🦋MIA🦋
The popping and crackling sounds of the enormous bonfire graces the entire place as we watch the flames and little sparks sizzle and flare up in the wind, lighting the surroundings, the small branches slowly burning down to ashes. The warmth emanating from the roaring inferno is embracing the gathering, providing respite from the cool breeze that's sweeping through the entire field. In this mesmerizing scene, people from all walks of life are united, their faces shining in the vibrant glow. Some are sitting on soft and cosy blankets, their eyes fixed on the flame, while others are dancing to the soothing music. Laughter and joy ripple through the crowd, intertwining with the crackling sounds and creating an atmosphere of shared celebration of a new year. I would rather be here with them in the open field staring at the bonfire with a bottle of beer in hand than in a room pretending to enjoy a grand mega party. It's a reminder to me that joy can be found in the company of loved ones, in the embrace of nature's wonders and in the appreciation of life's simple gestures. It's simple things like this that make me happy.
With a bottle of beer clutched in my hand, I take a moment to absorb the scene unfolding before me. The cool glass feels refreshing against my palm, condensation glistening like droplets of dew on a summer morning. The amber liquid within swirls gently, capturing the flickering light of the bonfire and reflecting the warmth of the flames. As I lift the bottle to my lips, the effervescence tickles my senses, releasing a chorus of bubbles that tease my tongue with their lively dance. In the company of friends, their laughter and conversations intermingle with the sounds of the bonfire, creating a harmonious blend of human connection and nature's raw beauty. It is in these moments of shared mirth that true happiness resides.
It's not only the bonfire that's burning tonight but my heart too, its burning flames mirroring the inferno raging within my being. The fire inside me is burning brighter than the fire around me. I can still feel the hot flames flaring in every part of my body. The very essence of my soul has been ignited and engulfed in a fervent blaze that's consuming my every thought and sensation. Searing heat is radiating through me, seeping into my veins and I'm helpless in its grip. When Lucas kissed me, he set my heart on fire and I'm still lost in the taste of his lips. When our lips met, an electric current surged between us, setting my entire being ablaze. The taste of his lips was a blend of sweetness and desire, an intoxicating elixir that engulfed my senses. It's a taste I can still savor, etching itself into the recesses of my mind and lingering like a smoldering ember. Now, my heart is a blazing hearth, consumed by an ache that only Lucas can quel.
Every fibre of my being is longing for his touch and his presence, as if he alone holds the power to tame the wild flames engulfing me. The yearning is like a raw, unrelenting hunger gnawing at my core and leaving me restless and incomplete.
Running my thumb on my bottom lip I feel those damn goosebumps again.
Feeling strong arms encircling my waist with a protective strength, I turn my head to steal a glance at Lucas as he rests his chin atop my head, the weight of it grounding me in the moment. Damn him for being so tall and towering over me. "If you continue running your finger on your soft lips like that, I'll kiss your face off. Stop tempting me." He whispers in my ear and I smile leaning back on him, the heat of his breath lingering on my neck. I love being this close to him that I don't want him to move away from me, even for a second.
I'm cherishing every second with him, not wanting him to move away in fear that any distance between us will shatter the fragile bubble we've created.
I've left a whole year behind me now and I'm starting a new one all over again.
I'm embarking on a new year with a fresh journey and there's a renewed hope glimmering within me. It's a beacon of possibility, flickering with the promise of better days and untapped potential. The slate is clean and the canvas of this new year lies before me, ready to be painted with the vibrant strokes of new experiences and opportunities.
"Chipmunk." Lucas utters and I turn around facing him.
Wrapping my arms around his neck and drawing him closer to me, I gaze deep into his beautiful eyes, my lips curving into a sweet smile. His eyes hold a depth that seems to reveal the secrets of his soul, drawing me further into his magnetic presence. "We've only started a new year minutes ago and you're already annoying me."
"Chipmunk, I'm going to annoy you all through the year, so you better be ready. I'm going to drive you batshit crazy, trust me." He winks at me and I laugh hitting his chest playfully.
Turning around I face the roaring bonfire again, my back against Lucas's chest and his arms wrapped around my waist warmly. The crackling flames dance and leap high into the night sky, casting a mesmerizing glow that illuminates the faces of the revelers. Everyone is still jubilant, singing and dancing around in happiness. They're moving with a contagious energy, their bodies swaying and twirling in sinc with the infectious rhythms of the music. Even though it's a bit chaotic, there's peace amongst everyone. There's peace in all the chaos.
"Everyone here is from my neighbourhood." Lucas points out to me as we dance to the music with him still behind me, his hands not leaving my waist as he keeps pulling me closer and closer until his chest is entirely pressed against my back. "We always gather here every new year's eve to usher in the new year together. We dance, eat, drink and have fun as a family."
This gathering, this tradition, is more than just a celebration of a new year. It's a testament to the power of human connection, the beauty of belonging and the strength that can be found in a community that supports and uplifts each other. The bonds that have been forged over the years are evident in the affectionate gestures, warm embraces and genuine care that's radiating from every interaction. "I love it."
Letting go of me, he picks a bottle of beer from the drinks table and starts dancing to the rhythm of the music, his body swaying and his feet gliding effortlessly as he comes back to me and I laugh heartily at how adorable he is. This is the side of him I love the most. When he's carefree, open and happy. It's a breath of fresh air and a reminder to embrace life's simple pleasures. I wish to see more of him like this. He's also a great dancer. "Have you had one of the barbecue bacon burgers?" He asks still dancing infront of me. "If you haven't then you should. They're tasty, trust me."
"Tk already gave me one and you're right, they're great."
"All those snacks you see there were prep3 by our parents. The only things we bought are the drinks." He points at the array of snacks on the tables with a grin, his eyes gleaming with joy. With how cheerful everyone is, I dance with Jakoda too as he makes his endless corny jokes, annoying Malin and Lucas who roll their eyes at his antics while exchanging amused glances, Tk laughing heartily on the side while eating and drinking to his fill, thoroughly enjoyed the lively atmosphere. The four of them are beyond playful tonight.
Tired of dancing, I sink into one of the chairs, the flickering flames of the bonfire casting a warm glow across my face. The crackling of the burning firewood continues resonating in the air, the vibrant colours of orange and gold dancing and intertwining, mesmerizing me with their hypnotic display. Relieved to have momentarily escaped the frenzy of the dance floor, I slip off my pumps, stretching my legs and tired feet. The coolness of the grass beneath my feet sends a gentle shiver up my spine, a refreshing contrast to the warmth emanating from the bonfire. The blades of grass tickle my skin, offering a natural massage that eases the strain of hours spent twirling and bouncing to the rhythm of the music.
As I sit there, I steal glances at Lucas who still dancing with his friends, having the time of their lives. His face is glowing with exhilaration, a genuine smile etched on his lips that reaches his eyes, radiating an infectious happiness that is impossible to resist.
The four of them have one of the strongest and most genuine friendships I've ever seen. Their bond is deep, strong and they can overcome anything together. They've weathered storms together, celebrating victories and consoling each other in times of defeat. They've overcome obstacles that would have torn apart weaker bonds.
As I gaze up at the vance expanse of twinkling stars above,calmness and peace washes over me. The cool night air embraces me as my thoughts wander freely. The new year has arrived and I'm looking forward to more better days. Turning my attention to Lucas, my heart swells with joy. "Happy new year, Lucas Alpha Robinson." I whisper to him, my soft voice filled with genuine happiness and contentment. With a smile gracing my lips, I blow him a gentle kiss.
"Happy new year, Mia Amana Lazano." His eyes are reflecting the starlit sky above, mirroring the hopes and dreams filling our hearts. The stars twinkle brighter, as if celebrating our union and the possibilities of the new year ahead of us.
☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
As we prepare to leave and return home, Lucas, his friends and I make our way to where I'd parked the jeep and they stop in their tracks at the beautiful sight of it, staring at it in awe and amazement, as if they've stumbled upon something truly extraordinary. Their eyes widen and their jaws drop in unison, a collective gasp escaping their lips. "Holy fucking shit, matte black G Wagon." Jakoda exclaims in admiration. "Mia, you're driving a fucking beast. I'm getting a cargasm right now." He adds and we all sigh as Lucas pushes him away from us.
"Do you want me to drive you back home. I have to make sure you get home safe since it's late in the night." He offers but I shake my head gently, not ready to go back home. My parents are going to bombard me with a barrage of questions about where I've been and who I was with. I'm not ready for an interrogation.
"I don't want to go back home." I tell him and he nods instantly, understanding the reason why. He doesn't have to ask the reason why because he knows me well, perhaps even better than I know myself.
Jakoda, Tk and Malin drive off in their car as Lucas slides inside the Jeep with me. I fasten my seatbelt before turning my body to face him as he starts driving, the familiar vibrations of the jeep rippling through it, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. Taking a deep breath to steady my nerves, I muster the courage to share with him something that has been weighing on me. "There's something I haven't told you yet, and I don't want to hide it from you any longer." I tell him and his gaze flickers towards me for a moment, his eyes searching mine for a trace of what's to come before focusing on the road again.
"What is it?"
"Weeks ago, my dad warned me to stay far away from you." I admit and he gazes my way again. He goes silent and I look out of the window having nothing else to say too and searching for solace in the outside world. We stay engulfed in a deafening silence that's so thick, becoming a palpable entity wrapping around us like a suffocating shroud, constricting our ability to communicate and leaving us trapped in a vacuum of unspoken words. Everything is too fucking quiet now. I steal a glance at Lucas, hoping to catch a glimpse of his thoughts, to bridge the divide that has grown between us. But his gaze remains distant, now lost in a realm I cannot access , a world of its own.
Each passing moment feels like an eternity, stretching the silence to its breaking point. The more I steal glances at him, the more I'm met with an impenetrable fortress. His distant gaze reveals nothing, leaving me to grapple with my own doubts and uncertainties.
"So all those times you disguised yourself by wearing different outfits so you don't get recognized, it wasn't only because of the paparazzi. It was also to hide from your father so he doesn't find out that you're still with me." Lucas finally breaks the silence between us, not looking at me this time. I remain silent, because he's right. "It got me wondering because even when we were in hidden places where the paparazzi couldn't get to you, you still disguised yourself. I was wondering why, now I'm finding out that it's because of your father. Why's he so against me being in your life?"
"I don't know."
"You do know. It's because of my social status isn't it?" He chuckles lowly shaking his head in sadness and bitterness. "I'm nothing but a poor man's son while you're a high class, refined woman from a respectable and royal family with an honourable sir name and prominent lineage. Mia, you and I, we're in different cultural and economic levels, our worlds far and miles apart."
Noticing how all this is affecting him as he talks about it, I tell him to stop the Jeep and he does so on the side of the road. Removing my seatbelt, I slide off my seat climbing on his lap and straddling him. I can already feel the warmth of his body beneath me, a comforting presence amidst the chaos of the world outside. Holding his chin, I make him look at me. "My dad holds immense influence over my life, and his expectations have always dictated my choices, but not anymore. What you and I have is forbidden in his eyes and can bring about consequences neither of us will be prepared to face but I don't care. The family name, money, sir name, social classes, poor, rich, they mean nothing to me. All that matters is our happiness. All I care about is you and that's how it's always going to be. Only you and I, Lucas. I want you, only you. We have created a safe space for us both, a space where we can be true to ourselves and free from scrutiny. Please don't let the world take that away from us. Please."
Lucas being a part of my life is something already forbidden. It's a clandestine affair that's defying my father's expectations. My father is a powerful figure, both within our family and in the public eye. He has built an empire, one that requires a carefully crafted image and an impeccable reputation. Any association with someone like Lucas, who doesn't fit the mold of a suitable partner, has been met with his fierce disapproval. So disguising myself was something I did to help me avoid the prying lenses of the camera and also protect Lucas from my father's watchful eyes. The disguises became my shield and armor against the scrutiny of a world that demands perfection. In those stolen moments, I was able to be myself, stripped of the weight of my family's name and the suffocating confines of societal judgement.
The world Lucas and I inhabit seems to exist in separate spheres, each spinning in its own orbit and never to intersect even though that's really not the case. Our connection transcends superficial measures of success or social standing. I don't care about the barriers the world is putting between Lucas and I. All I care about is him, just him. Only him. Leaning in, my breath mingles with his and I press my lips gently against his. It's a tender kiss full of reassurance and promise. I want him to know that my words are not empty declarations but a pledge to stand by him and navigate life's challenges together.
"Why do you look prettier today?" He rubs my cheek softly with his thumb.
"I'm always this pretty." Winking at him, he laughs softly and I breathe out a sigh of relief that he isn't so sad anymore.
"You're prettier today."
"I got dolled up more because I was coming to see you." I admit and he nods biting his lower lip, something I find sexy.
"There is a place I want to take you to that I'm sure you'll love." I climb off his lap slumping on the passenger seat and fastening the seatbelt back on as he drives to a different route from the one to his house. Everything about this special night is beautiful, really beautiful.
As we drive along, my eyes wander out the window, taking in the passing scenery. The sky is painted in Indigo and velvety black, with the stars still twinkling like diamonds scattered across a dark canvas. The air is crisp and biting, carrying the scent of wood smoke and the promise of snow. It's a picture perfect night, and I can't help but feel that the world around me is in harmony with the excitement in my heart. We travel down winding roads, the gentle hum of the engine providing a soothing soundtrack to our journey. My anticipation grows with each passing mile, and I find myself stealing glances at him, his eyes focused on the road ahead and a hint of a smile playing on his lips.
After a while, he turns onto a narrower road, lined with ancient palm trees that form a welcoming canopy overhead. The atmosphere shifts subtly, and I can sense that we're approaching something special. My heart quickens its pace, and I lean forward, eager to catch a glimpse of our destination. Lucas stops the jeep and we step out, the air now filled with the faint scent of salt and the distant sound of crushing waves. We make our way towards a charming bridge, its wooden planks weathered by time and polished by countless footsteps. The bridge leads us past as a row of quaint cottages, their pastel coloured walls adorned with blooming flowers. With each step I take, the soft sand beneath my heels sinks slightly, leaving an imprint of our presence.
As we continue forward, my gaze stretches out before me, and there it is, a breathtaking sight. An expansive beach unfolds, stretching as far as the eye can see. The sand, pale and inviting, extends like a welcoming carpet, ready to embrace our arrival. Without a moment's hesitation, my excitement takes hold, and I kick off my heels, my bare feet connecting with the gritty sand, tickling and teasing me. With the sand between my toes, I run towards the water, the cool breeze dancing playfully on my skin and leaving a trail of goosebumps in its wake. As I reach the edge of the water, the foamy waves roll gently towards me, their icy touch sending a shiver of delight up my spine. I take a step forward, and the refreshing coldness envelopes my feet. Crystal clear waves lap at my ankles, beckoning me to venture deeper. Without hesitation, I go deeper into the water, the cool liquid now rising past my knees. Splashing the water around, Lucas joins me, his pants rolled up to his knees and his shoes left behind on the sandy shore.
The night sky is dripping with a myriad of stars, shimmering and twinkling with a brilliance that defies description. They're dancing and flickering, casting a soft, ethereal glow upon the world below. Happiness fills my heart instantly at the peace and stillness surrounding me, the sounds of crashing waves becoming music to my ears. The cool breeze is soothing to the skin and the air is totally fresh, making me feel more alive than ever before. It's a beautiful night and under the celestial symphony, I'm at peace.
My eyes twinkle in mischief and I splash the cold water on Lucas. In protest, he clasps my hands together behind my back, his eyes soft and full of emotion. "Mia, I don't want water on me."
Breaking free from his grip, I splash more water on him, a giggle escaping my throat as I dart away from him, heading back to the shore with him chasing after me, a wide smile fitting across his lips. He wraps his arms around my waist lifting me up and carrying me back to the water all while I scream at him to put me down but he only continues walking.
"There are hungry sharks here, just wanted to let you know." Finally he puts me down but I leap onto him, my legs encircling his waist and my arms finding their way around his neck, hugging him in fear. I press my body against his tightly, seeking refuge in his strong embrace. "Don't be a baby." I hear him say but I hug him tighter instead and he chuckles, his chest rising and falling steadily.
"I'm your baby." I whisper in the hush stillness and his arms tighten around me.
Lucas walks back to the beach, getting down with me still on him. He lays me gently on the wet sand and climbs on top of me, hovering over me. Running my fingers through his wet hair, I untangle the locks as he slowly inches in, pecking my lips before kissing me deeply, the both of us gasping. I wrap my legs around his waist feeling his weight on me, the kiss growing intense as he pours his breath into me, both of us getting lost in the moment.
He sucks on my bottom lip, biting and tugging on it, his hands roaming over my curves and sending a shockwave of pleasure through my body. He runs his tongue on my jaw and down my neck as the water reaches us, drenching our clothes and bodies. He stays on top of me, pushing my wet hair off my face and I close my eyes as he kisses me all over my face affectionately, more water drenching us.
He rests his head on my chest and I embrace him as we laugh together. "I wish we could stay like this and not go back to the harsh reality of the world." He whispers kissing my nose and my lips once more, passionately. We stay lying on the beach with him still on top of me, his head now nuzzled on the crook of my neck and my legs wrapped around his waist as I hug him, neither of us letting go of each other. Time passes and we finally get up, Lucas picking his shoes and my heels. He insists on carrying me and I jump on his back as he heads to the jeep, putting me down next to it. "Can you bear with the wet clothes for a while?" He asks glancing at my wet dress.
We step inside the jeep and since the seats are hand stitched leather, it won't be hard to handle. Lucas takes the wheel, his hands confidently gripping the leather covered steering wheel. The engine roars to life and we begin our journey to his house. The gentle hum of the engine fills the air, creating a soothing background melody as we drive through the streets. Arriving in Lucas's house, we enter the den and I head straight to the bathroom for a hot shower. Standing under the water, the memories of the night flood my mind and I smile to myself as the water runs down my body. I loved every moment of us together. Every single second we spend together is special, his kisses consuming and magical, stirring my emotions all the way to my heart and soul. Together, everything is epic.