The moonlight filtered through the thick curtains of Evie's dorm room as she closed the door behind her. The day had been long—training with Sol, followed by Seth's session, and hours spent in lectures. Her body was exhausted, but her mind was a whirlwind. Her thoughts kept drifting back to the princes—especially to the intensity of the training sessions. Each one had been a step closer, a deeper connection, and the air was heavy with something unspoken between them. It was undeniable, the pull she felt.
She plopped down on her bed, sighing as she stretched her arms above her head. But then, her eyes caught sight of the small box sitting on her bedside table.A gift from her princes.
She smiled, excitement bubbling inside her chest. It had been a long day, but this? This was something to look forward to. She reached for the box, carefully untying the ribbon that held it shut. As soon as she lifted the lid, her breath caught in her throat. Inside was a shiny new iPhone, its sleek surface glimmering in the dim light of her room.
But that wasn't all.
Tucked underneath the phone were four small notes, each one written in a hand that was uniquely theirs.
Evie's heart skipped as she pulled out the first one.
Sunshine, I know you've got a lot on your plate, but don't forget to breathe. Life's not always a race. Pace yourself, and you'll be unstoppable. I'll be here whenever you need to talk or laugh. —Seth.
She smiled at his words. He always knew how to make her feel grounded, how to remind her that everything would be okay. Evie gently placed his note aside and picked up the second one.
Blossom, I've seen the strength in you, even when you doubt yourself. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. You'll come into your power in your own time, just don't rush it. And if you ever need someone to train with or just want a moment of peace, I'm here. —Sol.
She closed her eyes for a moment, the warmth of his words settling over her like a comforting embrace. Sol had been so patient with her, guiding her through everything, never once making her feel less than capable. The third note was next.
Little Wave, You're doing great, but don't be so hard on yourself. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Just remember, I'll always have your back, no matter what. No matter what the future holds. —Duke.
Evie's heart fluttered. Duke's words were always simple but so sincere. They wrapped around her like a protective shield, reminding her that she wasn't alone, no matter how daunting the future seemed.
And then there was the final note.
Sparks, I know you think I'm a little harsh sometimes. But I see the fire inside you. Don't let anyone, including yourself, dim it. You're capable of so much more than you know. And I'll be here, every step of the way. —Rowan.
Her chest tightened, a mixture of emotions flooding her heart. Rowan's words were always so... intense. He had this way of speaking, of challenging her, that made her feel both frustrated and alive. There was something raw and real about the way he expressed himself, as if he could see the depths of her soul and wasn't afraid to push her to the edge.
Evie sat quietly for a moment, the weight of the notes sinking in. Each of them had something unique to offer her, something she hadn't expected to find when she first arrived at Redblood Academy. And yet, here she was, surrounded by their kindness, their strength, and their unwavering presence in her life. She carefully placed the notes aside, setting the phone in her lap.
Her fingers lingered on the screen, and she felt a sudden surge of warmth as she noticed they had already added their numbers to her contacts.
A small group chat had been created, titled "Evie & The Princes."
Her heart fluttered as she typed a quick thank-you message, unsure of what to expect in return.
Evie: Thank you all for the gift. I really appreciate it. You've made today so much brighter.
Almost immediately, replies began to flood in.
Seth: Anytime, Sunshine. Just remember to take care of yourself.
Sol: You're welcome, Blossom. Hope it makes life a little easier.
Duke: Glad you like it, Little Wave. You deserve it.
Rowan: Don't get too attached, Sparks. We're here to help you, that's all.
Her lips twitched as she read Rowan's reply. Typical, as always. But even in his bluntness, there was a warmth that she couldn't ignore. Her fingers hovered over the screen, but before she could type anything else, her mind wandered. A confusing knot twisted in her stomach as she stared at the messages.
She wasn't just grateful for the gifts. She wasn't just fond of each of them. No, it was more than that. Something deeper. Something that made her heart race whenever they were near. Something that made her feel alive in ways she hadn't expected.
She let out a quiet sigh as she set the phone down beside her.
She didn't know what this feeling was. How could she? Was it possible to be attracted to all of them? To feel this pull toward each of them, individually? She had no answers, only questions.
The more time she spent with each of them, the more these feelings grew. The way Seth always knew how to make her smile. The way Sol was always patient, always there when she needed him. The way Duke's presence felt so protective. And Rowan... Rowan's intensity was like fire, both comforting and dangerous. She couldn't deny that she felt it all—the pull, the attraction, the desire to be close to each of them.
Evie closed her eyes, feeling the weight of her emotions pressing down on her. She had never been one to share her heart so freely, but with them? With each of the princes? She felt a bond she couldn't explain, and yet she wasn't sure if she was ready to face the consequences of those feelings.
With a heavy sigh, she turned off the light and let herself drift into sleep, the sound of their voices still lingering in her mind.
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