Tie My Rope

[Hades Styx]

Holding the ring between his white fingers as Hades Lutrov paced one of the many basements that his house had. It was almost two years after his inner being said that he wanted it, but it had been over two years since Hades and Etoile became an official item, seeing one and another. Etoile had not wanted to get married, but now Hades did. He wanted to make Etoile become a Lutrov. Etoile Lutrov. Hades looked around his basement that he was in, where the walls were decorated with swords of a variety. He decided that today was the day. It was June now, his oldest children would be home any day, and then there was the thought of his other children spending time over at the Zhefarovich Manor, learning about their ancient history, and he had the house to himself, alone with Etoile. They had a new child, a total of three children together. Estelle was named after Etoile's deceased mother, and Estelle was proving to be an angel. A beautiful angel with Etoile's eyes. Hades could not be anymore proud of the children that he was making. However the family would never be complete unless he tied the knot and that was what he was wanting right now. How Etoile would react would be the question, but Hades at that point just wanted to be professional, and still, he could feel his stomach churning like he was going to be sick. He was just nervous and afraid of rejection. Hades did not think a relationship would survive after a rejection like this. Then again, by now, he did not think he could live without Etoile in his life, and this would secure it and she would be living. While Etoile was under that Unbreakable Vow still, and he did not want her to try to leave, and die from it. Hades thought that he would die of heartbreak. He just could not live without her in his life, and he knew it. Hades was beyond obsessive now. There was no word to describe it, even now he thought that was he feeling was beyond feeble love. Etoile had become a necessity. Like oxygen to breathe or food to eat. What was this? Hades stopped pacing so he could look at the ring that he had bought for her, as it glimmered in his palm. His onyx eyes stared and stared.

Hades clinched the ring into his palm and he was sure that it would cause an imprint. He reached around and put the ring into his pocket. Now. He needed to pop the question. Right now. Hades ran his fingers through his black hair, as he ascended the steps to go into the main level of his home. Hades reached the level of his home, and he closed the door behind him that went to the more dangerous levels of the house. Now he needed to find Etoile so that he could get this over with before he managed to pull out of his decision. He went into the living room, and there was no sign of her, and then he traveled into the kitchen. Hades was still alone, that is until he stopped and listened to sounds. This was what he normally used to find someone or detect that there was someone around him. That was when he heard the sounds of the toilet flushing, and steps going into the master bedroom, his bedroom that he shared with Etoile. Hades turned around and he walked down the hallway where he ended up standing at the doorway where he saw Etoile in the bedroom, laying down on the bed. Hades narrowed his eyes for a moment, before wondering what was wrong with his beloved. Hades walked over toward her, and he knelt down. The metal in his trench coat could be heard as he knelt by the bedside. He was on one knee anyway, so it was the perfect stance. He reached over and took her hand into his own before he inquired, "Are you too sick to talk right now? I have something important to talk about." He was going to propose, but Etoile looked a little ill or something. So naturally, he pushed the proposal out of his mind right now, as his priority was to assist with Etoile. Perhaps a potion he could whip up would change how she was feeling right now, but he wanted to see what was wrong before he jumped into anything. After all, he did not want to ask that important question if she was a bad mood. He'd know that it wouldn't help in his desires to have her say yes. She wanted something traditional, and he was doing this as traditional as he could think of. The one knee and the ring, that was as traditional one could get, right?​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Today wasn't starting out so good for Etoile. She was pregnant. Again. That sounded bad because Etoile loved all of her children immensely. But she hated being pregnant as often as she was. Her body was not meant for this sort of thing. Yet it kept on happening. Her body was so tired. All the time. Etoile could probably sleep for a year if someone allowed her to. That was how tired she was all the time. Sadly she wasn't sure if Hades cared or not. He took care of her to the best of his ability. But did he really know how awful she constantly felt? Probably not. He wasn't a woman so he didn't have to go through his sort of thing. 'Hmph. Men.' Etoile rolled her eyes and brought a cup full of water to her mouth to gargle out the horrendous taste of vomit. Morning sickness was what tipped her off about her possible condition. Etoile had taken at least four tests this morning. All came out positive. Then the dreaded sickness came back once more to haunt her. For the past half an hour this had been what Etoile's dad consisted of. Finally her stomach was settled enough for her to actually feel like it was safe enough to rinse out her mouth and go lie down. Etoile's life had sort of been taken over. It was a good thing, but also a bad thing. Hades. It was all Hades that had done this and changed her life. Etoile was once alone. There was no one out there that cared for her or longed for her. Then Hades came along and there was nothing she could do but bend to his will because he wasn't going to allow her to be any other way. There were days when Etoile missed being able to roam the world without things tying her down. But ultimately she felt like she liked being settled a lot more. At least now she knew she had Hades and her children to actually care for her. Hades did let her leave the home now without him being there. After all, how did she go get these pregnancy test? Etoile also loved Hades. Enough to ignore how she felt about being cooped up. If it made him happy having her here, then she could remain here. It was no longer about her and her only. There were babies and a man to think for. So even though Etoile missed roaming, she would miss her little family a lot more if they were ever to leave her. Etoile undressed her thin, tired body and snatched one of Hades' large shirts. Hades may not approve of her stealing his shirts, but Etoile felt they were comfy and she liked to sleep in them. Etoile pulled the shirt over her head and crawled onto the large bed she and Hades shared. She barely had time to pull the covers over herself and dim the lights before she began to fall asleep.

Etoile didn't get to sleep long though. It wasn't even minute's later when she heard someone enter the room. Out of reflex, Etoile's silvery green orbs peeked out beneath her eyelids. It was only Hades. He seemed to be unnerved or something but Etoile was too tired to see if he needed help with something. Then he stated that he had something important he wanted to talk about, but he wanted to check and see if she was too sick before he did. "No." Etoile furrowed her perfect eyebrows at him. She was always willing to talk to him. Even when she did feel like absolute crap. Etoile began to wonder why he was holding her hand like he was. He was also knelt by the bed. So Etoile was able to turn and look at him more easily. "What did you want to talk to me about?" Etoile sighed as she shifted her head on the pillow. It felt so comfortable right now. Actually, she was pretty sure she was on Hades' side of the bed. she just took all of his stuff today it seemed. Etoile started to wonder if she should tell Hades that she was pregnant as soon as possible. What if he wanted to do something that Etoile couldn't do without risking the baby's safety? She didn't want him to ruin his fun. Etoile noticed his was about to speak but she decided she needed to tell him first. Halfway through his sentence Etoile interrupted him by speaking more loudly. "Hades I'm pregnant." Etoile bust out before she buried her face into the pillow. She did this out of nervousness. Etoile didn't want to see the look on his face. After a minute Etoile peeked her face out. She was almost tempted to apologize. But in a way, this was his fault just as much as it was hers. Etoile's eyes carefully stared into his own. Was he going to be upset? Hopefully not because Etoile was already feeling kind of bad about it. Hopefully he wouldn't stomp off. He liked babies didn't he? "Are you mad?" Etoile asked. It was hard for her to tell. But she didn't want him to be mad. Etoile liked getting him in a feisty mood, but not in this situation. She needed him to be happy and ready to be a father once again. If he was upset then Etoile wasn't sure what she would do with herself. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades had nothing else but the proposal ready, but he didn't think that he could mess it up at all. Then again, Hades was positive that he would go through with it. He wanted Etoile to be his wife, and he wanted to please her to no end as she became Mrs. Etoile Lutrov. It had a very nice sound to it, but the whole thought of getting married had him nervous, but this was to Etoile, and he could trust her. She would make one incredible wife, and he hoped that she would know it. However he was beginning to get the feeling that Etoile might be too sick to answer his question, and he hoped that she would not be. He needed to tell her everything, he needed to ask her before he chickened out. A Death Eater being afraid of asking the one he loved to marry him, he just did not know where all this fear was coming from, but he thought that it was not the fear of marriage, but the fear of being rejected. However her outfit was his shirt, and she looked really good in it. She did often look good in anything, even naked. But it just seemed more rewarding seeing her in his clothing. The black shirt contrasted against her soft, pale skin. She was just beautiful, and he longed for her. Even now, but she was looking terrible. When she looked at him, he could tell that she had been asleep, though not too long as far as he could tell. Etoile also had her head on the pillow, before he smirked ever so slightly. It was enough of a smirk, or close enough to a smile that she would ever get anyway. He never smiled for long at all. Though he could now, with what he was seeing, and how she was on his side of the bed. Not that it mattered because they shared bedrooms, and they slept in the same bed obviously. They were in love, and seeing one and another, there was no point in not sleeping together as well. As often as that was, it never got old. "I just have something important to ask you," Hades said, with a soft exhale. He was still as nervous as ever, and it was starting to show, as much as he hated it showing, it surely was. There was just something about making this next step that had him almost shaking, as bold as forward as he was, this was just something else. He applauded those that proposed to the ones that they loved. He did not think that he could have done so without the encouragement that was his heart, he never would have done that.

He slowly put his hand that was not holding onto Etoile's hand into the pocket that was holding the engagement ring captive. His fingers grasped it as he held it into his hand. It felt like it was burning up, and he was positive that he was going to do it before he would burst it out. He looked down at their hands, his thumb caressing her skin that was against her hands. Her hands were simply soft. Hades needed to ask, and he decided that now was the time. He inhaled deeply, calming his nerves before he looked over at his lover, "Etoile, would you m-" Hades stopped completely when Etoile burst through the sentence with her own news. She was pregnant? He certainly knew who the father was, but having another one so soon? She also buried her face into the pillow, and Hades' face was somewhat shocked, before he laughed very softly, and put his ring back into the pocket. Talk about getting blocked. He was glad that he was going to be a father again, though he was just worried about Etoile's body. Hades released her hand, and he got off of his knee. He got onto the bed, and he adjusted himself so that he was laying in the bed with her. He wrapped his arm around her body, pulling her against him. No wonder she was sick, it was morning sickness. Though would they have a boy or a girl this time? They had Estelle months ago. When she asked if he was mad, he planted a kiss on her forehead, before he shook his head, "Of course not. I should have been more careful. Though think of it this way, just another to add to our beautiful collection of pure-blood children." Though that sounded bad, it was sort of true. They had three children, and now they were working on a fourth. "I simply wish that I did not make you so sick during times like this, so I do apologize." Well, at least he was telling her the truth. He was ready to be a father once more. He was pretty good at it, and she was a pretty good mother. Perhaps they would be raising their own army of Death Eaters, that would be marvelous. None of them would be Aurors of course. However his proposal had definitely been placed on hold. He just did not want to tell her what he was wanting to do at all, because of what she was sick now, she was pregnant, so one big thing at a time. Perhaps later, he could assemble something amazing, then make the perfect proposal. He would have to think very hard though. Something that would blow her mind, but when and where and what?​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile hoped he wasn’t upset. Especially since she knew she was interrupting him to tell him that they were having another baby. But a part of her knew that chances of him being upset at her were slim to none. Even when she viciously hated him he didn’t get as angry with her as some people would have. But one never knew. Hades was pretty damn unpredictable. When he crawled into bed with her Etoile bit her lip. Etoile watched him as he adjusted himself so he was lying down next to her. Then he wrapped his arm around her and pulled her to him. Etoile enjoyed the closeness immediately. He was much warmer than she was right now. Not to mention the fact she always felt protected and safe whenever she was with Hades. Hades kissed her fore and Etoile smiled. He could be awfully sweet of a psychopath. ”Collection of children, eh? Hades should I be worried about you collecting children?” Etoile teased as she rested her head against his chest. At least he wasn’t mad though. She might be heartbroken if he was. Being a mother was a job Etoile wasn’t sure if she could do it on her own. Even if Hades thought she was a good mom. Etoile leaned forward and left a chaste kiss on Hades’ jawline. She was happy he was here right now. ”I wish I didn’t get sick either. That’s the biggest downside of being pregnant. I’m always sick, always tired, and I get so fat it’s not even funny.” Etoile rolled her eyes softly and leaned into Hades. He would know the best way to make her feel better. Especially considering the fact that he knew how to be a pretty awesome boyfriend at times. Etoile felt her nausea return full-force and she sighed into Hades’ chest. She was praying she wasn’t going to be sick or anything. Especially not while she was lying with her Hades. He would probably be disgusted. Etoile breathed in and out slowly, trying to contain the nausea. She needed to distract herself with something. Something other than the nausea that was fighting to overtake her.

”So, what was it you wanted to ask me? It sounded important.” Etoile asked weakly. She was tired and nauseous. She was hoping that if Hades spoke to her or something it would go away and she could fall asleep for a bit. But there was no telling what would happen. Etoile just wanted the nasty feeling to go away. Especially so she could sleep and feel better. Then perhaps she and Hades could spend more time together. Etoile knew that just being close was helping out. But this child clearly wasn’t agreeing with whatever she had eaten for breakfast. Plus Etoile honestly was a bit curious as to what he wanted to ask her. He made it sound like it was going to be extremely important or something. Etoile didn’t want to interrupt him like she had. She was just worried that whatever he was going to ask her was going to be something that may or may not be affected because of the baby. Hopefully he wasn't unhappy or something. It was hard to tell right now. It was hard to tell. She couldn't tell as well.
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[Hades Styx]

Hades rested his head just above hers, and he planted a tender kiss on her temper before he wondered if she would break if he applied too much pressure. He always treated her with gentleness when she was pregnant. When she wasn't and they were doing other activities, they would be rather rough. He moved his head up when she teased him with having a collection of children, but he shook his head. There was nothing to worry about. She rested her head against his chest and he finally said, "No, you don't have to worry about me and the collection. It was a mere joke. For now, after this one, we will have enough for a while." Hades received the kiss upon his jawline, and he let out a sigh, before he simply stroked her shoulder sensually. It was something soft, gentle, and he was positive that she did not want to do anything rough right now anyway. He didn't feel up to it himself. Not since he was blocked while trying to propose. That just put a damper on things. He could never be mad at her for getting pregnant with his children. "The sickness and fatigue, I might be able to get some potions for from Saint Mungo's, but I'm not sure. You don't get fat, you are carrying a child. So you have an extra inside your body." Hades hoped that he did not smell, since he doesn't wear cologne, but stayed cleaned. Everyone had their own unique smell, and that his was not overbearing. Then again, she was wearing his shirt right now. It must be attractive to her or comforting. He enjoying the closeness that was going on right now, but if she needed to be sick, he could take her there and hold her hair back or something helpful. When she asked what it was that he wanted to ask her, he shook his head and he said, "It was nothing. Perhaps another time." It was not nothing, it was everything. However for now, he would simply lay with her, and make sure that she was taken care of.

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Two Months Later

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Hades had the engagement ring once more, and this time, Hades had prepared for the past two months for the perfect time to ask her to marry him. He had gotten Draegan to watch over the children, after finding him, interrupting him from stalking some girl. He brought Etoile out to the town, and he had tied a blindfold to hide her beautiful silvery green eyes. He had also transfigured a lovely black gown and then covered her with a warm robe since it was snowing out here in northern Russia. She looked absolutely perfect while he was dressed as normal as possible. And he also had prepared someone to meet with them, here in a few minutes. Hades had his arm wrapped around her waist, hoping that the charm to keep her warm was working. He could hear the horses from where he was standing, and they were pulling a carriage just for the two of them. He smirked somewhat, before he murmured into her ear, "Just another moment, love." He doubted that she would not be impressed by this. The full moon was out, and it was snowing heavily from the night sky. The person that was stirring the horses did not give him a weird look when he had a blindfolded woman next to him, and he placed a finger on his lips to the coach so that he doesn't say a word. He was sure that Etoile would be able to hear the horses since he did not cast a silencing spell on them at all, even though he probably should have. This was a surprise for her, and he was going to make this as pleasant as he could have imagined. She wanted something traditional, and he was going to take it to the next level. It would blow her mind away. This would be the first and last time he would ever propose. He went through all of this hard work, so he was not about to lose it anytime soon. He would not plan another one like this in a million years.

Finally, Hades reached behind Etoile's head and he untied her blindfold, and it fell from her eyes so that she could see. "Surprise! You are in for a very special night, Little Star." He was planning on proposing to her, and she would love this. Snow was currently falling on the both of them, sprinkling the black hair and clothing with little white specks before melting away shortly after landing. He approached the carriage and he offered his hand, wondering if she would be confused about this at all. He would help her into the carriage, because that was the right thing to do. He smirked a little more, showing that he was up to something, but it would not be anything that Etoile should be worried about. After all, she was completely safe with him. He was going to show her a good night, and Hades was going to propose to her tonight. He was going to make sure that she was going to have the time of her life, and she would get just what she wanted.

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[Etoile Lefevre]

"Hades...you know I dislike surprises." Etoile stated softly as she felt Hades' arm that was around her waist, guide her through the gently falling snow. Even if Hades promised that it was going to be a surprise she loved. It still had her nervous about the outcome that awaited her. Besides, Etoile was already tired and ready to settle in for bed. The baby growing within her did little but make her feel lousy whenever possible. Hades knew that too. But he absolutely insisted. It was hard to tell Hades no once his mind was made up. Three months pregnant or not, it looked like Etoile was going to see whatever it was Hades wanted her to see. "Also, is there any particular reason why I need to be blindfolded?" Etoile asked. It made her uncomfortable because she wanted to see where she was going. Or what was going on around her. At least the cloak Hades had around her was doing a good job keeping her warm. But that was about the only thing comforting her right now. She had no idea where she was or what her boyfriend had planned. Plus she had no idea how the baby was going to let her feel tonight. It was a flurry of fear and confusion within Etoile's mind right now. Hades was doing little to answer her questions and easy her worry too. Whatever it was he had planned, it had better be worth all of this. Etoile sighed and allowed Hades to guide her around. There was no use trying to figure out where she was. Nor was there any use in trying to get Hades to stop this. Etoile felt a stray snowflake hit her cheek and she quickly brought a hand up to brush it aside. Of course it was snowing outside. It was always snowing. It was a good thing that she loved the snow and cooler weather. Hell, if she didn't have the baby to worry about she wouldn't allow Hades to put a warming charm on the cloak she had on her. "I-is that a horse?" Etoile questioned when she heard the sound of the a horse snorting. Why in the world was Hades bringing her to a horse? Did he get her a horse? Etoile used to want a pony. But that was when she was five. Etoile was so tempted to rip the blindfold off right here and now.

But Hades beat her to it and untied the blindfold. It fell from her silvery green eyes and fell to the snowy terrain below. Etoile's gaze fell to a horse drawn sleigh that sat in front of her. Hades revealed that this was the surprise and that she was in for a very wonderful night. "What's this for?" Hades approached the carriage and offered his hand to her. At least he was kind enough to help her in. Then again, what kind of jerk wouldn't help a poor pregnant woman into a large sleigh like that. Etoile wasn't sure if she could get in without his help anyways. Carefully Etoile took Hades' hand and pulled herself up into the sleigh. She sat down on the furthest side and cuddled into the cloak that warmed her. Her silvery green eyes went back to Hades, searching for a possible answer within his own eyes. "Really Hades. What's going on?" Etoile wanted to rest. Perhaps even cuddle with Hades by a fire. What was so important that he wanted her all the way out here? Even if the idea was romantic in a sense. It was that inner part of Etoile that was causing all the problems. It was alarmed and worried. What on earth was Hades planning for tonight. Hopefully it was nothing too bad. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades snickered slightly when she said that she disliked surprises. Well that was different with this one. She would like this one, he just knew it. Since he was going to propose to her. "You will enjoy this, trust me," purred the dark priest with a smirk. That was why he had to blindfold her, so that she could get into the carriage without suspecting a thing. That was why he had not answered her question on why she needed to be blindfolded. He thought a little mystery would be sexy for her. She was three months along with their next baby, their fourth. He had no idea what this one would be, but he was just relieved that it was not twins. She didn't get through the first set but by the time they were on their way into the double digits, she should be a professional. Her hearing was precise, since she heard the horse, but then she asked if that was a horse. She asked what all this was for, but once more, he did not provide an answer, but merely remained standing, to help her into the carriage. She would need it anyway since he didn't want her to slip and fall. He didn't know what kind of traction those shoes got, if any. Once she was in the carriage, he motioned for the guy to start driving, and he closed the door. Hades let out a sigh and he had Etoile all to himself. She was all the way over to the other side of the carriage, and he scooted over to her. Hades heard her question, and he smirked even more. Yet he didn't say a word to answer the question. He was good at avoiding the truth since he believed that lying would be completely inexcusable. He instead murmured, "Shh, just sit back, and enjoy the ride. There's no need for you to stress while pregnant. You are perfectly safe."

The dark priest moved over so that he was close to her, and he cracked his knuckles. He placed his hands on her shoulders, and he started to massage them. He then started to move his hands on her back, giving her a very relaxing back rub. After all, she was carrying his seed, she needed to be as relaxed as possible. The fact that he did not do this often was enough to tell her that he was wanting this night to be all about her, and making her feel good. The ride was smooth, it was snowing, the carriage was lit by dim candles. He decided to become rather sly. He stopped and he muttered, "Oh my hand is cramping a bit." But he took this time to pull out the ring, and pretend that he was flexing his hand, before he started to rub her shoulders once more. He allowed the ring to pass through his fingers, to fall perfectly into his lap. His white lips curled into a smirk. She should be able to see it easily, as he massaged her back a bit more, feeling the muscles beneath completely relax. After all, this was the night that he would be proposing. He prayed that she would not say no since he was not very good with rejections. He wanted to marry her, that much was clear. He got a little closer to her, enough to where he could even smell the shampoo on her hair. A carriage, with snow and a back massage, this should be like heaven for her. Hades was all about pleasing his woman, and he knew how to do it too. If she had not fought him for several years, they might have been married already. He knew what kind of wedding he wanted, but he didn't want to take away her fun with planning. She might want some guests. She might want something big, but he would go with that. Anything to make her Etoile Lutrov.​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile rolled her eyes softly but decided to lean her head against Hades' broad shoulder anyways. Even if she knew better than to believe the fact that she shouldn't worry about what he might possibly have planned, she knew it wasn't going to be anything real dangerous. Especially not with her being pregnant. "Hades I really wish you would just tell me what's going on. I know you wouldn't do anything dangerous but, you've had a habit of bringing me into trouble before in the past." Etoile admitted softly as she spoke into his shoulder. "Just promise me that whatever you have planned for tonight, won't involve sharp objects. I'm still healing over our last adventure." Plus Hades had been having her take iron supplements every couple of days too. She wasn't sure if it was being done because he planned to have another wild night, or because he was worried that she wasn't healthy enough. Etoile did have a problem with remaining healthy when pregnant, but it was all a contribution of the genetic disorder her family possessed when it came to having children. Etoile was more than used to it. But Hades was more than good to her. He would never let anything happen to her. Etoile felt a large snowflake fall onto her elegantly long eyelashes and she brought her hand up to wipe it away. Oh how she just loved the snow. Hades picked the perfect night to go out. Although it was hard to see any starts when it was snowing like it was. But Etoile knew she couldn't have both. Etoile tried to brush her curiosity away for the time being. Hades might have just brought her out here to be romantic. He had done things like this before too. "I just hope that is all he has planned." Etoile thought to herself as she lifted her head. Hades was moving around. What was he planning to do now? Etoile felt his hands creep up to her shoulders and she smiled. Ah, so a massage was his plan? How sweet of him.

"Oh Hades, you spoil me." Etoile purred lightly as she melted into the back massage she was being given. She could remember a time when she wouldn't even allow him to touch her, now look at how far they had come. It was so relaxing. If Hades continued like this, Etoile worried that she was going to fall asleep. All of a sudden Hades mentioned his hand was cramping, and something small fell into her lap. Etoile lazily glanced down and let her silvery green orbs lock onto a shining ring. It was very pretty. But Etoile had never seen it before, so she knew it wasn't hers. Hades must have dropped it when is hand cramped up. It seemed a little small for him, but Etoile didn't find it her business to question him on it. "Is this yours? You dropped it." Etoile turned away from the massage and placed the ring back into Hades' palm. She had no idea what the ring was really for. She figured that Hades would respect her wishes of not proposing. So it was the last thing that Etoile would have thought of when she saw the ring. Etoile smiled and wondered if Hades would continue to give her a massage, because that was just heavenly. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades could not resist smirking a bit, since she had a point. He would have to be really careful with her due to her pregnancy, and that he had a habit of getting her into trouble. He was the one usually starting it all, but he was hoping that she was going to end up saying yes to him when he did propose. Hades simply cooed, "Oh honey, that would take my fun away if I did that for you. But you won't have to worry. No trouble, and there will not be sharp objects. Not that I would object to you using them on me." She could do to him anything she wanted. This night was all about her. There was nothing that she could not do to him that he would reject, except being tied down. Hades did not appreciate that as much as he liked to tie her up and have his way with her. Of course, she was always willing but it was rare he would do that anyway. At least he was going to keep her healthy throughout her long pregnancy. Etoile seemed to have trouble, but apparently she was good to have children. Danielle was not too horrible either. She had three sets of twins after all. Hades wondered if it was the Zhefarovich family keeping them in line and whatnot. Hades had a lot of things planned for tonight, and he knew that she was probably not expecting much when it came to tonight. He continued to massage her shoulders with his hands, relaxing her and waiting for her to see that ring he had dropped. He pressed his lips to her neck, kissing lightly and traveled down to her shoulders. When she practically melted into the massage and said that he spoiled her, he purred, "And what a lovely dark creature I spoil, Little Star." It was time and time again, he gave her everything he could. A big family, a good man to treat her perfectly, but she also craved power. Eventually he could help with that.

The dark priest would continue to spoil her no matter what happened between them. Hades heard her words and he could not resist smirking even more, like he had something devious planned. He felt her move and he released her body so she could turn against the massage. Hades felt the ring go back into his palm, where his fingers curled around it. He looked at her before his smirk faded somewhat. "I know you aren't expecting this, and I know your wishes. But, despite of that, I know what you wanted to when this happened. You wanted something romantic. I went through a lot of nightly planning to get this perfect for tonight." Hades opened up his hand once more, and he looked at the ring that would fit her ring finger perfectly. "So, Etoile Here Lefevre, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife, for all of eternity?" He held out the ring for her, and wondered what she would have to say. He already knew, and he knew her conditions. It might appear scary to her, but even if she left him for another man, she would die anyway. There was nothing to lose if she said yes. He sat in silence, waiting for her answer. All she needed to do was say that one word.​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile figured he wouldn’t object to her using sharp objects for him. Etoile couldn’t remember a time when he wasn’t in the mood for such things, even when he was upset. In fact, the more upset he seemed to be, the more he wanted it. "Are you sure you’re even fully healed from last time? The last thing I’d want to do is overexert you. Then you’d be no fun for me at all." Etoile cooed as her fingers danced across Hades’ smooth skin. Their lifestyle forced the two of them to make many changes to their lifestyles. Like how Etoile often took iron supplements and healing things to keep her healthy and able to keep up with Hades. Unlike him, she wasn’t able to keep going all the time, especially when he continuously had her having babies. After this she was demanding a break from them. Etoile wanted time to relax with Hades and the kids without feeling like crap every hour of every day. Hades probably didn’t understand that, but then again, he was a man. They didn’t have to have babies so they didn’t understand how difficult it could actually be to have a baby. Etoile smiled again and let her gaze fall to the bottom of the sleigh. There were times when she hated the way he made her feel. Mostly because she lost control of how she felt. There were times when she felt all jittery, or so happy she couldn’t help but smile. It made her act like a goofy little girl. Surely Hades could understand her frustration with this. Silvery green eyes shifted to gaze upon Hades’ moonlit pale skin. He looked hauntingly handsome right now, almost like he was nothing but a ghostly figure in the night. The massage was doing wonder for Etoile’s body right now, if only she could feel this good all the time! Etoile just had to wonder where he had gotten such skill with his fingers at.

Etoile was willing to forget all about the ring she had just seen. It looked almost as if to be some special family heirloom. But it would seem that Hades had other ideas in mind. Etoile frowned deeply at the very mention of the word planning. The raven haired woman already knew what he was going to ask, even though she had asked him not to. "No." Etoile said sharply. She had told him a long time ago, that she never wanted to get married. Not because it was him, but because she looked down upon marriage in general. Most of the time it got messy and Etoile didn’t want her and Hades to ever wind up in that situation, especially with that unbreakable vow in place. If he were to leave her, she would either die or have to stick with him and be miserable. "I love you Hades, but do you remember what I said about marriage? It’s just not for me. I’m happy with us being together as we are now, with the vow in place it’s already like a marriage….just less complicated. I appreciate that you went through all this trouble for me and to make this perfect, but if you had listened in the first place you wouldn’t have wasted your time." Etoile frowned and used her right hand to push his back towards him. A part of her felt bad, because she knew he must have worked hard to try and make tonight happen. However, he really didn’t listen to her when she had asked him not to all those months ago. Etoile leaned forward and used her hand to place it under Hades broad chin and pull his face closer to hers so that she could kiss him softly. It was like an apology in its own sense. Etoile turned her body forward and looked at the scenery around her. Now it felt like this night was ruined. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades shrugged a bit. He might not be fully healed, but if she wanted to take a few slices out of him, he did not mind at all. This was a special night. He did the whole romantic thing, just like she wanted. Hades said simply, "Not every inch is sliced. So you don't have to worry. I have plenty left. I am a quick healer." That was true, he was a quick healer indeed. Hades knew that their lifestyle was not what one called healthy but they were alone, in solitude, so he did not really care either way. He just wanted to live with his family, have some fun and that was it. He had no other goals in his life. However he did know that he would have to take it easy on her since she was pregnant. She seemed to constantly be pregnant now. Perhaps she would want a break after this one. He would give her one, and find a way to have magical protection. There had to be something that was safe to take. For him or for her. He knew that it would have to be difficult on their bodies. Especially hers because of her lean size. Hades looked down as she smiled, and looked down at the sleigh. What was she thinking? He wondered that as he continued to move his hands up and down her back, making her body less tense with each movement. Hades wondered if she hated the way he was treating her. Sometimes a woman liked her independence. He was thinking of giving her some more, and whatever else she liked anyway. He was getting lenient with her. She had been a good girl for the past few years. Hades simply had to wait for a time when he would have to trust her enough to let her go out for things alone. However how could he? She needed to be guarded. Well, he trusted her, just not anything else.

The word that was said, was not what he was planning on hearing. No? Hades was definitely not understanding that. He looked at her, in a manner like a confused child would look at a mother. He didn't understand. He did the whole romantic crap, and was this all for nothing? He dropped his hands from his body, and he looked at her in a cold manner now, expecting an explanation. Sometimes it was dangerous to have Hades around, because he was so unpredictable. Especially when he was not pleased. And right now, he was definitely not pleased. She said that she did in fact love him, but how she wasn't the right person for marriage. The Unbreakable Vow did not mean as much as total commitment. Hades sat there for a moment, his stance not even moving at the slightest motion of the carriage. He was unusually calm. He did waste his time then. She kissed him but he didn't return it. The sound of the ring falling to the floor filled his ears, and he finally decided to break the silence. Hades then suddenly said in the coldest voice imaginable, "Well, then it is obvious. If you actually felt the same thing that I did, you would have said yes. Find your own way home, Etoile." He turned away and then he was about to open the door, but it wouldn't budge. So instead of opening it, he stood up, stepped on the seat and then out he went, into the snow. He couldn't believe this. He sighed and he started walked off, into the snow and into the woods. He was angry. Once again, somehow, he managed to open up just to get hurt. By the same woman. He thought that he was done with that crap, but apparently not. Hades stopped where he was for a moment, before he made sure that his trench coat was on right. It was a cold night. He left Etoile where she was. Hades looked up at the sky, before he shook his head and started walking in the opposite direction of his house. A relationship never survived a failed proposal. He knew that. Hades started to wonder, were they done now? His blood was boiling, and he was very unstable. Perhaps he would go hunting for a kill, no matter where it was at.​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile wasn’t sure why she thought he was going to be okay with her telling him no. She could easily see by the look on his face that this was not going to end in a pretty manner. Did it not matter to him that months ago she had pleaded with him not to go through with a proposal. Marriage terrified her. Not once had she witnessed a marriage last, and she didn’t want to join the many divorces within the world right now. Plus there was an awful thought lurking around within her head. However, if Hades were to find it out, she worried that he would get even more upset with her. "Hades!" Etoile reached out for his arm in attempt to get him to stay and talk things out with her. It broke her heart that he would say such a thing to her. Of course she loved him! If she didn’t, she wouldn’t be so willing to live with him and share a bed. Plus she was having his children! Was it too vague for him to see how much she cared for him? Just because Etoile said no, didn’t mean that she didn’t love him. It just meant that she wasn’t ready to be a wife. Etoile also thought it hurt to here Hades tell her that she needed to find her own way home. Was he that disgusted that he didn’t even want to go home with her? "Makes me think of all the men of my past…each and every one of them disgusted with me." Etoile bit her lip and stood up. Somehow, she needed to stop Hades. Upset with his words or not, Etoile didn’t want to lose him. Or have their marriage fall apart. Etoile tried to open the sleigh door, but it was stuck. So, like Hades, she tried to jump her way out and land on the ground. Only to find that she wasn’t as graceful as she liked to think she was.

Etoile grunted as she felt her side collide with the ground. Thankfully she didn’t land on her stomach and injure the baby, but her side still hurt. Without a single moment of hesitation, Etoile pushed herself to her feet and started off towards Hades. "Hades!" Etoile ran until she was able to reach him. Her pale hand grabbed his sleeve in order to make sure he would actually stop. Finally she stood in front of him, trying her best to retain her breathing. Being with child really put her out of shape. "Don’t you dare say that I don’t love you! You have no idea how much pressure you put on me. I have never seen a marriage work. You’ve even gone through a nasty marriage yourself. Are you really willing to risk yourself like that again?" Etoile questioned, feeling a shiver take over her due to the fact that she was cold and no longer had something to keep herself warm with. "Look, just hear me out. What If you and I were to get married, but for some reason, you found some other girl that truly was your soulmate and not me. Not that you’re the type, but things like this happen." Etoile started to explain why she was so scared over the topic of marriage. "You fall so in love with her, that you decide you no longer want to be with me. Sure, you can just end the marriage….but that’s not going to save me from suffering. Due to this stupid vow I have placed on me, I will either have to watch you love someone else and suffer, or die. Marriage will only make it worse, because then I will have led myself to be as dumb as every other girl out there, that thinks a ring on her finger means happiness for the rest of her life." Etoile expected Hades to get even more upset after this, because of the way she was speaking, but she had a point to get across. The fact that she was scared and she had legit reasons for saying no. More reasons than the fact that he had ignored her pleas from before. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades had not seen that Etoile had fallen, but he probably would not have cared either way, not with the way he was feeling right now. He did not hear her plea his name out to the wintry landscape. It was not until he was hearing the crunching of snow and his name being shouted that made him stop walking toward his home. He did not apparate either, but he felt that he should turn around and give her a chance to redeem herself. He might as well. He turned around a bit to face her, and he stared at her. Everything about his expression revealed nothing. Like he had felt nothing, a cold statue out in the snow. She was out of breath too, so how would it be that she would stop him, yet still say no? He did not see why she would refuse something like this. An eternity with him. She was already bound, and all he wanted was to change her last name to his, and resume what they had. His onyx eyes went down to her dress and noticed that there were the faintest traits of snow. Did she fall or something? Then her words spoke to him, and how she had never seen a marriage work. Granted, she had been so reclusive most of her life, she had only seen one failed marriage, and heard about his own failed one. She even asked if he was willing to risk it again, and for her, he would risk everything. He still loved her, that had not changed at all. He feared that one day, she would actually leave him. Found out she had enough with the dark life, and went off on her own. And there it was, the news of her fearing that he would leave her for someone else, something that changed his cold expression to one of shock. He never thought that would happen, but now it was time to plead his own case.

Taking her hands into his, Hades stated, "Listen well, Etoile. You have seen a marriage work, a couple to be precise. My father for one, and then there is the Patriarch and Danielle. Just because your parents' did not work, or whomever, do not curse us to be doomed as well. The past is the past, and that is that. We must look for the future." He paused for a moment, and then he continued, "That nasty marriage, I was forced into it. There was no proposal, no romanticizing her to say yes like I attempted with you. Plus you are so much better than she was. You must understand something. I would risk practically anything to make you mine. In fact, I have. Fully and completely, and with my last name." Hades released one of her hands, only to be claimed by the other one, successfully holding one within one. He caressed her cheek with the other hand. If he had known those reasons, he would have eliminated all fears. "I did not love before you, Etoile. For someone like you to make me love you as much as I do, that is what I would call a soulmate. The day when I stop loving you is when I have taken my last breath. In addition to that, if I had not left you in the four years we have been around each other, then I won't be leaving you at all. I can take the Unbreakable Vow too, swearing that if I were to leave you, I will die. That I must love you for all my life, lest I die. My life doesn't mean so much without you at my side. Besides, a ring on the finger only symbolizes the marriage itself. To me, all it is would be rings to make sure no one can have me but you, and no one can have you but me. More or less a name change. So if you were to slip on that ring, we could wait years to actually make the deal. Not like I would want anything big anyway. Just us." Hades looked at the snow, and then he added, "But if you still refuse, well..." Hades faded off. He had risked so much already, how when he loved her, he endured her hatred for him. How it hurt. Her refusal was opening up a long since closed wound that had healed up years ago, and he didn't want to endure that pain again.​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile was still scared that her reasoning wasn't going to be enough to appease Hades. Saying no to his proposal seem to upset him quite a bit. It killed Etoile inside to know that something she had said or done was hurting him, but fear was a powerful thing. Etoile felt Hades take her hands into his own and she sighed softly. He wasn't going to let her just get out of this was he? It was true that she had seen marriage work. But it had been in such few occasions that she wasn't sure if it was just a fluke or not. However he was right about them needed to look to the future. Etoile knew that the past wasn't something she should dwell on too much. As Hades continued on and began to talk about how much better she was than the other woman he had married, Etoile's frown ever so slowly curved up into a smile. Oh how she loved it when it spoke like that. Every woman did, whether she wanted to admit it or not. "You know I love it when you belittle other women in front of me." Etoile wasn't going to lie and pretend that she didn't enjoy it. After a lifetime of being ignored by everyone and hiding herself from the world, a little attention every now and then was something she wasn't willing to pass up. Especially from Hades because he seemed like the type of person who wouldn't hand out compliments to just anyone. Hades released one of her hands only to wind up caressing one of her cheeks and Etoile sighed again. Changing her last name to Styx. It sounded foreign yet appealing at the same time. So many thoughts swam their way through Etoile's mind that she could barely stand it. What was she to do?

"Don't you dare make another Unbreakable Vow. We've gotten ourselves mixed up into those enough. But okay okay, I see your point. As long as you don't get too carried away with the idea of a wedding and stuff, I guess marriage won't be too bad." Etoile was kind of kidding on the last part. Mostly she just prayed that Hades would let her take this slow and not overwhelm her. The idea of having a wedding and getting married, and being a wife was a little bit much. But if it meant that much to Hades, she would try her best. "So yes, I will marry you-Hades do you have the ring?" Etoile agreed to marry him, but then she realized something. Did he leave the ring into the sleigh or did he take it with him, because she most certainly did not grab it. Etoile had been too worried about going after Hades and making sure that he was okay. By the look of confusion on Hades' face, Etoile was able to determine that he hadn't grabbed it, or he had no idea what she was talking about. Panic overtook Etoile. What kind of girl was she? Who the hell other than her lost their engagement ring? "Oh sh*t!" Etoile released Hades' hand and took off towards the sleigh that was still moving for some reason unbeknownst to her other than the fact that the driver was an idiot. Etoile's shorter legs and pregnant form made it very difficult for her to even start to catch up to the sleigh too, hopefully Hades would be able to help, or wouldn't be laughing at her for this. Etoile knew she was a bit of a space head sometimes, but this was just ridiculous. ​

 

[Hades Styx]

Hades wondered if she would still be one of those that would disagree and still say no. If she did, he would end it then and there, just because he managed to work up courage to ask her to marry him and she rejected. He could not live with someone after that. Hades was almost positive that he tapped into her fears, and also her hopes, so there was no telling what she was going to say to him. He was good at manipulating people to do whatever he pleased, but was he going to make her actually say yes? It was definitely worth a shot, and he was going to continue to work at her until she broke down. Though she said that she loved it when he belittled other women in front of her. He would continue to do so until the day he or she died. He had never met anyone like her, so he was going to keep up with this. "The boogey man knows everything about his queen." He smirked even more when he said that, using the nickname that she used to call him when she was following him at one point, before he turned the tables on her. That was some fun times. They ended up hooking up that night while he was still engaged no less to someone else. Someone he could not remember the name of anymore, and he had arranged to pick up his two other daughters. He had to admit, having Etoile have his last name would be sexy no less. Mrs. Hades. That just sounded appealing, and he was wanting to marry her before his son married that one girl he was so enamored with. He wanted to make a full family, with his children actually having their mom and dad together, except for the certain few that he had before Etoile.

It seemed like she had given in, and he rolled his eyes at the whole not getting too carried away with the idea of a wedding. He did not want to get carried away at all. He did not want to have a big wedding at all. "Fine, no more vows that concern death if broken. I don't like the idea of a big wedding, so you don't have to worry about that." He was a little concerned with rushing into it, while he was excited, he did not want to overwhelm himself and freak himself out. She agreed formally, and the he was asked if he had the ring. Hades stuck his hand into the pockets of his trench coat, and his expression went from smirking and pleased to something close to shock. He did not have it, and neither did she. He was about to utter a phrase but she said it for him. She took off after the sleigh and so did he. Sticking two fingers in his mouth, he whistled for the driver to stop driving. At least that made him stop. He arrived to the sled, and waited for Etoile to catch up. Once she had, he helped her in, and then stepped in himself. With one swift motion, he had the engagement ring and he slipped it on her finger. Then he brought that hand to his lips and kissed it gingerly. "How about...we celebrate our engagement, Etoile? We have all the time in the world to plan ahead, but right now, let's just live for the moment." He leaned forward and he claimed her lips with his own, practically smirking while he did so. He used his other arm to pull her closer to him, for her to get the hint.​

 

[Etoile Lefevre]

Etoile was delighted to hear that Hades remembered the old nickname she had given to him. When she first met him, or saw him rather, he lurked around the night like complete shadow. It honestly made Etoile think of the boogey man, which is why she called him that until she knew his real name. After she referred to many other names. Whichever seemed to suit her fancy the best because for awhile she hated his guts and wanted nothing to do with him or his world. Etoile looked back to those days and tried her hardest to remember why she hated him in the first place, other than the fact that he was pretty good at interrupted her flow. Even now, half the time when she was in the middle of doing something, Hades would do his best to distract her or prevent her from doing what needs to be done. "Keep talking like that and I'll just have to marry you twice." Etoile never hid from Hades that she liked being complimented and treated like a queen. A lot of women did, but Etoile was honest about it. Compliments made her happy because she wasn't used to them. Hades was one of the few and only men to have ever paid her a compliment. It was pretty easy to see that he meant every single one he said to her since they've been together, and that made Etoile feel really good. If Hades kept those compliments she would have him naked and in bed within minutes too. Hades probably wouldn't mind that so Etoile wouldn't be surprised if he kept up with the compliments. "Seriously though, when did I allow you to know we so well?" Etoile had no idea how Hades became to aware of the things she liked. He definitely must have been paying attention.

"Thank you. I don't like the thought of either of us dying. I mean we don't plan on being disloyal and such, but as human beings we often can't control these things. Also, if you intend to invite your whole family, it'd definitely be far from quiet." Etoile leaned forward and kissed Hades very softly. Etoile didn't think she would ever cheat on Hades because she cared for him, and she didn't want to lose her life for a stupid mistake. But Hades on the other hand, had more freedom. Etoile worried that he would find someone else and make her life more tragic than it already was. What would Etoile be able to do if Hades decided she wasn't the one? Except die and accept her fate as it was. Back on the sleigh, Etoile was happy to have the ring. Especially since it was hers and hers alone. Etoile paused and glanced down to see Hades slip it onto her finger for her. It was probably one of the most romantic things she had ever seen. Hades suggested that they celebrate for the time being, and Etoile grinned. Despite them being in sleigh right now, she knew that right now celebrating was the best thing for them. "I think you're overdressed for such an occasion!" Etoile leaned forward and kissed him again, doing her best to show Hades that she liked the idea of celebrating with him, as she took in the fact that soon she would be Mrs. Etoile Styx. Forever a part of his life.

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Fin.​

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