Web Short #2- The Exception (Sweet Burden Series) Pt. 5 (The End)

Read what happens after the finale, Fateful Echoes (Sweet Burden Series Vol. 3)...

(**SPOILERS**)

Pt. 5

The Exception

(Sweet Burden Series)

Pt. 5

Obi drummed his pen on the desk as Asher continued his report. He knew he should be paying attention, but his mind was elsewhere. It was with Hitomi. He wondered what she was doing at the moment and where she was at. For the past week she’d been disappearing into the woods for so-called meditation. Hitomi did seem more relaxed, but Obi was beginning to doubt what she was truly doing. He noticed every change about her over the week since her visit with her father. Her skin was more flushed and softer. She also seemed to be taking more interest in what she was eating. And the humming…Hitomi could be heard humming whenever she was in the palace. When Obi asked her about it, she flashed him a smile and shrugged. She was being secretive, but also giddy and happy. All he wanted was for her to be happy, but he needed to know what was going on.

“Sir?”

Obi’s attention was brought back to the angels and protectors in front of him. Asher, Sophie and Finn looked at him expectantly while Liam appeared bored. Obi knew how he felt.

“Everything sounds fine,” Obi replied and turned around to the window. “Things are going as expected. You all can go.” He listened to the shuffling of them leaving and the door shut quietly. Sighing, he rubbed his forehead and stared out to the gardens. Where was Hitomi and what was she doing?

“Obi?”

Surprised by the voice, he spun back around finding Sophie standing in front of his desk.

“I’m sorry to be informal…” she started.

Obi waved his hand dismissing her apology. “Sophie, please. You can always call me Obi. Was there something else you needed to talk about?”

“I’m concerned. Is everything alright? You’ve been very quiet the past few days. And well, you really weren’t paying attention during the meeting.”

He smiled slightly at her worry. “I’m fine, but thank you for your concern.”

Sophie moved back and sat down in the chair she previously occupied. “Obi, I know something is distressing you. And knowing you, there’s only one thing that would cause you to worry. Is everything alright with you and Hitomi?”

His eyes turned down to his hands. “I think so.” As he said the words he realized how much doubt he had concerning his answer. “Honestly, I’m not sure. She’s been disappearing for long periods during the day. I haven’t wanted to pry into what she’s doing, but it’s hard not to think…” He trailed off not wanting to say anymore. Obi didn’t want to admit to himself what his mind was already thinking.

“Think what?” Sophie looked at him perplexed as she tried to decipher his train of thought. He could practically see the wheels turning in her head as she thought. Suddenly her jaw dropped as she managed to frown at the same time. “Obi! You can’t actually think that. She would never chea…”

“Don’t say it,” he snapped. He didn’t want to hear the word aloud. He knew the thoughts were a product of his overactive imagination and pure ridiculousness. “I know it’s not true. I just don’t know what to think.”

Sophie relaxed back in the chair. “Obi, Hitomi loves you.”

“I know,” Obi replied as he looked away ashamed of how crazy his suspicions became.

“You should probably ask her what’s going on. But don’t ask her in an accusatory way. Ask her in a caring way. Basically, don’t be you.”

He couldn’t help but laugh a little. “Is that any way to talk to the God of Light?”

She shrugged. “I’m trying to be honest with you. You should go talk to her now. Don’t keep wondering and inventing crazy ideas in your head.”

Obi nodded. “You’re right.”

“Finally, you notice.” Sophie grinned and stood up smoothing her hands down her uniform.

He grinned and moved from behind his desk rushing out the door. Hurrying down the hallway, he made it to the patio and practically ran into Guri and Kerry. He knew that Guri had spent a lot of time with Hitomi recently trying to work on getting her powers under control.

Obi grabbed Guri’s arm. “Where’s Hitomi?”

“Why? What’s the matter?” Guri obviously sensed the urgency inside Obi.

“I hope nothing. I just need to know where she is.”

Guri grinned and nodded. “Out by the waterfall.”

Obi didn’t waste any time taking off into the air. He landed at the beginning of the woods to give himself some time to try to think of what he was going to say. Starting up the path, his mind raced to find the right words. She was his wife and he should feel comfortable asking her anything, but sometimes the reality was still hard to take. He still feared that one day she would walk away from him. He knew it was silly and it was nothing he could blame her for. It was simply his own insecurities he still needed to overcome.

By the time he made it to the end of the path he still had no idea what to say. As soon as he saw Hitomi all thoughts fluttered from his mind anyway. Everything except for her. She sat on the edge of the water swaying her feet back and forth creating soft ripples. He noticed she was focused on a book in her hands. He watched her for a few minutes. Sometimes the realization that she was his hit him hard. And this was one of those moments. He wanted to smack himself for even thinking she would be doing something behind his back. It seemed she just needed some alone time away from the palace.

Obi pushed back a branch and stepped out from the coverage of the woods. Hitomi heard him and instantly looked up.

“Obi, what are you doing here?” She closed the book and put it to the side.

He stepped closer unable to contain the smile she elicited. “I wanted to check on you, make sure you’re alright.” Obi sighed while continuing to watch her. She tucked her hair behind her ear as the sun glistened off her wedding ring. Even the beauty of her ring was nothing compared to her.

“Obi, I…”

“You are so beautiful,” he interrupted. “And strong and amazing.”

Hitomi slightly rolled her eyes even as her cheeks brightened. He kicked off his shoes and rolled up his pant legs before sitting next to her and dropping his feet into the water. Obi took her hand weaving his fingers between hers.

“I hope you understand why I worry about you so much,” Obi stated. “Especially since you’ve been refusing to take guards with you.”

“I think I’ve proven I can handle myself.” She nudged him and smiled. “I’ve needed some time to myself. There’s a lot I’ve had to think about.”

A knot formed in Obi’s gut. “Like what? Things are alright with us, aren’t they?”

Hitomi squeezed his hand. “Obi, please,” she replied as if he was crazy. “Of course we’re alright. It’s nothing like that. I wish you would stop thinking the worst about things.”

“Force of habit.”

“Maybe it’s a habit you should change. A lot of good has happened to us. I don’t want the bad to overshadow it.”

He pulled her hand up to his lips and kissed it. “I know good has happened to us. Sitting here holding your hand is proof of that. But you have to understand that my worry for you doesn’t stem from all the bad stuff. It comes from the fact that I love you. Before, I never imagined the love I have for you even existed. You are a part of me.” He pressed her hand to his chest. “You are the best part of me. You’re my heart.”

She drew in a shaky breath. “I hope you’re able to make some room in your heart for someone else.”

Obi’s brows drew together in confusion. “No one will have my heart except you.”

“I think you might change your mind.” Hitomi lifted her eyes meeting his as he braced himself for what she was about to say. “Obi…” She squeezed his hand and took in a deep breath. “I’m pregnant.”

The words didn’t make to sense to him at first. Did he hear her right? No. She must have said something else. Maybe, she’s poignant? Or perfect? Everything stilled as the words echoed inside his mind. He no longer heard the crashing of the water or the insects humming around the flowers. Did she say she’s perplexed? Pretty? He would have even understood pungent more than…pregnant.

A rapid thudding started in his ears. Was this actually happening? Maybe it was a dream. That had to be it. He must have fallen asleep at his desk. That was a more reasonable explanation than her being…His thoughts even stumbled over the word. She couldn’t be. They were technically dead.

“Obi? Say something.” Hitomi grabbed his arm and shook him.

His body swayed back and forth as his eyes fixated on the water. The glimmer of the ripples seemed to hypnotize him and it was the only thing he could focus on. This was a dream. A very crazy dream. He would wake up in a few minutes. Anxiety still coursed through him as he realized he didn’t want it to be a dream. As much as the possibility of a child terrified him, it also excited him. It was definitely a dream. A child was impossible.

“Obi, I know you’re probably wondering how. I wondered the same thing. My dad is looking into it, but he said it probably has something to do with you being a Phoenix. Obi? Are you listening to me?” She grabbed his face and made him look at her. “This is real. It’s not a dream. This is really happening.”

He focused on her and noticed the glistening in her eyes. Her expression was filled with joy and excitement. This was really happening. Hitomi’s hands trembled against his skin. “I wanted to tell you sooner, but I didn’t want you to think I was insane. Obi, please say something.”

Obi stared at her as fear rose up his throat. Doubts filled his head. If this was real, how could he be a father? He didn’t know the first thing about being a dad. He couldn’t be responsible for another being. But then he focused back on Hitomi. He was the God of Light, but she was his strength. She was the reason he could do the things he did. He was responsible now for hundreds of beings. If she was with him, he knew he could do anything.

A smile formed across his lips and he pulled her into a hug. “I don’t know what to say,” he whispered as he buried his face against her neck.

“Say something,” she begged.

He couldn’t come up with any words. There was no way to verbally describe how he felt. His heart raced as too many emotions flowed through him. “This is amazing and unimaginable. Unexpected and scary, but thrilling and joyous.” Obi pulled back looking at her as his lips quivered. “This is the most wonderful news I’ve ever heard.”

Obi hadn’t noticed the worry that clouded her face previously until now, but it quickly lifted. “Do you mean it?” she asked. “You believe me?”

“Of course I believe you.” He wrapped his arms around her again drawing her to him. “I’m sorry you ever doubted my reaction.”

She clung to him grasping the fabric of his shirt. “I’m scared Obi. But I’m also so overjoyed. I can’t even explain it.”

Obi ran his hand along her shoulder and down her side until it settled on her stomach. It was surreal for him to think about a child- their child under his fingertips. Hitomi slid her hand over top of his as she sent warmth radiating through him. They sat there silent for a while getting used to the new roles they would be taking on.

“How long do we have?”

Hitomi looked up at him questioningly.

“How long do we have to wait?”

“Oh.” She smiled widely. “About another 35 weeks. At least, that’s according to human standards.”

“35 weeks? There’s going to be so much to do. And we need to announce it to the Heavens. I need to tell Zeric and Jinx.”

Hitomi let out a laugh. “Slow down. There’s time for all of that.”

Obi smiled as he sat there marveling in her beauty. She was radiant, practically glowing. He was angry with himself for not noticing the change earlier. It was practically impossible for him to take his eyes from her.

When she noticed his expression her cheeks reddened and she bit her bottom lip.“Why are you staring at me?”

“Because I don’t know if you’ve ever looked as beautiful as you do at this moment.” He reached up brushing her hair from her shoulder. “We can do this. I know we can be good at being parents.”

Hitomi nodded with tears in her eyes. “I love the fact that I’m going to have a family with you. I never thought it could happen and it really, truly is.”

Obi grinned at his amazing wife. “Yes, it is.”

Web Short #2- The Exception (Sweet Burden Series) Pt. 4

Read what happens after the finale, Fateful Echoes (Sweet Burden Series Vol. 3)...

(**SPOILERS**)

Pt. 4

The Exception

(Sweet Burden Series)

Pt. 4

Hitomi’s eyes fluttered open. She found herself back in her bedroom in the Heavens. Obi was asleep next to her, but he didn’t appear to be sleeping well. There was a frown line on his brow. She reached up smoothing her finger over it and trailed her finger down to his cheek. He startled and grabbed her hand. His eyes widened at the realization she was awake. His body relaxed and his expression shifted to relief.

“You’re alright,” he stated.

Hitomi smiled. “Of course I am.”

He leaned over as he grasped her face and pressed his mouth to hers. “Hitomi, you were out for three days. One of the maids found you at the bottom of the pool. We have no idea how long you were down there.” He sat up. “What happened?”

She wanted to tell him everything, but she stopped herself as she sat across from him. She fixed the t-shirt Obi obviously put her in. If one of the girls dressed her, she’d be in a nightgown. Making sure the fabric was pulled over her stomach, she looked up at Obi watching her and waiting.

“Well, I sort of went into a memory-walking episode. Actually, it was a lot of episodes. One melted into the next, but they were all my memories.”

Obi’s expression became more concerned. “Do you think Minns did something by just suppressing your memories? Maybe something else is wrong.”

“Obi, I saw my father. After I went through the memories I ended up in the High Court.” For the moment she omitted the part where she was led there by a little boy. Reflexively she put her hand on her stomach.

“Did you tell him what’s been going on?” Hitomi nodded unsure how to give him the unexpected news. Nerves climbed up her throat, but Obi took her silence as something bad. His face fell. “Is it bad? He knew what was going on, didn’t he? I was right about something being wrong. Just tell me and we’ll figure out how to fix it.”

Hitomi stared at him. She loved him so much, but she hated how he was preparing for the worst. She knew part of his pessimism was her own doing. Things she did to him in the past caused him to lose any of the hopefulness he may have had left. He had been so much better about it lately, but the moment there seemed to be a ripple in their lives he assumed always the worst. She couldn’t tell him now. He was liable to think she was crazy. She couldn’t expect him to believe the unthinkable or impossible now. As much as it hurt her to keep the news from him, now was not the time to tell him.

“I’m fine, Obi. There’s no darkness inside me. There are no effects on my mind from Minns. I’m perfectly alright. My mind and body are simply adjusting to this new life.”

“Was Isbian sure?”

“I’m alright. I’ll just schedule some time with Guri and I’ll work to get everything under control. Stop worrying.”

Obi let out an amused snort. “When it comes to you, my worrying never stops.” He leaned forward kissing her tenderly as he ran his fingers down her neck. “You are my reason for everything.” He started to scoot off the bed. “I’ll have one of the guards go get you something to eat.”

She reached out to him. “I can wait until breakfast.” The darkness in the room indicated it was late at night. “Don’t make anyone get up.”

“The guards are right outside and they better be awake.”

“Obi,” she whined. “Come back to bed.” All she wanted was for him to hold her.

“I’ll go get you something if you don’t want them bothered. What would you like?” He didn’t wait for her to answer. “One of the cooks made some muffins. I bet there are a few left. How does that sound?”

Hitomi knew he wasn’t going to let it go. She finally agreed and he hurried out of the room. She took his absence as an opportunity. Hastily she got up pulling a pair of Obi’s boxers on and her robe. She hurried across the room and opened the door. The guards were a little surprised to see her and quickly bowed. She waved off their formalities and rushed down the hall, up the steps and straight to Guri’s room. Before she could knock the door swung open.

Guri stood there rubbing his eyes and let out a yawn. “I could feel your anxiety coming down the hall. What’s wrong?”

She suddenly felt wrong telling Guri before she told Obi the news. “I, um…I wanted to ask you about some sessions to try to get my powers under control.”

He raised an eyebrow. It was obvious he knew she was lying, but Guri always had a knack for not pressuring her. He knew she would tell him when she was ready. “What time were you thinking?”

“After breakfast?”

Guri nodded. “Are you sure there isn’t anything else?”

Hitomi shook her head as he eyed her. “Sorry to wake you.” She rushed away before she blurted everything out and she needed to get back to the room before Obi returned.

Hitomi tried to act as normally as possible around Obi all morning and through breakfast. She was happy when Obi said he had some things to attend to after eating and she went to the library to meet Guri. He wasn’t there yet and she browsed the stacks of books. Her fingers ran over the spines of the ancient books and she wondered if there were any books about babies. It was doubtful, but she couldn’t stop herself from looking. She found a human anatomy book and started leafing through it.

“Hitomi?” Guri startled her and the book created a loud thud on the floor. She hurried to scoop it up, but he grabbed it. “Human anatomy?” He handed the book to her. “Hitomi, tell me what’s going on.”

“I can’t. Not yet. But I promise it’s not bad. I need to tell Obi first, but I don’t know how.” Her voice dropped to a whisper.

He peered at her quizzically and looked her over. She knew what he was doing, trying to read her emotions and get a better handle on what was going on. Hitomi wondered if he could feel everything; her fear, excitement, and worry. What else did he know she felt? His eyebrows twitched and his gaze shifted immediately to her stomach. Hitomi felt the overwhelming urge to protect her child from his inspection, but she stopped herself. She watched him as he hid a smile and turned to the bookshelf pushing his fingers through the bindings.

He knew. “Don’t tell Obi,” she blurted out.

“Tell him, what?” He continued searching through the titles until he found what he was looking for. Guri pulled out an old large paperback and dusted it off. “You’d be surprised how many halflings there once were in the Living World,” he said very matter-of-fact as he handed her the book. She took the book and ran her fingers over the cover. “That’s a journal from a protector that was a midwife for a lot of halfling mothers. It’s very old, but it might be interesting to read until you figure out…things.”

“Thank you,” Hitomi replied quietly as she leaned up and kissed his cheek before taking off to go read. She headed for the gardens but once she reached the fountain, she felt too exposed. She didn’t want someone to catch her with the journal of a midwife. Basically she didn’t want Obi to catch her.

Continuing along the path of the gardens, she walked out to the waterfall hidden in the woods. Hitomi knew she was supposed to have guards with her, but she needed privacy. She picked a spot on the bank of the water so she could put her feet in and opened the journal at the beginning. The writing was faded and the pages yellowed, but she could still read most of the words.

It was getting close to dinner time when she stashed the book away in a safe spot in the woods and she started back to the palace. She took her time walking thinking about all the different children the woman delivered. Even after reading a quarter of the woman’s entries, Hitomi didn’t know the midwife’s name, but there were plenty of children’s names. She wondered if any of them survived the extermination. Did any of them go on to have families? There had to be people out there that were part angel or protector. Hitomi stopped at the fountain with her mind overwhelmed. Reading the journal put so many questions in her head. Questions about pregnancy, delivery, being a parent… The list was endless. But even with all her worries, she was excited. Having a child was never to be a possibility and now it was reality. It was meant to be.

Her hand traveled down to her stomach. “Our miracle,” she whispered. There was a thud behind her and Hitomi didn’t need to turn around to know who it was. She’d recognize his scent anywhere.

“I’ve missed you today.” Obi stepped up behind her and put his arms around her. “Guri told me he sent you to meditate. I’m assuming it was to help you with control of your powers.”

She nodded as she leaned back against him. Hitomi hated lying to him, but she wanted to tell him the news at the right time. Not when he was assuming the worst.

“Don’t go off again for so long.” He kissed her neck and her shoulder sending shivers through her body. “You need to take a guard with you too.”

“I needed to be alone. I can’t very well meditate with a guard standing over me.”

“And I need to know you’re protected when we’re apart. There still might be those that want to hurt you. I will never allow you to be put at risk again.”

Hitomi turned around meeting his eyes. She wanted to tell him so badly the words stung in her throat, but right now wasn’t the time. He was liable to turn their talk into an even bigger lecture on the need for a guard. Or maybe he would lock her in their bedroom for the next nine months. She let out a sigh and reached up brushing the hair from his face. Would their child look like him? Hitomi hoped so, but hopefully without all the worry lines. “When are you going to relax? We have so much to be thankful for. All the bad stuff is behind us.”

“I hope you’re right, but I doubt I’ll ever relax. Not when it comes to you.”

Great. How much is he going to overreact when he finds out there’s going to be a child now?

Obi pressed his lips against her forehead. “Let’s go eat dinner. I bet you’re hungry after missing lunch.”

Hitomi smiled at her husband. “Famished.”

(To Be Continued)

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Hitomi Beaumann isn’t supposed to live to see her 18th birthday.

Hitomi has always been just an average girl in a small town. But now she's being followed and her skin prickles every time the eyes are on her. After escaping a brutal attack thanks to a mysterious young man, she discovers he is one of the ones who have been watching her. Obsidian has jet black hair, red eyes and an attitude to match. As she finds herself drawn to Obsidian, she also realizes that he might just be as evil as he wants her to believe.

With someone trying to kill Hitomi and her birthday drawing closer, she finds herself plunged into a reality where a power struggle has been raging for years between mystical realms, humans are not the only beings and most of her life has been a lie.

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Hitomi Beaumann continues her quest to restore balance between the realms. As she continues to strengthen, Obsidian begins to weaken. The evil inside him begs to be released and he's not sure he can stop it. To make matters worse, someone starts showing an interest in Hitomi sending Obsidian into a whirlwind of self-doubt and destructive behavior.

But Hitomi can't just worry about Obsidian. The world continues to darken. Time is running out for everyone.

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Obsidian is dying...again. He finally understands that he was never meant to be with Hitomi. Eternal darkness is an easier decision for him than living without her. But someone else has another plan for Obsidian and it doesn't involve him no longer existing.

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Hitomi's memory is gone. Or is it? After seeing visions of her past, she's thrust into the Heavens where hopefully answers await. Learning to be Queen of a realm and wife to London aren't the first items on her agenda. She knows that Mattias may hold the key to reviving her memories lost. But no one seems to know anything about him...until he appears at the foot of her throne.

Obsidian has become a being of the Spiritual Realm and must do what his Queen wishes. He knows Sabra has her own plan by sending him to the Heavens. He's not prepared to see Hitomi again, especially on the arm of London. But does he dare tell her the truth and risk her hating him? Or does he suffer through the torture and try to figure out the reasons for Sabra's actions?

As secrets unfold and allies become enemies, Hitomi must discover the path she must take, not only for herself but for the good of everyone. Does that path include Mattias/Obsidian? Or must she leave him behind to face the darkness alone? For she is the only one who can bring about balance of the realms and save the Living World. She must choose between her past and her future.

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Web Short #2- The Exception (Sweet Burden Series) Pt. 3

Read what happens after the finale, Fateful Echoes (Sweet Burden Series Vol. 3)...

(**SPOILERS**)

Pt. 3

The Exception

(Sweet Burden Series)

Pt. 3

“Where’s my father?”

The High Court beings stayed silent, watching her as more appeared from the rooms encircling the courtyard. While they appeared human, she knew they weren’t. Each one of them had an ethereal beauty. They were dressed head to toe in white and continued to watch her as some whispered to each other.

 “Father?” Hitomi turned around searching for him. “Father?” More beings appeared making her more anxious. “Isbian!”

“I am here,” his voice sounded.

She turned to find Isbian moving through a group of beings. He started towards her as the whispering between everyone got louder and more animated. She looked at him worried, but Isbian seemed at ease and overjoyed to see her.

“My dear Hitomi.” He rushed over and pulled her into a hug. “How are you? Are you feeling well?”

“I guess.” She shrugged and glanced around at all the faces watching them.

“And how’s Obi?”

“He’s well.” Hitomi turned her eyes back to her father. “Why’s everyone watching us?”

“They’re curious.” He continued to smile and took the fruit from her.

“About what?”

“You, of course. Some are also big fans of your husband’s.”

At that Hitomi couldn’t help but laugh. “I’m sure Obi will be amused.” It still unnerved her that their lives were viewed as if a reality TV show.

“It’s been awhile since you last visited. Is there a reason or did you simply want to say hello?” He stepped back and took her hands. “Although, you should be resting.”

She didn’t understand the comment, but disregarded it. “I needed to talk to you about something. Well, Obi’s really the one who’s worried about it, but…”

“Of course Obi would be worried. That’s natural.”

“So, you know?”

Isbian nodded with a large grin. “I’m not sure how it was possible, but it happened.”

Hitomi was overly confused by his reaction. How could he be happy about darkness still residing in her? Was she in a dream? Perhaps this was a nightmare, but everything felt tangible and real. “I don’t know how you can be pleased about this. Everything was going so well. Really well. And now we get news like this!”

Isbian dropped her hands seemingly confused by her. “I don’t understand. I would have thought you’d be overjoyed. I’ll admit, at first, I was somewhat unnerved. Considering you are so young in human years. But your mother was the same age and the idea grew on me. Now I couldn’t be happier for you and Obi.”

She stared at him utterly dumbfounded. Hitomi was done caring about the three dozen beings now watching them. “What are you talking about my mom for? I came to ask you about the remnants of Laebosu’s powers inside me, but somehow you already knew…”

Isbian interrupted her. “Laebosu’s powers? What are you talking about? You transferred the dark powers to Rediisu.”

“I know,” she replied exasperated. “But I haven’t been feeling right. My powers seem to be going crazy and…” Hitomi stopped and frowned. “What were you talking about?”

Isbian put his hand to his mouth trying to hide his amusement. “Hitomi.” He looked at her affectionately. “My daughter, the Goddess of Light, you are the greatest gift I received. But what you don’t know is that you carry the second greatest gift I could hope for.” Isbian took her hands again. “Hitomi, you’re pregnant.”

Hitomi’s mouth dropped open and she stumbled back. Her father held onto her, but she couldn’t focus on him. Pregnant? How could she be pregnant? She was technically dead, as was Obi. It wasn’t supposed to be possible.

Her eyes darted in every direction. So many other eyes were watching her reaction to the news, but she couldn’t concern herself with them. The news was unimaginable and unforeseen. Her knees went weak and Isbian helped her kneel on the ground. “But…how…” The shock was causing her mind to reel and she was unable to find the right words. Part of her was laughing at herself for not thinking it could happen. Too much of the unfathomable already happened in her life. “I thought…but, what about what’s been happening to me? My memory-walking is out of control.”

“You are going through a bit of a change.” Isbian shrugged.

“A bit of a change?” she repeated appalled. “That’s an understatement. I thought the worst. Obi thought the worst. We thought something was seriously wrong.”

“Well, perhaps you both need to change your way of thinking. Especially now with a child to consider.” Her father leaned forward and grabbed her shoulders. “There’s nothing wrong with you. There is no darkness from Laebosu inside you. You’re carrying a miracle.”

As if instinctively, Hitomi placed a hand over her stomach and looked down. “But how? We’re two dead beings.”

“It must have something to do with Obi’s Phoenix status. I can’t give you the answer you’re wanting. There’s no previous knowledge of a child being born from the same circumstances. Of course, half-lings are common, but nothing like this. If you’d like I’ll continue to try to find out. Perhaps there’s something similar in one of the other worlds.”

She nodded and closed her eyes. There was suddenly too much to think about. How was she going to tell Obi? Would he think she’d lost her mind? What would everyone else think? Would it be a boy or a girl? Where would they put a nursery? Would she be a good mother? Was she ready to be a mother? How was Obi going to handle the news? Obi…

“Obi,” she whispered.

“Hitomi, look at me.”

She lifted her gaze back to her father’s face. He wore a sincere smile and let go of her. “It’s time for you to go back.”

She noticed the transparency of her skin and realized Obi was pulling her back to the Heavens. Frantically she tried to think of the important questions to ask her father. “Please try to find out any information you can. And do you…” She bit at her lip feeling silly at the one question she would have time to ask. “Will it be a he or a she?”

Isbian leaned forward before she disappeared. “I think I’ll leave that as a surprise for you as well. I love you, my Hitomi.”

(To Be Continued)

Web Short #2- The Exception (Sweet Burden Series) Pt. 2

Read what happens after the finale, Fateful Echoes (Sweet Burden Series Vol. 3)...

(**SPOILERS**)

Pt. 2

The Exception

(Sweet Burden Series)

Pt. 2

Hitomi tried to put off contacting her father, but Obi remained persistent. Three days passed since Jinx’s arrival, but he left after only a day to go talk to Zeric. Obi told her the basics of Jinx’s story. Basically Sabra used him, keeping him as her lover and when he refused to give her what she wanted she decided to take what she desired in the form of Zeric. Obi didn’t go into much more detail. He seemed okay with what Jinx told him, but she knew he was also occupied with what was going on with her.

During the past few days Hitomi had a few more memory-walking episodes. She went into one of Obi’s memories, one of Sophie’s and two of Kerry’s. She tried to make light of them, but Obi wouldn’t drop the subject. He started practically begging her to contact her father. In truth, Hitomi was scared to find out if darkness could still be inside her.

She lay in bed early in the morning listening to Obi’s rhythmic breathing. Hitomi leaned over and kissed his cheek. He let out a hum, but didn’t wake. Slowly she climbed out of bed and changed into a bathing suit. She felt the need to clear her head and since arriving in the Heavens swimming seemed to be the only way. It was extremely early and the palace grounds were quiet.

Hitomi moved down the steps of the pool and submersed herself. She stayed below the surface for a few moments enjoying the silence before leisurely swimming laps. The water moving across her skin felt like silk and she easily forgot her worries until she suddenly forgot herself.

“Are you alright?” a voice asked. Hitomi shivered and brought her head up. Through blurry eyes, she glimpsed a hand outstretched to her. It was Obi and this was the first time she met him.

“I’ll be fine,” Hitomi mumbled in between sniffles and shudders. She remembered trying to make out who the hand was connected to. She wiped away her tears and saw Obi. His face was hidden in shadows, but she would recognize him anywhere.

“You should get out of this alley,” he pushed his hand closer to her, motioning with his fingers to come with him.

Her former self was initially apprehensive, but now she longed to touch him. She stretched her hand out and placed it in his. She steadied herself on her feet and tightened her grip on her shirt.

“Are you sure you’re alright?” he questioned.

She looked down at herself. She had been terrified at the time, but Obi made everything seem to disappear. Her gaze shifted to their hands still clasped together and she nodded. Hitomi lifted her head to see him as he squeezed her hand, but then he quickly let go and turned away from her. She wanted to throw herself into his arms, but this was a memory, not a dream.

“Please don’t leave.” His voice said behind her. Hitomi turned and suddenly she was in her room. Obi was lying on her bed. This memory was when Obi came to her after he was whipped and tortured for failing to kill her.

“You need to get some sleep,” she said.

“I’ll sleep better if you’re here,” he replied.

Her body trembled as she moved back over. “Okay.” She set down the bowl she had in her hands from cleaning his wounds and moved the chair back over to her desk. She sat down and opened her laptop as she heard him moving around in the bed. She listened to it creak as he got comfortable and then it was silent. Hitomi stopped herself from peering over her shoulder to look at him.

“Come here,” he mumbled after a few minutes.

“Obi, go to sleep.” Hitomi remembered feeling so nervous. She knew what he meant at the time, but she was so inexperienced.

“Not until you come here.”

Hitomi turned to him. He was lying on his side facing her and he had scooted back towards the wall. Her heart began racing as she stood up. She recalled how she thought his eyes looked different. They looked warmer. She walked over to the bed and wondered inside how she didn’t fall into his arms.

“Do you need something?” she asked stupidly.

He quietly sighed and closed his eyes. Obi’s hand lazily lay on the empty side of the bed. He lightly patted the mattress. As she pulled back the sheet, it felt as though sparks were hitting all of her nerves even in the memory. She slowly climbed into bed and brought the sheet up over her. She shifted onto her side facing him. How did she not realize she loved him even this early into knowing him?

“Are you warm enough?” she asked.

He nodded his head as his eyes opened. Obi moved his free hand up to where Hitomi had hers tucked under the pillow. Reaching under the pillow, he laid his hand on top of hers. Hitomi wondered if he felt the wave of warmness move over his body when they touched as she did. He watched her as if he was waiting for her to pull away. But she didn’t. She welcomed his touch. He let out a little hum and his eyes closed again.

Hitomi wanted to lay there and watch him forever, but she moved from the bed and as she turned around she was suddenly running through the woods. Her lungs ached from the cold damp air. Her mud covered feet felt numb. She grabbed onto a tree to quickly catch her breath. Hitomi leaned back against the trunk and tried to focus on slowing her gasps. She tilted her head up looking for the sky, but it could not be seen due to thick tree coverage. Her body shuddered violently from the frigid air or maybe it was her desperation. She remembered feeling overwhelming anxiety. She had to find Obi.

She scraped her feet against a patch of moss at the base of the tree trying to clean them off as much as possible. Despite her freezing, a trickle of sweat traveled down the side of her face and she wiped it away. She took a deep breath preparing for another run. She stepped away from the tree swiveling her head from right to left when she saw him walking in her direction.

His head was down and his hands stuffed in his pockets as he unknowingly walked towards her. She took a few steps towards him and stood directly in his sight line. Suddenly his head lifted and his eyes met hers. He stopped for a second as she started forward.

Her heart was ready to burst through her chest as her pace accelerated. His hands slipped out of his pockets as he moved to her. Her mind raced as her steps turned into a jog. Their eyes were fixed on each other as the distance between them shortened. She was almost to him, only a few feet away, when she abruptly stopped. If there was a way to kick her other self she would have, but she knew how nervous she had been.

But Obi did not stop. He stepped up to her, placing his hands on the sides of her face. Obi leaned down pulling her face to his and pressed his lips hard against hers for their first kiss.

His hands moved down grasping at her waist and bringing her closer to him, but now tears were streaming down her cheeks as she moved her hand up to his chest. She could feel the heat of her hand as it started to burn brightly. This was one of the moments she always regretted and having to see it again was painful.

“I’m sorry,” Hitomi whispered against his lips. She pushed her hand hard to his chest and stumbled back, but she couldn’t stop herself. She wanted to lose her voice. She wanted to stop it, but the memory continued. “Obsidian, I release you from your duty as my protector and I, as Goddess of Light, fully remove all protector powers bequeathed upon you.”

Obi jerked as if electricity shot through his entire body. His eyes widened as shock spread across his face and then suddenly he became enraged. He grabbed her arms tightly. “What have you done?”

“I had to release you. I can’t risk you getting hurt again.”

His grip on her intensified as he violently shook his head. “But there’s always a risk. I’m still going to be next to you, bound or not.” His voice got louder. “Don’t you understand that I love you?”

“I know Obi.” She pulled out of his grasp and stepped backwards. “But I can’t be selfish anymore. It was preposterous of me to think that I could become the Goddess of Light, rule the Heavens, and have you all at the same time. It can’t be done.” She now knew it could be done. It was done. They were happily together. Hitomi had to remind herself that these events were in the past, but seeing them again didn’t make it easier. She knew the horrid events that followed too well.

When she blinked her eyes again, Hitomi was kneeling in the snow over Obi’s body as she thought he lay dying. “Please Obi,” Hitomi begged. She dropped her head down onto his chest feeling the wet sticky blood against her face. There was barely any beat to his heart left. “Let me save you.”

“You already did.” He let go of her hands and ran his fingers through her hair. “You let me love you. You made me a better person.” He turned his head glancing back at Guri. “Deiman is still nearby. You need to get her out of here. Please Guri, take her.”

Hitomi lifted her head slightly and looked up at him. He had a slight smirk on his face and tears in the corners of his eyes. She brought her face up to meet his and put her hands on either side of his neck. Lowering her face, she pressed her lips against his. He kissed her back weakly.

“I love you Obi. I love you,” she cried in between kisses.

She felt his hand fall from her hair and suddenly his lips were motionless. Hitomi pulled back looking at him. Even now the memory felt like a fresh wound.

“Obi? Obi!” Hitomi shook him fiercely. She squeezed her eyes shut not wanting to see anymore.

“Hitomi, I…” Obi started breaking the silence as her eyes shot open seeing him in the reflection of the mirror. But at this moment, he was Mattias to her. She had yet to remember their past. He abruptly stopped his words as his eyes traveled over her. “You look so beautiful.”

Her heart pounded in her chest. She recalled wanting to say so many things, but she didn’t know how to express all the feelings bottled up inside her. She opened her mouth to say something, but the words caught in her throat. She swallowed and tried again, but this time before she could Obi rushed up behind her and wrapped his arms around her. His body trembled against hers as she melted into his embrace. Her eyes lifted to his as they watched each other in the mirror. The electricity of his touch pulsed through her and instantly warmed her.

He lowered his head and skimmed her shoulder with his lips before pressing them lightly against her neck. “I can’t bring myself to stay away from you,” he whispered.

“I never asked you to.” Her voice came out thick and shaky.

His eyes met hers again in the reflection. “Actually, once upon a time you did but I don’t listen very well.” A smile hinted at the corners of his mouth.

“How are you here?”

“It doesn’t matter. All that matters is that I’m here.” He reached up and moved her hair away from her neck. “We don’t have much time.”

“It’s not safe for you here.”

“I’m not leaving you here. Not again.”

“Mattias, I can’t leave…”

He tightened his grip on her waist. “You’re not going to be able to stop me from taking you out of here. I will throw you over my shoulder and drag you out if I need to. I can’t protect you here.”

“But the Heavens. I can’t leave London in power.”

“Hitomi.” He spun her around to face him tangling the bottom of her dress around her feet. He didn’t give her another chance to protest. Obi gripped her waist and brought his lips to hers. Every ounce of want and need poured out of them. His mouth was firm and slightly rough at first, but when Hitomi wrapped her arms around his neck they softened. His teeth nipped at her lower lip as Hitomi’s fingers moved up his neck pushing into the waves of his hair. A groan vibrated through his throat and he tightened his grip while lifting her from the floor.

When he lowered her to the ground, there was a roar of applause. Hitomi couldn’t stop smiling as Obi kissed her again. Even though there were over a hundred pairs of eyes on them, she felt like they were the only two in the entire world. Their wedding was a breathtaking event marking the beginning of a time of peace.

“As much as I want to keep kissing you right now…” Obi whispered.

“Then don’t stop,” she said. Hitomi recalled wanting to spend the whole day wrapped in his arms, but they were King and Queen of the Heavens. Unfortunately there were expectations, but even so Hitomi wanted to spend a few moments alone with her husband.

Obi laughed and suddenly scooped her up in his arms. “Your wish is my command, my love.” He leaned over kissing her again as he moved down the aisle. Hitomi barely noticed the guests clapping and throwing flower petals. Her smile was wide across her face and she couldn’t stop laughing as he peppered her with kisses.

He carried her away from the crowd moving down the beach. When he let her down, he knelt in front of her and slipped off her shoes.

“What are you doing?” she asked.

“Getting a little time alone with you before we go to the reception.” Obi took his shoes off as well. He carried their shoes in one hand and took her hand in the other. “Was the wedding everything you ever wished for?”

“Were you there?” she asked slyly.

Obi grinned and nodded.

“Then, yes. It was everything I ever wished for.”

“C’mon.” He pulled on her arm and led her along the water. As they walked along the beach everything became blindingly white. Obi’s hand disappeared and Hitomi spun around in the nothingness.

“Obi?” she called out. Her head turned looking for any sign of him, but then she noticed a small speck of darkness in the distance. She started towards it tentatively, but then she was running. As she neared it, the speck turned into a doorway. There two huge wooden double doors in the middle of oblivion. One of the doors was cracked open and a child stood with their back to her. The little boy was dressed in a white shirt and shorts. He had deep auburn hair that was slightly messy.

“Excuse me?” She knelt down behind him.

The little boy turned to her with his rosy cheeks and sparkling eyes. He smiled and laughed before running through the doorway. The door closed with a deep thud.

“Wait!” She hurried after him, stumbling through the doorway.

Hitomi stepped onto the plush grass as the sun warmed her skin. As her eyes adjusted, she realized she was in the courtyard where she always met Isbian. How was she in the High Court suddenly? She searched for the boy, but he was gone.

She moved over to the ambrosia tree and plucked a fruit from the branches. She thought about all the memories she relived. Every one of them had to do with Obi. What was significant about those memories? It started to worry her when she felt a presence. Turning, she expected to see her father but it wasn’t him. Two beings were watching her as they stood outside one of the rooms. They were both dressed purely in white and watching her with curiosity. She then noticed three other beings emerge from another room. They stopped and watched her as well. Suddenly they were surrounding her sending her nerves racing.

It seemed they did know something she didn’t.

(To Be Continued)