Rooming With The Criminal | ✓

33 | the criminal isn't a criminal anymore

33

the criminal isn't a criminal anymore

❛ six months later ❜

AKARI AND JULIAN stepped into Oakland's grand town hall and all eyes turned to them as their entrance heralded a hushed murmur of admiration. Akari's radiant beauty stole the spotlight as she glided across the room in a stunning gold dress, the fabric shimmering with every graceful step. Her hair was elegantly styled, cascading in soft waves down her back, while her eyes sparkled with excitement and pride.

Beside her, Julian cut a striking figure in a tailored suit, his matching gold tie complementing Akari's ensemble perfectly. He stood tall and confident, his gaze fixed on the stage ahead with a sense of anticipation. Together, they exuded an air of sophistication and charm, drawing admiring glances from those around them.

As they made their way through the crowd, Akari couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in her heart. She leaned in close to Julian, her voice filled with affection and admiration. "You look absolutely dashing," she whispered, her words tinged with genuine admiration.

Julian smiled warmly at her, his eyes sparkling with love. "And you, my starlight, are simply breathtaking," he replied, his voice soft and filled with sincerity.

As they strolled hand in hand, Akari's gaze fell upon the new tattoo adorning Julian's hand, near his ring finger. Among the array of designs, a star stood out, its bold lines and delicate details capturing her attention. She traced the outline with her fingertips, a smile playing on her lips as she marveled at the symbolism behind it.

"It's beautiful," she had murmured, her voice barely above a whisper as she examined the tattoo with admiration. "What does it mean?"

Julian's gaze had softened as he looked down at her, a fondness shining in his eyes. "It's for you," he had said simply, his voice tinged with warmth. "A reminder of the light you've brought into my life, the guiding star that's led me through the darkest of times. My starlight," Akari's heart had swelled with emotion at his words, her eyes sparkling with unshed tears.

They were greeted by the sight of Ha-eun and Fleur approaching them, both adorned in stunning dresses befitting the occasion. Ha-eun's dress shimmered in a deep shade of green, accentuating her graceful silhouette, while Fleur's gown exuded elegance with its lighter green hue and flowing silhouette.

"Hey, you two!" Ha-eun exclaimed, her voice filled with excitement as she enveloped Akari in a warm embrace. "You look absolutely radiant!"

Fleur grinned, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "I second that," she chimed in. The group shared a moment of laughter, their spirits buoyed by the promise of the day ahead.

"Ethan, you made it!" Akari exclaimed, pulling him into the group hug. "Congratulations on your promotion! Your articles really made a difference."

Ethan beamed with pride, his eyes shining with gratitude. "Thanks, guys. It feels good to know that my work had an impact."

As they basked in each other's company, surrounded by love and support, Akari couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in how far they had all come. They had faced adversity together, and now, they were stronger than ever.

Akari turned to look at Julian, smiling. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Julian leaned in close to Akari and whispered, "I have something to show you." Taking her hand in his, he led her through the bustling crowd and up the stairs to a quiet room in the town hall.