Chapter Text
Allura and Lance faced a hectic week ahead. With Lotor announcing his engagement and the impending introduction of his mate to the public, they needed to be present to welcome the newest member of the royal family. Additionally, they had meetings scheduled back on Altea, including one with Alfor, where Lance anticipated his father's presence. Lance knew he had to plan carefully to manage his edibles discreetly to ensure he had enough tolerance to endure the busy schedule.
Taking a day off, Allura and Lance began to organize their schedule and pack for their trips. Lance decided it was time to have his hair professionally dyed back to silver. Upon returning home, he found Allura cheerfully humming to herself while packing. They engaged in small talk about Lotor’s engagement.
“I didn't realize Lotor was in such a serious relationship,” Allura remarked. “Considering they're holding an introduction ceremony; he must be very committed. I have no clue who the lucky person might be; he’s been quite secretive about it.”
Lance joined in, “Whoever they are, you can be sure the family has thoroughly vetted them. They must be quite remarkable.”
The next day, Allura and Lance boarded Lance’s jet back to Altea. Lance watched the stars whiz by, lost in thought about the upcoming events and how he would manage his edibles discreetly.
Upon arrival, they headed straight to Allura's new apartment. It was a spacious, modern place with a stunning view of the city. Lance dropped his bags and flopped onto the couch, exhausted from the journey.
Allura busied herself in the kitchen, preparing a light meal. Lance watched her move around the kitchen with ease, a sense of peace washing over him. He knew he could always count on her to make everything feel right, even in the midst of chaos.
As they sat down to eat, Lance couldn't help but admire how gracefully Allura handled everything. Despite the busy schedule and the pressure of the upcoming events, she remained calm and composed, a true picture of grace under fire.
After dinner, they sat together on the balcony, enjoying the cool evening breeze. Lance felt a sense of gratitude wash over him. Despite everything, he was grateful to have Allura by his side, facing whatever challenges came their way together.
Allura and Lance spent the next few days working closely with stylists and their team to prepare for Lotor's engagement announcement. Lance was unusually anxious, constantly checking and rechecking his medication doses, ensuring he had enough edibles discreetly tucked away to get through the event.
The preparations were intense, requiring them to travel off-world to Diazabal, where the event was to be held. Lance felt the weight of the occasion as they arrived on the picturesque planet, known for its stunning landscapes and luxurious venues.
The setting for Lotor's engagement announcement was nothing short of grand. The venue, a sprawling palace, was adorned with elaborate decorations and filled with dignitaries and nobles from across the galaxy. Lance couldn't help but feel a pang of anxiety as he took in the opulence around him.
As they waited for the event to begin, Lance and Allura sat together, observing the guests mingling around them. Lance couldn't help but notice Hernova and Zarkon's regal appearances, dressed to impress as always. Despite his nerves, Lance couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at being a part of such an important event.
The tension in the air was palpable as everyone awaited the arrival of Lotor and his mate. Lance fidgeted nervously in his seat, his mind racing with thoughts of how the evening would unfold. Allura placed a comforting hand on his arm, offering him a reassuring smile.
Finally, the moment arrived. The doors to the grand hall opened, and all eyes turned to see Lotor and his mate make their entrance. Lance held his breath as he waited to catch a glimpse of the lovely couple, his heart pounding in anticipation.
Lance was utterly unprepared for the sight that greeted him in Lotor's arms. The shock was so profound that his brain seemed to short-circuit, leaving him speechless and immobile. Never in his wildest dreams had he imagined Keith as a contender for Lotor's affections. Yet there he was, looking more breathtaking than Lance had ever seen him.
The sheer beauty of Keith struck Lance like a physical blow, rendering him momentarily incapable of coherent thought. Every feature, every line of his face seemed to be sculpted by an artist's hand. Lance was captivated, his eyes unwilling to look away from the sight before him.
But amidst his awe, a pang of jealousy stabbed at Lance's heart. It wasn't just Keith's appearance that stirred this emotion; it was the realization that Keith had moved on, perhaps finding someone who treated him better than Lance ever had. The guilt of his own past actions weighed heavily on him, knowing he had cheated and lied to Keith, betraying his trust in the worst possible way.
In that moment, watching Keith in Lotor's embrace, Lance understood that he had lost something truly precious. He couldn't blame Keith for seeking happiness elsewhere, yet the pain of that truth was almost unbearable.
Lance had wanted to run right up to Lotor and tear his arm off his Keith. He had to remind himself that Keith wasn’t his at least not anymore. Keith stood in the brightly lit room, the soft glow of the chandeliers casting an ethereal light upon him. The dress he wore was a masterpiece of crimson and gold, adorned with intricate floral embroidery that seemed to come alive with each subtle movement. The fabric clung to his form, accentuating his slender waist and broad shoulders as well as the perfect curve of his hips and butt, before flaring out into a magnificent train that trailed behind him like a fiery comet.
His pale skin provided a striking contrast to the vibrant colors of the dress, making him appear almost otherworldly. The delicate lace and sheer panels hinted at the smoothness of his skin beneath, adding a touch of allure and mystery. The high neckline and off-the-shoulder design framed his face beautifully, drawing attention to his finely sculpted features.
Keith's long, dark hair cascaded down his back in a waterfall of ebony silk, reaching all the way to his waist. The soft waves and subtle curls caught the light, adding depth and dimension to his already captivating appearance. His hair framed his face perfectly, highlighting his sharp jawline and high cheekbones.
Makeup accentuated his natural beauty, enhancing his pale complexion and giving him an almost ethereal glow. His eyes, framed by dark, smoky eyeshadow and perfectly winged eyeliner, seemed even more striking, their intensity amplified. Long, thick lashes fluttered like the wings of a butterfly, drawing anyone who looked into his eyes into their depths. His lips, painted a deep, rich red, were full and inviting, adding a touch of sensuality to his already mesmerizing presence.
Blush dusted his cheeks, giving him a healthy, rosy glow, while a hint of highlighter on his cheekbones and the bridge of his nose added a touch of luminosity. The overall effect was breathtaking, transforming Keith into a vision of beauty and elegance that left everyone in awe.
In that moment, Keith was more than just a beautiful omega in a stunning dress; he was a living work of art, a testament to grace, elegance, and the captivating power of true beauty.
Lance had to tear his gaze away from Keith. He couldn't bring himself to look at Allura in that moment, the weight of his emotions too overwhelming. Instead, he looked down, trying to compose himself and wrestle his jealousy and shock into submission. Keith had assured him that he and Lotor were just friends, but Lance knew he had no right to judge. After all, he had been engaged to Allura the entire time he and Keith were together.
As Lotor and Keith officially made their entrance, the attendees were directed to their seats around the room. The two royals made their way to the front, where their seats and table were prominently positioned, clearly visible to everyone. Lotor took the floor and began to speak, his voice commanding the attention of the room.
Lotor's voice resonated through the grand hall, filled with a warmth that spoke volumes of his love for Keith. The assembled guests fell silent, their attention riveted on the royal couple. Lotor's eyes, however, remained fixed on Keith, a tender smile playing on his lips as he began his speech.
"Friends, allies, and esteemed guests," Lotor started, his voice steady but brimming with emotion. "Today, we stand before you to celebrate not just a union, but a journey—one that has led us to this extraordinary moment. Few of you know Keith as the exceptional pilot and esteemed member of the Blade of Marmora, but to me, he is so much more."
Lotor's gaze softened, and he reached out to take Keith's hand, their fingers intertwining. "Our story began in the Blade, where our paths first crossed amid the turmoil of training and becoming warriors. Keith was a beacon of strength and determination, a leader who inspired all those around him. We fought side by side, bound by a common purpose and a growing mutual respect."
As Lotor spoke, the room seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them, suspended in a moment of intimate revelation. "For years, we were friends—confidants who shared dreams, fears, and an unwavering commitment to our cause. It was in those moments of quiet reflection, between battles and missions, that I began to see the depths of Keith's heart. His courage, his unwavering sense of duty, and his fierce loyalty were qualities that drew me to him."
Lotor's voice took on a softer, almost reverent tone as he continued. "It was only recently that we both realized our feelings had grown into something far deeper than friendship. It was as if the stars had aligned, revealing a truth that had been there all along. Keith is not just my ally, not just my friend—he is the love of my life, my partner in all things."
A murmur of approval rippled through the crowd, but Lotor's focus remained on Keith, his eyes filled with unspoken promises. "Keith, your presence in my life has been a gift beyond measure. You have shown me what it means to love without reservation, to give oneself completely to another. Our love is a testament to the power of trust and the beauty of finding a soulmate where we least expect it."
As Lotor finished, there was a moment of profound silence, the air thick with the emotion of his words. Then, Zarkon and Hernova, seated in places of honor, rose to their feet, their faces beaming with pride. Zarkon, ever the imposing figure, spoke first, his deep voice resonating with approval.
"Keith, you have proven yourself time and again as a warrior and a leader," Zarkon declared, his eyes shining with admiration. "Your skills as a pilot are unparalleled, and your dedication to the Blade of Marmora has brought honor to our cause. But more than that, you have shown an unwavering commitment to my son, Lotor. It is clear that your bond is one of true love and mutual respect."
Hernova, her demeanor regal and composed, nodded in agreement. "Keith, you have become a cherished member of our family. Your bravery and loyalty are qualities we hold in the highest esteem. As a Blade member, you have demonstrated exceptional prowess and integrity. We are honored to welcome you fully into our hearts and our home."
Keith, his face flushed with emotion, stepped forward to address the room. His voice, though softer than Lotor's, carried a sincerity that touched everyone who heard it. "Thank you, Lotor, for your beautiful words. Our journey together has been filled with challenges, but it has also been marked by moments of profound connection and understanding."
He paused, his eyes locking onto Lotor's with a fierce intensity. "Lotor, you have shown me what it means to be truly seen and valued. Your strength, compassion, and unwavering support have been my anchor in the storm. I never imagined that I would find a love like ours, but now that I have, I will cherish it for the rest of my life."
Keith's voice grew stronger, his words infused with passion. "To everyone here, I want to say that my love for Lotor is rooted in the deepest parts of my being. He is my confidant, my champion, and my beloved. Together, we will face whatever comes our way, knowing that our bond is unbreakable."
As Keith finished, the room erupted in applause, the sound echoing off the ornate walls. Lotor pulled Keith into a tight embrace, their foreheads touching in a moment of shared intimacy. The audience, moved by the heartfelt declarations, witnessed a great love.
Lance's heart shattered as he watched Keith profess his love for another. It took every ounce of his strength to keep his tears and emotions in check. He knew he had no right to feel this way, no right to be hurt that Keith had moved on. After all, he was here with Allura, his fiancée. But the pain was undeniable, a deep, aching wound that throbbed with every word Keith spoke.
His eyes stung, but he refused to let the tears fall. Instead, he looked down, gripping the edge of his chair so tightly his knuckles turned white. He tried to focus on his breathing, on the steady in and out that would keep him grounded, but his mind was a tumultuous sea of regret and longing. He had always known that he would lose Keith eventually, but seeing it happen in front of him, seeing the love and devotion in Keith's eyes for someone else, was a torment he hadn't anticipated.
All he could do was sit there, feeling utterly powerless, as Keith's words built a wall between them—a wall that seemed insurmountable. Lance felt the distance growing, not just physical but emotional, as if each declaration of love Keith made was another step away from him, another nail in the coffin of what they once had. The reality of his loss hit him harder than he ever thought possible, and all he could do was watch as Keith drifted further out of his reach.
As Keith finished speaking, Lotor took the floor again, his presence commanding attention. There was a palpable sense of anticipation in the room as he stepped forward, his eyes shimmering with unspoken excitement.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Lotor began, his voice steady yet infused with a profound joy. "Today is a day of celebration for many reasons. Not only do we stand before you as partners in life and love, but we also have another joyous announcement to share."
The room fell silent, a collective breath held in anticipation. Lotor glanced at Keith, his expression softening with affection, before continuing. "Keith and I are thrilled to introduce the newest member of our family."
An attendant stepped forward, cradling a small bundle swaddled in soft, silken fabric. The audience gasped as the attendant approached the stage, gently placing the baby in Lotor's arms. The room seemed to hold its breath, every eye fixed on the tiny figure nestled against Lotor's chest.
The child was a beautiful boy, his skin a soft, pale hue that mirrored Keith's complexion. His hair, a striking white, shimmered like moonlight, a clear inheritance from Lotor. When the baby opened his eyes, they were a stunning blue, a perfect blend of both his parents. He gurgled softly, his tiny hands reaching out as if to grasp the attention of everyone in the room.
Lotor and Keith both looked at their son with a mixture of awe and overwhelming love. Lotor's voice, when he spoke again, was thick with emotion. "When we discovered that we were expecting, it was a shock—a miracle we hadn't dared to dream of. But it has been the greatest joy of our lives."
Keith, his eyes glistening with unshed tears, nodded in agreement. "We never imagined this would be part of our journey, but now that it is, we can't imagine our lives without him. He has brought us closer, made us stronger, and filled our hearts with more love than we ever thought possible."
Zarkon and Hernova, seated with expressions of immense pride and happiness, stood to address the assembly. Zarkon, his voice booming with approval, spoke first. "This child is a blessing to our family and to our people. A strong son to carry on our name and our beliefs. Keith, your bravery and skill as a pilot have always been admirable, but your role as a mother is something that fills us with even greater pride."
Hernova, her demeanor regal yet warm, added, "Keith, you have come to be a cherished member of our family, and this only deepens that bond. Your strength, your loyalty, and now your capacity for love and parenthood are qualities we honor and celebrate. This child is a symbol of unity and hope for the future."
Keith, holding their son, looked out at the crowd, his voice filled with emotion. "Lotor and I are committed to raising our son with the same values we hold dear—courage, honor, and love. We are grateful for the support and acceptance of our families and our people."
Lance, still seated, felt a fresh wave of pain wash over him. The joy and unity displayed on stage were a stark contrast to the turmoil in his heart. He watched as Keith and Lotor, their love solidified by the presence of their beautiful son, stood before their people as a testament to the power of love and family.
As the applause swelled around him, Lance forced himself to join in, clapping numbly as he struggled to process the depth of his emotions. The vision of Keith and Lotor with their child was both heartwarming and heart-wrenching, a poignant reminder of what he had lost and what he could never have.
In that moment, amidst the celebration and the declarations of love, Lance knew he had to find a way to move forward. Keith had found his happiness, his place in the world, and Lance realized he needed to do the same.
As the ceremony continued, the room buzzed with excitement and joy. Keith and Lotor, surrounded by their loved ones, stood as a symbol of enduring love and the promise of a brighter future. And in the shadows, Lance tried to come to terms with it.
Lance needed to leave. He couldn't stand there and watch Keith and Lotor radiate happiness, couldn't accept that Keith had gone as far as to create a new life with someone else. Seeing Keith with anyone would have caused him unimaginable pain, but watching him with Lotor cut even deeper because he knew he could never compete with a literal prince.
As Lotor and Keith finished their speeches and began to mingle with the guests, Lance felt his composure slipping. Even while high, he couldn't smile and pretend everything was okay as he watched the love of his life in someone else's arms. Was Keith truly the love of his life? If so, why had he let him go? Why hadn't he fought for him when Keith gave him that ultimatum? Why hadn't he chosen Keith?
Desperate for escape, Lance excused himself, claiming a stomach ache, and made his way to the bathrooms. As soon as he secured a private stall, he threw up, his body convulsing with the force of his emotions. When he was done, he cleaned himself up and tried to compose himself enough to return to the event. This was an important occasion, and he couldn't just say he was sick and miss it, especially since they were off-world. He wasn't familiar with this planet at all.
No. He steeled himself. He had lost Keith because of his own indecisiveness; he couldn't do this to Allura. She deserved better. He had her now, and he needed to do right by her. He calmed himself, gathered his thoughts, and when he was ready, he made his way back just in time to find Lotor and Keith approaching Allura. Taking a deep breath, he quickly made his way to her side.
As he reached Allura, he forced a smile, hoping it looked genuine enough to pass. She glanced at him, concern flickering in her eyes, but she didn't say anything. Instead, she slipped her hand into his, offering silent support. Lance squeezed her hand, grateful for her presence.
Keith and Lotor approached, their expressions warm and welcoming. Keith's eyes lingered on Lance for a moment, a flicker of something unreadable passing through them before he smiled at Allura. "Allura, Lance, it's so good to see you both," he said, his voice steady but carrying an undercurrent of emotion.
Allura returned the smile, her poise impeccable. "Congratulations, Keith, Lotor. Your speeches were beautiful, and your son is absolutely adorable. Keith, I had no idea you knew Lance."
“Oh, we were in the same class in the Garrison. It’s good to see him again.”
Lotor beamed, pride evident in his gaze as he glanced at Keith and their child. "Thank you, Allura. It means a lot to us to have you here."
Lance nodded, forcing himself to meet Keith's gaze. "Yeah, congratulations. You both deserve all the happiness."
Keith's smile faltered slightly, his eyes searching Lance's face. "Thanks, Lance. It means a lot coming from you."
Lance's heart ached at the sincerity in Keith's voice, but he pushed the pain down, determined to get through this. "I'm just glad to see you happy," he managed, his voice barely above a whisper.
As they continued to talk, Lance found himself slipping into autopilot, his responses automatic and devoid of true feeling. He stayed close to Allura, drawing strength from her presence, and focused on getting through the evening. Every now and then, his gaze would drift to Keith and Lotor, and the sight of them together, so in love and so content, would send a fresh wave of pain crashing over him.
But he endured. He had to. For Allura's sake, and for his own. He couldn't change the past, couldn't undo his mistakes, but he could try to move forward. He could try to find a way to be happy, even if it meant letting go of the one person who had meant everything to him.
The night wore on, and eventually, the guests began to disperse. Lance and Allura made their way back to Altea, the weight of the evening pressing heavily on Lance's shoulders. Once inside, he collapsed onto the bed, exhaustion and heartache finally catching up with him.
Allura sat beside him, her hand gently stroking his hair. "You did well tonight, Lance," she said softly. "I'm proud of you." Lance was a bit taken a back by her sudden praise but he didn’t really mind.
Lance closed his eyes, letting her words wash over him. "Thanks, Allura. I just... I just need some time."
She nodded, understanding in her eyes. "Take all the time you need. I'm here for you."
As he lay there, the events of the night replaying in his mind, Lance knew that moving on wouldn't be easy. But he also knew that he had to try. For Allura, for himself, and maybe, someday, for the chance at finding happiness again.
___
Allura and Lance had just returned from a meeting with Alfor, where they had briefed him about the recent disappearances and the mysterious space anomaly. Shiro had been present and was visibly excited to be on Altea. Now, they were taking some time to relax before heading back to Alfor's for dinner. Lance decided it was time to fully embrace his new life. Keith was gone, and he needed to make the best of his situation.
Allura was lounging gracefully on the couch, her presence radiating calm and beauty. Lance, feeling a sudden burst of playful inspiration, decided to surprise her. He quietly slipped off all his clothes and sneaked past Allura into the kitchen. Grabbing her favorite whipped cream, he covered his chest with it, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
He slowly made his way back into the living room, positioning himself in front of Allura. "Would you like some whipped cream, my love?" he asked with a playful glint in his eye.
Allura looked up, her eyes widening in surprise and amusement. Before she could react, Lance applied some whipped cream to her arm, eliciting a squeal from her as she worried about her outfit getting dirty. "Stop it, Lance!" Allura laughed, trying to evade him.
"You better take off your clothes before I get you dirty!" Lance teased, chasing her around the room. Allura's laughter filled the space as she tried to escape, but Lance's playful persistence eventually wore her down. After a bit of playful chasing, they collapsed into each other's arms, sharing a tender kiss.
With gentle hands, Lance helped her out of her clothes, their laughter fading into a moment of intimacy. The whipped cream was forgotten as they focused on each other, their connection deepening. They moved slowly, savoring the closeness, and for a little while, all the troubles of the universe faded away.
Although Lance and Shiro's relationship hadn't entirely mended after the whole lying fiasco, Lance was excited to have Shiro on Altea and joining them for dinner at Alfor’s. As they made their way to the dining room along with other officials, Lance took the opportunity to introduce everyone to his dad. They made small talk and enjoyed their meal, the atmosphere filled with the hum of pleasant conversation.
Lance hadn't used any edibles since Lotor’s event, and for the first time in a while, he felt clear-headed. It was a refreshing change, and he found himself more present and engaged. As they enjoyed the meal, Lance updated Shiro on Keith's engagement to Lotor and the recent addition to their family, a son. Shiro was taken aback, the shock evident on his face. It hurt him to know that Keith had started a family and hadn’t even bothered to call. But Shiro quickly composed himself, choosing to focus on the fact that Keith was doing well and had a healthy child.
Dinner continued smoothly, and Alfor took the opportunity to present Lance and Allura with his and his late wife’s rings. The rings, each on a necklace, were given to them to keep safe until the day they would officially put them on. It was a heartfelt moment filled with warmth, gratitude, and love. Both Allura and Lance were a little shocked at the gesture but extremely thankful for it. They couldn't hold back their tears as they accepted the rings, the weight of the moment sinking in.
Alfor then gave a heartwarming speech about his one and only daughter, expressing his deep love and pride. He wished them both the best, his words touching everyone present. "These rings symbolize not just the bond between you two, but the legacy of love that my wife and I shared. May they bring you the same joy and strength that they brought us," Alfor said, his voice filled with emotion.
Lance looked at Allura, their eyes meeting in a shared moment of understanding and love. The rings felt like more than just symbols; they were a blessing and a promise, a connection to a history of love and commitment.
As the evening progressed, the conversation shifted to lighter topics, and laughter filled the room. The presence of family and friends made the occasion even more special, creating a tapestry of memories that Lance knew he would cherish forever.
And in that moment, he knew that he had made the right choice, that despite everything, he was exactly where he needed to be.
That was well…..what he had thought….then Allura got up to make an announcement and his face fell further with each word she spoke.
"I have an announcement to make," Allura began, her voice clear and confident. "Lance and I have decided that we will be staying in Altea permanently."
Lance's heart sank, a wave of betrayal washing over him. He felt the blood drain from his face as Allura continued to speak, her words becoming a distant murmur in his ears. He glanced at Shiro, whose expression mirrored his own shock and confusion. He then looked to his father who seemed pleased to hear the news. All he could feel was the fact that none of these people ever cared for him. All he was to his father was a child to carry on his name and puppeteer and know with sudden clarity he could see all the ways Allura had just used him for her own gain.
"What?" Shiro blurted out, interrupting Allura mid-sentence. "Lance, is this true?"
Lance stood up, his chair scraping loudly against the floor. "No, Shiro," he said, his voice shaking with anger and hurt. "This is the first I'm hearing about it."
The room fell into a stunned silence. Allura looked at Lance, her eyes wide with surprise and a hint of guilt. "Lance, you need understand, this is what’s best for us. " she began, but Lance cut her off.
"Understand what, Allura? That you would go behind my back and make decisions about my life without even talking to me?" Lance's voice rose, his emotions spilling over. "I thought we were a team. I thought we were partners. But you and Shiro decided this without me?"
Shiro shook his head, still in shock. "Allura, we never agreed on this. We discussed the possibility, but nothing was decided."
Allura's face fell, realizing the gravity of her actions. "I... I thought it was what's best for us, Lance. For our future."
"For our future or yours!?" Lance repeated, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "How can it be our future if you don't include me in the decisions?"
Lance felt a mix of anger, betrayal, and hurt swirling inside him. He had trusted Allura, had believed in their partnership, but this felt like a knife in his back. He had already lost Keith, and now it seemed he was losing the trust and respect of the one person he had left.She was treating him like a child.
He looked around the room, seeing the concerned faces of all the officials . He felt trapped, suffocated by the weight of Allura's announcement and the realization that his future was being decided without his consent.
"I need some air," he muttered, turning on his heel and storming out of the room. The night air hit him like a cold slap, but it did little to clear his mind. He walked aimlessly, his thoughts a jumbled mess of anger and betrayal.
How could she do this? How could she make such a life-altering decision without even consulting him? Lance had always been a team player, always willing to support those he loved, but this was too much. This was a breach of trust he wasn't sure he could forgive.
Back inside, Allura was left standing, her announcement having derailed the joyous evening. Shiro, still processing the shock, approached her. "Allura, as I told you, you should have talked to Lance. This isn't something you decide on your own."
Allura nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. "I thought I was doing the right thing. I thought it was best for us, for our future together."
Shiro sighed, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You need to fix this, Allura. You need to talk to him, really talk to him. This isn't something that can be swept under the rug."
Allura nodded again, wiping away her tears. "I will, Shiro."
Lance, meanwhile, found himself at the edge of a garden, the cool night air helping to calm his racing heart. He needed to think, needed to understand how everything had gone so wrong. He loved Allura, but this betrayal cut deep.
As he stood there, looking up at the stars, Lance made a vow to himself. He would not let anyone decide his future for him, not Shiro, not his father, and certainly not Allura. Suddenly, everything was clear. No more confusion.
Allura approached him, lightly placing her hand on his shoulder. "Lance," she began softly, "I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to make you feel like you had no say in our future."
Lance turned to face her, his eyes hard and determined. "Allura, you went behind my back. You decided what was best for me without even talking to me. That's not how a partnership works."
Allura's eyes filled with tears. "I thought it was the right thing to do. Earth has changed you, Lance. The marijuana... I know you've been using it to cope."
Lance's jaw tightened. "I only started using it after you came to Earth. Do you know why? Because I had to be perfect for you. The pressure to be perfect for you, for my father, for everyone. Earth wasn't the problem, Allura. It was trying to live up to everyone's expectations. I don’t even know why I tried so hard when clearly the only thing you wanted was to use me…….You and my dad."
Allura's tears spilled over. "But Lance, you were losing yourself. I was scared for you. I didn't know how to help, so I thought bringing you here, away from all that, would be better for you."
Lance shook his head, his anger rising. "Better for me? Or better for you? News flash ,I hate Altea, Allura. I never wanted to stay here. This place isn't home for me. And I can't keep pretending it is just to make you and my father happy."
Allura's face crumpled in despair. "Lance, please. We can work this out. We can find a way to make it work. I love you."
Lance took a deep breath, his heart breaking as he spoke. "I love you too, Allura. But I can't do this anymore. I can't keep trying to be someone I'm not. I need to go back to Earth and figure out who I am without you and my father pulling my strings."
He reached into his pocket and pulled out the engagement ring, pressing it into her hand. "This is final, Allura. I can't marry you. I need to find myself first."
Allura sobbed, clutching the ring tightly. "Lance, please don't do this. We can fix it. We can..."
Lance shook his head, his resolve firm. "No, Allura. It's over."
With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Allura standing there, heartbroken and alone. Lance made his way back to the palace, his mind set on one thing: confronting his father.
He found his father in the study with Alfor, a look of surprise on his face as Lance entered. "Lance, have you come to apologize for your rude outburst? How dare you behave so primitively."
Lance took a deep breath. "Dad, I'm not staying on Altea. I can't do this anymore. I'm going back to Earth."
His father's face hardened. "Lance, you need to think about this. You have responsibilities here, a future with Allura. Promises you made to me, to Alfor, and to Allura." His voice grew sharper, and he stepped closer, now inches away from Lance's face, trying his best to intimidate him.
Lance could feel his father's breath, see the stern lines etched deeply into his face, but this time, he didn't flinch. He wasn't that scared little boy his father used to beat into submission he could take control now.The weight of his father's expectations had always been a heavy burden, but now, it felt different—surmountable, even. Lance straightened his shoulders, meeting his father's gaze with unwavering determination.
Lance shook his head. "No, Dad. I have a future on my terms, not yours. I can't keep living my life for other people. I need to find out who I am."
His father stood up, anger and frustration evident in his eyes. "Lance, this is a mistake. You don't know what you're doing."
"No, Dad. For the first time in a long time, I know exactly what I'm doing." Lance replied his voice steady and an unwavering conviction to it.
With that, he turned and left the study, his heart pounding. He found Shiro in the living room, still looking shell-shocked from the earlier events. "Shiro, I need your help. I need to get back to Earth."
Shiro nodded slowly, understanding dawning in his eyes. "Of course, Lance. I'll help you."
They made their way to Shiro’s ship, the weight of Lance's decision settling over him like a heavy cloak. As they prepared for departure, Lance felt a mixture of relief and sadness. He was leaving behind a life he had once dreamed of, but he was also reclaiming his own path.
As they lifted off, Lance looked back at Altea one last time. It was beautiful, but it wasn't his home. He turned his gaze forward, towards the stars and the vast expanse of space, a sense of freedom washing over him.
He was finally taking control of his life, making decisions for himself. It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once. But for the first time in a long time, Lance felt hopeful. He didn't know what the future held, but he was ready to face it on his own terms.
As they sped through space, Shiro placed a reassuring hand on Lance's shoulder. "You'll be okay, Lance. You'll find your way."
Lance nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "Thanks, Shiro. I know I will."
And with that, Lance set his sights on Earth, ready to begin a new chapter, one that he would write himself.