When Shadows Fall in Love

The first golden threads of morning light crept through the silk curtains, wrapping the Castellano master suite in a warm embrace. As the sun spilled into the room, it cast playful shadows across the luxurious bedding, creating a serene atmosphere that felt almost sacred. The distant aroma of espresso curled through the air like a whispered invitation, while the soft sound of piano keys being pressed below echoed up the marble staircase—deep, slow notes that felt like an old memory wearing a new suit.

Seraphine stirred beneath the soft sheets, blinking away sleep as she instinctively reached for the space beside her. The sheets were still warm; Lucien hadn't gone far. She smiled at the thought, a warmth blooming in her chest.

Slipping into her robe, she padded quietly downstairs, her bare feet whispering against the cool marble. When she reached the grand piano, she paused, taking in the sight of Lucien. He was barefoot, clad in a black T-shirt and silk drawstring pants, seated at the piano like a specter from a classical novel. His fingers moved languidly across the keys, as if he were weaving a spell, lost in a world where sound and silence danced together.

"You play when you can't sleep?" she asked softly, her voice still husky with sleep.

Lucien didn't look up, his focus unwavering. "I play when I dream too loud to keep them in."

A smile tugged at her lips. "That's oddly poetic for a person like you."

Finally, he glanced up, a playful glint in his eyes. "Careful, angel. I might start writing sonnets if you keep complimenting me like that."

She laughed, the sound light and free. "I'd pay to hear those sonnets. Just promise they won't be about your criminal escapades."

Lucien smirked, leaning back on the piano bench. "Only if you promise to be my muse. I could write a whole album about you."

"Oh, now I'm intrigued," she teased, stepping closer. "What would the title be?"

"'Seraphine: The Enigma'," he replied dramatically, raising an imaginary glass. "A tale of beauty and danger."

With a playful roll of her eyes, she leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. "Just make sure it's a bestseller."

Lucien grinned, his expression softening. "With you as my inspiration, how could it not be? I will start after breakfast"

"Hey, I was just joking, no need"

He shrugged, "Anything for you, my angel"

After a few more moments of music, Lucien stood, stretching his arms above his head with a lazy grace that left Seraphine momentarily breathless. "Breakfast?" he asked, turning to her with an inviting smile.

"Absolutely! I'm starving!" she replied, following him into the kitchen, where the scent of freshly brewed coffee awaited.

As they entered, a couple of maids were already bustling about the spacious kitchen. The soft clinking of dishes and the gentle rustle of crisp white linens filled the air. One maid deftly arranged the table, smoothing out the tablecloth and placing gleaming silverware with meticulous care. The sunlight streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow on the polished surfaces. Another maid stood by the coffee maker, pouring steaming coffee into two elegant mugs. The rich aroma wafted through the room, a deep, inviting scent that mingled with the sweetness of pastries cooling nearby. She offered a warm smile as she filled the mugs to the brim, the dark liquid swirling enticingly. "Breakfast is ready, Mr. Vade and Ms. Vade" one of them called out, her voice cheerful as she added a final touch of fresh fruit to the spread. The vibrant colours of the berries and sliced melons created a beautiful contrast against the white tablecloth.

They settled at the island, and as Seraphine took a mug, she glanced at him and raised an eyebrow. "How do you take yours again? Milk, sugar, or just straight-up caffeine?"

"Just straight-up caffeine," he replied, grinning. "The more bitter, the better. Just like my sense of humour."

One of the maids smiled, overhearing their banter. "I think that's the best way to start the day, madam. A strong cup sets the tone."

Lucien chuckled, taking a sip. "See? Even the staff agrees with me."

"Maybe I should start charging you for my opinions," she shot back playfully.

The maids exchanged amused glances as they finished setting the table, placing fresh pastries and fruits in the centre.

"Breakfast is almost ready," one of them said, giving a slight nod.

As the sound of laughter and clinking dishes filled the kitchen, Seraphine felt a warmth spread through her—a sense of belonging she hadn't expected.

Seraphine chuckled, sliding a mug toward her. "This should be perfect for you then. Strong enough to wake the dead." 

With a laugh, Lucien grabbed the mug proudly. "Just what I need—bold enough to kickstart a morning."

They enjoyed a leisurely breakfast, with Lucien feeding her blackberries straight off his fork while sipping on his coffee. Seraphine wore a soft peach sundress, her hair braided loosely over her shoulder. He glanced at her from across the island counter, a smirk playing on his lips. "If peace had a dress code, it'd be you in that."

"Flattery will get you everywhere," she teased, rolling her eyes playfully.

Once breakfast was finished, Seraphine helped Lucien prepare for his day. She watched as he pulled on a fitted shirt, the fabric clinging to his broad shoulders. "Do you always dress to kill, or is it just for mafia business?" she joked, playfully adjusting his collar.

"Only for you, my angel," he replied, a serious look in his eyes that made her heart flutter. "But I promise to come home early today. I've got a special day planned for us."

"Another ball?" she asked, feigning surprise.

"No," he teased, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes. "My, my, I forgot that my sweet angel doesn't like surprises, so I will get to the point."

He paused before continuing. 

"Don't kill me with that stare; it's just that I wanted to take you shopping."

"Oh, okay," she replied with a sunny smile, like the sunlight she embodied.

"But first, I've got to conquer a few meetings." He leaned down, brushing his lips against her forehead. "I'll be home before you know it. Talk with the maids if you get bored. They are really chatty women."

"Yeah, I already have to read all my given books."

He looked at her "Clear your schedule today. I'm kidnapping you."

Seraphine blinked. "Excuse me?"

"For entirely legal and adorable reasons. We're going shopping, as I told you before. And I want boba tea. Mostly because watching you stab the straw into the cup like a warrior gives me serotonin."

"Are you—are you calling me a bubble tea samurai?"

"Angel, if the kimono fits."

He gave a hearty laugh as he made his way down the stairs with Seraphine.

As Lucien made his way to the door, Seraphine followed him outside. The morning air was fresh, and the sun sparkled on the dewy grass. They descended the grand staircase of the villa, its marble steps glistening in the sunlight.

At the bottom, a sleek black Lamborghini awaited them, its polished surface reflecting the vibrant surroundings. Lucien opened the door and slid inside, then turned to wave at her through the window, a charming smile on his face.

"See you soon, angel!" he called, his voice filled with warmth.

Seraphine waved back, her heart fluttering as he drove off, leaving a trail of excitement in the air.

As he left, Seraphine wandered through the grand house, the echoes of her footsteps reverberating off the marble floors. The walls were adorned with family portraits and art pieces that whispered stories of the Castellano legacy. Curious, she explored each room, her fingers grazing the surfaces of exquisite furniture and delicate vases. She soon grew tired of seeing furniture, so she went out through the back door and into a sea of greenery.

The garden unfolded like a vibrant tapestry, bursting with colour. Sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. The air was rich with the sweet scent of blooming jasmine, lily, iris, daisy, marigold, peony, tulip and roses.

The gentle rustle of leaves accompanied the cheerful chirping of birds, their melodies weaving a serene symphony. A nearby fountain bubbled softly, adding a soothing rhythm to the enchanting atmosphere, making her heart dance with joy. Butterflies flitted from flower to flower, their delicate wings painting the air with splashes of colour. In the distance, she could hear the faint noise of water pouring, blending seamlessly with the garden's natural symphony. The soft hum of bees busily collecting nectar added to the tranquillity, and she felt a deep sense of peace enveloping her. Every corner of the garden seemed to invite her to linger, to bask in its beauty and serenity.

While roaming the vast gardens, she encountered one of the housekeepers, an elderly woman named Rosa. "Good morning, Señora," Rosa greeted her warmly, her hands busy pruning the flowers.

"Good morning! This place is absolutely stunning," Seraphine replied slightly surprised, glancing around at the vibrant blooms. The colours seemed to dance in the sunlight, and the sweet fragrance filled the air. " Are you a gardener? How long have you worked here?"

"Yes, Ms. Vade I am for the past twenty years," Rosa said with a proud smile, pausing her task to admire the flowers. 

"So you must know a lot about the Vade family and their house." The lady nodded with a polite smile, as she continued, "Tell me everything please"

"I've seen many changes in this house, but it always holds beauty. It's like a living story."

"Tell me about Lucien's parents," Seraphine ventured, genuinely curious. "What were they like?"

Rosa's expression shifted, a mix of nostalgia and reverence. "The late Mr. and Mrs. Castellano were kind-hearted people, full of love and strength. They always welcomed me and my family with open arms. I remember how they would host grand dinners, filling this house with laughter and warmth."

Seraphine leaned in, captivated by the stories. "It sounds like they created a wonderful atmosphere. What was Lucien like as a child?"

A soft smile spread across Rosa's face. "Oh, he was a spirited boy, always curious and full of energy. He would follow his parents around, asking countless questions. They nurtured that curiosity, encouraging him to explore everything. I used to scold him for running over the open dirt right when I was about to plant trees there." She laughed as she pointed in one part of the garden where the greenery was not to be ignored. "Oh, how has time flew past by. He was just a little boy and now his children's mother is standing in front of me."

Seraphine nodded, with a hint of laughter, intrigued. "Did he have any siblings?"

"No, he was an only child," Rosa replied, her voice turning a bit more serious. "That meant he had a lot of responsibility placed on him from a young age. But he thrived on it. Lucien learned early how to care for others, especially me and the other staff. He's fiercely protective of those he loves."

Seraphine's heart warmed at Rosa's words. "It sounds like he carries their spirit with him."

"He does," Rosa said, her eyes glistening with fond memories. "He's the kind of man who will always stand by those he cares for, just like his parents did for us."

As the morning faded into afternoon, Seraphine continued to explore, chatting with staff members and learning more about the Castellano family history. Yet, as the clock ticked on, she couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation bubbling inside her.

When Lucien finally returned, he was greeted by the sight of Seraphine lounging on the couch, surrounded by books she had gathered from her explorations. The moment he stepped through the door, his face lit up.

"Ready for our adventure?" he asked, tossing his keys onto the table.

"Absolutely! Though I might need a wheelbarrow for all the treasures I plan to find," she laughed, standing up and smoothing her dress. "Just let me change. I will be back in a few minutes."

Lucien chucked as he watched her run to her room. He pulled out his phone and sat at the couch. My Queens going to take her pretty little time.