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Anya had no idea how she got here honestly. She blinked and looked around her only to see a bunch of tables and people sitting in them (obviously) but the weirdest thing was that her parents were there too. They were sitting at a table altogether wearing fancy clothing. Anya herself wearing a rather expensive-looking dress. It looked a lot like something Becky would have in her wardrobe.
Probably where she got it.
But why was she even here?
To make matters worse Anya was sure she looked way different now. Last she checked she was sixteen but she looked and felt like she was in the body of a twenty-year-old. Even her parents looked older. Did she somehow jump to the future without realizing it? Or was she just having one long flashback and she was twenty the entire time?
She couldn't tell because it all felt so real. Even the way her parents acted. How they interacted with Becky's parents. Hell! Becky was talking to her how she usually did with Anya and Anya was responding as if she wasn't currently having an internal turmoil right now.
Why was she even at a fancy party right now?
She looked around and spotted two familiar faces. It was Emile and Ewen, Damian's lackeys who were also his best friends. One without the other. Which begged the question, where was he?
Clink clink clink
Hm? A toast?
She knew that sound anywhere. On the rare occasion, she'd follow Becky to a fancy rich people party. To gather everyone's attention, sometimes people would use a spoon and tap it on the glass cup.
Anya looked confused but felt herself go cold recognizing the man that was trying to get everyone's attention.
Super evil boss Donovan Desmond!!
Now she was on edge. She looked at her Papa who looked normal. She peeked into his thoughts and came up empty which freaked her out. Donovan, his target was right there! Why wouldn't he be thinking right now!?
What is going on??
She had half a mind to not get up and scream to everyone about what they were all doing. She could barely hear Donovan's words. The only thing she managed to make out was:
Engagement party.
Someone is getting engaged?
Oh, is Demetrius getting engaged? Is that why she couldn't find Damian? Well, that made sense. It made sense why she'd be here because he'd likely invite her and her family to the party. Well, she was happy for him, she barely knew him but Damian was probably about to congratulate him. Have some words for the happy couple and all that and then come sit with his friends and likely come say hello to her and Becky while being polite to her parents like always.
The door opened and a girl stepped out.
Oh that must be-
Anya dropped her drink she didn't even know she was holding. Nobody seemed to hear the sound of glass shattering on the floor as the sounds of cheers, claps, and music were in the background.
That's-!
Anya's entire world shattered as she watched Damian walk side by side with a beautiful girl she's never seen before. They arrived at the table his parents were at. She sat down, he didn't…
No, she refuses to watch.
"-----, will you marry me?"
"Yes!"
What?
No!
Something wasn't right- this wasn't right!
He would never.
He would-
He was looking at her with those loving eyes of his. The same look he'd give her every day whenever she looked in his vicinity. Anya could feel her eyes begin to swell up. Her throat closed in. Her chest tightened. Nothing but white noise in her ears. The stinging pain, everything inside her begging her to run away.
He was leaning in.
About to kiss her.
No.
No.
No.
No.
NO!
NOOOOOOO!!!
"NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!"
A deep breath, another one. Hot tears spilled out of her eyes. She looked around and realized she was in her room. In her PJs and she was sixteen again.
Booom
Baaaang
"ANYA!"
"Worf!"
Her parents burst into the room with weapons in their hands ready to kill whoever was hurting their precious daughter. Instead, they were greeted with the sight of Anya in her bed. Sweaty and full of tears in her eyes.
She had a nightmare.
Setting their weapons down they both walked towards Anya and embraced her. Bond jumped on Anya's bed and settled himself next to her as she cried her eyes out.
They had never heard Anya sound so anguished.
In the morning during breakfast, they weren't sure how to broach the topic with her. Or if she even remembered at all. She seemed sad as she picked at her food without eating, it was obvious she didn't want to talk about it.
As they waited for her bus Loid and Yor shared a look. Now or never.
"Anya, whatever is bothering you…" Loid paused.
"...You can talk to us about it." Yor continued.
Anya nodded and smiled but it wasn't her usual sweet and bright smile. It was a sad one that only broke their hearts further. There was no time for further questioning as Anya's bus had arrived. They saw their daughter leave feeling worried.
Being at school wasn't making Anya feel better. And having Becky chat off her ear which was usually comforting wasn't changing her mood. They walked in and passed the dorms like usual. Her heart leaped as she noticed the usual trio leave the building.
"Oh hey guys, good morning."
"Morning Blackbell, morning Forger."
Anya felt her throat clam up. It was dry to boot. She merely did a slight nod of acknowledgment to not worry anyone. She didn't trust herself to not sound like shit right now. Unfortunately, Anya wasn't the quiet one out of the five. They all looked at her in concern. Even Becky didn't notice anything off when they met up at the entrance.
"You okay?" She asked.
Anya nodded again. Her throat and chest were only getting tighter.
"Sore throat maybe?" Ewen suggested.
Anya eagerly nodded. Yes, that was a perfect excuse! Thank goodness someone provided her with an out.
"Are you sick?" Becky felt her forehead. "No, you seem normal."
Even though Becky just checked. Damian did so as well, just to make sure Becky wasn't being dumb, not because he was concerned or anything. "Could just be a sore throat Blackbell. We can get her some warm tea from the cafeteria." I hope it isn't anything serious.
Anya almost burst into tears right then and there. Instead, she did the next best thing and buried her face in his chest. An unexpected but welcome move although she knew Damian was likely embarrassed with what she was doing. She just couldn't help it, the dream- no, the nightmare was still so vivid. It felt so real.
It burned.
"Anya?"
"Hm?" Anya blinked and suddenly she was in class. When did she get here!? Oh no, was this another nightmare-
"Are you sure you're not sick? You're starting to worry me." Becky questioned, concern laced in her voice as she once again checked Anya's temperature. She turned to the boys who were chatting amongst themselves. "Who's going to buy Anya some tea?"
Damian raised an eyebrow. "Me obviously."
Becky crossed her arms. "How kind, get to it because I think Anya is getting worse."
One look at Anya will tell you she was indeed getting worse. Her eyes seem so swollen and she had a blank stare during class. Like she wasn't even there.
They entered the cafeteria.
They sat Anya down while the rest got their food. Damian got her tea and Becky ordered her food. She took a shaky breath and tried to calm her nerves. It was just a stupid nightmare but it just…
It was too real.
Did Bond show her the future!?
No, he wasn't even awake during that, he woke up because of her screams. She mentally facepalmed trying to forget her nightmare. She was being irrational. It was obvious something like that would happen. She was no stranger to how the real world works when it came to the high society. Damian would likely have to marry a girl his family decided was right for him. Anya never stood a chance and yet the very idea haunts her. She just can't stand it.
Yet she has no plans to do anything about it. Staying silent will prevent more pain.
"Here Anya drink this," Damian said as he set down the tea he ordered for her.
It didn't help that he's been sweeter to her during recent years. She couldn't help the small blush. Grabbing the cup she sipped on the tea and felt her nerves calm down. It probably wasn't the tea but more so who brought the tea.
"Is it helping?"
Why did he have to be so cute?
She nodded slowly and continued sipping on the tea trying to ignore her beating heart.
A plate was placed in front of her, courtesy of Becky who sat beside her with a smile. "Eat up Anya!"
Anya ate alright, she was starving. She skipped breakfast entirely which hurt her Papa. With a silent promise to make it up to him later, she ate every last bite of her lunch. She patted her stomach and let out a small sigh in satisfaction.
"Wow, you were really hungry," Emile noted.
Anya rubbed the back of her head bashfully. "I skipped breakfast."
"Ah! She speaks!" Becky's eyes glistened.
Oh, right she wasn't talking. She did lie about the sore throat. Whoops. "I feel better."
"I'm so glad." Becky held her hand. Anya smiled trying to reassure her friend.
I'm so glad she's okay.
Anya jumped a bit in her seat. She tried real hard not to blush from that. He was so worried about her, wasn't he? If only he knew why she felt sick to her stomach. He can't know, he probably never will. And Anya was fine with that.
Anything to prevent their suffering.
But was she okay with that?
"Say… Sy-on boy." What was she doing!?
"Yes?"
Wait-
"Damian-sama!"
Oh.
A girl with pretty blonde hair and blue eyes stood by their table. She looked familiar… way too familiar…
She looked awfully like the girl in her nightmare.
"Ugh, what do you want Hannah?" Becky scowled at the girl trying to shoo her off.
The girl in question, Hannah, merely rolled her eyes. Bashing her eyelashes like the idiot she was, she turned her full attention to Damian. "I wanted to ask if you could-"
Becky let out a loud groan. "Shut the fuck up already we're eating!" She shooed her away. This time was encouraged by Emile and Ewen who backed up her statement.
Anya couldn't help the smile on her face. Leave it to Becky to make her feel better without realizing it.
Hannah stomped on the floor with a huff. "Shut it Blackbell! I'm talking to Damian-sama!"
Damian rolled his eyes in annoyance. "Out with it. As my friend said, we're trying to eat here."
Hannah squeaked and nodded. Not liking the idea of being an annoyance to Damian. "I wanted to ask if you could tutor me in math."
Damian raised an eyebrow. "And you came to me?" While Damian was good at almost all of the subjects, he didn't exactly tutor anyone that wasn't in his friend group. Why the girl doesn't just take remedial classes was a mystery.
Hannah nodded rather eagerly. "Of course Damian-sama! Everyone knows you're the best in Eden Academy." She began to praise him. Well, I actually just want some alone time so we could maybe-
Anya blocked her out. The ache in her heart was too much to ignore. She abruptly got up and walked away from the table. Ignoring everyone who was calling out to her. She felt rather dumb now that she thought about it. Leaving like that will raise some questions. And yet she still ran towards the bathroom and locked herself in the stall. She hugged herself tightly trying and failing to forget her nightmare.
It was too real.
Because it's real.
Or it will be anyway.
Anya didn't come to class at all. Nobody even saw her leave to boot. It worried her friends to no end. Wondering what had happened. Why did Anya leave like that? And where did she go? Becky was using all her brainpower to try and decipher her friend's actions. Anya was fine and then she wasn't! What could have possibly triggered such a-
Wait a minute.
WAIT A MINUTE!!!!
Becky slammed her hands on her desk and then whipped around to look at the trio. "I KNOW WHAT HAPPENED!" She screamed, catching everyone's attention. She lowered her voice as soon as she realized. "I know what happened!"
"What happened!?" Damian asked eagerly. Out of everyone, his nerves were through the roof. His mind was going a mile a minute imagining every possible bad scenario. From ending up at the hospital to getting kidnapped! That last one sent shivers down his spine. He could only imagine how Pops would feel if Anya was kidnapped.
Becky opened her mouth only to close it again. She wasn't supposed to share her findings. That would be exposing Anya's secret! But then again it pained her seeing how Anya and Damian were practically dancing around each other. Saying something now could get the ball rolling. With a smirk, she pointed at Damian. "It was Hannah!"
"The annoying blonde girl?" Ewen asked.
Becky nodded. "Anya left because she was so obviously trying to get alone time with Damian."
…
…
…
It was taking a bit but Becky could see the gears turning in Damian's mind as he realized what she was implying. His face immediately turned a bright red. "Wh-What are you trying to imply Blackbell!?" There's no way-
"Exactly what you're thinking Desmond! Anya left because she was jealous." Becky crossed her arms satisfied with her revelation. This would surely help Anya out!
"Are you saying Forger likes Damian-sama?"
"That's what she's saying."
Damian slammed his head against the table.
"Damian-sama!?" The boys said in unison.
Becky still had a smirk on her face.
At that moment Anya walked in and immediately felt all eyes on her. Well almost everyone, Damian was combusting in his seat. Becky brightened up and immediately hugged Anya bombarding her with questions without room for an answer. Anya was quiet for the most part but everyone was happy she was back, looked fine (for the most part), and wasn't at all kidnapped.
Damian couldn't look her in the eyes at all. Becky's words kept ringing in his mind and he kept getting too embarrassed whenever he laid eyes on Anya. It was true that he did like her, as much as his younger self wanted to deny it so desperately. She was a commoner, did terribly in school, and was at most times childish and naive.
But he still liked her.
No, he loved her.
He was positive she was the love of his life. She didn't need to worry about Hannah because no matter what Anya will always be the one he wants.
She didn't know that.
Or so he thought.
Anya was fighting back a blush. She heard his thoughts loud and clear. Despite feeling overjoyed she was also extremely sad. Even if he claims that she's sure he'll always put his family first. If his dad asked him to marry a girl of high standings, she's sure he'll do it in a heartbeat. A girl like Hannah would be the perfect candidate. It sucked she was such a gold digger. If she was nicer Anya would probably… probably be okay with it.
Probably.
"Anya, where were you!?"
"Bathroom."
It wasn't a lie.
She kept being bombarded with questions. She answered them as much as she could. Although she didn't want to give anything away. Even though Becky already figured it out Anya wasn't about to just confirm her suspicions. That would be embarrassing. And yet she knew Damian loved her. His thoughts were all over the place but she could hear the I love you that he was throwing at her every time they lock eyes. Anya would be lying if that didn't make her feel happy. She wanted to say it back but she was still afraid.
Things weren't calm for long.
After the bell rang they all walked together towards the entrance to see Becky and Anya off.
"Today was a wild ride thanks to our peanut-loving dummy right here." Becky playfully nudged Anya.
Anya blushed. "Sorry, I promise I'll feel better soon." She wasn't sure if she would. Her fear was still getting the better of her. She was afraid of having another nightmare. Maybe sleeping with Bond will help.
"Are you sure you're okay?" Emile asked.
"Yeah, are you?" Ewen followed up.
Damian nudged the two. "She'll tell us on her own." He had the sense to know Anya likely didn't want to talk about what was bothering her. Of course he'd want to make sure if she was okay but he can't make Anya talk.
Anya appreciated that. "I'll be-"
"Damian-sama!!"
All five groaned as the blonde known as Hannah came back.
How dare she interrupt Anya!
"I'm going to rip her apart," Becky muttered threateningly. Everyone agreed with her.
Hannah had the audacity to grab Damian's arm and pull him towards her. "Hey, hey, have you thought-"
"No."
"Huh?"
"I said no, I'm not going to help you." Was this girl deaf? Probably. He wasn't sure why they think they can just waltz into his personal space and invade it. The only girl allowed to do that was Anya. He freed his arm from her forcefully.
Anya didn't mean to giggle but she did. This caused Hannah to glare at her. Thought she was mocking her for being rejected by Damian Desmond.
"What's so funny, huh? Think you're so special?" She began to get all up in Anya's face.
Becky immediately intervened. "Hey back off!" She pushed the girl away.
"Don't fucking touch me Blackbell!" She pushed her back but with more force. Becky fell to the ground.
"Ow!" She winced a bit. Immediately the boys were at her side trying to help her up.
Anya glared at Hannah. A burning rage built up inside her as her fist clenched. She remembers feeling this way before. While that memory was a fond one. This one not so much.
"Anya don't you'll get in trouble." Damian held her back. He could tell she was about to fight Hannah. He didn't want her getting a bolt.
Anya's anger subsided if only for a moment. She held onto Damian instinctively. This only served to anger Hannah.
"Why you-!" Hannah curled up her fist and aimed for Anya.
At that moment Anya's training kicked in. She dodged it effortlessly, grabbed her arm, got behind Hannah, and subdued her to the ground in a split second. Such action caused her friend group to look at her gaping and eyes wide. Hannah began to scream in pain. Anya had her in a tight lock mainly to restrain her from making further movements. She wasn't letting up.
HOLYSHITHOLYSHITHOLYSHIT THAT. WAS. HOT!!
Wha-!?
Anya's grip loosened, she looked up at Damian with eyes wide, blushing madly. Did he really just think that?!
"What's going on here!?"
Ah shit.
Thus they found themselves in the office being reprimanded by a teacher for hurting Hannah. She was sneering at them from a corner while holding her arm. Hannah was so sure Anya Forger was going to be in major trouble right after this.
"It's not like that! Anya was just defending herself!" Damian argued.
"Yeah!" Emile and Ewen agreed.
"She was defending herself because Hannah was going to hurt her!" Becky pointed at Hannah who scowled.
"I did no such thing!"
"Liar!" All four said in unison.
Anya fiddled with the hem of her skirt. She felt so nervous. She's sure her parents would understand but still. She didn't want three bolts!
"I understand you guys want to defend your friend. But all four of you are biased parties."
Well shit.
They were known as the quintet squad throughout the school. It was a no brainer that it would reach the teachers' ears.
"So unless a third party-" A knock could be heard on the door. The teacher paused and cleared his throat. "Come in."
In came George Glooman.
Much to the shock of everyone.
"Forger is innocent!" He declared as soon as he opened the door. Thus began George's recounting of events from his POV. It was very exaggerated but it was on purpose. In the end, he told the teacher Hannah tried to punch Anya but she merely stopped her from doing so. You can't blame her, she had already hurt her friend after all!
The day was saved thanks to George. Anya avoided a bolt. Hannah got reprimanded. And now George was seen as a hero in their eyes.
They all agreed to thank him at a later date.
Anya was sure her Papa will have a heart attack anyway.
Since she missed the bus Becky graciously volunteered Damian to take Anya home. She practically pushed him towards her much to the displeasure pleasure of the boy. Thus they found themselves in front of Anya's home. Damian had requested a ride and Anya was excited to ride a limousine. She claimed it made her feel like a lady. During the entire ride neither noticed or maybe they did, that they held hands.
They stood awkwardly in front of Anya's door. Both found the floor rather fascinating. Saying goodbye was hard.
"Anya."
"Hm?"
His heart began to beat faster and louder the more he stared into Anya's eyes. They're so beautiful.
Anya blushed and buried her head in his chest. "Thank you."
The action sent Damian into a frenzy but he quickly attempted to compose himself. "For what?"
Anya smiled. "You know."
Does he?
He would if he knew Anya was a mind reader. Maybe one day she'll tell him. Anya broke off the hug but still held his hand tightly. She looked into his eyes, he hers, they stared intently at each other. It was like a dream.
Was he leaning in?
She wasn't sure, she felt her eyes close on their own.
Their lips practically brushed each other.
So close.
So…
"Am I interrupting something?"
They both screamed and took a step back. Both turned to see Loid Forger standing by the door looking rather… upset.
"He-Hey Papa."
"Hello Po- I mean Mr. Forger."
"Hmm." He merely said as a greeting. As if he didn't just catch his daughter inches away from kissing a boy. His stare was causing Damian immense pressure.
After a few minutes of intense awkward silence, Loid sighed. "Come in Anya I'm sure you'll love to explain why you're late."
Anya straightened. "Ye-Yes sir!" She saluted and quickly went in but not before waving goodbye to Damian who returned it albeit weakly as he was still under Loid's intense gaze.
Once Anya was out of view Loid crossed his arms. "Thank you for bringing my daughter back home."
"Of-Of course sir, it's no problem, sir." Damian never thought he'd feel such intense fear for Loid Forger.
Loid stared at him for a few minutes and then nodded. "Have a good night Damian."
"You too sir."
He closed the door.
Damian let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. Holy shit. The pressure was immense. He started walking towards his car when he heard the door open again. He turned around fully expecting Loid again but was greeted by a blur of pink crashing into him. More specifically his lips.
He was kissing Anya Forger.
He was kissing her.
…
…Was he dead?
Anya giggled. "Dummy." She gave him another peck on the lips and ran back towards the door. "See you tomorrow Sy-on boy!" She closed the door.
He turned around and got inside the limo feeling dazed. The driver looked at him from the rearview mirror and chuckled.
Ah, young love.
Meanwhile Anya right after explaining the entire situation to her parents, Loid almost having a heart attack like she predicated, went to her room, jumped on her bed, and squealed into her pillow. She didn't know what the future held for her or Damian.
All she knew now was that she was willing to face it head on.