The weeks following their first unconventional date were filled with quiet moments, laughter, and stolen glances. Rowan and Roselyn navigated their relationship with a mix of tenderness and excitement—simple dinners, late-night walks, and long conversations that stretched into the early hours.
One evening, after a peaceful dinner together, they found themselves on the rooftop of Roselyn's apartment building. The city lights stretched endlessly before them, casting a soft glow over their faces.
Rowan reached out, brushing a loose strand of hair from her cheek. "You know… I can't stop thinking about you," he murmured, voice low and sincere.
Roselyn's heart raced, her lips parting slightly. "I… feel the same way. I've never felt like this before."
For a long, breathless moment, they simply stared at each other, the world around them fading. Then Rowan leaned in slowly, and their lips met in a gentle, lingering kiss—sweet, tender, and full of unspoken promises.
Roselyn's hands rested lightly on his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart. She felt safe, loved, and alive. Rowan's arms wrapped around her, anchoring her in the moment, and for once, all the shadows of her past seemed distant.
A Month Later – Duty Calls
The tranquility of their romance was short-lived. A quiet tension grew one morning as Rowan packed his bag, military-issued gear laid neatly beside him.
"I have to leave," he said softly, not looking at her. "Mission orders. I won't be gone long, but…"
Roselyn's chest tightened. "How long?"
Rowan met her gaze, eyes full of regret and determination. "Weeks… maybe a month. It's classified. You know why I have to go."
She nodded, trying to mask her worry. "I do… just promise me you'll be careful."
He leaned down, kissing her forehead. "I'll be back. And when I am… we pick up right where we left off."
Roselyn smiled softly, tears brimming. "I'll hold you to that."
Roselyn's New Training
With Rowan gone, Roselyn returned to her life—but her grandfather, Lucian, had plans.
"Roselyn," he said one afternoon, voice firm yet gentle, "you've survived horrors no one should face. But your gift, your abilities… they can be honed. I want you trained, under my guidance and my trusted connections. You'll be stronger, smarter, and ready for anything the world throws at you."
Roselyn's eyes widened. "Train? With… military-style training?"
Lucian nodded. "Yes. Combat, strategy, field operations. Not to become a soldier, but to protect yourself and those you care about. I want you prepared, not just surviving but thriving."
Julian added with a smile, "You've faced darkness and come through. It's time to take control of your life fully. Your mother, brother, and Rowan can all support you, but this—this is your journey."
Roselyn swallowed hard, determination settling in. "I understand. I'll do it."
Lucian's stern expression softened slightly. "Good. Then we start tomorrow. And Rowan… he'll be proud."
Roselyn's gaze lifted toward the sky, thinking of Rowan on his mission, the soft memories of their rooftop kiss lingering. She felt a mixture of longing and strength.
"I'll be ready for him," she whispered to herself.
And so, her new chapter began: training under her grandfather's guidance, honing her abilities, growing stronger, and preparing for whatever challenges awaited—while love waited patiently on the horizon.