The Almost One Night Stand

Chapter 7

Nimue's POV

The phone call with Luke had been far too short for my liking, but I had to get so much sorted before Monday. I was still fuming about my furniture. I mean, really, how do you lose furniture? It wasn't even the issue of cost, money had never been a concern for me, but I really didn't like flaunting it either. I gathered my coat and purse, then headed out the door.

I was wandering through the aisles looking for some basics to make it a few days when I bumped into someone. "Pardon me, mistress," a soft voice spoke. I looked up quickly. The young woman's eyes went wide as she recognized me. Great, less than a day back, and I'm already getting spotted and in London no less.

I inclined my head in acknowledgment before she dropped to her knees, "A simple mistake, initiate. Speak no further of it, nor disclose I have returned. I will make my presence known when I am ready." Her eyes were still wide as she nodded and moved away, her head slightly bowed. I let out a sigh of frustration and quickly finished my shopping. When I reached the flat, I left the bags on the counter after unloading the perishables, grabbed my blanket, and curled up on the floor as exhaustion washed over me.

When I woke, my back was sore and my temper was short. I stepped out on the tiny balcony to find a small package wrapped in leaves. Carefully opening it, I smiled at the tiny engraved rock inside. I clutched it to my chest as I went inside and poured milk into a small bowl and set it on the balcony floor. "Thank you," I said softly. "I promise to come visit soon."

As I headed back inside, I heard a knock at the door. Opening it, I found two scraggly-looking movers with several boxes behind them. "You Miss Waters?" one of the men asked.

"Yes. Is that my furniture?" I asked.

"I hope so, lady. I sure as hell don't want to carry it back down those stairs," he grumbled.

I swung open the door and signed for the items, then directed them as to which area to place things. There wasn't much, just a bed and dresser in mine and Luke's bedroom, then my comfy old couch and an eclectic old chair I'd found in San Diego when antique shopping. I didn't think it was worth anything, but I'd spent hours relaxing in it while reading so I had to bring it. The bulk of the boxes were my paintings and supplies that went into the small spare bedroom for now. When they had finished, I tipped them heavily and sent them off with some bottled water.

Taking the small carved stone out of my pocket, I placed it on top of the dresser with a smile. Maybe I'll take a day trip today just to clear my head. It's still too early to ring Luke. I quickly packed up a bag with snacks and offerings, grabbed my phone, and headed out to the rail. It would take about four hours to reach Devon.

****

I took in a deep breath of the meadow air. It was such a change from London. I was already missing the weather and time outside in San Diego, but I knew I couldn't stay gone from home forever. I'd already told Luke I wanted him to meet my family when he arrived, but part of me wondered if he'd run back to the states once he did. How do you explain to someone that you're part of an ancient line that is tasked with protecting the fate of the world, without sounding like a crazy person? I sat down amongst the flowers and pulled out some treats. I laid out milk, honey, berries, and some sugar cookies on a clean cloth, then began to eat my own lunch while I read.

After a while, I heard a soft rustling sound and looked up from my book to see a small fawn kneeling by the cloth. Next to her was an angry-looking fairy with his hand on his hip. "Really, Ni, no crisps?" he snarked.

I chuckled and reached into my bag, "Just for you Jax," I said, placing the small pouch of crisps at his feet. "How have you been, old friend?"

He gave me a cheeky grin, grabbed a chip, and flopped down on the cloth, "Not bad. A few scuffles with some dark Fae, but overall, things have been quiet since you left. Of course, that aunt of yours is as sneaky as ever. You know you can't avoid the throne forever, my Lady." He made a dramatic flourish as he spoke.

I rolled my eyes, "It's not a throne, Jax, and you know it. There hasn't been a descendent in well, forever. I hardly think it will happen in my lifetime." I took a bite out of my sandwich and we ate in silence for a bit. Then I cautiously started, "I met someone." He sat bolt upright, eyes glaring. "He's a good man, I promise. Matter of fact, he'll be here soon and I want to introduce you."

Jax sputtered, "Wait, do you mean as your human friend or your Fae friend?"

"Both."

"Wow, you really have it bad, don't you?" he mused. "In all our years, you have never once wanted to reveal your magic to anyone. What makes him so different?"

My lips upturned as I spoke, "He's worth it. He's shared so much of his own past and secrets with me, and I think he might be the one. I mean, I, um, well," I stuttered.

"Shut up! You didn't?" he squealed. "You gave up your v-card to him, oh, bitch, I really need to meet him now!" My cheeks burned as he continued to embarrass me. "Wait, you didn't drop your head when I teased you? Does your young man have something to do with this new confidence?" He asked.

"Yeah, he does," I smiled. "Luke makes me a better person and I'm hoping he doesn't run for the hills when I tell him about all of this." I waved my arm wide.

"Oh sweetie, if you've gone this far with him, I think he will understand. I'm happy for you, Ni," Jax said and quickly sized up to wrap me in a big hug. We spent the better part of the day visiting as other Fae dropped in to talk and get treats. Jax was the last to leave with a promise to come and meet Luke when he arrived. We agreed we'd introduce him as my childhood friend first in human form then once I had explained the rest, he'd reveal his Fae form. 

Author's Notes:  A bit more of Nimue is revealed.

Cautions: If you are not well-versed in the nature of fairies, please DO NOT leave out offerings, nor accept any.  Do not mess with things you do not understand, educate yourself first.

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