Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Caelus sighed deeply, a wave of relief washing over him as he collapsed onto his bed. The room around him was finally complete—a project that had consumed every ounce of his energy for days. He’d done countless chores, hauled equipment, and reorganized until his arms ached, but the payoff was worth it. His room was spacious, much larger than he felt he deserved. He couldn’t help but feel a pang of guilt about its size compared to the others on the Astral Express.

Then again, March had reassured him that the crew’s quarters were far more extravagant than he gave them credit for. At least now he could rest without feeling like he was squatting in an oversized storage closet.

“Finally,” he muttered to himself. A well-deserved bath and a nap were calling his name.

As Caelus disappeared into the adjoining bathroom, the Astral Express was far from quiet. In her own room, March 7th sat cross-legged on her bed, her fingers flying over her phone as she tapped out a message in her favorite group chat. This particular chat wasn’t just any ordinary conversation thread—it was a carefully curated space for a peculiar circle of women, all connected by one thing: their mutual crush on Caelus.

March had dubbed the group the "Trash Panda Admirers Society" in jest, a playful nod to Caelus’s penchant for scavenging. What started as a joke had grown into a surprisingly active community. Keeping the peace required rules and a steady hand—both of which March provided. She had her own feelings for Caelus, of course, but she'd decided early on to maintain some semblance of order.

March: Hey gals, he just got done fixing up his room.

Silver Wolf’s reply came almost instantly.

Silver Wolf: About time. Wasn’t he basically sleeping in a cardboard box before this?

March grinned and switched to her photo gallery. Her camera roll was filled with candid pictures of Caelus’s room, taken during her habitual rounds as the Express’s self-appointed photographer. She uploaded them with a flourish.

Guinaifen: What does his room look like?

Moments later, a flood of notifications followed her photo dump.

Robin: That room looks amazing!

Rappa: Wait, is that a weapon stand?!

March: Apparently, he keeps the weapons from the different Paths he walks.

Cocona: I knew he was talented, but this is ridiculous.

Pela: At this point, he’s accomplished more across three worlds than most people do in a lifetime.

Silver Wolf: Except with us.

March snorted, rolling her eyes.

Rappa: Don’t remind us, please.

Molly: We agreed not to pursue him unless it would cause major issues.

That last message gave March pause. She tapped her chin thoughtfully before typing.

March: Honestly… I think we should just share him.

The chat fell eerily silent for a moment before Siobhan broke it.

Siobhan: Excuse me?

March: Hear me out! Life out here has been getting crazier by the minute. Remember what Rappa, Robin, and the others went through with those Dr. Primitive fanatics?

Siobhan’s reply came fast and in all caps.

Siobhan: IS THAT WHAT WAS HAPPENING AT PAPERFOLD ACADEMY?!

Robin: Yeah, the dean turned out to be one of Dr. Primitive’s high-ranking followers. It was a whole thing.

Rappa: is typing…

March quickly interjected.

March: It’s okay, Rappa. We know how much you hate them. After nearly having my mind turned into a monkey, I feel the same.

Rappa responded with a simple smiley emoji, which made March chuckle. But then another name popped up in the chat.

Elaine: What did I just walk into?

Silver Wolf: March was explaining how we should share Caelus.

Elaine: Oh. Okay.

Molly: ???

Pela: Elaine, are you okay?

Robin: I think she might be busy...

March’s grin widened as Cocona chimed in.

Cocona: I’m on board with this.

Siobhan: Same, honestly. Life’s too short to not go for happiness.

Molly: What if he rejects us?

March: Leave that to me. I have a plan.

Rappa: If you already had a plan, why didn’t you act on it before?

March sighed dramatically, as if Rappa could see her.

March: Do you know how hard it is to keep up with him? The man jumps from planet to planet like it’s nothing! But now, he has no excuse.

Silver Wolf: So… you’re going through with this?

March: Yup.

Pela: Am I the only one worried about this?

Elaine: Wait, March is doing what now?!

Robin: And she’s back among the living.

Silver Wolf: F’s in the chat for Elaine's fraying sanity.

Guinaifen: F

Cocona: F

Rappa: F

Siobhan: F

March couldn’t help but laugh, flopping back onto her pillow. This was going to be fun.

Chapter Text

March 7th stood outside Caelus’s door, her heart pounding in her chest. She wasn’t used to feeling this nervous—not when she’d been through some of the most chaotic adventures across the stars. Yet, here she was, fidgeting with the zipper of her jacket, staring at the door like it might swallow her whole.

Her phone buzzed softly in her pocket, but she didn’t bother pulling it out. She already knew what the group chat had said after her declaration.

Silver Wolf: Finally.
Robin: You’ve got this, March!
Cocona: You’re closer to him than anyone—go for it!

March bit her lip, unsure whether those words were comforting or just adding to the pressure.

“It’s not like they’re wrong,” she muttered to herself, glancing at the door again. She and Caelus were close—closer than most people realized. They’d shared so many laughs, inside jokes, and late-night conversations that sometimes felt like they existed in a world of their own. She wasn’t sure when it had started, but somewhere along the way, her feelings had grown into something more.

And wasn’t this the natural next step? They’d been friends for so long, she could hardly imagine a day without him at her side. But what if he didn’t feel the same? The thought made her stomach twist uncomfortably.

“Ugh, you’re overthinking this,” she grumbled, shaking her head. “You’re March 7th. You’re fun, confident, and way too stubborn to back down now.”

Still, she hesitated, one hand hovering over the door handle. “What if this changes everything?” she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible. But then she remembered Caelus’s smile, the way he always seemed to understand her better than anyone else. She couldn’t keep waiting forever, wondering what if.

“Okay, March, you’ve got this,” she said firmly, squaring her shoulders. “He’s your best friend—and this is just the next step. If anyone can handle this, it’s him.”

With one last deep breath, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The sight that greeted her made her pause. Caelus was sprawled out on his bed, completely at peace. His chest rose and fell in the steady rhythm of sleep, and his hair was charmingly tousled from his nap. The warm lighting in the room softened his features, and for a moment, March just stood there, staring.

Her resolve faltered for a heartbeat. But then she smiled to herself, her nerves giving way to a familiar sense of mischief. Quietly, she tiptoed closer, her lips curling into a grin.

“Wake up, sleepyhead,” she teased, her voice sing-song as she leaned over him.

Caelus stirred, a low groan escaping him as he blinked his eyes open. He squinted at her in confusion, his voice rough with sleep. “March? What are you doing in my room?”

She plopped down onto the bed beside him with an easy grin, her hair bouncing lightly as she settled in. “I’m here to see you, of course,” she said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.

He rubbed his eyes, sitting up a little straighter. “Is something wrong?”

“Nope,” she replied breezily, though the faint pink flush creeping onto her cheeks betrayed her casual demeanor.

Before Caelus could question her further, March shifted closer. Her playful energy quieted into something softer, more uncertain, as she leaned in. Their eyes met, and then, without another word, she pressed her lips to his.

Caelus froze, his eyes widening in shock. The unexpected warmth of her kiss jolted him awake far more effectively than any alarm clock. He sat there, stunned, as her lips lingered against his. But then something shifted in him. He didn’t pull away. Instead, his body relaxed, leaning slightly into hers as his confusion gave way to something deeper—something he couldn’t quite name.

When they finally broke apart, both were flushed, their breathing uneven in the quiet stillness of the room.

March’s face was a deep red, her usual playful energy tempered by the raw emotion shining in her eyes. “I want more of that,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, her lips curving into a shy smile.

Caelus swallowed hard, his own cheeks burning. “What…what was that for?”

March silently steeled herself, her fists clenching the fabric of her jacket. This was it.

“I really don’t know when it started, but I fell for you, Caelus,” she began, her words tumbling out in a rush. “You’re…well, you’re you, but that’s what I love about you! You’re brave, and strong, and you stand up for those in need, and like…sure, anyone can do that, but…I can tell you put your entire heart into it. It’s not just another day, a mission, you truly care about people. And I know my confession sounds weird, I…didn’t think I’d get this far, okay?!”

Her voice cracked slightly as she finished, her eyes darting to his face to gauge his reaction. Caelus had stayed silent through her entire rant, his expression unreadable, but his heart fluttered at her words. He understood what she was trying to say—that despite his flaws, his compassion was what she treasured most about him.

March fidgeted nervously, the silence stretching unbearably. Had she just made the biggest mistake of her life? But then, without a word, Caelus reached out and gently pulled her down on top of him, her body landing lightly against his.

Her breath hitched, her cheeks flaming as she found herself face-to-face with him. Her heart was racing, each beat pounding like a drum in her ears.

“I understand,” Caelus said, his voice soft but steady. “Really, I’ve gotten used to deciphering your ramblings.”

March’s eyes narrowed slightly, her blush deepening. “Cheeky…”

A small smile tugged at his lips. “I care about you too, March. Maybe not as much as you do for me, but…I’m willing to see if there’s something more there too.”

Her eyes widened, hope flickering across her face. “R-Really?”

“Yes, really.”

Before she could process his words, Caelus leaned up and claimed her lips once more. Her mind reeled at the suddenness of it, but she melted into him all the same, her arms wrapping instinctively around his shoulders.

When his hands slid down, settling boldly on her rear beneath her skirt, her heart skipped a beat. The realization hit her like lightning—he was serious.

As their kisses deepened, Caelus’s hands moved with purpose, his fingertips tracing March’s curves with reverence. He paused often, his gaze flickering to hers, silently asking for permission before every step. She nodded each time, her breath hitching as he grew bolder.

When her shirt was finally gone, Caelus took a moment to admire her, his gaze warm and unhurried. “You’re beautiful,” he murmured, the sincerity in his voice making her cheeks burn.

March bit her lip, shy but emboldened by his words. “You’re not so bad yourself,” she teased, her voice soft.

He chuckled, leaning in to kiss her again, his lips brushing hers with tender affection. His hands continued their exploration, trailing down her sides, over the gentle curve of her hips, before settling on her bare thighs. The warmth of his touch sent shivers racing up her spine, her body arching instinctively into him.

Caelus shifted, his own shirt joining hers in the growing pile of discarded clothing. The heat of his skin pressed against hers, the intimacy of the moment making her heart race.

“Are you okay?” he asked softly, his lips ghosting over her temple.

March nodded, her fingers tangling in his hair. “I’m more than okay,” she whispered, her voice trembling with anticipation.

Satisfied with her response, Caelus’s hands resumed their exploration. He let his fingers brush over her inner thighs, the touch light and teasing, drawing a quiet gasp from her lips. He took his time, learning what made her react, what drew the softest sighs and shivers from her.

When he finally allowed his fingers to explore further, gently parting her thighs, March couldn’t suppress the moan that escaped her. His touch was deliberate, attentive, his fingers brushing her womanhood with a tenderness that made her head spin. He explored her slowly, his movements gentle but purposeful, his focus entirely on her reactions.

“You’re amazing,” he murmured, his voice filled with awe.

March couldn’t form a coherent reply, her body responding instinctively to his touch. Her hands gripped his shoulders, her breaths coming in soft, uneven gasps as he continued his ministrations. The tension within her built steadily, each gentle caress sending waves of warmth coursing through her.

When Caelus finally positioned himself above her, he paused, his eyes searching hers for any sign of hesitation.

“Are you sure?” he asked, his voice steady but laced with emotion.

March nodded, her hands cupping his face. “I’m sure,” she whispered, her voice steady despite the rapid beat of her heart.

Their bodies joined slowly, the connection as much emotional as it was physical. Caelus moved with care, his attention never wavering from her, ensuring she was comfortable and at ease with each motion. March gasped softly, her hands clutching at his back as they found a rhythm together, the sensation overwhelming yet beautifully intimate.

Every movement was deliberate, every touch laced with affection. They explored each other with quiet wonder, their breaths mingling in the stillness of the room. Time seemed to blur, their connection deepening with every shared moment until the world around them faded entirely.

When the intensity finally ebbed, they collapsed into each other’s arms, their bodies still entwined. March buried her face in Caelus’s chest, her heart full as he held her close, his hand gently stroking her hair.

“I didn’t think it was possible,” she murmured after a long silence, her voice soft.

Caelus tilted his head to look at her, his expression tender. “What?”

“To feel this happy,” she admitted, her cheeks flushing.

He smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “You deserve it, March. And so much more.”

As the quiet settled between them, March lay nestled against Caelus’s chest, her fingers absently tracing patterns along his skin. For a brief moment, she felt utterly content, her world reduced to the warmth of his embrace and the steady rhythm of his breathing. But then, a thought surfaced—a nagging reminder of why she’d come to him in the first place. Her smile faltered, and her heart ached faintly at the memory.

Caelus, ever perceptive, noticed the subtle shift in her demeanor. He tilted his head, brushing his fingers through her hair. “March? What’s wrong?”

She hesitated, her fingers stilling against his chest as she gathered her thoughts. This wasn’t how she’d imagined bringing it up, not after the intimacy they’d just shared. But she couldn’t keep it to herself. Not if this was going to work.

“It’s…nothing,” she began, but the words felt hollow even as she said them. She sighed, forcing herself to meet his gaze. “Actually, no, that’s a lie. There’s something I need to tell you.”

Caelus’s brow furrowed, concern etched across his face. “What is it?”

March took a deep breath, her hands curling into the sheets as she tried to find the right words. “I’m not the only one, Caelus.”

He blinked, his confusion apparent. “The only one?”

“The only one who has feelings for you,” she clarified, her voice barely above a whisper. “And before you say anything—yeah, I know how that sounds. Believe me, I’ve been thinking about it a lot. I…I really wanted to keep you to myself. But…” She swallowed hard, forcing a weak smile. “The others and I decided we’d share you instead.”

Caelus stared at her, his expression frozen in stunned disbelief. “O-Others?” he stammered, his voice cracking slightly.

March laughed softly, though there was no humor in it. “You’ve got no idea how much you’ve impressed a lot of women, Caelus. You care so much, you’re brave, and you’ve got this ridiculous habit of throwing yourself into danger for the sake of others. It’s hard not to fall for you. And trust me, they all fell hard.” She paused, her gaze lowering. “But none of us wanted to make a move if it meant causing problems across, well, several planets.”

Caelus gulped, his mind racing as the weight of her words settled in. “This…sounds pretty serious,” he said slowly, his voice tinged with nervousness.

“It is,” March admitted. “But I wouldn’t have brought it up if I didn’t think it could work. I just…” She trailed off, her voice breaking slightly as she turned her face into his chest. “Just hold me, please.”

Without hesitation, Caelus wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. He pressed a soft kiss to the top of her head, his embrace firm and reassuring. March let out a shaky sigh, her tense shoulders slowly relaxing against him. The ache in her chest eased, replaced by the comforting warmth of his presence.

“I need you to promise me something,” she murmured after a moment, her voice muffled against his skin.

“Anything,” he replied without hesitation.

She pulled back just enough to look at him, her eyes searching his. “Give all of them a fair chance. Love them equally. I don’t want anyone to feel left out. And…if it ever feels like too much, tell us. We’ll figure it out, okay?”

Caelus stared at her, his heart pounding as he absorbed her words. He nodded slowly, his hand brushing against her cheek. “I’ll try,” he said earnestly. “But, March…no matter what happens, I’ll never make you feel lesser. You mean too much to me.”

Her lips trembled, and a genuine smile broke through the lingering sadness on her face. “Thank you,” she whispered, leaning into his touch.

As she rested against him again, her smile soft but no longer pained, Caelus found himself grappling with a mix of emotions. Internally, he was panicking, the weight of her confession pressing heavily on his mind. He’d faced countless challenges in his journey, but this felt like uncharted territory—a balancing act that could easily tip into chaos if he wasn’t careful.

But then he looked down at March, the peaceful expression on her face, the way her fingers clung to his arm as though he were her anchor. And in that moment, he realized that maybe, just maybe, things would be okay.

Chapter Text

Cocona sat on the edge of her bed, her gaze drifting toward her smartphone resting on the bedside table. The soft glow of the room lights aboard the Radiant Feldspar gave her surroundings a cozy feel, but it did little to calm the nervous energy in her chest. She pulled a plush pillow into her lap, hugging it tightly as her mind replayed the chat conversation from earlier.

March’s message had been the first to set the tone, and Cocona could almost hear her voice as she read it again: “He was…so gentle…so loving.”

She could imagine Silver Wolf’s teasing smirk as she responded next. “Damn, girl, what did he do to you?”

March hadn’t missed a beat. “Everything I dreamed he would do,” she’d written, likely paired with one of her dramatic, dreamy sighs.

“That does match up with how he prepared drinks for me once,” Siobahn had added, her voice steady, thoughtful.

Robin’s reply had come quickly. “Caelus is very in tune with people, so I’m not surprised.”

Then Rappa had posed the question that made Cocona’s pulse quicken. “Who goes next?”

March’s response still lingered in her mind. “I honestly think it should be Cocona.”

“Me?!” Cocona had typed, her hands trembling slightly.

Molly, ever curious, had jumped in. “How so?”

March’s reply had made her chest tighten. “You remember her story. He literally saved her.”

“Oh, right,” Pela had said, and Cocona could almost see her nodding in agreement. “I remember.”

Cocona leaned back against her headboard, her fingers fiddling with the edge of the pillow as the memories surged forward. She remembered it all too well—how close she’d come to losing herself entirely. Her family had crushed her dream of singing, dismissing it as a childish fantasy. Her lover had abandoned her, leaving behind a mountain of debt and a shattered heart. She’d been at the end of her rope, standing on the edge of despair, when Caelus found her.

Not only had he talked her back from that brink, but he’d also given her a lifeline—hiring her for the Radiant Feldspar and securing her a position as a singer, performing for guests from across the universe.

She sighed, hugging the pillow tighter as her phone lit up with another message.

“Still,” Robin had written, “I wish I had known Cocona back then.”

“Same,” Siobahn had added. “To deny a child her dreams in Penacony should be a crime.”

Cocona had replied quickly, not wanting to let the conversation spiral into pity. “It’s alright. I just see it as having taken a harder road to get where I am today.”

Robin had been adamant. “Still…I’ll speak with Old Oti to make sure what happened to you never happens to anyone again.”

“Thank you, Robin,” Cocona had typed, a soft smile tugging at her lips.

Silver Wolf had seized the opportunity to lighten the mood. “Make sure to give us some juicy insight.”

“Wolfie!” March had typed in protest.

“owo,” Silver Wolf had replied, entirely unrepentant.

Cocona couldn’t help but laugh at the memory. The group could be chaotic at times, but they’d become so much more than friends—they were a sisterhood, a support system she hadn’t realized she needed until now.

“I’ll share the deets,” Cocona had typed at last, her cheeks warming with embarrassment as she thought about what lay ahead. “Since March can’t stop sighing.”

“Yay!” Silver Wolf had replied enthusiastically.

March’s indignant reply was immediate. “Pouts.”

“Lol,” Rappa had added simply.

Cocona smiled softly, setting her phone aside for a moment. She was grateful—not just for Caelus, who had saved her in so many ways, but for these women as well. They weren’t just her friends. They were her sisters, bound not by blood, but by a shared sense of understanding, trust, and camaraderie.

Cocona stepped nervously onto the Astral Express, her hands brushing over the fabric of her long white T-shirt as she adjusted it for the third time. It wasn’t her usual attire; the loose shirt that fell just past her hips, paired with fitted blue jeans and casual shoes, was deliberately chosen. She didn’t want her work outfit to give the wrong impression.

The gentle hum of the train beneath her feet was soothing, but the grand, intricate design of the Astral Express made her feel a little out of place. Her gaze wandered over the polished walls and warm lighting as she took a deep breath, stepping further inside.

“March?” she called softly, recognizing a familiar figure waiting just a few steps ahead.

“Hey, Cocona!” March 7th turned to her with a bright grin, waving enthusiastically. “I thought it’d be only proper for me to meet you here. You’ve never been on board the Astral Express before, have you?”

Cocona smiled, her nerves easing slightly at March’s easygoing demeanor. “I haven’t,” she admitted, glancing around in awe. “I don’t think I’ve stepped off Penacony before…”

March placed a hand on her hip, puffing her chest with mock pride. “Well, don’t worry. We have only the best here on the Express!” Then her grin turned mischievous. “Though I do know why you’re really here…”

Cocona’s cheeks warmed, the blush creeping up her neck. “I know you know.”

“Hehe, of course I know!” March giggled, giving her a playful nudge on the shoulder. “His room is connected to the Party Car, so let’s go. You can thank him properly.”

With that, March led Cocona through the next set of sliding doors, revealing the Party Car. The space was lively but not overwhelming, with a handful of individuals mingling in small groups. The rich wood floors gleamed under the warm lights, and a long bar stretched across one side, stocked with drinks of every color.

Cocona followed closely, taking it all in, but her gaze froze on one figure in particular. Her breath caught as her eyes widened in surprise. “Is…that Mister Sunday?”

March stopped mid-step, her eyes darting to the tall, well-dressed man at the bar. “Oh, shoot,” she muttered under her breath. “I knew I forgot something…”

Hearing his name, the man turned and approached them, his calm presence commanding attention.

“Hello,” Sunday said, his voice smooth and polite. “I heard my name called. Am I needed for something?”

Cocona blinked, still processing his sudden appearance. “Mister Sunday…you’re actually alright. A lot of the citizens of Penacony thought you went missing, but…seeing you here…”

Sunday’s eyes widened briefly in recognition before softening. “You’re from Penacony?”

“Yes.” Cocona nodded, clasping her hands together. “I’m actually here to thank Caelus for saving me. He kept me from making a mistake I’d regret forever.”

Sunday’s expression shifted, the faintest trace of a smile tugging at his lips. “I see… Well, don’t let me interrupt that. Caelus…he’s done so much for so many people. He does deserve recognition for that.”

March, her mind already spinning with possibilities, suddenly clapped her hands together. “Hey, Cocona! Why don’t you head up to his room? He should be there, and I can catch up with Mister Sunday and tell him your story.”

“Really?” Cocona asked, glancing between them.

March nodded eagerly. “Totally! Sunday might have some ideas about why everything happened the way it did. It might’ve been in the past, but—”

“It would give me closure,” Cocona finished, her voice quieter but resolute.

Sunday gave a slight bow of his head. “I’ll do my best to assist you with my knowledge. Though, I can’t guarantee how much help I can be.”

“Any help is fine,” March assured him with a grateful smile.

“Very well,” Sunday replied, folding his hands neatly in front of him.

March gestured toward a spiral staircase on the far side of the car, motioning for Cocona to head up. “His room’s just at the top of those stairs,” she said, her tone soft and encouraging.

Cocona hesitated for only a moment before nodding. “Thank you, March. And thank you, Mister Sunday.” With that, she made her way toward the stairs, her heart pounding with every step.

As she disappeared from sight, March turned back to Sunday, her expression shifting into one of thoughtful seriousness. “Alright, Sunday,” she began. “Let me tell you everything I know…”

Caelus looked up from the counter where he sat, finishing the last bite of an apple. His eyes brightened as he spotted a new visitor entering his room. “Cocona,” he said, a warm smile spreading across his face. “It’s good to see you.”

Cocona blushed, her cheeks dusted pink as she greeted him in return. Caelus’s smile deepened, and he casually tossed the apple core into the trash before standing to approach her.

“I’m surprised to see you,” he said as he drew closer, his tone curious. “Is everything okay?”

“Everything is fine, Caelus,” Cocona replied softly, stepping further into the room. “I just came to see you.”

“You came to see me?” he asked, tilting his head slightly.

Cocona nodded, her voice steady but her heart racing. “Yes. Do you remember what March told you…about the others?”

Caelus felt his cheeks flush as the memory surged to the forefront of his mind. He remembered that day vividly—March’s explanation that there was an entire group of women who wanted to be with him. That their feelings were so strong they were willing to share him was a revelation that had left him overwhelmed.

“I’m guessing…you’re…one of them?” he asked, his voice quieter now.

“Yes,” Cocona replied, the word leaving her lips with certainty.

Feeling a burst of courage, she stepped closer, lifting a hand to gently caress his face. Her fingers brushed along his cheek with tender affection, and she met his eyes with a look filled with gratitude and longing.

“You saved me from making the worst mistake of my life,” she said, her voice trembling slightly but filled with sincerity. “Rekindled the fire within me and gave me a job I would only dream of having. Why wouldn’t I fall in love with you?”

“Cocona…” Caelus murmured, her words striking something deep within him.

“So…” Cocona took a shaky breath, her voice softening as her resolve strengthened. “I want to show you that love. Please…”

Caelus swallowed hard, the weight of her words and the emotion behind them settling heavily over him. He hesitated for only a moment before nodding, his decision clear. She was baring her heart to him, and he couldn’t deny her sincerity.

Caelus then led Cocona gently to the bed, their hands entwined. As she perched on the edge, he stood in front of her, the soft glow of the room casting his features in a warm light. Neither of them spoke at first, the air between them humming with unspoken emotion. Cocona’s breath hitched as he brushed a strand of hair from her face, his touch gentle and reverent.

His hands moved to her waist, steady as he pulled her closer, their knees brushing. Her gaze flickered between his face and the floor before settling on his eyes. The depth of emotion she saw there melted her remaining nerves, replacing them with warmth.

“You mean so much to me,” she murmured, her voice trembling slightly but filled with truth.

Caelus leaned forward, their foreheads touching for a brief, intimate moment before his lips found hers. The kiss was tender, unhurried, and filled with a sense of care that made her heart swell. His hands lingered on her hips, their grip firm yet comforting as he pulled her against him.

Cocona responded instinctively, her arms winding around his neck as their kiss deepened. The feel of him, solid and warm, sent shivers coursing through her. She let herself lean into his touch, her body pressing flush against his as she tilted her head to allow him closer.

When they finally parted, her breaths came in soft, uneven puffs, her lips tingling from the contact. Caelus smiled faintly, his thumb brushing along her cheek as his gaze searched hers. He said nothing, letting his actions speak louder as his hands began to explore.

His fingers moved to the hem of her loose T-shirt, brushing against her sides as he carefully lifted it over her head. She shivered at the sensation, her skin prickling in response to the cool air and his touch. His movements were unhurried, deliberate, as though he were savoring each moment.

Cocona’s blush deepened, but she didn’t shy away. Instead, her hands moved to the buttons of his shirt, her fingers trembling slightly as she worked them loose. The fabric fell away, revealing the toned planes of his chest, faint scars etched like memories across his skin.

She reached out, her fingertips brushing over one of the marks. “You’ve been through so much,” she murmured, her voice laced with admiration.

“And I’ve come out stronger,” he replied, his hand covering hers briefly. “Because I’ve had people like you to fight for.”

Her heart fluttered at his words, and without hesitation, she leaned forward to press a kiss to his shoulder. He exhaled softly at the contact, his hand threading through her hair as he guided her back to meet his gaze.

They moved together slowly, shedding the remaining barriers between them with a mutual tenderness. Cocona’s nerves faded as Caelus’s hands roamed her body, his touch reverent and deliberate. His palms glided over her curves, lingering on the lines and shapes that made her unique. She gasped softly when his lips trailed from her jaw to her collarbone, the warmth of his breath and the light pressure of his kisses setting her skin alight.

Her own hands explored in turn, tracing the contours of his back and shoulders, memorizing the strength and warmth of him beneath her fingertips. Each touch felt like a silent affirmation, a connection deepened with every caress and glance.

When Caelus guided her further onto the bed, his body hovering over hers, Cocona felt no hesitation, only a profound sense of trust. Their bodies aligned naturally, fitting together as though they’d been made for one another. His kisses grew more insistent, his touch bolder as his hands slid lower, exploring the softness of her thighs.

She gasped as his fingers traced the curve of her hips, his touch featherlight yet purposeful. He took his time, letting her body respond to him, his attentiveness making her feel cherished in a way she’d never experienced before.

“Caelus…” she whispered, her voice thick with emotion as she arched into his touch.

“I’m here,” he murmured against her skin, his lips brushing just beneath her ear.

Her body trembled beneath him, each touch and kiss drawing her further into the moment. When his hand dipped lower, exploring the delicate heat of her womanhood, she let out a quiet moan, her hands tightening on his shoulders. His movements were patient, his fingers learning her rhythms and responses as though committing them to memory.

Cocona’s breathing quickened, her body reacting instinctively to his care. She felt her heart swell as he leaned down to kiss her again, their lips meeting in a heated, unspoken exchange. His attentiveness, the way he touched her as if she were something precious, brought tears to her eyes.

“You’re amazing,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with awe as he pulled back to look at her.

She smiled, her hand cupping his cheek. “And you make me feel that way.”

The connection between them deepened as they moved together, their shared desire building slowly, deliberately. Cocona felt safe, loved, and wanted, every action from Caelus affirming her importance to him.

Caelus’s hands continued their exploration, his touch reverent as he mapped every curve and line of Cocona’s body. Her breath hitched as his fingers brushed against sensitive spots, drawing soft sounds from her lips that only seemed to encourage him further. He moved with an unhurried patience, as though savoring every reaction, every sigh that escaped her.

Cocona felt her cheeks warm, her hands gripping his shoulders as his lips returned to her skin, leaving a trail of heated kisses along her collarbone. Each press of his lips sent shivers racing down her spine, her body arching instinctively into him. The warmth of his breath and the firm but gentle pressure of his hands grounded her, easing away the last remnants of nervousness.

When his lips ventured lower, trailing down the curve of her chest and stomach, she gasped, her hands threading through his hair. Every movement he made was filled with care, his focus entirely on her. He seemed attuned to her responses, pausing when she tensed and lingering on the areas that made her shudder beneath his touch.

“Caelus,” she whispered, her voice trembling as she lifted her head to look down at him.

He glanced up at her, his amber eyes filled with an emotion so raw and genuine it made her heart ache. “You’re incredible,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.

Cocona’s blush deepened, but she couldn’t stop the smile that tugged at her lips. “I could say the same about you.”

He returned her smile, his hands sliding down to rest on her hips. Slowly, he guided her further back onto the bed, their bodies aligning once more. She welcomed his weight as he hovered over her, the sensation of his bare skin against hers sending a thrill through her. The intimacy of the moment was almost overwhelming, but it was tempered by the profound trust they shared.

Caelus leaned down, capturing her lips in another kiss. This one was deeper, more insistent, his body pressing closer to hers as they moved together. Cocona responded eagerly, her arms wrapping around his neck to pull him closer. Their shared desire built steadily, a quiet intensity growing between them as their touches grew bolder.

When Caelus shifted his hips, their bodies coming together fully, Cocona let out a soft gasp, her fingers tightening against his shoulders. He paused, his gaze flickering to hers, his expression tender and attentive. She met his eyes, her own filled with unspoken reassurance, and gave a small nod.

The first movement was slow, deliberate, and it sent a shudder through them both. Cocona’s breath hitched, her hands sliding down to rest on his back as she adjusted to the new sensation. Caelus’s lips found hers again, their connection deepening as he began to move with a steady rhythm.

Each motion was filled with care, his focus entirely on her as he guided her through the moment. Cocona felt her body responding to his, her breaths coming in short, uneven bursts as warmth spread through her. Her heart raced, her entire being attuned to him as their bodies moved in harmony.

As their pace quickened, the sensations became almost too much to bear, their shared desire reaching its peak. Cocona clung to him, her nails digging lightly into his back as she let herself be swept away by the moment. Caelus’s grip on her tightened, his movements becoming more deliberate as he brought her to the edge.

When the tension within her finally broke, she let out a soft cry, her body trembling beneath him as waves of warmth and relief washed over her. Caelus followed soon after, his own release accompanied by a quiet, shuddering exhale.

For a moment, neither of them moved, their bodies still entwined as they caught their breath. Cocona felt tears slipping down her cheeks, but they weren’t born of sadness—they were tears of gratitude, of joy, of feeling so deeply loved and cherished.

Caelus gently brushed them away, his touch tender as he shifted to lie beside her. He pulled her into his arms, their bodies still warm from the intimacy they’d shared. Cocona rested her head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat as she smiled softly.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her voice barely audible in the quiet room.

Caelus pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “For what?”

“For making me feel…whole,” she replied, her arms tightening around him.

He didn’t respond with words, but the way he held her—secure, steady, and unwavering—spoke volumes.

Cocona let her eyes drift closed, a sense of peace washing over her. For the first time in a long time, she felt truly at ease, her heart full in a way she hadn’t thought possible.

The soft hum of the Astral Express echoed faintly through the halls as Caelus walked Cocona to the exit. The two moved slowly, their steps unhurried as though neither wanted the moment to end. A faint blush lingered on Cocona’s cheeks, her hands clasped lightly in front of her as she glanced at him from time to time.

As they reached the threshold of the door, Caelus turned to her, his expression thoughtful. "Cocona," he said, his tone gentle but curious. "Before you go… could you tell me more about the others?"

Cocona paused, tilting her head as a playful smile spread across her lips. "The others?"

"You know," he continued, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. "The ones March told me about. The ones who…" He trailed off, his cheeks coloring faintly as he glanced away.

Cocona giggled, her laughter soft and melodic. "Oh, them," she said, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I could tell you… but that wouldn’t be any fun, would it?"

He blinked, caught off guard by her teasing. "So, it’s a secret?"

"Exactly," she replied, leaning up on her toes to press a kiss to his lips. The gesture was quick, tender, but filled with warmth that made his chest tighten. As she pulled back, she met his gaze, her expression sincere. "Just promise me one thing, Caelus. Never change."

His surprise melted into a smile, one that reached his eyes. "I won’t," he said softly, his voice steady. "I promise."

Cocona nodded, her blush deepening as she stepped back. She lingered for a moment longer, her hands briefly fidgeting before she gave him one last look. "Goodbye, Caelus," she said, her tone carrying a hint of reluctance.

"Goodbye, Cocona," he replied, watching as she turned and stepped off the Astral Express.

He stayed there for a moment, staring after her as a small chuckle escaped him. The warmth of her kiss and her parting words lingered in his mind, leaving him with a renewed sense of purpose and a smile that refused to fade.