Hades and Persephone a love story

Chapter 50

The next morning when I woke up, I stretched out in bed and sat up in bed Hades was already awake and leaning back against the headboard his gaze distant and thoughtful. He looked so serious like a man carrying the weight of his realm even when it was just the two of us. 

"You know." I muttered, my voice breaking the quiet but not the peace, "You're supposed to relax in the mornings." 

Hades turned his attention towards me, his dark eyes meeting mine with that familiar spark of amusement I adored. "And you're supposed to stay asleep," He replied, his tone wry. 

"Not when it's Christmas morning," I countered. "We have presents waiting downstairs, remember?" 

He raised a brow, his lips curving just slightly into what might have passed for a smile. "Ah yes, your mortal traditions infiltrating my domain once again." 

I reached out, brushing my fingers lightly against his arm in an act of quiet defiance. 

"You love it," I teased, my grin bright enough to rival the light of the Underworld. "Admit it. Even the great lord of the Underworld has a soft spot for a little holiday cheer." 

Hades sighed, but it was the kind of sigh that told me he was far from annoyed-if anything, he was amused. "If I survive this ordeal, it will be solely because of you," he said, his voice low but tinged with affection. 

Hades and I climbed out of bed and made our way downstairs, our footsteps echoing softly in the quiet hall. The living room was alight with the glow of the tree I decorated just days before-ornaments of silver and black glimmered alongside pale blossoms I've woven into the garland. 

We settled on the floor by the tree, and as we unwrapped our gifts, I couldn't help but smile at the thoughtfulness behind each one. Books, bookmarks, a coffee mug with our picture, and even a throw blanket adorned with the same image-it was all so perfectly him. 

"My love, thank you for my gifts. I love them!" I exclaimed, holding the mug close as if it could warm me the way his presence did. 

"You're more than welcome," Hades replied, his lips curving into a rare, genuine smile. "And thank you for mine. They suit me well." 

After a moment, he stood and stepped out of the room, leaving me curious but content to admire the gifts in my hands. When he returned, his hands were tucked behind his back, his expression unreadable-except for the faint glint of mischief in his eyes. 

"Hades?" I asked, tilting my head as he approached. 

He knelt before me, and in one smooth motion, revealed a red velvet box. My breath caught as he opened it, revealing an onyx diamond ring resting on a satin pillow, its dark brilliance catching the light. 

For a moment, the world seemed to stop. I could only stare, my heart pounding as I met his gaze. 

"Persephone," he said softly, his voice steady but caring an unfamiliar, tender edge, "You've brought life to my realm in ways I never imagined. Will you be my queen, in every sense of the word?" 

"Yes, I will marry you and become your queen!" I exclaimed; my voice steady yet tinged with a tremor of anticipation. My words carried both the weight of my decision and the promise of a new beginning. 

Hades removed the ring from the box and slid it onto my ring finger he leaned in and kissed me I kissed him and pulled away. Later on, that day I am sitting on the couch in the sitting room weaving holly leaves into crowns I glanced up and saw Hades come into the sitting room he walked over to his armchair and sat down. 

"Kore what are you making?" 

"I am weaving holly leaves into crowns." 

When the final touches on the crowns were complete, I placed mine upon my head, feeling its gentle yet commanding presence. Rising from the couch, I approached Hades. His dark gaze met mine, sharp yet curious. With deliberate care, I lowered the holly leaf crown onto him. He let out a low sigh, his lips twitching as he fought the urge to smirk, pretending to be irritated by its festive simplicity. But I knew better—he wore it like a king disguised in begrudging merriment.