by S. L. Morgan
Levi stopped at the bottom of the steps and gave her an exaggerated bow. “At your service, madam!”
He displayed a brilliant smile as he leaped up the steps to where Reece waited. Full of excitement, she wrapped her arms tightly around his neck, stood on her toes, and gave him a quick kiss.
“Good morning, love,” he said with laughter. “I have missed you.”
“I think I’ve missed you more. I’m so thrilled you’re back.” She looked up into his vivid blue eyes. “Did you guys find Michael?”
Levi kissed her forehead and smiled lovingly into her eyes. “No; however, Harrison has taken over the search, giving us the opportunity to spend some time together.”
“Lucky for me.” she said, as she reached out and interlaced her fingers through Levi’s. “Thank you for my necklace. It’s beautiful.”
Levi released one of her hands and caressed her cheek. “You are beautiful,” he said, before bringing his attention to the silver arrow that rested against the center of her décolletage. His fingers brushed against her skin as he held the delicate charm and studied it. Her flesh burned in response to his gentle touch. “It lies perfectly over your heart, as I’d hoped it would. Not too short, not too long,” he said with a wink. He drew her arm up into his. “Now, for your next gift,” he started, as he led her down the steps. “I purchased this for you; it will serve as your personal transportation in Pemdas.”
Reece leaned into him, squeezing his arm with delight. “Who would have ever imagined that I’d go from driving a car to getting around in a horse-drawn carriage?”
Levi laughed softly as he dismissed the footman and turned to help Reece into the carriage. The plush interior was fashioned out of an exquisite blue velvet material, with a dark mahogany wood trim. Levi settled in next to her, gave a quick rap to the top of the carriage, and they were off.
He stretched his long legs out, crossed them, and lazily reclined back into the plush seats. He put his arm around Reece, bringing her closer to him.
“This carriage is extraordinary,” she said as she admired the elegance of it.
Levi’s embrace tightened around her. “I’m glad it meets with your approval.”
“Well, it’s obvious that you’re in the gift-giving spirit today, and it’s got me thinking. What if I wanted to buy you something? I’m kind of stuck—I don’t have any money here.”
“Forgive me for not addressing this sooner; I believe I have been so busy lately that I haven’t taken the time to go over these particular details. When we return to the palace this evening, I will bring you to Pasidian’s vaults and introduce you to Mrs. Stridewell. She manages the vault, and will allow you access to the funds at any time. Currency is valued and used here in Pemdas very similarly as it is on Earth, and you should have no trouble getting used to it.”
Reece twisted to face him. “A vault, huh? That’s it?” She teased. “Well,” she exhaled dramatically, “I guess that’ll do for now.”
Levi’s lips drew up into her favorite grin, and Reece was instantly entranced with the vividness of his humored, electric-blue eyes. “I have missed you.” His expression grew more serious. “I must admit, not having been in your company has made this week somewhat trying on me.”
He slid his hand around the back of her neck, eyes now fixed on her lips. Reece bit her lip with eagerness as he drew her face closer to his. She smiled faintly in response, and her mind became fuzzy as Levi softly kissed each corner of her mouth. He gazed intently into her eyes as his thumb traced along her bottom lip. “And all I desire now,” he brought his lips to her chin, “is to indulge myself in the woman I love.”
She smiled provocatively at him, and ran her fingers through his wavy hair. “Sounds like an excellent idea to me,” she said, bringing his face closer to hers.
In that moment, Levi’s lips claimed hers in a crushing kiss. His hand braced the back of her neck as he deepened his powerful kiss, and Reece sighed with satisfaction. He relaxed, reclining back into the seat, and placed his other arm firmly around her back as he molded her body against his. She responded wholeheartedly to him, and indulged herself in the savory kiss he offered her.
When he ended their ardent kiss with a soft kiss to Reece’s nose, she was somewhat disorientated. She sat up, glanced out of the side window, and observed that the carriage was traveling down a tree-covered road. Dazzling blossoms in a variety of colors cascaded from their branches in the unique forest that surrounded them.
Reece gazed at Levi quizzically. “Where are we going? I haven’t seen any of this before.”
“You’ll see.” He straightened himself and gave a quick tug to his waistcoat. “Now, in order for you to fully appreciate your next gift, I must ask that you close your eyes.”
Reece happily acceded to his request. After a few moments, she sensed that the carriage was slowing, and heard the clattering of the horses’ hooves silence soon thereafter.
She listened as the door opened, and heard Levi step out of the carriage. He helped to guide her out of the carriage, and swept her into his arms.
“Can I open my eyes yet?” she asked enthusiastically.
Levi placed her feet on the ground, and enclosed his arms around her waist. “Yes,” he answered softly.
When Reece’s eyes opened, she was speechless.
Levi pressed his cheek against hers. “Welcome to our new home,” he whispered.
The enormous white house was a magnificent sight to behold. It was three-story home; complete with a large balcony, porch, and Greek-style columns that ran the entire façade, and continued on to wrap around the house. The broad steps that led up to the elaborate entryway doors gave this stately home an overwhelming sense of grandeur.
“Our home?” Reece’s voice cracked as she fought back tears of overwhelming gratitude.
Levi stepped around her and took her hands into his. “Yes; this is where you and I will live when we are married. Do you approve?” He looked down at her, and brushed away a tear that slipped down her cheek.
She smiled at his beaming expression. “Approve? I love it!”
Reece took in the massive, park-like setting that surrounded them. The grand house sat impressively at the end of a circular, cobblestone driveway. To the left of the house was neatly trimmed, vivid-green grass with large trees scattered throughout, offering an abundance of shade. The lush grass grew all the way to the shoreline of a small, shimmering blue lake. Across the small body of water were more trees, and a tall mountain range that spanned the horizon behind the estate.
She looked back at Levi, who was watching her with amusement. “All of this is breathtaking, and it’s more than I would have ever asked for.”
He kissed her forehead. “I am thrilled that it agrees with you. I have been drawn to this house for as long as I can remember. I have ridden by it many times with the hope that someday I would share it with my wife and children. To have your approval means more to me than you will ever know.”
“It’s absolutely perfect.”
Levi offered his arm. “Shall I escort you inside?”
Reece took his arm. “Why, Mr. Oxley, I thought you’d never ask.”
As they entered through the impressive double doors at the front of the house, a massive atrium with a sweeping staircase greeted them. The house was empty, with no furniture to speak of, and still, it was a breathtaking sight.
A luxurious blue velvet carpet covered the center area of white marble steps that led up to the second level of their home. She gazed in wonder at the variety of circular patterns that had been intricately carved into the high, alabaster ceilings. An enormous chandelier hung over the entryway and dazzled in a rainbow of colors, reflecting the light peering in from the windows as a prism would.
Reece held tightly to Levi’s hand as they toured the main floor of their home. The detail and craftsmanship that was brought into the structure was so elaborate that Reece remained silent, clearly overwhelmed by the rich atmosphere of this extravagant home. Fortunately, h
er excitement overruled any intimidation she might have had with such a lavish manor.
With each room they entered, she fell more in love with their new home. The first floor consisted of a library, two parlors, a music room, and a large dining hall, as well as various other rooms for guests. At the end of the large corridor on the south wing, two doors opened into an enormous room, with floor-to-ceiling windows lining three walls. Each wall had glass doors, giving access to the porch that wrapped around the home. When Reece questioned what the purpose of this particular room was, Levi teased her in response, letting her know that this ballroom was where Reece would be hosting many future celebrations for family and friends.
Once they finished touring most of the first level, they ascended the massive staircase that led to the second floor. Directly in front of them, more floor-to-ceiling windows offered spectacular views of the rolling hills that lined the horizon behind the manor.
Levi then led her down the hallways to their left. “This wing of the second floor consists primarily of private apartments for our close friends and family. There are more apartments on the northern wing of the home that will be for additional guests.”
They toured the different rooms on the second floor, and she sighed and smiled as they approached a staircase that led up to another level of the home. “I have no idea how we’re supposed to furnish all of this.”
“We will meet with decorators that will help design the interior of the home with what brings you the most comfort. Now,” he added with a mischievous grin, “our chambers will be up these stairs, on the third floor.”
Reece felt a shiver of excitement course through her as she took Levi’s extended hand. When they arrived at the landing, Levi pointed over to the hallways on their left. “Those rooms will be reserved for our children,” he said, as he gazed adoringly into her eyes.
Reece looked down the long hallway and then back to Levi. “There must be over ten doors, and I can’t even see to the end of the hall! Exactly how many kids are you planning on having, Mr. Oxley?”
Levi laughed and brought her hand to his lips for a kiss. “A man can never be too greedy, Miss Bryant.”
“Um, in this case, I believe he most certainly can.”
Levi’s eyes dazzled with humor as he drew her arm up into his. He turned and led her down the hall to their right. “There are numerous rooms down this wing; a private sitting room, a parlor, offices and a private library.” He turned to face two double doors on their left. “These will be our personal bedchambers, unless you decide otherwise.” He reached for the two doors and opened them. “This area will serve as our sitting room.” He informed her as they walked through the doors.
A large fireplace dominated the wall to her right; its marble mantle was glossy white with vibrant silver trim that highlighted the scroll patterns that were carved into it. The high ceilings were adorned in an architectural wonder, with rich mosaics of vines and other floral carvings that were defined with the same shimmering silver as the mantel of the fireplace. The bright marble floors had unique patterns, complementing those on the ceiling, etched in silver, and positioned in the center of room. To her left were two glass doors that led onto the balcony that faced the back of their home.
Levi strode across the room to where two more double doors stood and opened one. “Our private parlor is through here, and our bedchamber and dressing rooms are just beyond that.”
They entered their sleeping chamber, where windows and two glass doors filled the wall to her left. Across the room and up on a marble platform was a large bay of windows that wrapped around the corner of the house. Marble columns framed the entrance of the platform area, and it was easy to see that this was an excellent location for their bed.
“No one will have access to these porches,” Levi said, as he walked over to the glass doors and opened them. “They are only accessed by our room.” He stepped up the four steps that led onto the elevated floor, and motioned for Reece to follow him.
Reece crossed the room to where Levi stood in front of the large windows that framed the magnificent views of a river that spilled into the lake off the side of their house. “This small river feeds our lake, and also continues through it to meet with the Pasidian River.”
“I don’t think I’ll have a problem lying in our bed and staring out of the window, watching that river glow every night.” She looked at Levi.
Levi smiled wryly. “I believe my attention will be distracted with something more stunning and desirable than that of a glowing river.”
Reece arched her eyebrow and then turned, seeing the colossal fireplace on the wall to their left. “Hmm, well, I guess we have an excellent view of the fire from here as well.” She teased.
Levi smirked as he pulled her into his arms. “The fire will definitely enhance the splendor of having you fall asleep in my arms every night.” he said as he withdrew and took her hand. “Our dressing rooms are separate,” he continued, as he led her toward another door in their room. They walked through a small hallway. “My valet will have access to my dressing room through those doors.” He pointed to another door on their left. “And your maiden will have access to your private dressing room and bath right through here. The servants’ passageways lead directly to them, and I will be sure to inform both the maiden and the valet of the rooms that will give them easiest access.”
Reece marveled at the splendor of her bathroom after Levi led her into it. “You’d think I’d be used to having a bathroom like this by now.” She turned and smiled at Levi. “I’m beyond impressed by all of this. I love this house, Levi.”
Levi smiled. “Would you care to walk out on your private balcony and see the view it offers?”
“You mean the tour is already over?” Reece teased.
“Hardly; I believe I was only showing you the necessary rooms. We can tour the kitchens, the indoor pools, and the children’s—”
“Levi—” Reece interrupted him, and then stood on her toes and gave him a quick kiss. “It was a joke,” she said with a laugh. “Anyways, I need some fresh air to get my thoughts straight, and find the appropriate words of appreciation for all of this.”
Levi led her from the room. “Fresh air it is, my lady.”
When they stepped onto the private balcony, Reece was ahead of Levi, and she stood in awe of the panoramic view the back of their house had to offer. Rolling hills and pastures disappeared into a forest of trees that lined the horizon. Directly below, a crystal-clear creek snaked its way around the neatly sculpted bushes that decorated the outdoor gardens. Out to her left, a stone wall led up to and surrounded two large structures. Reece cocked her head to the side, endeavoring to figure out what the buildings were for.
“Those are the horse stables and the carriage house,” he said, as he came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her back into him.
“I’m sure Arrow and Areion will be impressed with your choice of a home for them.”
“I’m sure they will.” He said as he placed a soft kiss on the top of her head. “I should make you aware that Arrow’s training is due to commence this week; you might be surprised by how much he has grown when he returns to the palace.”
“Really? They grow that fast?”
“Guardians horses are unique in almost every quality they possess.” He brushed his lips against her cheek. “So, yes, he will be nearly full grown when you encounter him again.”
Reece sighed, “I shouldn’t be surprised; they are remarkable animals.” She exhaled in wonder as she took in more of the surrounding scenery. “These views are breathtaking.” She rested her head back against his shoulder. “I love everything about it this place.”
A low rumble in the distance announced the heavy, dark clouds that had appeared from behind the thick forest. Levi released his hold on her. “I believe my plans for an outdoor picnic must be changed,” he said humorously. He glanced out at the threatening sky that was quickly darkening due to the incoming storm.
“I’ll be back in a moment. I need to retrieve some things from the carriage before the driver and footman seek shelter.”
Reece remained on the balcony, absorbing the tranquility of the cool, brisk breeze that appeared from out of nowhere. The nearly black skies flickered, followed by another rumble of thunder. A curtain of rain shimmered like glitter falling to the ground out in the distance as the storm rapidly approached their location. So beautiful! Reece thought, as the last of the sun’s rays disappeared behind the ominous clouds.
Reece was distracted by the sound of the horses rapidly bringing the carriage to shelter in the carriage house. A gust of ice-cold wind nearly blew her over, dropping the temperature in that moment drastically. As Reece turned to walk back into the house, a bright flash of light nearly blinded her, followed by an extremely loud crack of thunder. Reece was startled, and jumped backward. Luckily, Levi had just returned, and caught her before she stumbled to the ground.
“That was close,” Reece said in a shaky voice.
Levi put an arm around her, guiding her back into the house. “Are you okay?” he asked with humor in his voice, attempting to lighten the tension of the moment.
Reece rubbed her arms, trying to warm up. “That came out of nowhere. I can’t believe how cold it got all of a sudden.”
“Springtime storms in Pemdas are relatively unpredictable and unexpected. After the storm passes, the temperature will warm again.” He glanced at the glass doors where the rain was now pouring down. “This storm may be here for a while. Let us go downstairs; I have an area prepared in one of the sitting rooms, and will start a fire to help keep you warm.”
Levi escorted her down to the first floor, where he had spread out a blanket in the living area with four plush pillows and a basket of food. “There are muffins and a variety of fruit in the basket, if you desire. Give me a moment to retrieve some wood from the shed outside.”
Before Reece could say anything, he was out of the room. She strolled over and lowered herself onto the blanket amongst the pillows. Even though she was cold, she was completely relaxed as she watched the heavy rain pour down onto the front lawn. She curled her legs underneath herself, and crossed her arms in an effort to keep warm until Levi returned. The winds were howling and forcing the rain sideways, and the thunder was so loud that it practically shook the entire house.
