Chapter 6: The Phantom

Violet’s consciousness flickered back slowly, her mind still clouded with the hazy remnants of yesterday’s events. The soft chime of her phone cut through the morning silence. A text from Ribero illuminated the screen: “You don’t need to come in today sweetie. We are making some staffing changes before you come back. Terri or I will be by later to check on you.”

Relief washed over her at the prospect of rest. She stretched languidly in her bed, her muscles unwinding as a deep yawn escaped her lips. When her eyes drifted to the ornate Victorian mirror hanging on her wall, her breath caught in her throat. Instead of her own reflection, a man’s face gazed back at her, his features both haunting and oddly familiar. Her body tensed, fingers gripping the soft cotton sheets.

“Hi beautiful,” he said, his voice smooth as honey, a gentle smile playing across his lips. Recognition sparked in her mind. “You’re the man from the hospital.”

“I’ve known you longer than that,” he replied, his eyes holding secrets she couldn’t quite grasp.

“Ok so you’re dead, right? How did you end up in my mirror?” Her voice trembled slightly, curiosity warring with caution.

“It’s a long story, but I want to get to know you. I know you’re bound to the Fae king, but I’m hoping we could at least be friends.” His words carried a weight of longing that tugged at something deep within her.

Fighting against her better judgment, Violet approached the mirror, drawn by an inexplicable force. He pressed his palm against the glass, and she found herself matching his gesture. A warm, tingling sensation spread through her hand where it met the cool surface, like sunlight breaking through morning frost. The feeling stirred something in her memory, a half-forgotten dream.

“See? Nothing to be afraid of.” His voice was gentle as he moved his hand, replacing it with his lips against the glass where her palm rested. An impossible sensation of cold lips pressed against her skin, sending shivers down her spine. She yanked her hand back, staring at her palm in disbelief.

“How could I feel that?” she whispered, her voice barely audible.

“Soon you will be able to feel more if you allow me.” His words hung in the air like mist. “See you later.” The glass rippled like disturbed water, and he vanished, leaving Violet alone with her racing thoughts.

Questions swirled in her mind like autumn leaves caught in a whirlwind. The pull she felt toward him defied logic, and his claimed familiarity with her past only deepened the mystery. With work cancelled for the day, she decided a shower might help clear her thoughts.

The bathroom welcomed her with its familiar comfort. Steam began to curl through the air as she adjusted the water temperature, testing it with delicate fingers until it reached that perfect balance between hot and cold. Stepping into the shower, she drew the seafoam green curtain closed, the fabric swishing softly against the porcelain tub. The lavender body wash released its soothing aroma as she worked it into a rich lather on her loofa. She methodically cleansed her body, the soft foam gliding across her skin, paying careful attention to every curve and hollow. The coconut shampoo added its tropical essence to the steamy air as she massaged it into her scalp, letting the familiar motions soothe her troubled mind.

“Sweetie pie, are you here?” Terri’s voice cut through her peaceful moment like a knife. Panic seized her naked form as she scrambled to turn off the water. In her haste to reach for a robe before he entered, her foot slipped on the wet surface.

“Ow!” The cry escaped her lips as she tumbled onto the plush bathroom rug, her wet skin glistening in the soft bathroom light. Terri appeared in the doorway, concern etched on his features as he found her sprawled on the floor.

“I fell getting out,” she mumbled, her cheeks burning as she avoided his gaze.

“I’ll dry you off and help you get dressed if you will allow me,” he offered, his voice low and gentle.

“I don’t know… what would Fernando say?” Her voice wavered with uncertainty.

“He won’t know,” Terri whispered, his warm breath caressing her ear as he helped her to her feet. The intimacy of the moment sent electricity coursing through her veins, leaving her questioning her own desires.

Their eyes locked, and time seemed to freeze. He drew her into a kiss that made her knees weak, a soft moan escaping her lips. The moment shattered – literally – as the bathroom mirror exploded with a thunderous crash. Violet screamed, instinctively pressing herself against Terri’s solid form, modesty forgotten in her fear.

“What was that?” she gasped, heart pounding against her ribs.

“I don’t know sweetie. Stand tight here so you don’t step on the glass.” With a casual wave of his hand, the shards lifted from the floor, dancing through the air like diamond dust before reassembling perfectly in the frame.

The plush white towel felt like a cloud against her skin as he dried her with careful, respectful movements. He selected a matching set of clean undergarments and a cheerful sunflower dress that seemed to capture the warmth of summer. Once dressed, he took her hand, his touch reassuring. “Let’s go to the kitchen. We can grab something to eat and cuddle on the couch.”

The living room welcomed them with its cozy ambiance. While she nestled into the couch, wrapping herself in a blanket that felt like a gentle embrace, Terri busied himself in the kitchen. The rhythmic popping of corn kernels soon filled the air, accompanied by the subtle clink of wine glasses. When the microwave chimed its completion, the entire house was enveloped in the rich aroma of melted butter. “Wine for breakfast?” she giggled as he returned with their impromptu feast.

“Why not? We have nothing to do today.” The popcorn bowl settled between them, and as they both reached for it, their fingers brushed. He captured her hand, pressing soft kisses to each fingertip. The gesture sent waves of contentment through her body.

“Stop it,” she protested weakly, “Your charm makes me so calm that I fall asleep, and I want to stay awake with you!”

“Ok, I’ll be good.” They settled into a comfortable rhythm, the buttery popcorn and rich wine disappearing as Terri flipped through channels. As the last drops of wine vanished, she found herself drawn to the warmth of his chest.

“That wine was so good,” she murmured, her words sliding together. His fingers wove through her hair in a hypnotic pattern. “No, I want to stay awake,” she protested even as her eyelids grew heavy. His tender kiss was the last thing she felt before surrendering to the peaceful darkness.

The gentle weight of her against his chest lulled Terri into his own rest. Hours slipped by until a firm shake of his shoulders roused him. Ribero stood before them, his expression a mix of amusement and concern. “You forgot to lock her door.”

“I’m sorry, we fell asleep.” Before he could say more, Ribero gathered Violet from Terri’s arms, awakening her with a passionate kiss. She responded eagerly, drawing him closer until he finally pulled away.

“More?” she pleaded, her eyes sparkling with desire.

“I can’t – you already slept for hours with Terri. I don’t want to put you to sleep.”

“I need you,” she insisted, her voice thick with longing.

“She needs us,” Terri added with a knowing smile.

She only said me,” Ribero smirked.

“Both,” she confirmed, her smile radiant.

Terri’s lips found the sensitive skin of her neck, while Ribero claimed her mouth in a passionate dance. Her soft moans of pleasure filled the air, but the Fae magic soon took its toll. Within minutes, she drifted into peaceful slumber once more.

“Fernando needs to hurry up with that pill,” Ribero sighed. Terri nodded in agreement as they watched her peaceful expression. With gentle care, Ribero lifted her in his arms and carried her to bed. They each pressed a tender kiss to her forehead before securing the house for the night, leaving their sleeping beauty to her dreams.