Page 55 of Raphael
“Try to keep in touch,” he says, feline gaze flicking towards Raphael behind me, “ifyour new boyfriend allows it. I could use someone of your talents in my team.” The barest hint of a smile touches his eyes before he turns away.
The offer is a kind farewell, a generous gesture, considering Draven is notoriously elusive and hard to reach.
I watch him slip into his spotless black Porsche, the engine whispering to life as he turns the key. The van pulls away, disappearing into the dark night, taking with it Kane’s treacherous minions. Lucifer will have his reckoning with them.
“Let’s go home,” I whisper, exhaustion catching up with me quick.
Raphael presses a kiss to my hair and wrapping an arm around my waist, he leads me away from this place of pain and ruin. Ahead lies a new dawn, bright and clear, full of possibility. And I stride forth to meet it with my head held high, hope and light reignited within my soul.
CHAPTER34
Raphael
I adjustmy tie for the tenth time, fussing anxiously with my appearance as I pace the lobby of the upscale restaurant. The space is even more sumptuous than I expected, with vaulted ceilings draped in gossamer fabrics, brilliant crystal chandeliers, and floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the sprawling, glittering cityscape beyond. Gentle piano music fills the air, mingling with the quiet murmur of conversation and the tinkling clink of cutlery.
My nerves jump as I check my watch for what feels like the hundredth time. Helena should be arriving any minute now for what she believes is a refined dinner date, just the two of us. But in reality, I’ve orchestrated something far more meaningful for this special night.
I suggested meeting at this extravagant restaurant under the pretense of it being for an intimate first real date to throw her off the scent. She’ll be expecting a cozy table for two, fine wine, and me, focused solely on her. Little does she know what awaits upstairs, in the elegant rooftop courtyard I’ve privately reserved for the occasion.
Before I can second guess my appearance further, the host discreetly gestures towards the entrance. I glance up and unnecessary breath leaves my lungs in a rush. Helena glides towards me in a figure-hugging red dress with a plunging neckline, her dark hair cascading perfectly across one bare shoulder. She is stunning, an immortal goddess among mere mortals.
“Raphael,” she greets me with a dazzling smile, embracing me lightly. “Sorry I’m late, I got held up at—”
“No apologies necessary,” I assure her, taking her hands in mine. “You’re here now. That’s all that matters.” Still holding one hand, I step back and gallantly spin her so I can appreciate how breathtaking she looks from every angle. “Simply ravishing, as always.”
She laughs, the sound melodic and eyes sparkling. “And you’re looking rather dashing yourself tonight.” Her fingers straighten my already pristine tie, smoothing over my chest before trailing lightly down my arm. Just that subtle contact sends a shiver through me.
I offer her my elbow with dramatic flair. “Shall we then, my lady?”
With a grin, she loops her arm through mine. The host leads us not to the secluded table on the terrace I had originally reserved for our fictional date, but instead, right past it to a sweeping staircase. I feel Helena’s curious gaze linger on the intimate table set for two, with flickering candles and a crystal vase of red roses. But I just smile mysteriously in response.
“Wow, this place is so fancy,” she comments as we make our way up the stairs, her heels clicking on marble. “Just having pizza and beer together would have been more than fine with me, you know. Not that I’m complaining...” She quirks one brow in that irresistible way. “But why are we going up?”
“You’ll see in just a moment, my love,” I reply, barely containing my eagerness now that we’re moments away from the reveal.
We reach the heavy oak doors that open onto the rooftop courtyard. As the doors swing open at my subtle nod, Helena’s eyes widen in surprise.
“Surprise!” our gathered loved ones all shout in unison when they see us enter. “Congratulations, Helena!”
Helena’s stunned expression melts into delighted laughter as she takes in the scene before her. Twinkling string lights are woven through the lattice walls, flowers and candles decorate every table. I have cleared a small space for dancing, and most importantly, all our closest friends and family stand cheering her arrival.
I watch joy light up Helena’s face as she embraces her mother, who is beaming with pride. Her father and younger sister have also flown in from England to celebrate Helena’s triumph. She hugs them tightly, blinking back moved tears at their surprise presence.
A lavish buffet of treats and refreshments awaits along one wall, while in the corner, a live orchestra starts playing a cheerful celebratory melody. But Helena only has eyes for her family in this moment. After enduring so much loneliness and trauma, having those she loves most here tonight means everything to her.
Eventually, she turns that radiant gaze on me, joy and gratitude shining from her face. “Raphael, did you plan all this for me?” she asks.
I’ve rarely seen her look so sincerely touched. I wrap an arm around her waist, pulling her close against my side. “After everything you endured, after the incredible victory you achieved, you deserved so much more than just one special evening out together. I hoped this might at least bring you a little joy tonight, surrounded by people who love you.” I kiss her softly. “No one more than me.”
“It’s absolutely perfect,” she declares. And to my delight, she kisses me again, deeper this time, her body melting against mine. I forget we have an audience until someone whistles and calls out teasingly for us to get a room. Laughing, Helena pulls back, a delightful blush coloring her cheeks.
Lucifer strides over with a wicked grin, interrupting our tender moment. “Having fun, are we?” he drawls.
“Uncle!” Helena exclaims, her cheeks flushing with shyness at his presence.
“I couldn’t resist attending my favorite niece’s celebration,” Lucifer says smugly, winking at her before turning to me. “Raphael,” he greets with a clap on the shoulder. “Good to see you again.”
His hand lingers, squeezing tightly as he leans in and adds, “I heard about your key role in taking down that demon scum. Always happy to have reliable allies by my side.” His dark eyes bore into mine, a subtle reminder that I must protect Helena at all costs.
