Perilous Sea || Homer Series

Chapter Nine

Hailey smiled as she whispered something to Vein. He listened intently, his focus entirely on her, as if she were the only person in the room.

"When the dreams all fail

And the ones we hail

Are the worst of all

And the blood’s run stale…"

Oreo’s voice broke through the melody.

"Now, let’s call the best friend of the celebrant—Mr. Lewis Loresti!"

"I want to hide the truth,

I want to shelter you,

But with the beast inside,

There’s nowhere we can hide…"

I pressed my lips together as my gaze shifted to Hailey and Lewis.

They had once been in love. But something happened. Something that tore them apart, sending them on separate paths.

"No matter what we breed,

We still are made of greed,

This is my kingdom come,

This is my kingdom come…"

And yet… Lewis was still standing in the past, in the place where they had left each other.

"When you feel my heat,

Look into my eyes,

It’s where my demons hide,

It’s where my demons hide…"

The way he looked at her—it was a silent confession. A love that never wavered, even after all this time.

Pain and devotion swirled in his eyes, raw and unguarded. His fingers curled gently around hers as they danced, careful but lingering. He still cherished her. He had learned to love from afar, to let go without bitterness, to bow before a warmth that had long faded.

"Don’t get too close,

It’s dark inside,

It’s where my demons hide,

It’s where my demons hide…"

I closed my eyes.

Sad endings hurt, but in the end, we still embrace the pain. We endure it.

No—perhaps "gruesome" was the better word. A gruesome ending leaves wounds, but we have no choice but to carry them, to let them become part of us.

The event continued seamlessly, now reaching the sixteenth rose. The venue itself was grand, its atmosphere elegant yet warm. Every detail of the program had been executed flawlessly.

"And now," Oreo announced, "let’s welcome the brother of our lovely celebrant—Mr. Numerald Cladous!"

As Perfect by Ed Sheeran played, Hailey beamed up at her brother, laughter lighting up her face. I couldn’t hear what he said, but it was obvious—he knew exactly how to lift her spirits.

"‘Cause we were just kids

When we fell in love,

Not knowing what it was…

I will not give you up this time…"

Numerald was an ideal brother, much like Monica. Protective yet understanding, playful yet dependable. He knew how to handle his sisters, how to make them feel safe.

And in this moment, Hailey wasn’t just a celebrated debutante—she was a girl surrounded by love.

"Darling, just kiss me slow,

Your heart is all I own,

And in your eyes, you’re holding mine…"

"For the second to the last dance, let’s welcome the man Hailey will always love—her first love, her father, Mr. Kobi Cladous!"

A warm round of applause filled the venue as Numerald leaned down, pressing a quick kiss to Hailey’s cheek before handing her over to their father. Before stepping back, he smirked at Kobi, a teasing glint in his eyes, as if to say Don't make her cry, old man.

"Baby, I'm… dancing in the dark,

You between my arms,

Barefoot on the grass,

We’re listening to our favorite song…"

Hailey rested her head against her father’s chest, eyes fluttering shut. She looked at peace, like she had found the safest place in the world.

Like she had found home.

I swallowed, my fingers curling against my dress.

How many more times will I feel this way? How many more times will I envy something so simple?

A warm, loving family. Something I had always hoped for.

"When you said you looked a mess,

I whispered underneath my breath,

But you heard it,

Darling, you look perfect tonight."

"And now," Oreo announced, drawing out the moment, "for the final and most anticipated dance—let’s welcome the dashing boyfriend of our lovely celebrant, Mr. Cave Wosler!"

A wave of cheers and whistles erupted.

As Kobi released Hailey, his gaze darkened as he turned to Cave, leaning in to murmur something low and firm. Whatever it was, it made Cave chuckle, his eyes glinting with amusement.

Hailey pouted, her cheeks burning a deep shade of red.

"Well, I found a woman,

Stronger than anyone I know,

She shares my dreams,

I hope that someday I’ll share her home…"

She looked at Cave like he was the only one in the room, her eyes brimming with so much love it was almost overwhelming.

And Cave… he didn’t smile. He didn’t need to. The way he gazed at her—with unwavering sincerity and quiet devotion—spoke louder than any grin ever could.

"I found a love,

To carry more than just my secrets,

To carry love,

To carry children of our own…"

Their connection was undeniable, raw and consuming. Cave pulled her closer, closing the space between them, his grip firm yet gentle.

I tore my gaze away, my chest tightening.

Lewis.

He was still watching.

His expression was unreadable, but his eyes—gloomy, burdened—told a different story.

Regret.

I didn’t know how he managed to stand there, watching the girl he loved being held by someone else. How he managed to endure this.

It was torture.

And yet, he bore it.

"We are still kids,

But we’re so in love,

Fighting against all odds,

I know we’ll be alright this time…"

The last note faded, signaling the end of the eighteen roses. The room filled with applause as the program transitioned smoothly into dinner.

Finally.

I exhaled, my stomach reminding me of how long I’d been standing. Without another thought, I turned and made my way back to my table.

"Your voice is so angelic—just like your face, Oceanna. That was so good, I almost fell asleep!" Herika exclaimed, stretching her arms dramatically.

"You nailed it," Zephyr added, flashing me a warm smile.

"Oh?" Lexine’s voice carried a teasing lilt as she wiggled her brows, shifting her gaze between Zephyr and me.

I rolled my eyes at her antics before turning back to my friends. "Thanks, guys," I muttered, brushing off the sudden attention.

Ulysses smirked. "I think you captured someone's heart, Oceanna."

"Shut up, Ulys," I shot back, narrowing my eyes. "Why don't you focus on capturing Leza’s heart instead, hmm?"

He snickered. "I already did." His tone was smug, full of certainty.

Monica, who had just arrived, scoffed as she slid into the seat beside me. "Leza has bad taste, then."

Our attention snapped to her, amusement flickering in our eyes.

Ulysses laughed, unfazed. "Stop lying, Monica. You had a crush on me before."

Monica scrunched her nose in mock disgust. "Ew. Please."

Laughter erupted around the table, Monica rolling her eyes as we teased her.

As the conversation shifted, something gnawed at the back of my mind. A curiosity. A question I couldn't ignore.

"Monica," I called, my gaze settling on her. "We had no idea Vein Coquete was your cousin." I threw a quick glance at Lexine, whose focus remained on her plate, though I knew she was listening intently.

Monica scratched her nose. "Distant cousin," she clarified. "We rarely hang out with him, that’s why."

"Oh, but he’s handsome, right, Lexine?" I bit my lip, barely containing my amusement.

Lexine’s grip on her utensils tightened as she shot me a glare before looking at the others. "He’s not that handsome, so it’s whatever."

I smirked. I knew her better than that.

"Is he taken?" I asked, feigning curiosity.

The table fell silent, everyone turning their attention toward me. Perfect.

Monica narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "Do you like my cousin, Oceanna?"

I chuckled. "Maybe? So, is he?"

Monica pouted before nodding. "Yeah, he has a girlfriend. That man is ridiculously faithful to Romarane."

I pursed my lips, forcing myself not to roll my eyes.

"Oh, is that so? How long have they been together?"

Herika gasped, eyes wide. "Are you serious, Oceanna? You like him?"

I shrugged as everyone stared at me, curiosity brimming in their gazes.

"Why not? He’s handsome."

Ulysses folded his arms, scrutinizing me. "I know you. What are you up to?"

I blinked at him, feigning innocence. "Nothing. I’m just asking."

"It’s not like you to—"

A deep voice cut through the air, halting Ulysses mid-sentence.

"Monica."

The conversation stilled.

We all turned toward the source of the voice, and there he was. Vein Coquete.

Stoic. Collected. A wall of unreadable expressions.

He wasn’t alone. Standing beside him, equally unreadable, was Donovan.

So they really are close.

I hated to admit it, but damn, they both had that intimidating presence—the kind that turned heads effortlessly.

Monica met Vein’s gaze, unfazed. "Yeah? Do you need something?"

Vein’s attention remained on her. "Uncle Kobi asked me to find you. He wants to talk."

Then, his eyes flickered—just for a second—toward Lexine.

She didn’t look at him.

Instead, her gaze was fixed on someone else.

Donovan.

Something shifted in the air.

I wasn’t imagining it—Vein’s jaw clenched, his eyes darkened ever so slightly.

Monica stood up. "Okay, I’ll go." She turned to us. "I’ll be back."

We nodded as she walked off with Vein and Donovan, but just before they could leave—

"Donovan."

Lexine’s voice rang clear, halting their steps.

Donovan turned to her, his expression neutral. "Yeah?"

"Did Aunt Cquez tell you about the Saldoval properties?"

He nodded. "Yeah. We’ll discuss it tomorrow. I’ll pick you up."

"Do we need to go to San Francisco for the contract signing?"

Donovan’s expression remained calm. "Yeah. We’ll be staying there for weeks. I need you to come as your company’s representative."

Lexine nodded, almost like a child absorbing instructions. "Okay, just call me."

Donovan and Monica left our table, but Vein stayed.

We glanced at him, waiting.

What is he still doing here?

Then, his cold gaze settled on Lexine. "Let's talk."

Lexine’s playful expression vanished. She blinked at him, feigning innocence. "Me? Is there something to talk about?"

The sharpness in Vein’s eyes was impossible to ignore. "Drop the act, Brianna. Let’s talk."

She scoffed. "There’s no act. I just finally understand things."

His jaw tightened. "You don’t seem to understand—"

"Oh, but I do." Her voice was firm, resolute. "Stop messing around, Vein. I’m fine. You don’t have to worry."

I placed a gentle hand on her arm, whispering, "That’s enough."

People were starting to watch. This wasn’t the time or place for a scene.

Vein exhaled sharply. "You always choose the hard way, Bria. I can’t reach you."

Lexine’s lips curled into a bitter smile. "And you always choose the easy way. That’s why I don’t understand you."

Her voice softened, but the finality in her words was undeniable. "It’s time to break this cycle, Vein. It’s not working anymore. It never has."

She took a deep breath, closing her eyes for a brief moment before looking back at him.

"I promised not to bother you anymore, right? Please... do the same."

Silence.

Then, in one swift motion, Vein grabbed her arm, pulling her close. His lips moved as he whispered something only she could hear.

And then, just like that, he let go and walked away.

Lexine stood frozen, her teeth sinking into her lip as she watched him disappear into the crowd.

"Lexine," I called softly, worry laced in my voice.

Herika stared at her in shock. "Wait—so you and Vein...?" She gaped. "Oh my god. That’s why you kept saying he wasn’t... Ugh, Lexine!"

Lexine didn’t respond. She just lowered her gaze.

I exchanged a look with Ulysses. "We need to go. Just tell Hailey we had an emergency."

He nodded. "Got it."

I held Lexine’s arm, steadying her. She needed space. She needed to get out of here.

"Text us when you get home," Zanita said, concern evident in her voice.

I offered her a small smile before pressing a kiss to her cheek. "I will. And Lex, you know you can talk to me, right?"

Lexine nodded wordlessly.

"Do you want me to drive you two home?" Francois asked.

I shook my head. "No, we’re fine. Stay and enjoy the party."

Then, Zephyr stood up.

"I’ll walk you to the parking lot."

His voice was steady, but his eyes flickered with something else. Concern? Curiosity?

I didn’t question it.

Instead, I nodded. "Thanks."

We were about to step inside when we saw him.

Vein.

His hands were tucked into his pockets, his expression unreadable.

Beside me, Lexine stiffened. Her grip on my arm tightened as she shook her head. "I don’t want to talk to him. I don’t want to go near him, please..."

I sighed and glanced at Zephyr. "Can you take her home?"

His brows furrowed. "What about you?"

I offered him a small smile. "I’m fine. I just need to handle something."

Zephyr hesitated before nodding. He leaned in and pressed a quick kiss to my forehead. "Take care, okay?"

"Yes, sir."

I turned to Lexine. "Is it okay if you go with Zephyr?"

She swallowed hard, nodding. "Yes. I just… I just need to be away from him."

I watched as Zephyr guided her away.

Is this love?

Or just the illusion of it?

When they were finally out of sight, I walked toward Vein. His brows drew together as soon as he saw me.

"Where’s Brianna?" His eyes flickered past me, searching.

"She’s with Zephyr," I answered.

His jaw tightened. "Zephyr Burgos? Why?"

"Why?" I scoffed. "She wanted to go home. He’s driving her there."

Vein’s frustration was evident. His hands curled into fists, his annoyance simmering just beneath the surface.

"Where are they now?"

"Going home?"

His gaze snapped back to me. "What do you want?"

I shrugged. "I hate what you did. I always have."

He flicked his tongue against his cheek, an old habit of his. "People hate what they don’t understand. That’s normal."

I scoffed. "What’s there to understand? You made it clear."

His voice was low, sharp. "Stop meddling, Oceanna. There are things you’ll never understand because they’re not yours to handle."

I shook my head. "I’m not meddling. I would never involve myself in something that means nothing to me. But this is about my friend, Vein. You hurt her. And there is no reason—no justification—that makes that okay."

He clenched his jaw, lips pressed tightly together. He didn’t defend himself.

Lexine was right. He never argues. He lets people speak, listens in silence. But you’ll never really know what’s going on in his head.

Still, I tried.

"Do you even love her?" I asked.

His expression didn’t change. "Does it matter?"

"Yes," I said without hesitation. "If you don’t, then let her go."

I remembered the nights Lexine had called me, crying. The pain in her voice.

Vein exhaled slowly and pulled something from his pocket. A small white envelope. He held it out to me.

"Give this to her."

I eyed it warily. "What is this?"

"Don’t ask. Just… give it to her."

And then he turned to leave.

"Wait."

I ran after him, gripping his sleeve. "Why don’t you give it to her yourself?"

He stopped but didn’t face me.

"If you had let me talk to her tonight, I would have. But maybe it’s better this way."

His voice was distant, uncertain.

"Why?" My voice was barely above a whisper. "Why is it better?"

Finally, he turned, meeting my gaze.

"Because I don’t think I can let her go if she looks at me with those pleading eyes again."

A shaky breath escaped him.

"And, yes." His voice dropped, almost like a confession. "I do love her."

His lips pressed into a thin line. "But love isn’t always enough."

Then, without another word, walked to his car, and drove away.