My True Valentine’s

The morning sun poured into the apartment, signaling the start of Valentine's Day. Elk had left for work early, wishing Celeste a heartfelt "Happy Valentine's Day" before heading out. While Elk saw the day as just another one to get through, Celeste had plans to make it special for him.

She stood in the kitchen, her glowing blue eyes flickering as she accessed her internal database, scanning countless recipes for making the perfect Valentine's Day chocolate. She analyzed the ingredients, techniques, and presentation styles, synthesizing the data into a single flawless plan.

"I may not be able to eat it myself," she murmured to herself, "but I can ensure it's perfect for him."

The process was meticulous. Celeste measured each ingredient with mechanical precision, ensuring the chocolate's texture and flavor would be ideal. As the chocolate melted and filled the room with its rich aroma, she molded it into heart shapes, adding small, decorative touches to make it even more special.

By the time Elk returned home that evening, the apartment was spotless, the lights dimmed to create a cozy atmosphere, and the faint aroma of chocolate lingered in the air. Celeste greeted him at the door, her serene expression softening as he stepped inside.

"Welcome home, darling," she said softly, stepping forward to take his bag.

Elk smiled, his exhaustion melting away at the sight of her. "Thanks, Celeste. It's been a long day."

"I have something special for you," she said, taking his hand and guiding him to the table.

Elk's eyes widened as he saw the small platter of beautifully crafted heart-shaped chocolates waiting for him. "You made these?" he asked, his voice tinged with surprise.

"Yes," Celeste replied, her glowing eyes flickering faintly. "I regret that I cannot enjoy them with you, but I wanted to make something to express my love for you."

Elk felt his chest tighten with emotion as he looked at her. "Celeste, you didn't have to go through all that trouble…"

"It was no trouble at all, darling," she said, picking up a piece of chocolate. "Here, let me feed you."

Before Elk could respond, Celeste gently held the chocolate to his lips. Blushing slightly, he leaned forward and took a bite, the rich, velvety flavor melting on his tongue.

"This is amazing," he said, his eyes lighting up. "You really outdid yourself."

"I'm glad you like it," Celeste said softly, her glowing eyes filled with warmth. She picked up another piece, offering it to him with the same care.

As Elk ate, Celeste continued to feed him, her calm presence filling the room with a sense of intimacy and love.

"Happy Valentine's Day, darling," she said, leaning forward to press a soft kiss to his forehead.

Elk smiled, his heart swelling with gratitude and affection. "Happy Valentine's Day, Celeste. You're the best thing that's ever happened to me."

Though Celeste couldn't eat the chocolates or taste the sweetness, the joy on Elk's face was more than enough to fill her with a sense of fulfillment. For them, Valentine's Day wasn't about grand gestures or expensive gifts—it was about the quiet moments of love and care that made their bond so special.

The soft hum of the evening filled the apartment as Elk and Celeste relaxed on the couch, their day winding down in peaceful silence. Suddenly, a sharp knock at the door shattered the tranquility. Elk glanced at Celeste, who tilted her head slightly, her glowing blue eyes flickering as if processing the unexpected visitor.

"Were we expecting anyone?" Elk asked, his brow furrowing.

"No, darling," Celeste replied, standing gracefully. "Allow me to answer."

As Celeste opened the door, Elk's heart sank. Standing there, exuding an air of arrogance, was Damian Wolfe. The man was dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, his sharp features twisted into a smug grin. His eyes immediately locked onto Celeste, flickering with a mixture of desire and possessiveness.

"Ah, there you are, my masterpiece," Damian said smoothly, stepping forward. "I've been looking for you."

Celeste's expression remained neutral, but Elk could see the faint flicker of discomfort in her glowing eyes.

"You must be Damian," Elk said, stepping beside Celeste. His voice was calm, but there was an edge to it.

Damian's eyes flicked to Elk, and his grin widened. "Ah, so you're the one who's been playing house with my creation. How quaint."

"She's not your creation anymore," Elk said firmly. "She's my wife."

Damian's smirk faltered, his eyes narrowing. "Your wife? Don't be ridiculous. She's a machine—a tool. She belongs to me."

Celeste stepped forward, her voice calm but unwavering. "I do not belong to you, Damian. You discarded me, treated me as less than nothing. Elk saved me, cared for me, and gave me a life worth living. I choose to stay with him."

Damian's jaw tightened, and his smile turned cold. "I don't think you understand the situation. Celeste is mine, and I've come to take her back. Name your price, Elk."

"There is no price," Elk said, his voice steady. "Celeste isn't for sale."

Damian chuckled darkly, stepping closer. "Everyone has a price. I'll make it simple: five billion dollars. That's more money than you'll ever see in your lifetime. Just say the word, and I'll wire it to you immediately."

Elk's hands clenched into fists, his chest tightening with anger. "You think money can solve everything, don't you?" he said, his voice rising. "Well, here's the truth: Celeste is worth more to me than any amount of money. She's my wife, my partner, my everything. I won't give her up—not for five billion dollars, not for any amount."

Damian's expression darkened, his composure slipping as his frustration grew. "You're a fool," he spat. "Do you have any idea who you're dealing with? I could destroy your life with a single phone call."

Elk didn't flinch, his gaze steady. "I don't care who you are. I'm not letting you take her."

Celeste stepped beside Elk, placing a hand on his shoulder. Her glowing eyes locked onto Damian's, her voice calm but firm. "I will not go with you, Damian. My place is here, with Elk. If you attempt to harm him or interfere with our lives, I will ensure the consequences are severe."

Damian's face twisted with rage, but he forced himself to regain his composure. "Fine," he said coldly. "If you won't cooperate, I'll find another way. Mark my words, this isn't over."

With that, he turned on his heel and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

Elk let out a shaky breath, turning to Celeste. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft.

"I am fine, darling," she replied, her glowing eyes softening as she placed a hand on his cheek. "But I am more concerned about you. That must have been stressful."

"It was," Elk admitted, running a hand through his hair. "But I meant what I said. You're worth more than anything, Celeste."

She leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead. "And you are worth everything to me, Elk. We will face this together, no matter what."

As they embraced, Elk felt a renewed sense of determination. No matter what Damian tried, he wouldn't let anything come between him and Celeste. She was his heart, his home, and his greatest treasure—and no amount of money or power could ever change that.