Echoes of the Heart

All the characters, events, places, and groups that will be read in this story are fictional. If there is any resemblance to reality it is just a coincidence. Prologue "I want to be your loving wife someday," I wrote in the letter before placing it inside the box with the white heart-shaped chocolate I made last night. When people ask me about my dream, I always say that I want to be Vincentius Silas Sebastian’s future wife. From elementary to high school and even now , my dream hasn’t changed. I still want to marry him. But why? What's the main reason? Aside from being kind, gentlemanly, and intelligent, I like how he treats people as equals. His family is among the wealthiest in Arcadia, but he never acts superior. When I was a kid, he taught me to see the world beautifully and appreciate things that have no material benefit. He’s the only person I know who, despite his high status, makes you feel like an equal. Today is the day I’ve been waiting for—his twenty-first birthday. So, I dressed up beautifully and elegantly. I wore a pink knee-length dress that’s sleeveless, highlighting my fair skin. I put on light makeup, with a simple pink blush and gloss for my natural pink lips. I wore my Mary Jane shoes with a matching metallic finish and accessorized with a delicate bracelet and necklace. I styled my natural golden brown hair in soft curls and sprayed my favorite London Sandalwood perfume on my neck and wrists. My mom and dad accompanied me to the venue. They were also invited because my dad and Vincent's late father were best friends. The venue, a private mansion of the Sebastians here in Arcadia, was elegantly decorated in black and gold. Luxurious chandeliers cast a warm and inviting glow over the entire space. The tables were set with exquisite crystal glassware and gold cutlery, adding a touch of opulence to the evening. Every detail was meticulously planned to ensure the celebration was unforgettable. Many influential people were invited, some of whom were my dad's business partners. Although we’re not as wealthy, our family is known for our Celeste Fish Ponds business, which gained prominence thanks to Mr. Sebastian. However, our business is nothing compared to the Sebastian family's large resort and hotel developments. As everyone enjoyed the celebration, all attention turned to the front where Vincent stood. He looked incredibly handsome in an expensive midnight blue tuxedo and patent leather oxford shoes. His facial hair was neatly trimmed, and his hairstyle was impeccably groomed. My heart felt like it could stop; he looked that good. Next to Vincent was his mother, Mrs. Sebastian, looking stunning in a sparkling pink dress, accessorized with a luxurious silver bag and shoes. Her golden blonde hair added to her radiant appearance. Despite being in her forties, she looked amazing. After Vincent's mom gave a short speech, everyone applauded, and I saw her kiss Vincent on the forehead. “Just enjoy the party, everyone!” she announced. I wanted to approach Vincent to wish him a happy birthday and give him my gift, but he was surrounded by guests. He seemed calm and composed, clearly accustomed to such events. I tried to have a glass of champagne served by the waiter. My alcohol tolerance is quite low, so this was already strong for me. I was about to have another glass when I heard someone speak behind me. “Hi, beautiful.” I turned to see Jiro, holding a glass of champagne as well. He was dressed in a black tuxedo with leather shoes. He’s one of Vincent's handsome cousins, with captivating gray eyes. “Beautiful, huh? I could hit you,” I said, laughing, as he set down the glass I was about to drink. “Have you been here long?” he asked. “Just for a bit,” I replied shortly. “What are you doing here? Aren’t you going to greet your beloved prince?” he teased. I glanced at Vincent, who was still busy entertaining guests. “Can't you see? He’s busy,” I said. “He won't stop until you call him.” He had a point. More guests kept approaching him as the night went on. “I’m too shy, Jiro,” I admitted. He noticed the box beside me and reached for it, but I pulled it away. “You’re so stingy!” he exclaimed, pouting. “You might ruin it. It’s not even delivered yet, and it’s already damaged.” “Excuse me? I’m your best friend, and you never gave me a gift like that,” he complained, making me laugh. He was right. Jiro has been my best friend for four years. We met through Vincent and got even closer because we share the same course in college. “Hey, don’t guilt-trip me. I give you more valuable gifts,” I teased. “Like what?” he asked. “What else? My love,” I said, making him look irritated, which made me laugh even more. “Don’t fool me, Eurie. We both know who you really love!” he retorted. Just then, I saw Vincent approaching us. Even though I was still laughing, I tried to compose myself to look more formal. “Now you’re quiet because he’s coming!” Jiro teased. “Shh—shut up!” I hissed, making him laugh. Vincent’s scent hit me as he got closer. He smelled like a sophisticated woody fragrance with notes of citrus, mint, and vetiver. His fragrance was different from Jiro’s, just like how they were different despite being cousins. “For you, Vin. Happy birthday!” I said, giving him the gift I had prepared last night. I saw a smile spread across his face as he accepted it. “Thank you for this—” He was about to open it, but I stopped him. “Could you open it later?” I requested. “You’re so fussy. Just open it now, cousin!” Jiro interjected. I shot him a glare. Vincent chuckled, drawing my attention back to him. “O-okay, if that’s what you want. I’ll open it later,” he agreed. I breathed a sigh of relief. “Cousin, come on, open it now. I want to see it too!” Jiro insisted. Vincent shook his head. “This is mine. I decide,” he said, looking at me. His gaze made my knees feel weak. “I hate you both!” Jiro exclaimed before walking away, leaving me alone with Vincent. Now that Jiro was gone, I didn’t know what to do. My heart was pounding, especially with Vincent right in front of me. I struggled to start a conversation. “U-uhh… h-hello?” I bit my lip nervously. “Don’t bite your lip, you’ll hurt yourself,” he said gently. Surprised, I stopped biting my lip. “Sorry,” I mumbled. “It’s okay. How are you? Where are Aunt Katalina and Uncle Richard? Why aren’t you with them?” he asked. “I’m okay. I’m with them, but they’re talking to someone,” I explained. He stood closer, making my heart race even more. Gosh, he smells so good. “I see. For now, I’ll keep you company,” he said calmly, his hands in his trouser pockets. He looked at me intently, and I wasn’t sure if he could hear my racing heartbeat, but I felt lucky to have him in front of me. “A-are you happy?” I asked. I bit my lip again, and he noticed, his expression changing. "I told you not to bite your lip, Eurie, unless you want me to do something about it,” he said coolly. I couldn’t help but bite my lip when I talked to him. I was so nervous. I couldn’t stop. “I’m sorry. I can’t help it.” I bit my lip again, closing my eyes, knowing he would get mad. I was shocked when he gently lifted my chin and lightly wiped the corner of my lip with his finger. "I don’t want to see you biting your lip again unless you want me to kiss it,” he said seriously. He looked at me intently, and I felt my cheeks warm from his words. I avoided his gaze, and he stopped touching my lips. “Son!” someone called out. Vincent and I turned to see his mom approaching. “What is it, Mom?” Vincent asked as she got closer. She looked me up and down, making me feel self-conscious about my outfit. “What are you doing here? Where are your mom and dad?” she asked. Her tone made me nervous, as if she didn’t expect me to be here. “They’re talking to someone. Good evening, Auntie!” I said, smiling at her. Instead of smiling back, she looked away, as if she hadn’t heard me. "Son, Mr. Jude wants to see you. He's a friend of your dad. The last time he saw you, you were just fifteen years old. Let's go!” She started to pull Vincent away, but he resisted, surprising her. “Mom, can it wait? I’m talking to someone,” he said. I saw a hint of embarrassment on her face as she looked at me, almost as if she wanted to swallow me whole. “Son, it will only take a moment. Mr. Jude will leave right after, so please,” she insisted. “Mom—” Vincent seemed ready to refuse again, so I intervened before things escalated. “U-uhh… It’s okay, Vincent. Go see your guest. I’ll be fine here,” I said, forcing a smile. “Are you sure?” he asked. I nodded. “Yeah, it’s okay.” “I see. Wait for me later at the pool area. Don’t go home yet, okay?” he said seriously. I nodded and smiled. “I promise.” “Let’s go, son.” His mom pulled him towards the guests. As I watched them, I couldn't help but smile because he was carrying the box with my gift for him. It was very special to me since it contained a letter expressing my feelings for him. I was nervous but excited for him to read it. Just then, Jiro returned, giving me someone to talk to again. As Jiro returned, I felt a wave of relief wash over me. His presence always brought a sense of comfort and familiarity amidst the grandeur of the Sebastian mansion. "Vincent seemed glad about your gift," Jiro remarked, leaning casually against the wall beside me. "Yeah, I hope he likes it," I replied, glancing nervously in Vincent's direction, where he was still engrossed in conversation with guests. "He will. Trust me," Jiro reassured with a grin. "So, how's it going with you tonight?" I shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant despite my racing thoughts. "It's... overwhelming. This whole event is just..." "Intense?" Jiro offered, finishing my sentence. "Yeah, that's one way to put it," I chuckled softly. "You look amazing though," he complimented sincerely, nudging me playfully. "Vincent won't be able to resist noticing you." I rolled my eyes at his teasing but couldn't help but feel grateful for his supportive presence. "Thanks, Jiro. You're not so bad yourself." He flashed a grin, his gray eyes twinkling mischievously. "I know, right?" As we bantered lightly, I stole occasional glances at Vincent. Each time our eyes met, my heart skipped a beat, and I quickly looked away, cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and excitement. "I should probably go check on my parents," I said finally, feeling the need to escape the intensity of Vincent's gaze. "Sure thing. But remember, don't stay away from that pool area for too long," Jiro teased, winking at me. I playfully rolled my eyes again and made my way through the crowd, feeling both nervous and exhilarated about what the night might bring. Vincent's birthday celebration was turning out to be more eventful than I had ever imagined.