Operation: Threads of Connection

What should I do?

Damian's POV:

Anya and I sat by a tree, the leaves rustling gently in the breeze. The festival sounds were muted here, giving us a bit of peace and quiet. Anya was still holding my hand, her grip reassuring. I couldn't help but feel a bit guilty, today was also Anya's birthday, with Alina taking over the spotlight-as always.

"Anya, I'm sorry this had to happen today. It's your birthday and Alina managed to interfere with it,"

Anya shook her head, "No, there's no need to apologize Damian, it's not your fault. Just spending time with you here is more than enough for me," she replied, giving me a sincere smile. I don't know how father could ever convince me otherwise, I am head over heels in love with Anya Forger.

"I don't know what I did to deserve someone like you," I began as I pulled out Anya's gift from my pocket. I searched for hours for the perfect present for her. I know Anya would be pleased with basically anything, however I had to find something to show Anya I was serious about her. I pulled out a small box and handed it over to her.

"Happy Birthday Peanut," I said, giving her a small kiss on her forehead. She looked at the box with wide eyes, clearly surprised. "Damian, you didn't have to get me anything," she said softly, though her excitement was evident.

"I wanted to," I replied, watching as she carefully opened the box. Inside was a gold ring, surrounded by small diamonds and featuring a beautiful emerald at its center. The ring was strung on a delicate gold chain, turning it into a necklace. I knew how much Anya loved to bake, and I didn't want a ring to get in the way of her passion.

Anya's eyes widened even more as she took in the stunning piece of jewelry. "Damian, this is... it's beautiful," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.

"I wanted to give you something special," I said softly, feeling a bit nervous. "Something that shows how much you mean to me. The emerald reminded me of your eyes, and the diamonds... well, they represent all the little moments that make you sparkle."

Her eyes filled with tears, but she was smiling. "Damian, this is the most beautiful gift anyone has ever given me. I don't even know what to say."

I took her hand in mine, my heart pounding in my chest. "You don't have to say anything, Anya. I just want you to know how much you mean to me. I love you, and I want to be with you, no matter what."

She threw her arms around me, hugging me tightly. "I love you too, Damian. More than anything."

We held each other for a moment, the weight of everything that had happened today momentarily forgotten. Anya pulled back slightly, looking down at the necklace. "Can you help me put it on?"

"Of course," I said, taking the necklace from her. I gently placed it around her neck, fastening the clasp. The ring rested perfectly just above her heart.

Anya touched the ring, a look of pure happiness on her face. "Thank you, Damian. This means so much to me."

I smiled, feeling a deep sense of contentment. "Happy birthday, Anya," She grabbed my face with both her hands leaning in to close the gap between us. In seconds her soft lips were on mine.

"Ahem, sorry to interrupt..." a voice said. I quickly pulled away and noticed Mr. Forger standing a few feet away, his expression unreadable. Anya blushed deeply, stepping back but still holding my hand.

"Mr. Forger," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "I... we were just..."

He raised a hand, cutting me off gently. "It's alright, Damian. I understand." His gaze softened as he looked at Anya. "Anya, are you alright?"