Noah's POV
As Layla's hand rested gently in mine and we stepped into the center of the ballroom, time seemed to still.
The crowd parted, giving us space. The music swelled into a waltz, and I began the first slow steps of the dance. Layla's amber eyes didn't look at the crowd. They stayed locked on me, glowing with something fierce yet tender.
The room, however, was very much alive with reactions.
Scarlett's crimson eyes widened, lips parting in surprise at the gothic elegance of Layla's Fallen Bride ensemble. She was always composed—but even she couldn't hide her awe. "That little witch... she actually looks stunning," she muttered under her breath.
Lyra, ever observant, gave a small smirk and tilted her head. "She definitely knows how to make an entrance... and a statement." Her arms were crossed, but her eyes held no jealousy—only mild annoyance and reluctant admiration.
Olivia watched with quiet grace. Her emerald eyes scanned Layla's dress, then me. A small smile formed on her lips—gentle, knowing. She didn't need to speak. Her eyes already said it: You've made her happy.
Charlotte, ever regal, narrowed her eyes slightly before sighing. "Tch. That dress... no doubt tailored to perfection. But... he gifted it to her?" Her gaze lingered on our joined hands for a moment longer than necessary.
As the song slowed, the rest of the girls approached.
"Happy birthday, Layla," Scarlett said, handing her a sleek black box. Inside was a beautifully enchanted dagger—a match to Layla's aesthetic. "To slice through any fool who dares upset you. Even if it's Noah."
Layla giggled, twirling the dagger between her fingers. "Oh, I'll treasure this."
Lyra offered a small crystal bottle. "My gift—frost elixir. Temporarily boosts mana for curse wielders. You'll need it to keep up with him." She glanced at me briefly before adding, "Don't waste it."
Charlotte, though distant, handed over an elegant brooch shaped like a black rose. "This belonged to an ancestor of mine. It suits your style. Keep it safe."
Olivia presented a radiant charm. "A blessing stone," she said softly. "It shields against curses... and heartbreak."
"Thanks, Saintess," Layla replied, giving her a cheeky wink. "Though I don't think heartbreak's in the cards."
She turned back to everyone, her voice playful and proud.
"Oh, by the way—" she said sweetly, twirling in her dark bridal gown so the fabric shimmered, "—he gifted it to me."
The reactions were immediate.
Scarlett blinked. "You're kidding."
Lyra's eyes narrowed. "Of course he did."
Charlotte turned her head with a quiet scoff.
Even Olivia blinked once, clearly surprised. "You chose this design?" she asked me.
"I wanted it to reflect her spirit," I said with a shrug.
Layla leaned in beside me, voice like velvet. "See? He knows me so well."
Before they could continue, Layla's parents arrived.
Her mother, a graceful woman with soft features and long dark hair, pulled her daughter into a tight embrace. "Happy birthday, my little moon," she whispered, her eyes misty. She then turned to me and smiled slyly. "And you, Noah. You've grown even more handsome. My daughter's taste is exceptional."
Layla groaned. "Mom..."
Her father, tall and broad-shouldered, stood beside them with arms crossed. "Noah Von Augustus." His voice was firm.
"Yes, sir."
He stepped close—too close. "Hurt my daughter... and I'll make you wish you stayed reincarnated."
"I understand," I said, keeping my tone respectful.
Layla's father nodded and stepped back. "Good. Now, enjoy the party. But hands above the waist."
Layla's mother burst into laughter.
Mom and Dad approached next.
Julia pulled Layla into a warm hug. "You look like a new Bride tonight. Absolutely enchanting. I'm glad Noah picked such a bold set. You wear it with pride."
Richard nodded approvingly. "You've got style, young lady. And fire. A good match for our son."
Layla beamed. "Thank you. I'll take good care of him."
Soon after, the dancing resumed, and I found myself being pulled in multiple directions.
Scarlett was the first to claim a dance. Her hand gripped mine tightly, her voice low. "Don't think this means I'm letting you go. She might be your date tonight, but I'm still your sword."
"I'd never doubt it."
Later, Lyra took my hand without a word. As we danced, she glanced up. "You always surprise me."
"Is that a good thing?"
"It's why I'm still here."
The final dance I offered was to Olivia, extending my hand with a respectful smile.
"May I?"
To my surprise, she hesitated—then gave a graceful nod. "Only a fool would refuse such an invitation."
As we danced, I could feel every pair of eyes in the room locked on us—particularly the men.
Jealous glares. Dagger-like stares. One noble looked like he was ready to summon a duel.
I ignored them all.
"I think I just declared war," I muttered to Olivia.
She chuckled softly. "They'll get over it... or they won't. Either way, this is your moment."
And then, later in the night, as the music softened and the guests chatted in small clusters, I found a quiet balcony.
Layla found me there.
The moonlight washed over her face as she approached, her veil now resting gently over one shoulder, the petals of her dress trailing behind like dark silk smoke.
"Hey," she whispered, stepping beside me.
"Hey."
She looked at the sky for a moment, then at me. "You really gave me everything I wanted tonight."
"It's your birthday. You deserve the world."
She turned, took both my hands, and leaned in, her forehead brushing mine.
"I love it. The dress... the attention... you." Her voice cracked slightly. "I feel beautiful because of you."
"You are beautiful," I whispered, brushing her cheek with my fingers.
She pressed a soft kiss to my cheek, lingering. "Thank you, Noah."
"For what?"
"For making me feel like I'm the only girl in the world."
And in that moment, under the moonlight, with petals dancing in the air and the quiet hum of celebration in the distance, I pulled her close—
—and held her like she truly was.
My Fallen Bride ...
-to be continued..
A/N:
A women's heart is very pure to understand.
It doesn't require much just a little time of yours and attention.
I hope you all make your beloved feel as special as Noah did for Layla..
Remember Love can never be bought only earned .
See you all in next chapter...
-Author