Shorts

6

^^Tadgh

I was reading a book when my vision was suddenly obscured. I smiled since I recognized that aromatic scent.

"Guess who?" His husky voice whispered.

"Hmm... Hailey?" I giggled.

"No! Guess again!" He laughed.

"Simon?"

"No! No! Again!"

"Lucas?"

"Again! Again!" He hysterically laughed.

"My handsome husband?"

The laughter suddenly ceased. I moved out his hold and turned around. I chuckled at the tint amongst his cheek. But, that was nothing compared to his reddening ears. He's such a cutie. I cupped his face and deeply kissed the man that I love most in the world.

"Such a dashing man."

"Y-You're beautiful as well." He coughed. "Now, I want to give you this." He shoved a book in my hand.

"What is this?" I flipped through the pages.

"A book of spells."

I quickly shut the book and sent him a look. I made sure no one was watching before shaking my head at him. Tadgh groaned into his hands. I ignored him and left him alone. I knew he was following me, but I wouldn't be speaking when so many could hear. We walked to an obscured part of the forest before I turned to him.

"Kitten, you shouldn't be hiding your true self."

"Half-breeds are looked down upon, Tadgh."

"You are not a half-breed and I most definitely hate that derogatory slur." He spat. "Everyone is unique and brings so much excitement to the world. The most different are the most interesting. They're rare and should be celebrated for their unique differences, not ostracized."

"Your views are not common." I firmly stated. "And you know I keep my magical heritage a secret. It's not to be common knowledge. What will people think of a vampire dabbling in magic?!"

"Curiosity. Knowledge." He urged.

"Not everyone is as open minded as you."

"Then, let's make them." He closed the space between us. "Let's show them that they need not to fear the unknown." He squeezed my hand. "Magic is a part of you that you've hidden dormant for far too long. Let's release it to the world."

"Tadgh-"

"Just entertain me." He held up the book. "We both can research it."

"Together?" I hesitantly asked.

"Always." He kissed my hand.

"It'd have to be a secret and I'm not promising to adapt this into my everyday life..

"That's fine, but-"

"Tadgh, I'm serious."

"And I'm serious too, Lena." He stated. "Do not bury something that should be unearthed. This is a part of you. It's not something to be shameful about, but to be embraced. It's beautiful."

"I'm not a hundred percent a vampire. My blood is diluted-"

"And even more lovely."

"Tadgh-"

"I am with you through it all. Until my last breath, I will be fighting by your side. I'll protect you until I die." He slowly smiled. "I love you and I'll do anything for my wife."

"Fine." I gave him a small smile. "Only because I love you." I added as I watched him celebrate. "Come, let's read the book together." I led him to a tree.

Tadgh sat down and had me sit in his lap. He wrapped his arms around me as I held up the book. The two of us began reading and then discussing what we learned.