A Princess and A Zombie (A Z-O-M-B-I-E-S and Descendants AU)

Ch. 35

"You could stay," Her brother's eyes pleaded with her, just as much as his voice did.

Aurelia felt a pang in her heart as she looked into her brother’s eyes, seeing the genuine concern and love reflected in them. She took a deep breath, her own emotions threatening to overwhelm her.

"I know you want me to stay," she began softly, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her, "I know you want to protect me, but I'm not a little girl anymore, Ben."

"But Damian-" She cut him off."Isn't going to dictate my life." She finished, her tone final.

Benjamin looked at her with a mix of relief and understanding. He knew that his sister had to make her own choices and live her own life. He might worry, but he also respected her autonomy.

Aurelia placed a hand on his shoulder, her eyes filled with gratitude. "I promise, Ben, I'll be careful and I'll keep in touch. And if anything ever goes wrong, you're the first person I'll call."

"Is he though?" Mal teased, as she stepped up beside her husband. 

"Can we not do this now?" Aurelia groaned, throwing her head back.

"Do what now?" Ben asked, looking between the two girls, "Who would Lia call before me?" Mal gave her husband a look.

"Oh, the guy."

Aurelia shook her head, trying to suppress a smile as she watched her brother and his wife exchange playful banter. It was moments like these that reminded her of the bonds of family that she cherished.

Ben chuckled, realizing what his wife was referring to. "Alright, alright," he said, raising his hands in surrender. "I get it. She'll call him before me."

Mal grinned, clearly enjoying her husband's playful teasing. "That's right, you know how it is with young love."

Aurelia rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of affection in her expression. "You two are impossible."

Belle and Adam approached their children, warm smiles on their faces.

"It's always a pity to see you go my rose," Adam told his daughter.

Aurelia turned to her father, her eyes filled with affection. "I'll miss you too, Daddy," she said, giving him a heartfelt hug. "But I'll be back, I always am."

Her mother, joined in the embrace, holding her daughter close. "We'll be eagerly waiting for your visits, my dear," she said softly, her voice filled with motherly warmth.

"The car is waiting Princess," Lumiere's voice rang out behind her. 

Aurelia reluctantly let go of her parents and turned to face Lumiere, who had been patiently waiting nearby. She knew it was time to go, but saying goodbye to her family, even temporarily, was always bittersweet.

She gave her brother one last look, her eyes conveying her love and appreciation for his concern. "I'll be fine, Ben," she reassured him, her voice filled with determination. "And I promise to stay in touch."

Ben nodded, a mix of emotions playing on his face, but ultimately, he smiled. "Take care of yourself, Lia. And remember, you've got a family who loves you, no matter where you are."

With a final wave to her family, Aurelia followed Lumiere toward the waiting car. 

As she watched the familiar castle fade from view, she couldn't help but smile. 

Lumiere could help but feel relieved to see the girl he had helped raise, smile. 

He had seen first hand how much strain this new life had put on her. Aurelia had always valued the truth, and he knew lying to her new friends had take a toll on her.

It was evident to Lumiere that the weight of her responsibilities and the secrets she had to keep had started to wear on Aurelia. He hoped that her visit home, even if it was short, had provided her with some clarity.

"Should I expect to see more of that Zombie in the early hours of the morning?"

Aurelia looked down, a wide grin spreading across her face, "I hope so." 

Her grin was infectious, and Lumiere couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction. He had grown fond of her over the years and was delighted to see her in such high spirits.

"I suppose I should prepare myself," Lumiere replied with a playful twinkle in his eye. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. It's good to see you happy, Mademoiselle."

Aurelia's happiness was a welcome sight for Lumiere, and he cherished these moments of light-heartedness. He knew that life could be challenging, especially given the unique circumstances they all faced, but it was important to find joy where they could.

As they continued on their way, Lumiere couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. He knew that the bonds of family and friendship were strong, and he was grateful to be a part of Aurelia's life, helping her navigate the challenges of her unique journey. The prospect of more early morning visits from the "Zombie" was something he looked forward to with a smile.