True Fate

by Varadeaux, Shayna

  Nodding she put her hand on the blue stone. "Eric?" she whispered out loud.

  He answered in her mind. 'Nia are you alright?'

  She whispered back, 'I don't know. Can you come to Aaron's please?’ his response was simple and immediate.

  'Yes. I'll bring Avery too.'

  Nia nodded to Aaron, "They'll be here soon.” she explained.

  He just kissed her on the nose and began to pace.

  "Aaron, are you okay?” she asked.

  He realized he was probably freaking her out with his silence.

  "Nia.", he said placing his hand to her cheek. "It will be okay. I know I have been saying that a lot but I really do mean it and no matter what we find out. We’re okay Nia. I think we can handle this.", he said sincerely.

  Nia knew he meant his words but she was afraid this was a soul mate thing and she wasn't convinced that he was ready for that. She already felt unbelievably close to him, sighing and leaning her cheek there a second longer before she spoke.

  "No matter what Eric tells us I think they're beautiful.” she said smiling and looking at their matching tattoos. The doorbell rang bringing them out of the haze that often settles when it's just the two of them.

  Aaron opened the door, Nia immediately noticed similar markings on Eric and then grabbed a shocked Avery's hand.

  "What does this mean?” she asked shoving Avery's hand in Eric's face but she dropped it just as quickly and grabbed Aaron's hand and shoved his hand along with hers where both Avery and he could see.

  Avery gasped with a hand over her mouth and Eric just stood there taking their hands and inspecting the new markings. He smiled that mischievous smile of his.

  "That’s easy, those are promise marks and your promise marks match Aaron's.", he replied coolly.

  "These....” he said lifting Avery's hand and kissing her markings, "Match my own.” he explained lifting his sleeve so Nia could better inspect it.

  Nia was trying to make sense of it in her head when Aaron asked, "Promise marks? What does that mean exactly? And do not tell me you can't explain this one because I'll pummel you if you don't tell us something.” Aaron spat at Eric.

  Avery and Eric exchanged uncomfortable glances, "Fine! Follow me.", Eric said walking quickly to Aaron's bedroom. Placing a finger over his mouth indicating they should be quiet. He nodded at Avery and a bubble expanded to fit all four of them as Eric began, "Those marks mean that it’s your fate to be together.” he said slowly.

  Nia stared at Eric and took a deep breath, "Fate...?” she asked.

  She turned to Aaron and a small smile full of understanding crossed his features, she was glad someone was able to wrap their heads around this.

  He knew immediately what Eric meant having felt their souls intertwine in that moment and he was sure she did too. He understood her shock, he really did, but it didn't hurt any less that it sounded like she didn't want it. He took a deep breath, and waited.

  Avery took a step closer to them and spoke softly, "Nia, I know that this, on top of everything else is a lot to grasp without a meltdown. What this means,” she said grabbing Nia and Aaron's wrist, "is that he is your other half. The missing part of you and if you've been feeling unexplainably drawn to him quickly and strongly, well, that's why.” she let their hands fall back to their sides. "I know it sounds crazy but you have the marks to prove its true.” she said looking at them.

  "Look guys it could be worse. I've seen people fated to someone they hate or don't know at all. It's not a death sentence, you still have free will, I swear." Eric interjected then smiled a tight smile and took a deep breath.

  "Okay, we will give you two a moment. We'll be in the living room.” Eric said guiding Avery out of the privacy bubble.

  Nia was happy about who she was fated to but it sounded like it was forced on them or something. Always being independent and stubborn too, it did explain at least some of her craziness lately though. Especially why she seemed to turn to mush at his touch.

  Aaron couldn't figure out what was going through that pretty little head of hers but it was driving him mad, not knowing. He stepped directly in front of her and tipped up her chin as tears spilled down her cheeks, she had her eyes closed and his worry sky rocketed. He kissed each tear streaked cheek tenderly followed by a soft caress from his thumbs.

  "Nia?” he choked out, “Please tell me everything is okay.” He said with a shaky voice as she opened her eyes and stared deep into his bright blue eyes where his own forming tears shone like diamonds.

  "Uh huh." was her nearly inaudible response.

  "Is it really so bad to think of forever with me?” he asked gulping down the knot in his throat. "I mean I know that we've only known each other for a few days, but to me it feels like it's been way longer.” he added softly not fighting back his own tears any longer as his breath caressed Nia's face with minty warmth.

  Nia’s brow creased registering his words, "Oh no, Aaron, it's not that. I just… everything is so crazy it's piled on a mile high. I don't even know what to think anymore! I don't regret that it's you, not for one second.” she said wiping the glistening streams from his face.

  "It really does explain why I feel like I need you, like.... like my whole...,” having heard enough he leaned in and kissed her lips before she could continue and she let herself get lost in that kiss, in him.

  Her skin sizzled as he held her to him and she realized every part of her fit with him so perfectly. His hand brushed the back of her neck and tingles spread like a wildfire, causing Nia to gasp on his lips. She pulled back slightly to look in those beautiful seas of blue again. Who was she really to deny fate, she really did see her forever by his side it just scared her to death that it was set in stone. He dropped his arm to his side as Nia placed her hands on his biceps. Gently pushing up on her toes she gave him another tender kiss.

  Sighing he stared at her like he was seeing her for the first time again. She took his hands in hers and gave them a light squeeze. Aaron smiled a smile that melted her from head to toe.

  "Okay?” he asked.

  "Okay.", she replied with a nod then they stepped out of the bubble hand in hand and went to find the others.

  "Hey, thanks for coming guys. I'm sorry for disturbing your night.” Nia told Avery and Eric.

  "Oh, it's fine and congratulations!” Avery was quick to say grinning from ear to ear walking over and wrapping Nia in hug.

  Eric laughed, "I know y'all have a thousand more questions and we promise to answer them, just not now.” he said leading Avery to the door.

  "Thanks man, see y'all tomorrow.” Aaron said nodding at Eric. He locked the door and turned to Nia, but she was gone.

  "Nia?” he called out but all he heard was a giggle that he followed to his room. He was greeted by a pink cheeked Nia patting the spot beside her on his bed. Aaron swallowed hard and slowly walked towards her not taking his eyes away from hers. Then he sat slowly and put his hands awkwardly together in front of him. Funny thing how she made him feel like an awkward thirteen year old with sweaty palms.

  He couldn't lie and say that he didn't want her in his bed but the one thing he didn't want her to think was that he wasn't a gentleman. Because he really was and especially with her but that was scary too. Wasn't that why he got chewed up and spit out early on in his love life?

  This girl, this impossibly sweet girl, was his present and his future, despite his past. Fate had to be smiling at him. He couldn't imagine life without this dark haired beauty. Those beautiful hazel eyes reached into his heart and took hold.

  Nia knew she was crazy, she didn't really believe in fate, but how could it not be? The pull was just so strong and she was tired of denying it. There was enough to worry about without worrying if what she was feeling for him was just part of her imminent break down. So she decided then and there that this wasn't the 'instalove' she thought was ridiculous in some books, this was fate, and it was only the beginning. She promised herself she'd at least give this fate
and possible future a fighting chance.

  "Aaron?” she whispered.

  "Nia.", he responded dragging out her name as if tasting it on his lips.

  She smiled brightly taking his breath away as her long black hair fell in her face, "Come here,” she beckoned.

  He turned towards her and as soon as his face was aligned with hers she leaned close and whispered, "I'm going to kiss you again Aaron,” he grinned igniting those spectacular dimples her way. She leaned in and kissed him sweetly on the corner of his mouth then got up and grabbed the covers, climbing underneath them.

  Aaron gave her a puzzled look, "I thought we weren't sleeping?” he asked feeling those butterflies he wasn’t used to.

  Nia laughed then spoke softly, "Who says I want to sleep.” she said biting her lip.

  He visibly gulped which incited another smile from Nia. "Oh, don't be scared I'm not talking about going all the way or anything. I'm not ready for that.” she said shyly.

  “Oh I didn’t think that at all. I just, umm I think you just stun me Nia.”

  Aaron went to the side of his bed and kicked off his shoes. He laid down and scooted closer turning towards her and wrapped his arms around her tightly sighing his content. Her sweet clean scent was soothing.

  "Nia?” he said as she looked up at him. "We're going to be okay.” he assured her.

  "I know.” she replied snuggling close to his chest. Marveling at the fact that they fit together like two puzzle pieces that were always meant to fit perfectly. Aaron held her close and for him that was more than enough, he was happy with just that.

  Nia looked at Aaron, "We're going to take it slowly."

  Nodding he let her know that he was in agreement. "That's fine with me. Whatever you want from me. I'm here.” He kissed the top of her head softly, she couldn't believe it but she sure could feel it, the rightness of being with him.

  She knew that whatever was going on and whatever she was or whoever she was, was going to change her life. They may not have been prepared but this was really happening nonetheless. Nia was just glad she wasn't alone in this anymore and that she wasn't the only one who was clueless of their "roots". It sucked for him just as much as it did for her but she was happy to have someone who really understood her.

  Aaron's breathing became even as his body relaxed. When she heard his light snore she gave a small laugh. She guessed she could handle a nap anyway, she hoped beyond hope this would be a dreamless sleep for them both.

  Aaron blinked and realized he was in a dreamscape, 'Dang, I fell asleep on her.', he thought to himself.

  It was different than the ones he was in before. The light was extremely bright and there was otherworldly green grass. On a small hill a woman stood there, he rubbed his eyes and refocused. She was dressed like some mythical elven queen. Her dress was antique looking, maybe Victorian and covered in lace. It had a medium sized train that pooled around her feet. You could see golden brown markings over her hands and wrists. She had a gold crown on her head that was delicately intricate and dark golden strands were braided into her long blonde hair and she was stunning and ethereal.

  "Come here, child.” she said looking right at Aaron.

  He walked slowly towards her and she smiled.

  "I am glad to see you in good health Aaron. I have been waiting for you for some time. When I had received word that she'd found you, I just couldn't believe it." She waved her hand behind her and a bench appeared then she smiled at him with small crinkles appearing beside her eyes though it didn’t distract from her beauty. Her fair skin was as luminous as it was flawless and her eyes a bright odd turquoise blue, much like his own. Sitting down she looked to Aaron and he joined her. Taking his hands she looked at his new markings.

  "You have found her haven't you?” she asked softly.

  "I don't know what you mean, but if you're talking about my fate and future, then yes I think I have.” he said sounding surer of himself than he felt.

  She smiled at his brashness "Yes I am speaking of the one they call Nia. I'm pleased to see she is to be your mate. I see you are already bound to her as a Guardian.” she said tracing their bond marks.

  "Who are you?” He asked curious, not just because she was there with him but because she seemed familiar somehow and he felt comforted and calm around her.

  "Oh child, I do apologize. I am Rhiannon. The lost queen is what most your age refer to me as,” she said as if that explained it all.

  "Rhiannon? As in my grandmother Rhiannon?” he asked with his jaw practically on the floor.

  She nodded. "I will tell you anything you wish to know. We only have time for one question tonight. So choose wisely.” she said placing her hands in her lap and sitting up straight.

  Aaron thought about her offer and how it might clear things up considerably though he just had one question, for now. "Would I be able to share the information with Nia?” he asked.

  Shaking her head slowly, "I'm afraid not my dear. Even I am not permitted to interfere with her destiny.” she replied with a sad smile.

  He thought for a moment then answered firmly. "No. If I can't tell her I don't want to know yet. I don't want to start what we have with lies. I just don't think it would be right. But can I see you again? You know, after.” he asked.

  Rhiannon smiled, "You are wise beyond your years, young Aaron. I can most certainly appreciate your reasoning.” she said smiling proudly.

  She stood and he did too. "Here, in case of an emergency you may summon me. If I am available I will come to you, but I do not look this way in your world. This is my true form. I wear a glamour most of the time. You will know it's me because of this," she said placing a thin strand of gold around his wrist, "is unbreakable and undetectable. It will be invisible to those disloyal to me and to you, and it will know when you wish to see me."

  He took another look into her eyes. "Thank you your majesty.” he said.

  Hugging him to her she spoke softly, "My dear you may call me grandmother.” she smiled with a tear gliding down her cheek. "I must go. But I am with you now and always.” she said beginning to fade.

  The light became so bright there he had to shield his eyes.

  When he opened them Nia was cuddled to his chest looking at him and smiling. "Hey there sleepy head.” she said sweetly. Aaron smiled and kissed her cheek pulling his arms tighter around her and she snuggled in closer with a sigh.

  Nia had enjoyed the nap in his arms. When she'd woken up and he was still asleep she just watched him, he looked so young and peaceful. No worry on his face like there had been since all of the craziness began. He really was gorgeous and his hair had fallen in his face when he sighed then opened his beautiful eyes.

  He looked as happy as she did. 'Yes', she thought so that he heard her too and looked at her questioningly, 'We deserve our chance.' she sent.

  He smiled and put his forehead to hers, 'Yes. Yes we do.'

  Chapter 11

  Aaron went into the store while Nia waited in the car. They had directions to meet the guardians at a house close by and they had skipped breakfast to have more time together at Aaron's. He was debating whether or not to tell Nia about Rhiannon, he thought he should, he just wasn't sure he could.

  He grabbed two cokes and two packages of cinnamon rolls. Funny how they liked the same stuff, he thought. He paid and went out to the car to see a guy standing beside Nia's door.

  "Aaron.", Nia said quickly, "This is Adam.” she said motioning to a tall dark haired guy that looked like he was the poster 'emo boy'. He had on a black t-shirt that said, 'Epic Fail' and what Aaron supposed were skinny jeans. He had crazy spikey, hang in your face hair and a ring through his lip.

  He went around to shake his hand. "Hey.", he said while gripping Aaron's hand harder than necessary.

  "What's up?” Aaron said unable to help the testosterone from firing off jealousy. Adam just nodded.

  Nia got out of the car, "So, Adam has been friends with me and Rhea for a long, long time, he's
like the brother I never had!” she explained. Aaron nodded politely.

  "Yeah since fifth grade.” Adam said playfully swatting Nia's arm.

  "That's cool.” Aaron said trying to stop flexing his jaw. He didn't want Nia to freak out at his possessive behavior. He never really felt so jealous in his life and nothing was happening, he wasn't even the jealous type! What was this? The whole fated thing maybe? All he knew was he wanted to get this Adam guy away from Nia. Instead he went around and got in, thankful that Nia had let him drive.

  "Well it was great meeting you.” Aaron said starting the car.

  "You too man.", Adam responded.

  Nia smiled at Adam, Aaron was seething jealousy, and struggling to keep it at bay, though not on the surface. But through the bond it was so strong she could practically taste it.