The morning sun barely filtered through the academy's tall windows when the princes gathered in a quiet corridor. Their hushed conversation was laced with excitement and a shared determination to make Evie smile.

"I think today, we should take her out," Seth whispered, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "She needs a break from all this pressure."

Sol nodded slowly, his voice calm yet resolute. "Yes, let's give her a day where she feels safe and cherished. A day to remember."

Rowan, always intense even in his gentler moments, added, "It's time she sees that life isn't just about training and prophecies. Sometimes, it's about laughter and surprises."

Duke grinned. "And nothing would make our little one happier than a surprise trip to the city."

With a plan in mind, they approached the headmistress. Her gaze was both stern and kind, but after a brief discussion and seeing the sincerity in their eyes, she relented with a smile. "Take good care of her. She must always know she is safe here." ______________________________ Later that morning...

Evie opened her dorm door to find Seth and Sol waiting with excited grins.

"Good morning, Sunshine," Seth greeted, his voice playful as always. Sol's gentle smile made her feel at ease.

"Where are we going?" she asked, brushing a lock of hair from her face.

"It's a surprise," Duke called from the car, winking at her. "Trust us—today's all about you."

Curiosity bubbling inside her, Evie followed them to the sleek black convertible. Despite each prince owning their own luxury car, they had agreed to take just one vehicle to be with her. She hesitated, but Rowan opened the door for her with a slight nod. She slipped inside, warmth spreading through her chest.

The car hummed softly as it glided through the streets, the city gradually coming into view. Outside, the scenery changed from the familiar spires of Redblood Academy to bustling streets filled with life. ____________________________ First Stop: The Mall

Their first destination was a sprawling mall that seemed to glitter under the sunlight. Inside, bright atriums and countless storefronts welcomed them. The air smelled of fresh coffee and vanilla-scented candles from nearby shops.

Evie's eyes widened. "This place is huge," she murmured.

Rowan smirked. "Stay close, or you'll get lost."

Seth chuckled, draping an arm over her shoulders. "Don't worry, Sunshine—we've got you covered."

They visited boutique stores, with Duke playfully insisting she try on funny hats while Sol encouraged her to pick out something she genuinely liked. Evie's laughter echoed through the hallways, drawing smiles from passersby.

Rowan, despite his usual aloofness, kept an eye on her from a distance, making sure no one bumped into her. ______________________________ Second Stop: The Ice Cream Parlor

Next, they arrived at a cozy ice cream parlor painted in soft pastels. The air was cool, filled with the scent of fresh waffle cones and melted chocolate. Evie stared at the menu, overwhelmed by choices.

"I can't choose!" she giggled, cheeks flushed.

"Guess you'll have to try a bit of everything," Seth grinned, grabbing a sample spoon.

Rowan rolled his eyes but handed her a cup of mint chocolate chip. "This one's the best. Don't argue."

Evie took a spoonful, eyes lighting up. "Oh my god, you're right."

"Of course I am," Rowan huffed, but there was a faint smile on his lips.

Duke and Sol shared a look, warmth radiating between them. Watching her smile like that was worth everything. ____________________________ Third Stop: The Park

As they drove toward their next destination, Evie pressed her face against the window, gaze catching on a small park nestled between buildings. Her heart clenched when she spotted a set of swings swaying gently in the breeze. Without thinking, she blurted out, "Wait—stop the car!"

Before anyone could react, she threw the door open and bolted out, the wind catching her hair.

"Evie!" Sol's voice was laced with panic.

"Sunshine, what the hell?!" Seth shouted, scrambling out after her.

"Is she insane?!" Rowan growled, leaping out of driver seat.

Duke cursed under his breath, sprinting after her.

Evie, oblivious to their panic, raced toward the swings like a child rediscovering a lost treasure. Her laughter floated through the air as she plopped down and kicked off, soaring higher and higher.

The princes reached her moments later, breathless.

"Are you seriously trying to give us a heart attack?!" Seth scolded, hands on his hips.

Sol, despite his usual calm, looked rattled. "You could've gotten hurt, Blossom..."

Duke knelt beside her, ruffling her hair. "Reckless little wave," he muttered, but his eyes were soft.

Rowan crossed his arms, jaw tight. "Next time, use your words before jumping out of a moving vehicle."

Evie gave them a sheepish smile, cheeks pink. "I'm sorry... I just—I haven't been on a swing in forever."

Their frustration melted away at her sincerity. Seth sighed, leaning against the swing frame. "You're impossible."

"And you love it," she teased.

Rowan snorted. "Debatable."

Duke grinned. "Alright, since you dragged us here—move over."

They ended up taking turns pushing her on the swing, laughter filling the park. For a moment, everything was perfect. ____________________________ Final Stop: The Café

Their last stop was a quaint café with warm lighting and soft jazz playing inside. The aroma of freshly baked pastries and coffee beans enveloped them. Sitting around a rustic wooden table, Evie sipped her hot chocolate, warmth spreading through her chest.

Duke shared embarrassing stories, making her laugh until her sides ached. Sol spoke of ancient forests and peaceful places, his words soothing. Seth's teasing was constant but affectionate, and even Rowan—gruff and awkward—opened up in his own way.

Evie felt... at home.

Back at the Academy

As the car pulled up to the academy, the group was still laughing, the weight of the prophecy momentarily forgotten. Evie stepped out, happiness radiating from her. But as they reached the entrance, she stopped abruptly.

The princes immediately tensed. "Evie?" Sol asked gently.

Her cheeks turned pink. "Um... was this... a date?"

Silence.

Then—

Seth grinned. "If you want it to be, Sunshine."

Duke winked. "Sounds like a yes to me."

Sol's eyes softened. "We just wanted to make you smile, Blossom."

Even Rowan, with a faint smirk, murmured, "Guess you're one of us now."

Evie's heart swelled. This day had been full of surprises—but the biggest one was how safe and cherished she felt with them.

And maybe... just maybe... she was beginning to let herself fall...for them.