Be Mine, Dear Valentine
Night fell on Valentine's day, the most important Sunday of my year.
I was on my way to the most awaited event by the elites.
A yearly ball that is thrown in Saint Valentine's name which took place in a big mansion.
Everyone important always attended. Known as the annual Valentine's Ball, this extravagant gathering held a special allure.
Rumor had it that those who were single and graced the occasion had a higher chance of finding true love.
Even the couples who frequented the event claimed that it strengthened their bonds.
For me, the purpose of attending went beyond matters of the heart.
As a business owner, this was an opportunity to meet potential clients and expand my network.
Accompanied by my friend Ivee, who shared my enthusiasm for celebrating singlehood, we reveled in the festivities.
However, despite my involvement in orchestrating the event and the enjoyment it brought, there was always a lingering sense of emptiness within me.
The elusive feeling of finding true love remained unfulfilled, and I couldn't comprehend why.
Yet, a part of me felt compelled to return each year, not only to be present but also to ensure everything ran flawlessly.
As the person responsible for overseeing the event, I worked closely with the contractors and our dedicated team members.
Together, we strived to create an atmosphere that exuded both allure and enigma.
Every nook and cranny of the venue was meticulously adorned, designed to evoke a sense of intrigue.
We aimed to ignite the belief that anything could transpire on this momentous night, particularly when it came to the centerpiece of the evening: Cupid's Shot.
This specially concocted elixir had gained a reputation for its mystical powers.
Countless singles seemingly discovered their soulmates before the clock struck midnight.
Though I had never indulged in the drink myself, a part of me couldn't help but contemplate whether I should succumb to its tempting allure.
The lingering question of whether I would be able to resist its pull remained uncertain.
Looking at my phone, I noticed Ivee's recent message, asking if I would go through with it this year. As best friends we made a pact the previous night after a few drinks, but doubts had crept in.
The limousine ride seemed interminable, yet texting Ivee, effortlessly passed the time. The moment to disembark from the limo fast approaching.
Checking my phone again, Ivee's latest message revealed her imminent arrival, along with the unexpected revelation of setting me up on a blind date. Just what I needed – an additional challenge of interacting with a stranger.
Stepping out gracefully, I clung to the elegant train of my vibrant red dress.
"Good evening, Madam Scarlett," greeted the host attendant's manager, one of my diligent employees. He presented me with a white mask, as was customary for females at this event, while males wore black masks.
"Jordan! Everything looks splendid!" I expressed my satisfaction. He took hold of my hand and led me towards the grand entrance.
"Everything has been executed precisely as you requested, boss," he replied, matching my stride as I allowed my dress train to gracefully cascade behind me, still clutching onto his arm.
"I appreciate your meticulous management of affairs here. It's of utmost importance," I acknowledged.
I noticed a newfound longing in his gaze, a look I had never witnessed before.
"Is everything alright?" I inquired.
"Certainly, Madam."
"Then why the melancholic expression? Has someone been giving you trouble?"
"No, not at all. It's just that walking alongside you has made me yearn for the chance to experience an event like this with a lady as enchanting as you," he confessed.
"I'm certain we can arrange something. You deserve it," I assured him.
"I will trust your word, boss. I won't disappoint you."
"Continue your exceptional work. Thank you," I squeezed his hand, conveying my gratitude, before turning my attention towards the imposing main entrance.
A daring confidence surged through my veins as I ventured into the unknown once again.
This year held an unexpected surprise, the attendance at the party had multiplied tenfold compared to previous years.
The bustling crowd assured me that this event presented an exceptional opportunity to expand my client base, showcasing the immense potential of my event planning endeavors.
As a sense of déjà vu washed over me, I couldn't help but reflect on the journey that had brought me to this very moment. The relentless dedication and tireless efforts culminated in the realization of this night.
I made my way to the bar with a desire for my go-to drink, a whiskey sour.
Just as I approached, a woman ahead of me swiftly claimed her beverage from one of the bartenders.
Seizing the opportunity, I stepped into her place.
I turned to the bartender, confident that he would recognize me and expedite the process of preparing my favored libation.
With a quick gesture, I signaled my preference for the drink, to which he nodded and promptly began preparing it.
As I patiently waited, I noticed a man beside me who had been observing me.
Our eyes met, and I found myself captivated by his unique half-white and half-black mask.
The familiarity of his light aqua-blue eyes and blonde hair from previous years sparked recognition within me, though he had never seemed to take notice of my presence before.
There was an undeniable allure about him, radiating an aura of sensuality.
Standing at an impressive height of 6'0, he exuded a godlike appeal.
For the first time since our simultaneous attendance at these events, his gaze was fixed upon mine.
"Intriguing," I commented, observing his distinctive half-and-half mask. "What category do you fall into?"
His gaze fixated on me as if he were analyzing my very being.
A sense of amusement flickered across his eyes in response to my inquiry.
Suddenly, he seized me by the waist, drawing me closer, and leaned in towards me.
Instinctively, I pushed against him, resisting his advances.
However, his grip tightened, and then he shifted his gaze towards my right side.
"Would you abide by the rules if you've invested so much?" he murmured, his words punctuated by the intensity of his grip.
As I parted my lips to respond, I found myself speechless, incapable of forming coherent words to convey my thoughts.
He turned to my ear and whispered something I couldn't make out but made me feel dizzy.
Suddenly, the realization struck me like a lightning bolt.
This enigmatic man before me was none other than my elusive employer, the mastermind behind these extravagant events.
In all the years of working for him, I had never known his true identity.
He operated in secrecy, always conducting transactions with cash and entrusting assistants and lawyers to handle his affairs.
His unique mask, split between black and white, was a deliberate choice that added to the mystique surrounding him.
It had become a tradition for attendees to engage in a guessing game, attempting to unravel his true persona.
From the very beginning, he had remained elusive, keeping his true identity shrouded in mystery.
Even now, as I stood before him, I remained ignorant of his name or who he truly was. However, this was a crucial piece of information I needed to acquire if I were to continue planning his events and accepting the substantial sums of cash he bestowed upon me without question.
In a whispered tone, he leaned close to my ear, uttering words that eluded my comprehension but left me feeling dizzy and disoriented.
As he released his grip on me, my attention was abruptly diverted by someone urgently pulling at my hand and calling out my name.
However, lost in a daze, it took a moment for me to regain my senses.
When I finally snapped out of it, I turned around to identify the person who had called out to me.
"Scarlet! Darling!" It was Ivee. Relief washed over me as I spotted her, grateful for the opportunity to escape this unsettling encounter.
"Ivee, thank goodness!" I exclaimed, embracing her tightly, seeking solace in her presence.
"I've been searching everywhere for you, and so has Walter!"
"I'll fill you in later, but right now, please help me get my drink and find a way out of here!" I urgently whispered.
However, when I turned around, the mysterious man had vanished into thin air.
"What on earth?" I muttered in bewilderment.
With his investment and good word, my business would glorify this year. I would no longer be looked down upon, and I'd become the best and most wanted event planner on the East Coast.
Where had he disappeared to? Would this be the moment when I finally uncover the identity of this mystery man?
This time, it felt different. His intense gaze felt like a profound challenge, but for me, it held an even greater significance.
He was my savior, the one who held the power to rescue me from the clutches of business bankruptcy.
With his investment and endorsement, my struggling enterprise would experience a remarkable revival.
No longer would I be subject to disdainful glances; instead, I would rise to become the most revered and sought-after event planner along the entire East Coast.
"Yes! Come on. Stop thinking about working tonight or else! We've been planning these events and working full-time for years. Just live a little!"
"We can discuss it later, but for now, let's get moving," she exclaimed, grasping my hand and urging me forward. In response, I squeezed her hand firmly and halted her progress.
"Easy there, tiger. Let me retrieve my drink first to spare myself the embarrassment of stumbling in these heels."
"Come on! I want you to meet your date!"
"Ugh, must I?"
"Yes! Come on. Quit thinking about work tonight, or else! We've dedicated years to planning these events and working tirelessly. It's time to let loose a little!"
My discontented expression prompted a change in Ivee's countenance.
"Bitch, just one night. Give me that much. Walter hooked us up with VIP attendants, loaded men!"
"Alright, just one night. But remember, if I don't like him, I'm making a swift exit."
"Think of it as a chance to network with wealthy individuals for your business as well! Come on, loosen up a bit, party planning queen!"
"Fair enough."
Not quite feeling intoxicated enough for this, I grabbed my drink and tightly held onto Ivee's hand as she guided us forward.
We ventured into the VIP singles section, reserved for those willing to pay extra.
Passing through a back hallway, we arrived at one of the VIP rooms, where a group of men engaged in conversation with two other women.
"Madame Anderson!" I pivoted to identify the source of the voice, and there stood Walter.
"Walter, I'm pleased to see you've finally arrived."
"Are all your expectations being met?"
"Everything appears impeccable, as expected, Walter. This year has undoubtedly been the finest one yet. Thank you. It was about time you experienced one of these events firsthand instead of remaining behind the scenes."
He nonchalantly shrugged. "I suppose I need to start living a little and get a life outside of work."
"Exactly! That's precisely what I told her!" Ivee interjected, barging in and enveloping me in a hug from behind.
"Madam Scarlett, it's my pleasure after all this time to finally introduce you to your blind date."
Out of nowhere, the enigmatic man from the bar materialized by my side, once again locking eyes with me.
Walter extended his hand to greet him, but the man remained fixated on me. "Madam Scarlett, it brings me great pleasure to finally introduce you to your blind date."
"Madam Scarlett, delighted to make your acquaintance." His lips moistened as he delicately took hold of my hand and pressed a gentle kiss upon its back, leaving behind a lingering sensation of warmth.
"Charmed," I responded with a polite smile.
"Is that her date?" Ivee whispered audibly enough for me to hear.
"Well, indeed," Walter confirmed.
"Madame, would you do me the honor of being my valentine?" the mystery man asked.
"My what? Is this some kind of joke?"
"Why would you think that, Madame? I assure you, it's no jest."
"Pardon me for a moment," I requested as politely as possible, taking Walter aside to have a private conversation.
"Who is this guy? It's him, isn't it?"
"No one knows his true identity. He's the mystery man, the one responsible for the midnight cupid's shots, remember?"
"I'm aware, but why is he lingering here before midnight, wearing that unique mask? It's unlike anything he's done before."
"It's the first time we've seen he's been willing to spend time with any of the women around here."
"Well then, why me?"
"I have no idea. He specifically requested you. I have a feeling he might have some connection to our employer. Boss, consider giving him a chance to gather more information."
"I agree. We'll discuss this later. It's best not to keep him waiting."
"Shall we?" He leaned forward, extending his hand towards me. I hesitated for a moment, meeting his daring gaze. It was as if he knew I would regret not taking his hand. Finally, I made up my mind and reached out, determined to uncover the truth about this man once and for all.
"Of course." I firmly grasped his hand, and together we made our way to a more secluded area.
We stood there, locked in a gaze, both uncertain of how to begin the conversation. I wanted to make a good impression, but I couldn't shake off the awkwardness of our initial encounter at the bar.
"I'm sure you're curious as to why you're here with me," he finally spoke, breaking the silence.
"Something like that," I replied, taking a sip of my drink. "You seem to know my name, but I don't know yours."
He let out a soft hum in response. "I suppose I have many names."
"So you're that kind of guy," I remarked, raising an eyebrow. "The kind who gives girls different names, just for the night?"
"Something like that," he conceded, a hint of mystery in his eyes.
"What name should I call you for the night then?" I asked, curious to unravel more about him.
"Valentino," he replied, his voice carrying a hint of seduction.
"Valentino," I repeated, savoring the sound of his name on my tongue. A low growl escaped his chest as my voice caressed the syllables.
"Like a valentine," he remarked, his eyes smoldering with intensity.
"I like it. It suits you," I replied, a playful smile tugging at the corners of my lips.
"So, what do you want to do, Valentino? Shall we join the party or talk business?" I inquired, unsure of his intentions.
"I haven't decided yet," he confessed, his gaze fixed on mine.
"I am the man who orchestrates these extravagant parties. I am Valentine's Day personified. This event is in my honor," he revealed, a touch of pride evident in his words.
This man's words seemed somewhat intoxicated, but I played along, mindful of maintaining our conversation and my professional relationship. After all, who was I to question my employer?
"Of course, I'm happy to oblige. So, does this mean I get to keep the contract?" I inquired, emphasizing the importance of a formal agreement.
"That is a given. I thought it was already understood," he replied confidently.
"Not without the proper legal paperwork," I reminded him, emphasizing the necessity of signed contracts to ensure a solid business arrangement.
"We can certainly work on drafting a contract to formalize our agreement.
I'm committed to meeting your needs," I'd uncover his true identity through the contractual process.
This would be my opportunity to finally discover his name.
"However, before we proceed, I want to express my gratitude to you.
Ever since you entered my life, Valentine's Day has taken on a deeper significance for me.
These parties now exude more love and vitality, all thanks to you," I acknowledged sincerely.
"I beg your pardon. To me?" I questioned, clearly intrigued by his words.
"Yes, every year you have made me realize what I'm missing in love. I thought at the beginning I just had an infatuation with you, but... I'm in love with you."
"In love with me? Excuse me, but we haven't even spoken before today."
His gaze softened, and he reached out to gently cup my face, his touch sending shivers down my spine. "Oh, but we have. You just don't remember."
"What? I'm sure I would remember if we-"
"Allow me to refresh your memory." In an instant, he was leaning in front of me and spreading my legs as wide as they went, and grabbed my legs and stood up carrying me. He leaned me against the wall and caged me there.
"Wha-" Was all I could get out before he delved his tongue inside my mouth, kissing me passionately, intensely.
I wrapped my legs around his torso and braced myself as the hit of it all came to me.
Memories of previous balls flooded my mind, the fragments of stolen moments with him intertwining with the present.
Our stolen kisses, the shared laughter, and the conversations we had held significance that had been deliberately erased from my memory.
The truth began to unravel, threading its way through the haze of forgotten encounters.
In those fleeting moments, he had revealed his true identity to me.
The weight of that realization settled upon me, a mix of astonishment and a sense of betrayal.
Each time, just before I took the cupid shot, he would weave his enchantment, erasing my recollection of our connection.
The magnitude of his actions struck me, and I couldn't help but question his motives.
I unwrapped myself from him and pushed him away.
"Why?" The word escaped my lips, barely audible, yet heavy with a tidal wave of emotions.
He looked at me, his eyes holding a mix of regret and longing. "I had my reasons, Scarlett. Reasons that I thought were necessary to protect you, to protect us."
Confusion clouded my thoughts as I tried to piece together the past, understanding dawning upon me like the first rays of dawn breaking through the darkness.
"But... why keep it from me? Why make me forget?"
"Because it was the only way."
"You know what? For someone whose existence feeds off the day of love, you don't live up to your reputation." I said, frustration seeping into my voice.
He let out a sigh, his eyes betraying a mix of regret and longing. "It's not that easy, Scarlett. We've been over this before, and I wanted to save you the pain every time."
I couldn't help but feel a surge of anger rising within me, fueled by the realization that he had made choices on my behalf without my consent. "Saving me pain? By erasing my memories? You didn't think I deserved the truth?"
He took a step closer, his voice filled with a raw vulnerability.
"It doesn't excuse what you've done, Valentino," I replied, my voice laced with a mix of sadness and resignation.
"Love doesn't thrive in secrecy and manipulation.
It thrives in trust, honesty, and open communication.
This is cruel. I've been feeling this void inside of me, and it's because of you.
I didn't even know what was missing, but now that I understand, I refuse to let you continue to do this to me. It's simply not fair!"
"That's the thing. I can't go on like this any longer. I've discovered a way for us to be together, to no longer be separated."
"How? Is this another game?"
He shook his head. "Earlier at the bar, I whispered an incantation. Remember?"
I nodded, recalling the moment.
"It was a binding spell, to transform me into a human."
"You're lying. You told me it was impossible."
"No, Scarlett, not this time."
"I'm sorry, but I can't go through with this, Valentino. I need time."
"Just listen to me. Please, don't shut me out just yet.
After the midnight's cupid shot, I will pass on my powers to my successor, someone I've been preparing for this role ever since I realized I wanted to be with you.
But I couldn't do it until he was fully ready to embrace this responsibility. "
"Give me one compelling reason to trust you."
"You have no idea what I go through every day without being able to see you, Scarlett. If you don't want to see me again, you're free to go, and I will respect your decision forever."
"Is what we have genuine? Is it real to you?"
"It is. I love you, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
"But what about Valentine's Day? What about Cupid's shot? What about your powers?"
"To hell with it all," he declared, and my heart started racing with a newfound determination.
"As I said, I have someone who can take my place.
No more forgetting this night with me, no more spending just one night together.
It's you and me, Valentine's Day, but every day, forever. What do you say?"
A moment of silence hung in the air. My eyes searched his, reflecting a mix of emotions. Then, a smile tugged at the corners of my lips, and I whispered, "Forever sounds pretty good."
A/N: This one-shot was inspired by Wattpad's 2021 Valentine's Day contest prompt by dangerouslove #Adangerousvalentine #highfantasy