As they shared a quiet meal, laughter dancing between them like flickers of candlelight, the doorbell suddenly rang. Dylan rose gracefully to answer it. Moments later, he returned with a pair of attendants—room service delivering their outfits for the night's party.
Once the attendants left, Ember's gaze drifted to the sleek garments laid out before them. She tilted her head slightly and whispered with a playful smile, "So… this is the outfit for tonight?"
Dylan nodded, his eyes searching hers for any sign of exhaustion. "Yes," he said softly, "but if you want to rest, we can skip it. We can just stay in, relax… and still have fun."
Ember's heart ached at the thought of him missing the event because of everything that had happened earlier. The shadows of the day still lingered in her chest, but she didn't want guilt to take the shape of their evening.
Determined to lift his spirit, Ember rose and stepped toward him. Her voice trembled slightly, rich with sincerity. "Dylan, I know a lot has happened today. And you said you love me…" She paused, her hand gently finding its way behind his neck, fingers lacing together like a promise. "I love you too. So why don't we make the most of this time we've been given by the universe?"
She leaned in closer, eyes shimmering. "I want to go to that party—with you. I want to create a beautiful memory tonight, one we'll never forget."
A slow smile bloomed on Dylan's lips, and the tension in his shoulders melted away. He reached for her hand, his voice warm and steady. "Okay, let's do it. Let's forget everything else and just live in this moment… together."
And then, without another word, Dylan cupped Ember's face with both hands and drew her into a kiss—deep, fervent, and aching with all the unspoken emotions burning between them. It wasn't just a kiss; it was a surrender, a silent vow, a desperate need to hold onto this moment before the world could steal it away. Ember melted into him, her heart pounding as if echoing his own, and for that breathless eternity, nothing else existed—only the fire between their lips and the love neither of them could contain any longer.
As they got ready for the evening event, Ember and Dylan were twinning in black—two souls in perfect harmony. Ember sat at the vanity, gently blending her makeup with graceful strokes, her reflection glowing softly in the mirror. Behind her stood Dylan, fixing his tousled hair, his tall frame radiating quiet confidence.
Their eyes met in the mirror. Ember smirked, leaned slightly toward the glass, and blew him a playful smooch with a teasing wink. Dylan clutched his chest dramatically with both hands, feigning a heart-struck expression like her kiss had pierced straight through him. Ember couldn't hold back her laughter, her heart fluttering at his adorably exaggerated reaction.
Once Dylan was done, he leaned close to her ear, his breath warm on her skin. "When you told me you didn't want a stylist to help you get ready, I thought it'd be simple. But now, look at us—we're like a real married couple, getting dressed together, sharing one mirror, one moment."
Ember's cheeks flushed a soft pink. "Stop teasing me," she murmured, biting her lip to suppress a smile. "Let's go—if you're done admiring yourself."
She stood, turning toward him—and in that instant, time seemed to pause. Dylan froze, stunned by the vision before him. She wore a breathtaking black gown—sleek, elegant, and utterly mesmerizing. The fabric clung to her curves in a way that was both graceful and bold, the off-shoulder design revealing her delicate collarbones and the graceful slope of her neck. The dress flowed down her body like liquid midnight, flaring just slightly at the bottom into a subtle train that kissed the floor with each step.
Her long, dark hair cascaded freely over her shoulders, a striking contrast against the deep black of the gown.
When Dylan saw her, he was utterly spellbound. His breath caught in his chest, and for a second, he forgot how to move, how to think. She was just beautiful. The soft lighting highlighted every gentle curve, every graceful movement she made as she shifted slightly, her eyes searching the room until they found him.
Her long, dark hair cascaded freely over her shoulders, a striking contrast against the deep black of the gown.
When Dylan saw her, he was utterly spellbound. His breath caught in his chest, and for a second, he forgot how to move, how to think. She wasn't just beautiful—she was ethereal. The soft lighting highlighted every gentle curve, every graceful movement she made as she shifted slightly, her eyes searching the room until they found him , Ember's gaze fall on his shirt, her breath catching when she noticed the black shirt he was wearing—the one she had gifted him.
"Dylan," she whispered, stepping closer, "you're wearing the one I gave you."
He looked down, then back into her eyes with a soft smile. "Of course I am. Your taste is flawless. Don't I look amazing?"
Ember's lips curled into a warm, enchanted smile. "Yes, you do. You look..." she stepped even closer, brushing her fingers lightly against his chest, "...like my impossibly handsome boyfriend."
They stood there for a moment longer, just taking each other in—two hearts wrapped in black, about to step into a night that promised unforgettable memories.
Ember's voice came out soft and sweet as she turned to Dylan, her eyes searching his. "Baby, where's the necklace you brought for me? I can't find it."
Dylan chuckled under his breath, slipping his hand into his pocket. "I have it right here," he said, his voice warm and teasing. "Did you want to wear it?"
Ember nodded, her lips parting slightly as she whispered, "Yes."
With slow, deliberate movements, Dylan pulled out the delicate chain. Ember turned around without a word, lifting her hair away from her neck. Dylan's fingers brushed against her bare skin, feather-light, as he moved her hair aside, and the touch sent a visible shiver trembling through her body. He felt it—he loved it—and a wicked, knowing smile crossed his lips.
He clasped the necklace around her neck, but before pulling away, he leaned down and pressed the softest kiss against the nape of her neck. Ember gasped quietly, feeling her knees weaken from the electric warmth of his lips. Her cheeks blossomed into a deep blush she couldn't hide.
Dylan gently turned her back to him, cupping her chin so she would lift her gaze to his. His eyes, full of a tender fire, locked with hers as he murmured, "You are looking absolutely gorgeous, my honey."
Ember's breath hitched, her heart pounding wildly against her ribs. Her cheeks deepened to an even richer shade of pink, and Dylan's smile grew even softer, almost reverent. He couldn't resist—he leaned in again, claiming her mouth in a deep, slow kiss that made the world around them blur and fade. Ember clutched his shirt lightly, lost in the feeling of him, wishing she could freeze time.
When Dylan finally pulled away, Ember's eyes opened slowly, still dazed and dreamy. It took her a moment before she caught sight of his lips—and the unmistakable smear of her lipstick marking him.
A small, scandalized giggle slipped from her as she scolded, "Dylan, you always do that. Look—you've got my lipstick all over your lips! Wipe it off!"
Instead of obeying, Dylan caught her hand again and turned her gently toward the mirror. His voice was a low, delicious whisper against her ear, "Isn't it beautiful? We match... same shade, same feeling."
Ember's gaze lifted shyly to the mirror, but all she could see—all she wanted to see—was Dylan's lips. Her heart thudded painfully in her chest as she turned her face away, mumbling, "Baby, can you please stop teasing me?" before leaning fully into his embrace, seeking refuge in the strength of his arms.
Dylan tightened his hold around her, resting his chin against her head, and murmured, "Alright, alright... let's go before I lose control."
The event was held on the rooftop of a luxury hotel, high above the sleeping city. It wasn't just a venue—it was a dream suspended in the sky. The morning had seen a press conference there, but by night, the space had transformed into something magical. The skyline glittered all around them, tall buildings glowing like scattered stars, their reflections dancing in the glass of nearby towers.
Soft music hummed beneath the chatter of guests dressed in refined evening wear. Elegant lounge chairs, velvet armchairs, and sleek glass tables were scattered thoughtfully across the terrace. Each one was adorned with flickering candles and vibrant floral centerpieces that filled the air with a gentle perfume. Above them, fairy lights and delicate lanterns floated like fireflies, casting a warm, golden glow across everyone's faces. It felt like stepping into a scene from a dream—a perfect blend of luxury, intimacy, and enchantment.
As Ember stepped through the entrance beside Dylan, a few photographers caught their arrival. Click. Flash. The moment was frozen in light. Ember clutched Dylan's arm just a little tighter, her heart fluttering—not just from the cameras, but from the surreal beauty of the night. The sky above them was clear, deep, and endless, dotted with stars that shimmered like distant wishes. The rooftop lights only added to the illusion, mirroring the stars and stretching a silver glow across Ember's skin.
They strolled into the heart of the event, hand in hand, where laughter swirled through the air like music. There, they spotted Emir, and a few of Dylan's other close friends. Dylan's face lit up as they approached, his arm slipping gently around Ember's waist .
As always, Eun woo couldn't help himself—his attention found Ember the moment they arrived. His tone was playful, his charm ever-present, as he flirted with her openly, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Before Ember could even respond, Dylan stepped in, wrapping an arm around her possessively. He lifted his hand and flashed a knowing smile, revealing the matching rings they wore. His voice was calm, but there was unmistakable heat behind it. "Stop flirting with Ember... see this?"
Eun woo's eyes dropped to the rings, and with an exaggerated sigh, he shook his head. "Congratulations on being official," he said, though a dramatic pout curled at his lips. "So sad. I guess I really do have to stop flirting with you now."
Ember let out a small laugh, her heart warm with Dylan's protectiveness and Eun woo's harmless teasing.
Darren Chen and Emir joined them shortly after, both wearing bright smiles as they raised their glasses.
"Congratulations, you two!" Darren said warmly, while Emir added with a grin, "Finally. It was about time."
Just across the circle, Cheng Xiao's voice cut in with a sharper tone, her words light but laced with something colder. "Congratulations," she said, her smile not quite reaching her eyes. "Let's see how long you two actually last."
For a brief second, Ember felt her heart dip—but she refused to let it darken her night. With quiet grace, she turned to Cheng Xiao, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Let's see," she replied simply, her voice steady, her eyes calm.
The night was too beautiful to waste on bitterness.
As the evening carried on, soft music floated around them, and glasses clinked under the glow of the rooftop lights. Emir took the spotlight soon after and delivered his birthday speech with genuine warmth, thanking everyone for being there. The crowd clapped, laughter followed, and then Emir was swept away by conversations with his parents and guests.
Ember and Dylan stayed close—whispers, shared glances, and the quiet electricity between them stronger than ever under the stars.
After some time, Emir stepped up to the center of the rooftop, his voice carrying through the hum of laughter and music as he called everyone to the dance floor. The lights dimmed, and the soft glow of the lanterns flickered above as the opening notes of a slow, soul-stirring song filled the air.
"I'm amazed that I ask for nothing at all,
If you're mine,
Why does it feel I've conquered the world,
If you're mine?
If you're by my side,
I'd ask nothing from life again.
But if you're not,
Then I wouldn't want to breathe in this world again…"
Dylan turned to Ember, his hand extended, a warm smile curving his lips. "May I have this dance?"
Ember hesitated at first, her cheeks already flushing. "I don't know if I can… I'm terrible at this."
But one look into his eyes—so tender, so full of quiet love—and she surrendered. She placed her hand in his, and he led her gently onto the floor.
The music wrapped around them like silk, soft and intimate. Dylan's hand rested at Ember's waist, guiding her with a steadiness that made her heart flutter. She followed his steps, but not without missteps—her foot accidentally landed on his once, then twice. They both laughed it off, but Ember's brows creased with worry. She tried so hard to focus, her gaze glued to her feet.
Dylan noticed instantly.
"Honey," he said, his voice playful and full of affection, "why won't you look at me?"
Ember bit her lip and replied shyly, "I'm trying not to step on you again."
Dylan chuckled softly, that boyish smile she adored spreading across his face. "I have a solution," he said.
"What is it?" she asked, eyes narrowing curiously.
"Just wrap your arms around my neck."
Without questioning, Ember did as he said—her arms crossing gently behind his neck. In one swift, fluid motion, Dylan placed his strong arm beneath her thighs, lifting her effortlessly off the ground, while the other settled at her waist. A soft gasp escaped her lips, but it melted quickly into laughter.
"Dylan!" she giggled, caught somewhere between surprise and bliss. "What are you doing?"
"Making sure you don't step on me," he grinned. "And maybe stealing this moment just for us."
The world blurred around them—the lights, the crowd, the rooftop—all fading into the background. As the song played on, they moved as one, the sway of his steps matching the rhythm of her heartbeat.
"In my eyes, there's a place,
Where only you and I remain.
No one else, just us,
*Oh love, just us…
And you'll come, just like that,
As if our paths were always meant to cross.
If on these roads you ever arrive,
I'd die from love, no need to survive…"
The lyrics mirrored their story—two souls drawn together, as if by destiny. Dylan spun her gently once, then pulled her back into his arms, her laughter bubbling between them like music of its own.
The night danced on around them, but in their embrace, Ember felt like they were floating above time—two hearts speaking silently, in rhythm, in love.
After their enchanting dance, Dylan gently guided Ember back toward one of the lounge couches, her cheeks still glowing from laughter and the heat of his embrace. He leaned down and brushed his lips against her forehead. "Wait here, I'll get you something to drink," he whispered, his voice warm with affection.
Ember nodded, settling onto the plush sofa, her dress flowing elegantly around her legs. She gazed out at the glittering skyline, the lights of the city flickering like stars beneath the rooftop. The cool breeze played with a few loose strands of her hair as she closed her eyes for a moment, soaking in the magic of the night.
Suddenly, a soft voice broke the quiet.
"Mind if I sit here?"
Ember turned and looked up.
A woman stood before her—graceful, poised, almost ethereal. Her porcelain-like skin glowed under the golden lights. Straight, midnight-black hair cascaded past her shoulders, and she wore an off-shoulder black dress that hugged her frame with elegance. Her subtle earrings shimmered gently, framing a face with a soft but confident smile and eyes that glinted with quiet charm.
Ember shifted slightly, offering a polite nod. "Of course, there's plenty of space."
The woman sat beside her, folding her hands delicately in her lap. "My name is Alora. And you are…?"
"Ember," she replied politely, offering a small smile.
Alora tilted her head, observing her for a moment. "So… who did you come with tonight?"
"I came with my friend. Dylan," Ember answered, her voice calm but with a gentle pride in the name.
Alora's smile deepened, as if she already knew. "Oh! So you're with Dylan."
Ember's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, a question beginning to stir. "You know Dylan?"
"Yes," Alora said smoothly, her gaze steady. "I know him better than anyone else. And I also know… he loves to hide things."
Ember gave a small, acknowledging nod, her expression unreadable. "You're right. He does love to hide."
Alora leaned in just a little, her tone dipped in subtle curiosity. "Did he hide something from you too?"
There was a brief pause.
Ember blinked, and then gave a light chuckle, brushing her fingers across her cheek as if to wipe away any accidental expression. "Does it look like it?" she replied, her voice cool and steady, but her eyes sharp with awareness.
"You're like an open book, sweetie. So why don't you just tell me?" Alora said with a soft smile, gently patting Ember's hair in a strangely affectionate gesture.
Ember hesitated, caught off guard by the warmth in Alora's tone. "Oh... it's nothing, really..." she started, but then stopped herself. For reasons she couldn't explain, she looked into Alora's eyes—and something about her presence made Ember feel safe, almost like talking to someone she'd known for years. Without thinking too much, Ember found herself speaking.
"He… he hid his identity from me at first," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Alora's expression shifted subtly, the corners of her lips twitching as if she knew something more. "What a bart," she murmured under her breath.
"What?" Ember blinked, confused. She hadn't caught the word clearly.
"Oh, nothing," Alora said quickly, brushing it off with a graceful smile. Then she added with a soft laugh, "I'll have to remind him to be kind to a beautiful girl like you."
There was something in her voice—gentle, protective. Ember wasn't used to opening up to strangers, but with Alora, it felt… different. Like she was speaking to someone who carried both elegance and care.
"May I ask… who are you?" Ember finally inquired, curiosity getting the better of her.
Alora smiled knowingly. "I'm the Vice President of the international branch of Elysium Art. He's like a child to me. I've known him for a very long time."
Ember's eyes widened. "Mrs. Alora, I'm so sorry… I didn't mean to speak too much," she said quickly, a little embarrassed.
"It's okay, sweetie," Alora replied, her tone as warm as ever. "Honestly, I've been waiting for the day Dylan would start being polite to girls. But seeing him with you… it's different. He's not just polite—he's gentle. I've never seen him like this before."
Ember's heart skipped at the words. "Really?" she whispered, unsure whether to smile or blush.
"Yes. You're the first girl I've seen him bring around," Alora said thoughtfully. Her eyes moved to Ember's hand. "That's a beautiful ring on your finger. Are you taken?"
Ember tucked a strand of hair behind her ear, shyly. "Actually… yes, I am."
Alora chuckled, her eyes twinkling. "Aww! You're adorable when you get shy. Too bad—I was hoping to introduce you to my son."
Ember froze for a second, unsure how to respond.
Alora smiled knowingly and added, "It's okay, darling. You don't have to say anything. But if it ever becomes too much, don't hesitate to reach out. I'll set you up with my boy instead. Come, let's exchange numbers."
Ember let out a light laugh, warmed by the woman's playful energy. "Okay," she said with a smile, handing over her phone.
And just like that, a strange but sweet bond was quietly formed under the twinkling rooftop lights.
"Where is my phone... oh!" Alora suddenly exclaimed, patting her purse with a gentle smile. "Do you want to see Dylan's childhood pictures? He was absolutely adorable—back then even more than now."
Ember's eyes lit up, sparkling with curiosity. "You have them? Can I really see them?"
"Of course," Alora chuckled, then turned her head and called softly, "Hubby, bring me my phone, please."
A tall man approached with composed grace, handing her the device. His presence was commanding—his jawline sharp, hair jet-black and neatly swept back. His intense eyes held quiet strength, his face noble and symmetrical. Dressed in a crisp black suit with a white shirt subtly unbuttoned at the collar, he exuded both elegance and ease. His posture was effortlessly confident—like a man used to both respect and leadership.
"Oh! I forgot to introduce him," Alora said warmly, turning to Ember. "This is my husband—and the CEO of the international branch of Elysium Art—Arzhel."
Ember stood politely, her voice soft but composed. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Arzhel."
Arzhel offered a faint smile and a nod. "Nice to meet you too, Miss Ember."
Alora playfully rolled her eyes. "Why are you both being so formal? Why don't you just call us—"
"Mom."
The word echoed through the air, louder in Ember's ears than it actually was. Her breath caught in her throat.
Dylan came rushing through the crowd, holding drinks in both hands, his voice unmistakable as he called again— "Mom? What are you doing here?"
He looked between them in mild panic as he reached their side. Ember's heart raced, her hands slowly falling to her lap, her eyes wide with shock.
Mom?
The word rang again in her mind like a whisper that wouldn't stop. Ember stared at Dylan, confusion flooding her face. Her lips parted, but no words came.
She turned slowly back to Alora and Arzhel—his parents.