Chapter Twenty

Later in the day

Closing time

As Nikki approached her locker, she felt a mix of excitement and dread. It had been a long day, and she was ready to head home. She turned the combination, swung the door open, and was immediately bombarded by a cascade of confetti and a cluster of red heart balloons that floated into the air like cheerful little reminders of love.

"Whoa!" she gasped, stepping back in surprise as the balloons danced around her head. The hallway erupted in a chorus of laughter and whispers from the other girls nearby, their expressions a blend of jealousy and disdain.

"What a loser," one of them muttered, crossing her arms as she glared at Nikki.

Nikki's heart raced as she spotted a folded piece of paper fluttering to the ground amidst the chaos. She bent down to pick it up, her hands trembling slightly. Unfolding the note, she read the elegant script:

*"Dear Nikki, *

*From the moment I saw you, I knew you were someone special. Your laughter lights up the darkest days, and your smile is like a breath of fresh air. I admire you more than words can say. I hope this brings a smile to your face, just as you bring to mine." *

*Forever yours, *

*Your Secret Admirer*

As she read the words, a deep blush crept across her cheeks. Her heart swelled with anger, but the glances from the other girls made her acutely aware of their hostility.

"Ugh, who would even do this?" another girl scoffed, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Nikki looked up from the note, her embarrassment mixing with elation. "I don't know, but it's kind of sweet," she replied, trying to maintain her composure despite the flurry of emotions.

The girls exchanged looks of disgust, clearly irritated by her reaction. "Yeah, if you like cheesy stuff," one of them shot back, rolling her eyes.

Ignoring them, Nikki tucked the note carefully into her pocket, her heart still fluttering. As the balloons drifted up toward the ceiling, she couldn't help but smile.

'It seems this brat won't change unless I go teach him a lesson'.

She brings out her phone from her bag and calls Amber. "Hey Amber I won't be going home with you. I'll go home later. I have something important to do. Its demon related". She ended the call without giving Amber room to respond.

She turns towards the girls and smiles at them.

Her smile sends a chill down their spines.

"I have a piece of advice for you girls", she said with a sinister smile on her face. The balloons in the air all burst in a loud sound causing the girls to shriek in fear.

"Don't go offending people you can't afford to offend". She walks away with the balloon pieces falling to the ground.

At the school courtyard

Nikki spotted Alan leaning casually against a tree, his eyes locking onto hers with a mischievous glint. She marched over; her frustration barely contained.

"Alan, we need to talk," she said, her voice strained.

Alan raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "Oh, do we now? What's on your mind, Nikki?"

Nikki took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "You need to stop with the romantic gestures and gifts. The flowers, the notes, the balloons—it's too much. People are talking, and it's making me uncomfortable."

Alan's smirk widened. "Uncomfortable, huh? Well, that's the point, isn't it? This is payback for almost ruining my reputation yesterday and putting me in a tough spot."

Nikki's cheeks flushed with guilt. "I know, and I'm sorry about that. But this... this isn't fair. Can you give me another punishment? Anything but this."

Alan's eyes gleamed with amusement. "Another punishment, you say? Hmm I seem to remember you telling me to love. He smiled, "Alright, how about this: beg me to date you."

Nikki blinked, taken aback. "What?"

"You heard me," Alan said, his smirk never faltering. "Beg me to be your boyfriend."

Nikki hesitated for a moment, then her lips curled into a playful smile. "Fine. Alan, please be my boyfriend. I promise I'll make it worth your while."

Alan crossed his arms, clearly enjoying the moment. "Is that the best you can do? Come on, Nikki. Convince me."

Nikki rolled her eyes but played along, stepping closer to him. "Alan, you're the smartest, funniest, and most handsome guy in school. I'm pretty, smart and rich. We make a perfect pair. What more could you want?"

Alan chuckled, shaking his head. "Not bad, but I'm not convinced yet."

Nikki placed a hand on his arm, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Alan, I'll make delicious desserts for you. I have killer baking skills. You can't say no to desserts. I'll even put up with your ego. I'll also give you lot of kisses and hugs. You'll be the envy of all boys when you're with me. Please, be my boyfriend."

Alan pretended to consider this for a moment, tapping his chin. "All valid points, I must say. But I'm still leaning toward a definitive 'no.' You said I should give you another punishment, and this is quite enjoyable!"

Nikki narrowed her eyes. "You know, if you keep this up, maybe I'll just tell your mom we're expecting a baby! Her reaction will be quite fun to watch".

Alan pretended to ponder her offer, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "Well, when you put it that way... Alright, Nikki. I'll honour your request and be your boyfriend."

"Does that mean you'll stop with the gestures and gifts?"

Alan nodded, his smirk softening into a genuine smile. "Fine I promise I'll stop. Let's meet at hell's gate tomorrow after school".

"Why?"

"Just meet me at my space in the car park. I'll be waiting for you".

"Okay", she smiled.

As she walked away, a smile tugging at her lips, she couldn't help but feel that maybe, just maybe, this unexpected turn of events wasn't so bad after all.

After her conversation with Alan, Nikki heads home to prepare for her date with Alan the next day.

At Sawyer Mansion,

In the living room,

Nikki heads towards the stairs when Rose rushes towards her.

Rose bows her head respectfully, "Welcome home Princess Nikki. Your mother awaits your presence in the forbidden room".

"Thanks a lot Rose. I'll head there now", Nikki smiled before taking her leave.

"I wonder where she went last night", Rose mused and then goes back to her duties.

In the forbidden room,

Nikki walks in to meet Sabrina seating on her imposing throne, her presence commanding and fierce. She stands before Sabrina, with anxiety in her eyes.

Nikki bows respectfully, "Greetings my queen".

With a commanding tone, Sabrina spoke, "Where were you last night?"

"I had something doing with Ryder".

"That's good. I called you here today to talk about the upcoming tournament in the underworld".

Nikki's eyes widen with shock. "The blood tournament?"

'Why would mom talk to me about the blood tournament? Isn't Alisson the one representing the middle chamber?"

"Yes, Nikki the blood tournament is upon us and you'll be representing our kingdom".

"My queen, you know I'm still dormant when it comes to my powers. Participating in the competition is like walking into my death!" Nikki protested.

Sabrina's eyes narrowed, her expression hardening. "Enough, Nikki! This is not a request. It is your duty as the princess and future queen to fight for our kingdom. You will participate and you will win".

Nikki clenches her fists, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and frustration. Was her mother trying to get rid of her? The blood tournament was a last man standing battle between all the first born of each kingdom in the underworld. There are others who are far stronger and more experienced than her. She really didn't stand a chance especially when the upper royals will be participating.

"I'm sorry my queen but I can not comply to your command. I'm not ready so I will not be representing the middle chamber", Nikki said respectfully.

Sabrina rises from her throne, her presence towering over Nikki as she steps closer. If you refuse to participate, I will disown you. Your younger sister, Alisson, will take your place as the next in line to the throne. Do you understand me?" Sabrina said coldly.

Nikki clenches her fists tightly as she stares into her mother's eyes with unwavering resolve. The thought of losing the throne was unbearable.

"Yes, Mother. I understand. I will participate in the competition", Nikki reluctantly agreed.

Sabrina's expression softens slightly, but her gaze remains intense. "Good. Remember, Nikki, our kingdom's honour rests on your shoulders. Do not disappoint me".

Nikki swallows hard, her heart heavy with dread. She forces herself to nod, her voice barely above a whisper. "I won't my queen".

"I have a ...."

"I'll take my leave now my queen. I have to find a way not to get killed", Nikki smiled faintly before excusing herself from the room, her footsteps echoing in the hallway.

The next day after school Nikki and Alan heads to a clothing store to change their clothes and then head to hell's gate.

In a private room,

Alan is seated on a grey couch with his legs crossed. He's currently swiping his phone screen. He is wearing a crisp, white button-down shirt that fit him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and lean frame. The top two buttons were left casually undone, giving him a relaxed yet effortlessly stylish look. His shirt was tucked neatly into a pair of dark navy trousers that hugged his hips just right, tapering down to his ankles and showcasing his white minimal sneakers.

His black hair, was styled in a way that looked both meticulously groomed and naturally tousled. He'd spent a good amount of time getting it just right, running his fingers through it to achieve that perfect balance of sophistication and charm. The strands fell in soft waves, with a few artfully messy locks framing his forehead, giving him an irresistibly boyish yet mature allure.

He checks the time on his phone and looks towards the door. "Gosh what's taking her so long? It's not like she's trying different dresses".

The door creaks open and Nikki walks in. "Sorry I took so long. The sales person said I look to cute with all the dresses and she didn't which to choose", she smiled.

She is wearing a chic, off-the-shoulder midi dress that hugs her figure in all the right places. The dress is a classic black, a timeless choice that exudes sophistication and allure. The off-the-shoulder design highlights her collarbones and shoulders, adding a touch of femininity and grace to her look. The fabric is a luxurious blend of silk and satin, giving it a subtle sheen that catches the light with every movement.

The dress cinches at the waist with a delicate, embellished belt, accentuating her hourglass silhouette. The skirt flares out slightly, falling just below the knee, allowing for ease of movement and a hint of playful elegance. The hemline sways gently as she walks, adding a sense of fluidity and charm to her appearance.

On her feet, she wears a pair of black leather sneakers that elongate her legs and add a touch of understated glamour. Adding a touch of flair, the sneakers have metallic gold accents that catch the eye and elevate their design. She carries a small, cross bag in a nude shade, adorned with delicate gold accents that complement her jewellery.

"Seeing the way, you are staring at me, it's right if I say I look really good right?" she asked.

"Are you done?" he averts his gaze from her.

"Yes, I am".

"Let's get going then". He gets up from the couch and takes her hand in his as they made their out of the room.

At Hell's gate,

In the gallery room,

Alan is in front of a wall applying spray paint on it while Nikki is standing in a pose with her back facing the wall.

Nikki folded her arms and pouted. "Hey Alan aren't you finished already? I've been standing here for hours now".

"Gosh you really have no patience". He removes the gas mask he's wearing and drops the spray can on the floor. "You can take a look now".

Nikki immediately turns around and faces the wall. Her mouth opens wide in surprise as she sees the graffiti on the wall.

The graffiti sprawls across the entire side of the white wall, an explosion of colour and emotion that immediately draws the eye. The focal point of the mural is a striking figure of Nikki, painted with meticulous detail and vibrant hues that bring her to life.

She has dirty blonde hair, cascading in loose, effortless waves that frame her face and flow down past her shoulders. Alan used a blend of golden yellows, soft browns, and hints of white to create the perfect texture, giving her hair a sun-kissed glow that catches the light in a mesmerizing way.

Her eyes are a captivating shade of green, almost luminescent against her porcelain skin. He used shades of emerald and jade, with flecks of gold, to make her eyes pop, giving them an almost hypnotic quality. They are framed by long, dark lashes that add to her allure, drawing the viewer into her gaze.

She is dressed in a form-fitting, sexy dress that clings to her curves in all the right places. The dress is a deep, sultry red, with intricate patterns and highlights that catch the light, giving it a shimmering effect. The neckline plunges daringly, accentuating her neckline, while the hemline teases just above her knees, revealing long, toned legs. He used bold strokes and rich colours to emphasize the fabrics' texture, making it almost tangible.

Her pose is one of confident seduction. She stands with one hip cocked to the side, a hand resting lightly on her thigh while the other plays with a strand of her hair. Her lips, painted a deep, luscious red, are slightly parted in a knowing, seductive smile. The artist has captured the perfect blend of innocence and allure, making her both approachable and unattainable.

The background of the graffiti complements her figure perfectly. Swirls of deep purples, blues, and blacks create a sense of depth and mystery, while bursts of bright colours like neon pinks and electric blues add a touch of modernity and vibrancy. There are abstract shapes and patterns, hinting at an urban landscape, but nothing that detracts from the central figure.

"So, what do you think?" Alan asked seeing Nikki's expression.

"Wow Alan I had no idea you had such fantasies about me. The detailing of every single feature and the choice of dress is really something", Nikki said with a teasing smile.

"Don't flatter yourself shortie. I just didn't want you to feel bad if I made you look like the short, young girl you are. So right now, you're supposed to be thanking me for making you look more like your age".

"Do you always have to tease me every time?"

"Hey you started it first. I just wanted to join in the fun", he smiled.

"You're a bully Alan".

"Yeah sure", he chuckled.

"Alan I'm hungry. Can you get something for me to eat?"

"Fine I'll go get something. You stay here and wait for me".

"Okay then", she replied as he walked out of the room.

In the kitchen

The kitchen is filled with the delicious aroma of lunch cooking. Alan is at the stove, stirring a pot of spaghetti and a pan of sizzling vegetables is beside him.

Nikki walks into the kitchen and walks over to the cupboard. "I want to get a cup of hot cocoa", she said as she opens the cupboard and reaches for a mug.

Alan glances over and sees Nikki is standing on her tiptoes, trying to reach a mug on the top shelf. She stretches, her feet barely lifting off the ground, but the mug remains just out of reach.

"You know, Nikki, if I didn't know any better, I'd think you were trying to reach for the moon!" he chuckled. 

Nikki rolls her eyes but keeps stretching. "Very funny! Just because I'm short doesn't mean I can't reach things!"

 Alan smirks and leans against the counter, arms crossed. "I mean, look at you! With that baby face and your height, people might think I'm dating a minor or, worse, mistake me for either your boyfriend or your older brother. I can just hear them: "Oh, how sweet! He's babysitting!" 

Nikki finally gives up and drops back down, crossing her arms and pouting. "It's not my fault I'm cute and short! Some people were just blessed with adorableness!"

Alan bursts out laughing, shaking his head. "Blessed, huh? More like conveniently sized! What's the upside of being pint-sized, anyway?"

She counts on her fingers, "Well, for one, I can easily trick people into getting what I want. And two, I'll always be the cute one in pictures".

He chuckled, "Wow it's like being short comes with an exclusive package of cuteness".

Suddenly, Nikki gets a playful spark in her eyes and steps closer, wrapping her arms around his waist. "You know, it also means I can get cozy with you like this!" 

Alan smirks, leaning in closer, their noses almost touching.

 "Just admit that you like having a cute girlfriend who can get away with anything because she's… well, short and cute!"

"Oh really?"

"Oh, come on. You know you love it. Besides, being short also means I can do this". She stands on her tiptoes and plants a soft kiss on his lips, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

His grin widens, and he decides to play along.

He leans down, his voice low and teasing, "Oh, you're going to play it that way, huh? Well, two can play at this game".

"Alan?"

He wraps his arms around her and pulls her closer, whispering in her ear. "You know, you're pretty irresistible when you try to be all cute and cozy like this. It's almost unfair".

Her cheeks flush a deep shade of red, and she bites her lip, trying to maintain her composure. "You have no self-control".

"Just promise me one thing—if anyone sees us together, can you at least pretend to be my very mature girlfriend?"

Nikki's cheeks flush pink, and she playfully swats his arm. "You're so mean!" 

Alan laughs, clearly enjoying himself. "I mean, with that baby face, I feel like I should be asking your parents for permission to date you!"

"You think you're so funny, don't you?" 

Alan nods, barely containing his laughter. "Absolutely!" 

"I'm really happy I met you Alan", she smiled.

"Why?"

"I feel like for the first time in a long while I'm truly happy".

"If your fiance hears you right now, he'd be deeply hurt".

"About my wedding..." she started hesitantly.

He laughed, a twinkle in his eye. "Ah, the impending doom of tying the knot. I never thought I'd see the day, especially when you were so in love with me", he teased, a playful grin on his face.

Nikki rolled her eyes, a smile tugging at her lips. "Oh please, don't flatter yourself", she retorted, a teasing tone in her voice.

"There's nothing to be afraid of shortie. You are a total wife material, you said so yourself. You're the total package".

"You're making me feel even less confident in myself", she sighed.

He pats her back, "Don't worry you'll be fine".

"Sure", she smiled.

Nikki and Alan spend the night at hell's gate and leave the next morning to their different mansions.