aching a little. "It was. See you soon?"

She hugged her tightly, arms wrapped around Callista's back, feeling the warmth through her shirt.

"Definitely." Callista kissed her again, deeper this time, the rain adding a romantic haze.

Their lips moved slowly, savouring, breaths mingling in the cool air.

When they parted, Callista brushed a raindrop from Seraphina's cheek. "Stay dry."

Seraphina laughed softly. "You too." She squeezed Callista's hand one last time before turning to the limo.

Callista watched her go, standing in the drizzle, her shirt starting to spot with water.

Seraphina glanced back from the car door, waving with a smile.

Harlan closed the door behind her, and as the limo pulled away, she saw Callista wave back, her figure shrinking in the rear view.

[That was... special. But now, back to reality.]

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